Ocala Style / Feb'11

THE HEART-POUNDING ISSUE

MAGAZINE

February2011

THE HORSEWOMEN OF

Still HEARTTHROBS

HEART HEALTH

HOT DATES

!

HORSEPOWER

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OS ’S M T-RE LA

MAGAZIN E AD

OC A

HITS

So

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352.620.2566 www.AdvancedAestheticsOcala.com Financing available with little or no interest. Most credit cards accepted.

Flexible payment options.

L-R: Kris Carroll, Beth Altenburger-Casse, RuthAnn Nettleton, Dr. Steve Tieche, Vanessa Woelfel

Your Dream Farm Awaits...

Come live amidst tranquil beauty at its finest.

Nestled between breathtaking Live Oaks on 10 +/- acres is a 2-story Spanish cottage with enough character to drown all your stresses. Your guest will never want to leave the exquisite, smartly appointed 2-story guest house attached to a spectacular 6-stall barn with climate controlled tack room, 2 round corrals plus paddocks and incredible vistas in every direction. Enjoy a natural, serene, Koi filled pond surrounded by lilies, beneath gorgeous live oaks. The main residence features: kitchen with granite countertop with gathering room and fireplace. Office and breakfast area opens onto covered lanai and overlooks beautiful serene vistas of Live Oaks Trees, flower beds that are popping with color, Jasmine Arbor, stone lanai with conversation areas and arbor with stone fire pit.

Wat e r Fo untai n

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352.347.1777 • Cell: 352.266.9100 • 352.804.8989 • joanpletcher@aol.com

For Additional Information and Open Houses, Visit: www.joanpletcher.com

5 Things That Make Me Smile 1. Our family vacations.

2. Watching my beautiful daughter Rayna dance.

3. Traveling the world!

4. Shopping!

5. Creating beautiful smiles in Ocala! —Dr. Tina Chandra Chandra Smile Designs Cosmetic and General Dentist

Before

After

cosmetic restorative zoom! whitening crown & bridges dentures sedation dentistry veneers periodontics digital smile makeovers cosmetic fillings implants botox & juvederm

Photo by Tammy Griffin Photography Ceramic Veneers

by Aurum Lab

call Sandy today for your smile evaluation

352.861.1500

www.chandrasmiles.com

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352 690 6000 www.OcalaSurgery.com

Recently, we asked a couple from The Villages why they made the drive to Honda of Ocala to purchase their new Honda CR-V and what makes their new vehicle so special.

Here’s what they had to say...

comfort. “

Thanks, Honda, for such good looks and

—Dick and Anne Melotte

2011 Honda CR-V LX 2WD / 28 HWY MPG*

269/MONTH $ DOWN O

$

36 month lease 12k a year, $598 dealer fee, dealer installed accessories and tag and title not included in payment. *Based on 2011 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

Experience VIP treatment through our Internet department!

• Tour our state-of-the-art, $10 million-dollar facility • Enjoy a complimentary lunch while you select your vehicle and we appraise your vehicle • Presentation of your new car in our air-conditioned delivery center • Exclusive pricing for all new and pre-owned vehicles • First year complimentary maintenance • Experience a new way of purchasing with our auto concierge department at hondaofocala.com

John Simms, Internet Director and On Site Honda Product Specialist

”

“Everything we need to make our drive more enjoyable is at our fingertips.”

“The six airbags make us feel very protected and safe.”

“We can store our cargo in a variety of ways with the dual-deck cargo shelf.”

Turn the page for our

1800 State Road 200 |

352.867.1900 | hondaofocala.com

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Service.

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At Honda of Ocala, our highly qualified technicians are here to provide exceptional service in a timely manner. From oil changes to transmission replacements, we are dedicated to maintaining top-tier customer service, for both new and pre-owned car buyers! Allow our staff to demonstrate our commitment to excellence.

Ladies’ Day Specials

While you’re in for any service, get a FREE manicure and car wash. Mondays 8am-1pm. Must present coupon at time of service.

15.95 Oil Change & Car Wash

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Spend up to $100, save 5%. $100-$250, save 7%. $251 & up, save 10%.

Prices may vary by model. Plus taxes & fees where applicable. Must present coupon at time of service.

FREE Multi-Point Inspection

Service Hours: Monday-Friday 7am-7pm Saturday 8am-5pm | Sunday Closed

1800 State Road 200 | 888.874.5524 hondaofocala.com

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OC A

Still

MAGAZIN E AD

OS ’S M T-RE LA

!

So

February2011

Vol13 No2

We love bugs

to death.

ocalastyle.com

PUBLISHER

KATHY JOHNSON / kathy@ocalastyle.com

EXECUTIVE EDITOR KRISTINA KOLESA / krissy@ocalastyle.com MANAGING EDITOR KARIN FABRY-CUSHENBERY / karin@ocalastyle.com OFFICE/PRODUCTION MANAGER CYNTHIA BROWN / cynthia@ocalastyle.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR JASON FUGATE / jason@ocalastyle.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER JOHN TRIPODI / johnt@ocalastyle.com

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

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

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

Rand Hollon Owner

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS MARY ANN DESANTIS / maryann@ocalastyle.com JOANN GUIDRY / joann@ocalastyle.com CYNTHIA MCFARLAND / cmcfarland@ocalastyle.com KEVIN CHRISTIAN / kevin@ocalastyle.com PHOTOGRAPHERS JOE DEMARTINO / joe@ocalastyle.com JOHN JERNIGAN / jernigan@ocalastyle.com JUDY GREEN / judy@ocalastyle.com

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

W Furn e’re Not iture Y Consour Ave ignm rage ent S tore

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES VICKI BAKER / vicki@ocalastyle.com LORI TANI / lori@ocalastyle.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES MITZI WELCH / mitzi@ocalastyle.com SALLY LEWIS / sally@ocalastyle.com GREG MOSLEY / greg@ocalastyle.com SHARON MORGAN / sharon@ocalastyle.com EDITORIAL ASSISTANT BONNIE KRETCHIK / bonnie@ocalastyle.com EDITORIAL INTERN RAVEN MCMILLAN / raven@ocalastyle.com ACCOUNTING DOREEN ROCKWELL / doreen@ocalastyle.com DISTRIBUTION DAVE ADAMS / dave@ocalastyle.com KATHLEEN ADAMS / kathleen@ocalastyle.com OFFICE PHONE 352.732.0073

With several thousand square feet of distinctive spaces—each professionally

My Designer’s Attic Home Decor & Furniture Consignment Store

and tastefully decorated—you’ll find a scattering of rare and fun items for your home.

Ocala Style Magazine, February 2011. Published monthly by Ocala Publications Inc., 1007 E. Fort King Street, Ocala, FL 34471. All contents copyright 2011 by Ocala Publications Inc. All rights reserved. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. For back issues or advertising information, call (352) 732-0073. Return postage must accompany all unsolicited manuscripts and artwork if they are to be returned. Manuscripts are welcomed, but no responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited materials. “Promotional” and “Promotional Feature” denotes a paid advertising feature. Publisher is not responsible for claims and content of advertisements.

Home Decor & Furniture Consignment Store (8 blocks north of the Historic Downtown Square)

801 North Magnolia Ave • 369-9300 • www.MyDesignersAttic.com feb’11

ocalastyle.com

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February2011

Vol13 No2

Features Ocala’s Fast Track p26 Dirt is king at the Ocala Speedway, the oldest racetrack in the state. The speedway’s owner and three of its biggest stars— and fans—reflect on the track’s appeal and importance.

BY KRISTINA KOLESA

p30 Your Guide To 8 Great Dates We all like to think we’re at least a little bit tuned into romance and the opposite sex. But let’s face it—sometimes we need a gentle push in the right direction.

BY KARIN FABRY-CUSHENBERY & BONNIE KRETCHIK

The Horsewomen of HITS p36 Ocala Style met up with five remarkable HITS horsewomen to learn their personal stories and discover why this competition is one of their favorite stops on the circuit.

BY CYNTHIA MCFARLAND

A Change of Heart p56 February isn’t just about candy hearts. It’s American Heart Month, too. Two local residents share their personal heart attack stories in the hopes of preventing it from happening to someone else.

BY JOANN GUIDRY

p26

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February2011 Vol13 No2

Departments The Publisher p12

Scanning our way into the future

The Buzz p15

The real people, places and events that shape our community

BY KEVIN CHRISTIAN, KARIN FABRY-CUSHENBERY, KRISTINA KOLESA, BONNIE KRETCHIK & RAVEN MCMILLAN

p50

THERUNDOWN p16

Delight the senses with aphrodisiacs, and check out what’s coming soon to a theater near you.

p20

ONTHEJOB p18

Meet the Appleton’s educator, a YMCA youth coach and other workers from around town.

The Pulse p47

Ideas to keep you fit and healthy all year long

p54

BY JOANN GUIDRY

FEELINGWELL p48

Learn how to tackle treadmill tedium and workout more wisely in the winter.

p22

EATINGWELL p50

Control portion distortion, and order farm-fresh food to go.

LOOKINGWELL p52

Treat your tresses well this month, and discover how to get quality sleep.

p66

LIVINGWELL p54

United Way seeks a few good volunteers, and a beloved Ocalan is remembered.

p75

The Dish p63

Our best recipes, restaurant news and culinary quick bites

BY KARIN FABRY-CUSHENBERY, KRISTINA KOLESA, BONNIE KRETCHIK & CYNTHIA MCFARLAND

QUICKBITES p64

Atlantic Buffet moves in, and Tilted Kilt opens for business.

DININGGUIDE p65

Our area’s finest dining establishments

The Scene p73

The carnival is coming to Trinity High, and Clint Black brings the love to Silver Springs.

BY KRISTINA KOLESA & BONNIE KRETCHIK

THESOCIALSCENE p84

Photos from our area’s most popular events

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p64

On The Cover p36

Several of HITS Ocala’s most fascinating female riders share their insights on the sport they love.

Photograph by John Jernigan. A special thank you to Koontz Furniture for the generous use of their showroom and décor for our cover photo shoot.

join us at the

Destination 352 Expo Paddock Mall, saturday

april 9 noon-5pm

see the best of the 352 on the

Escape Salon & Spa Fashion Runway scan for more information on the upcoming event

352 629 2828 escapesalonandspaocala.com

3200 E Silver Springs Blvd • Suite 101 • Golfview Plaza

a full service salon & spa

Tue & Wed 9-8 • Thu & Fri 9-6 • Sat 9-3

We’re located next to the Ocala Municipal Golf Course on SR 40

the

Publisher

KATHYJOHNSON

The Future At Our Fingertips Y

ou know a new technology is a hit when it makes an appearance in Times Square.

That’s just what happened to the Quick Response (QR) code one day early last summer.

In celebration of Internet Week 2010, the City of New York put up the giant 2D codes on the sides of buildings right in the heart of midtown Manhattan. When passers-by raised their smartphones and scanned them, they gained instant access to various city agencies in a promotion called “The City at Your Fingertips.”

New York isn’t the only place you’ll find super-sized 2D codes, however. In a popular Japanese shopping district, a building’s entire façade is layered with one, which the public can scan for up-to-the-minute information about the shops in the area.

Now that’s smart technology.

Where else might you find these helpful icons? Because they come in every conceivable size, they’ve shown up on everything from business cards to clothing to the sides of garbage Sprinkled trucks. Even Facebook, arbiter of all things throughout the that Internet, is embracing the issue, these small technology, and I’m proud icons are portals to say that Ocala Style is to exclusive now as well. We decided unveil Microsoft’s 2D content, providing to code, which is called the added value and Microsoft Tag and boasts convenience to more features than the everyone who QR code, in the pages this issue because picks up our of when I think about our magazine. heart-pounding theme, it’s exactly these kinds of monumental changes to our industry that get my heart racing. These tiny, colorful, seemingly indecipherable boxes have the potential to change your reading experience in real and meaningful ways.

Sprinkled throughout the issue, including on this very page, these small icons are portals to exclusive content, from up-to-date information and extra savings from advertisers

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to instant access to our Facebook page for reader feedback. Above all, they provide added value and convenience to everyone who picks up our magazine.

So what exactly is a Microsoft Tag? In the simplest terms, it’s a barcode with an encoded URL. But in more poetic terms—at least for the magazine industry—it’s a bridge between the print and online worlds. Since the dawn of the Internet, spanning this divide has been publishing’s greatest challenge. That day has finally come, and the future uses of 2D codes are scarcely imaginable. It’s safe to say, at the very least, that we will be living with them for a very long time.

The best part about the Microsoft Tag is that the application needed to scan it, the Microsoft Tag Reader, is free to download on your smartphone. Furthermore, the boom in popularity of the tag and other 2D codes comes at a time when smartphone use is also on its way up. According to recent data published by Nielsen, half of all mobile phone subscribers will become smartphone users this year. By the end of 2011, the study predicted 142.8 million total smartphone users.

If this is your first introduction to 2D codes, you might soon find yourself looking more closely for them.

And be prepared to start seeing them everywhere. We’re proud to be among the first companies in Ocala to implement them, and we’re prouder still that this will heighten and expand your reading experience.

Until next time,

How To Use Microsoft Tags 1. Using the browser on your smartphone, go to gettag.mobi 2. Follow the steps to download the free Microsoft Tag Reader application.

3. Open the app, scan the tag below and join the discussion!

Scan Here!

Join the discussion about 2D codes by scanning this tag.

FOLLOW US @ facebook.com/ocalastyle twitter.com/ocalastyle

CADILLAC. THE NEW STANDARD OF THE WORLD.

2011

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Come Experience the Difference.

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Page 1

Spicy Foods

Buzz

the

Liven up your love life with aphrodisiacs that seduce the senses. p16

String’s Theory on YMCA p18

Vanguard’s High Achiever p20

Fair Play Take Stock

February is the month for fairs in Florida, and many of them feature livestock shows and competitions—not to mention heart-pounding rides! Don’t miss these two big ones.

FLORIDA STATE FAIR, TAMPA

February 10–21 floridastatefair.com or (813) 621-7821 CENTRAL FLORIDA FAIR, ORLANDO

February 24–March 6 centralfloridafair.com or (407) 295-3247

Must-See Museums p22

and more!

Feb

18-27

Everyone knows that kids rule, but did you know that for the last 60 years, they’ve had a designated fair right here in town?

The SOUTHEASTERN YOUTH FAIR celebrates the best and the brightest among Marion County’s youth by giving Florida FFA and 4H members the opportunity to compete in livestock shows and agricultural contests. The SEY Fair, held at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion on Jacksonville Road, is the oldest all-youth fair in the country that continues to operate without a midway and the largest all-youth fair in the state.

Be sure to save the weekend of February 18–19 to catch the always-thrilling, action-packed Florida High School Rodeo held on the fairgrounds every year. seyfair.com or (352) 629-1255

feb’11

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Buzz

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THERUNDOWN

In Theaters This Month

Love-ly Foods

FRANKIE AND ALICE (2/4).

Attraction often involves more than just good looks. These aphrodisiacs are proven to seduce your senses of sight, smell, taste and, of course, touch.

A young woman with multiple personality disorder struggles to remain her true self and not give in to her racist alter-personality.

Stars Halle Berry, Stellan Skarsgard and Phylicia Rashad. Drama, rated R. JUST GO WITH IT (2/11).

Sight

Smell

Taste

Touch

Given their suggestive shapes, these foods entice at first sight.

Scents are strongly tied to emotional reaction.

A whiff of the following foods could put you in the right mood.

Texture and taste go a long way in the act of eating. Go all the way with the following treats.

The following feel-good choices have been proven to enhance libido and produce sex hormones.

Bananas Avocado Figs Carrots

Almond Basil Vanilla Dry champagne

Raspberries Strawberries Honey Oysters Licorice

Asparagus Chocolate Fennel Pine nuts

Sources: libido-increasing-food.com, alternet.com, homecooking.about.com

The Sound of Love Whether heating things up with a new love or keeping the fire going with an old flame, these popular top love songs have been known to burn up the charts and are sure to keep couples feeling warm.

1. “No One”- Alicia Keys 2. “Endless Love” - Diana Ross & Lionel Richie 3. “You Are” - Charlie Wilson

OPINIONPOLL WHAT’S YOUR PICK for the greatest love song of all time?

Let us know by scanning this code with your smartphone or visit us at facebook.com/ocalastyle.

A man convinces a woman to pose as his soon-to-be-divorced wife in order to woo the woman of his dreams. Stars Adam Sandler, Jennifer Aniston and Brooklyn Decker. Comedy/ romance, rated PG-13.

JUSTIN BEIBER: NEVER SAY NEVER (2/11).

A look at Justin Beiber’s early life, his rise to fame and behind the scenes of his 2010 tour. Stars Justin Beiber. Documentary, (not yet rated).

UNKNOWN (2/18). A man

awakens from a coma, only to discover that someone has stolen his identity. With the help of a young woman, he sets out to prove who he is. Stars Liam Neeson, Diane Kruger and January Jones.

Drama/thriller, rated PG-13

HALL PASS (2/25). A married man is allowed to have an affair, only to discover the trouble that ensues when his wife starts engaging in extramarital activities as well. Stars Owen Wilson, Jason Sudeikus and Christina Applegate. Comedy, (not yet rated).

Source: IMDb.com

4. “Lady” - Kenny Rogers 5. “You’re Still the One” Shania Twain 6. “Put You In a Song” Keith Urban 7. “Smooth” -Santana 8. “Everything I Do (I Do It For You)” - Bryan Adams 9. “Say You’ll Haunt Me” Stone Sour 10. “Hero” - Enrique Inglesias Source: billboard.com

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February

A Monumental Month 1 First woman (Hattie Caraway) elected to U.S. Senate, 1878 3 Sesame Street’s Elmo celebrates his birthday 6 Monopoly board game goes on sale, 1935 8 Boy Scouts of America founded, 1910 9 Toothache Day. Also the day Hershey’s chocolate founded, 1894 12 Bill Clinton’s impeachment trial ends, 1999

Random Acts of Kindness Day Pluto discovered by Clyde Tombaugh, 1930 John Glenn orbits the Earth, 1962 Malcolm X shot and killed in New York City, 1965 25 Paper currency introduced in the U.S., 1862 17 18 20 21

DIDYOUKNOW? February is also Black History Month and American Heart Month.

Sources: historyplace.com, familycrafts.about.com

feb’11

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Buzz

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ONTHEJOB

Korene Wilbanks APPLETON MUSEUM

Observing artwork is much like reading a book. It takes time to understand, to analyze and reevaluate.

At the Appleton Museum of Art, museum educator Korene Wilbanks makes those observations easier for everyone. She likes to refer to the art as “visual literacy” and hopes that people will strive to understand the pieces just as they would a book.

For two and a half years, Korene has been responsible for everything from arranging master lecturer visits and educating volunteers to teaching art classes and managing the library information resources.

“The museum is an incredible place to work,” she says. “It’s a gift and a special treat to be able to look at the art frequently.”

To her, the pieces at the Appleton are a kind of “archive of unique manuscripts,” and the most rewarding part of her job is that “Aha” moment when someone understands a work of art.

Korene says that she is surprised by how many people do not know that the Appleton is here. She wants the citizens and visitors of Ocala to recognize the museum’s importance to the community and take the time stop by.

“Everyone here is very friendly and engaging,” she says. “We’re like neighbors. Just come and visit.”

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Nicole Vizzini

Dick Carlson

ESCAPE SALON AND SPA

DICK’S AUTO SERVICE

Nicole Vizzini likes to say she started out the right way—sweeping up hair, folding towels. Today, she may be the successful owner of Escape Salon and Spa off of Silver Springs Boulevard, but back in her native New York at age 14, she was just another young girl with big dreams of owning her own salon one day.

“I always knew I wanted to have my own salon,” Nicole remarks. “It has always made me feel good about myself to make other people feel good about themselves, to make them feel beautiful.”

That’s the mission everyday for Nicole and her staff. She is quick to point out that “without the girls here, our salon wouldn’t work.” Nicole sees, on average, over a dozen clients every day, five days a week.

“A client is not just a client,” she says. “You share each other’s life experiences—graduations, marriages, children.

They become your friend. I’m as passionate about my work now as ever. It keeps getting better.”

When Dick Carlson pulls up the hood of a customer’s car at his shop just off Maricamp Road in Ocala, 25 years of car repair experience is at his fingertips.

A favorite among locals, the mechanic spent 15 years at the Nissan dealership in town, earning his Master Technician license there, and the last 10 at his own shop—Dick’s Auto Service.

“My philosophy is yesterday’s service with tomorrow’s technology,” he says during a rare break in his five-cars-a-day average workday. “I started out working on farm equipment in rural New Hampshire. The cars might be more sophisticated today, but they’re still the same when you get right down to it. Basic, basic maintenance is still most important. People forget that.”

His is a one-man show. There is one lift in the entire shop, and he’s in the office, so to speak, five days a week from 9am to 6pm, 7pm or later depending on the workload. His clients also have his cell phone number so that they can reach him after-hours.

“People’s cars don’t break down at my convenience,” he says with a laugh. “I haven’t been on a vacation in 30 years.”

Dave String MARION COUNTY YMCA

Soccer, basketball, flag football—you name it, Dave String probably coaches it. Yes, this husband and father of three young boys, ranging in age from 2 to 8, is one busy man. He works full time as a Business Development Officer at Campus USA Credit Union. Then he puts in another 15 hours or so each week as a volunteer youth coach with the Marion County YMCA. He wouldn’t have it any other way, though.

“I enjoy giving back to the community,” he says. “I had great youth coaches when I was younger, and I hope to be the same type of role model to the kids I coach.”

Dave spends most of his time coaching youngsters ranging in age from 3 to 8. At that age, he says it’s more about having fun than winning the game.

“We emphasize working and playing together as a team,” Dave says. “Basic skills of the game are taught, but it’s more about life principles than details of the sport. That will come as they get older.

“Being on a team from a young age really benefits the kids in a variety of ways—physically, mentally and emotionally,” he adds.

“It’s important for us to give children a safe place to learn the value of friendship and other life skills.”

2011 PanaMara LEaSE

945 36

$

/MOnth MOS

$4,995 due at lease signing Excludes tax, title, and license fees.

No security deposit required.

Lease if for 10K miles per year, 36 months. $4999 due at signing. All with approved credit.

Stock#P01185. Photos for illustration purposes only. All offers are subject to change and end 2/28/11. Price is plus sales tax, tag, title and dealer service fee in the amount of $597.

001-0111-POO

Claim Your Future at

Saint Leo University Regional Accreditation Small Class Sizes Personal Attention Financial Aid Programs Approved for VA Benefits/GI Bill

Conveniently located at CF (352) 291-4457 • ocala@saintleo.edu Consumers Digest magazine ranked SLU in the nation’s top five best values in private colleges and universities.

Saint Leo University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award the associate, bachelor’s, master’s and specialist degrees.

Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Saint Leo University.

Saint Leo University admits students of any race, color, religion, and national or ethnic origin.

Founded 1889

What you need for where you’re going feb’11

ocalastyle.com

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Buzz

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CLASSACTS

Parson’s School of Dance

Red Ribbon Reward Red Ribbon Week encourages kids to stay drug-free and make positive choices in their lives. Students at HARBOUR VIEW ELEMENTARY won first place, a giant-sized trophy and $500 for their school by winning the “Spirit Award” for Red Ribbon Week.

Students decorated doors, painted posters, incorporated Red Ribbon themes into lesson plans and even created special cheers, songs and videos for the competition.

Acclaimed dancer David Parson recently spent time with students at MADISON STREET ACADEMY. The school’s performing arts reputation captured the attention of UF’s dance department, who brought Parson to Ocala. His interpretive and animated style produced lots of smiles as kids created human flowers and motion-based movements that are certain to inspire aspiring dancers.

Substantial Financial Achievement Deputy Superintendent Wally Wagoner recently presented Theresa Boston-Ellis, the district’s executive director of Business Services, with a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the GOVERNMENT FINANCE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION. Her department has received this top financial accounting honor 10 years in a row, a feat few companies and even fewer school districts nationwide have achieved.

The award also recognizes the department’s spirit of full disclosure.

Fang Named Sunshine Scholar Michael Fang is Marion County’s 2011 Sunshine State Scholar. This program recognizes high school students excelling in mathematics and science. Fang, the 17-year-old son of Dr. John and Sunnie Fang and an International Baccalaureate student at VANGUARD HIGH, heads to Orlando this month for state recognition at a Department of Education banquet. Fang’s entire school career has been in Marion County—first at Dr. N.H. Jones Elementary, then Osceola Middle and now Vanguard.

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SECO Gives Cash Back SUMTER ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. (SECO), one of several utility provid-

ers to Marion County Public Schools, recently rebated $12,657 to the district as part of its Capital Credits program.

SECO’s Brian Gibbs presented a check for the amount to Superintendent Jim Yancey.

Previously, rebates were offered as credits.

With the check, the money goes directly back into the General Fund for the district, saving taxpayers the exact check amount.

Shall we dance?

Dancing is a great way to keep your brain and body energized and to have fun! Join us at Chambrel Pinecastle for a Ballroom Dancing Lesson. Learn how to Waltz, Foxtrot or Tango from Joseph L. Mounts, owner of The Beacon Ballroom. All you have to do is bring your leather-soled shoes for the best dancing experience and we’ll take care of the rest. Don’t miss this fun event!

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Museum Madness Looking for a fun, educational trip only a few hours from home? Check out these inspiring museums all within a short drive of Ocala. Just be sure to call ahead for hours and admission prices.

A Date With Dali

A Museum of Titanic Proportions

ST. PETERSBURG

ORLANDO

The DALI

Go back in time to that fateful 1912 voyage of the famous RMS Titanic at “TITANIC: THE EXPERIENCE.” Meet such noteworthy passengers as Molly Brown and Captain Smith as you see full-scale replicas of the grand staircase, Verandah Café and a first-class state room.

This museum houses over 200 artifacts as well as movie memorabilia from A Night to Remember and James Cameron’s box office smash hit Titanic, including costumes worn by the actors. titanictheexperience.com or (407) 248-1166.

MUSEUM down south in St. Pete is home to an inspiring, permanent collection of the brilliant surrealist’s wide variety of work. The newly expanded and remodeled museum contains over 2,100 pieces of Dali’s art, including optical illusions, holograms and masterworks measuring over five feet in height.

Wander through at your own pace, or take a guided tour that highlights the artist’s life and career. Tours are free with the cost of admission and offered daily. salvadordalimuseum.org or (727) 823-3767.

ALSO TRY: Buy a ticket to the Titanic Dinner Event and you’ll be a guest at Captain Smith’s retirement party. Actors recreate the atmosphere of one of the most luxurious ships of its day.

It’s Only Natural GAINESVILLE

Take a short trip north to see the state’s official natural history museum. With over 30 million specimens inside, the FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY is the largest of its kind in the Southeast and occupies three buildings on the University of Florida campus.

A special exhibit this month features the history of Florida cattle ranching and its impact on the state. With photographs

by Carlton Ward and authentic artifacts, this exhibit pays homage to five centuries of the Florida cowboy.

Be sure to check out the popular McGuire Center for Lepidoptera and Biodiversity, too, which houses over 80 different species of butterflies. Live releases are held on Saturdays and Sundays. flmnh.edu or (352) 846-2000.

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Get Blown Away ST. PETERSBURG

Interested in the mysterious art of glass blowing? Travel to the heart of downtown St. Petersburg for a visit to the CHIHULY COLLECTION. Presented by the Morean Arts Center, the collection features the beautiful glass works of Dale Chihuly, including multipart glass sculptures.

Located in a 10,000-square-foot building designed specifically for this collection, art and architecture work together to create an experience like no other. Tours are held daily Monday through Friday. moreanartscenter.org/chihuly or (727) 896-4527.

ALSO TRY: Visit the Morean Arts Center less

than a mile away and work side by side with a glass-blowing artist to create your own artwork.

Year-round studio classes are also offered.

This MOSH Isn’t The Pits JACKSONVILLE

When was the last time you walked through the inside of a human body or visited the Jacksonville of 10,000 years ago? Take a trip to the MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND HISTORY (MOSH) in Jacksonville to see exactly these kinds of exhibits and more.

Chartered in 1941, the MOSH began as the Jacksonville Children’s Museum. Over the decades it moved to its current location and now features fun exhibits for adults and children alike. Throughout the museum, local artists’ works are displayed to promote community involvement in art and culture. themosh.org or (904) 396-MOSH. ALSO TRY: If you’re interested in the world beyond Earth, don’t miss the on-site Bryan Gooding Planetarium with live NASA Skype feeds, documentaries, concerts and laser shows.

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OCALA FAMILY PHYSICIANS

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Kickin’ it with

G N I K KIC IES DAIS Interview by

Congrats on being named The Next Big Thing for 2010.What was that like?

We got the phone call December 3 from Ernie D. He’s Radio Disney’s number-one DJ and it was really amazing. We were actually playing a sold-out show in our hometown that night so it made the show extra awesome.

How did you get involved with The Next Big Thing?

We had a bunch of videos online on YouTube, and they found us and asked us to be involved in the competition. They took five artists from around the country and promoted each band for two weeks. After each artist had their promotion period, people had the opportunity to vote for their favorite artist. That’s how we won.

And now you guys have a video on MTV? I imagine that’s crazy for a group of teenagers.

It’s really awesome.

Was the video as much fun to make as it looked?

We filmed the video in mid-September. It was like a big party. It was also a lot of “hurry up and

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ushenbery

Karin Fabry-C

Recently nam ed Radio Disne y’s “Next Big Thin g for 2010,” Ki cking Daisies has a lot to be than kful for these days. Th e band membe rs— Duran Visek, 15, vocals and guitar; Ben Spremulli, 14, lead guita r; Carly Kalafus, 15, vo cals, guitar an d drums; and Caitlin Ka lafus, 18, bass and vocals—have been making m usic together sinc e 2008 and ar e on the fast track to celebrity st ardom.

Ocala Style re cently caught up with Duran Visek to find out abou t what life has been like since beco ming The Next Big Thing.

wait,” but that’s pretty much how everything is when it comes to the music business.

Jersey when Paramore played and got to meet them after the show.

Being teenagers in the music business, I bet you all have really supportive parents.

Since being named The Next Big Thing, have you done a lot of traveling?

Ben, the youngest, lives 15 minutes away from everyone in the band so his parents, for the past two years, have been going back and forth to practices. There’s a lot of support all around and our parents really believe in us.

Only two more years until he gets his license, huh?

Yeah! [laughs]

I checked out your website and each one of you listed Paramore as the band you’d most like to tour with.

How would you compare your music to theirs?

We have a lot of fast-paced songs and we put a lot of emotion into it. Paramore has been doing it for so long that it comes to them naturally.

I think we like to model our show after them.

They’re good role models for a band. We actually played at Bamboozle [Festival] in New

We have! We’ve been to Los Angeles four, almost five times, and we’ve been to Florida twice.

How do you guys juggle school with your band responsibilities and traveling?

We do work in our spare time. It’s actually a bit tough to get all the schoolwork in, but it happens. Caitlin and Carly’s aunt teaches us and we do online stuff at home.

You’re obviously a great young musician.Were you one of those threeyear-olds who would walk around belting out tunes?

That was me. My dad had guitars hanging on the walls when I was growing up. I basically got into music from The Cure, Marilyn Manson. I listened to everything my parents listened to.

Green Day is actually what really turned me on to wanting to be a musician.

Photo courtesy of Kicking Daisies

L to R: Ben Spremulli, Carly Kalafus, Duran Visek and Caitlin Kalafus

How did the band get its name?

We were trying to figure out something that would represent there being two girls and two boys in the band. Our tour manager said, “Guys, I have something really cool. It’s like a light-heavy theory—Kicking Daisies. What do you think?”

We thought it was awesome so we stuck with it.

I know you guys play your own instruments, but do you also write your own lyrics?

Caitlin and Carly write all the lyrics, and Ben and I do the music.

What’s the process like?

It starts with Caitlin most of the time. In my opinion she’s like a musical genius. She brings lyrics to rehearsal and they’re always so consistent and good. We’ll write it up and that’s it. There’s a Kicking Daisies song.

We’re all looking forward to seeing Kicking Daisies at Kidfetti later this month. Have you ever been to Ocala before?

I lived in Cape Coral, Florida, for 10 years. I’ve passed through Ocala. We went to Ginnie Springs.

I’m not even joking, when I’m not playing or practicing music I’m making music. I play video games, but I’m just based around music.

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So what, in your opinion, is the hardest thing about being in a band?

There’s a lot of rules. You have to wake up early, you have to warm up, be consistent, be on your game 24/7, be respectful, be good with fans, you gotta be on time. The hardest part is that you always have to be on your A-game.

Do you recall your first big “holy cow” moment as a band?

The first big event we ever played. It was sold out at a local theater and it was so amazing. We had been waiting to play the show for like three months and when we rushed the stage the crowd just went crazy. It was a huge moment for us. Immediately after we won the NBT, we played Celebration, Florida, for like 17,000 people. Easily the biggest crowd we’ve ever played for.

Do the crowds make you nervous?

I’m actually more nervous when it’s a smaller crowd. It’s a little more intimate and you have to be more spot-on. It’s a big adrenalin rush.

Where do you see your band in, let’s say, three years?

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No doubt music takes up most of your time.What else do you enjoy doing?

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Hopefully we’ll be on and off tours. Right now we’re just having fun. I’m sure we’ll still be together in three years, though.

That’s for sure.

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It started with Ben. He was playing in local bars and shows. He met Mike Mangini, a producer who did Joss Stone, the Baha Men, the Jonas Brothers. Ben wanted to start a band of his own.

He found me through a list of connections. At the time I was in Florida basically doing some online stuff. I came up to meet Ben, and he was 12 or 13 at the time and shredding like crazy on the guitar. He had long hair and was a tiny little kid. We clicked immediately and wanted to start a band. We found Caitlin on YouTube. She had two million hits. It was crazy. Started jamming and writing some songs. We needed a bass player, so Caitlin convinced her sister Carly to come and learn to play bass. She learned in an hour and we’ve been a band ever since. That was in 2008.

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Caitlin and Carly are sisters, but were the rest of you friends as well? How did Kicking Daisies form?

I’ve heard it’s a very uplifting, spiritual event. It’s going to be a great time. We plan to play a lot of new songs and have a lot of fun.

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Radiohead is a big influence, Jack’s Mannequin. Alice in Chains was always huge.

The list goes on. I’m open to everything really.

Based on rock ‘n roll, though.

What are you most looking forward to with the Kidfetti show?

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Can you share some musicians you’re interested in that might surprise other teenagers?

. 26 TS! FEB E K C I T R GET YOU Booths open at 9am ity Kidfetti Activ at 7pm 10am, close BA Gates open at e schedule T ag St Second d an e ag St n Mai

N: ADMISSIO ) GENERAL E 15 per person C N A ur V AD Pack of fo ($ ily m Fa 0 $6 , ): $20 individual e until Feb. 23 VIP (Availabl E ur C N A V AD ily Pack of fo al, $125 Fam u id iv d in 0 : $4 OF EVENT ATE/DAY ur, AT THE G ily Pack of fo

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ocalastyle ocala ocalastyle.com style.com .com

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oldest way, the d e e p S Ocala f g at the place o Dirt is kin the birth d n a te sta and k in the nt Lloyd e racetrac d e ce it Iv s rs a ears sin e y iv r 0 d 6 le ly r tab the and nea such no to fans, timann, u d e e e R p s id v ’s Da thrilling NASCAR y. The ines and g n e g mmunit in o r c a o g r in t ugh the rac first bro nd fans— a gem in s in a stars—a m t e r s e k g c a ig tr sa sb tina Kole dirt race ree of it e. By Kris r and th c e n n ta r w o o ay’s d its imp speedw ppeal an a ’s k c a n the tr reflect o

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rnigan John Je Photo by

Racing Fans,

Photo by Bob Wing, rewingphotos.com

Start Your Engines!

“It’s one of the coolest racetracks.”

—DAVID REUTIMANN

O

n this morning, not a single engine is roaring over its surface. The only thing whipping across the waterlogged, nearly white dirt—courtesy of a downpour the night before—is a brisk winter wind. Mike Peters is standing, hands in pocket, on the lowest bleacher row and looking out over the Ocala Speedway racetrack. He’s the owner and steward of the facility’s 41 acres, including this track—the oldest in the state—and soon enough, this place will be alive with activity when the 2011 season officially starts.

She has a unique shape, as far as racetracks go. Resembling the letter ‘D,’ her turns aren’t symmetrical. They’re also banked 6 to 8 degrees. She is 3/8 of a mile around, which takes a late-model car about 15 seconds to cover, and the bleachers surrounding her half chain-linked, half-plywood fenced border can hold some 4,000 rapt fans.

Just outside the front gates, Mike has a clever sign up to squelch any doubts about what kind of track Ocala Speedway is. “Asphalt,” it states, “an old English word meaning those that can’t race on dirt!”

When Mike first bought the Ocala Speedway in late 2005, the track was, in fact, asphalt. A previous owner had paved it in 1996 during the height of what Mike calls “the NASCAR craze.”

“Everybody got caught up in asphalt racing,” he explains, walking back to the speedway’s front office. “NASCAR was on such a rise, and everybody thought they needed to go that way. A lot of the short tracks started to flounder. NASCAR can exist because of corporate dollars. A lot of that isn’t on that level here at the short tracks in local communities.”

So Mike did what any diligent, ambitious, retired Army man-turned-commercial airline pilot-turned-racetrack owner would do. He spent the better part of a year traveling the country looking at what other tracks were doing right and how he could pump new life into the iconic racetrack. He discovered one common denominator among all the successful tracks—dirt.

“That was the missing ingredient,” Mike says.

“And since we went back to dirt, the rest has been history.”

Prior to the start of the season in 2008, he put 350 loads of clay on top of the track’s asphalt, and the speedway was officially restored to its roots.

The change drew bigger crowds and bigger racing events. Last year, Mike even secured a World of Outlaws race at the speedway.

“That’s the NASCAR of dirt,” he says proudly.

“Those guys are the kings of dirt, and we proved to the dirt community that Ocala Speedway was worthy of having a World of Outlaws race.”

Mike also wisely shifted the speedway’s schedule to better accommodate families and the casual fan. He moved the races from Saturday night to Friday night so the speedway would compete with fewer tracks for fan attendance, and instead of running six classes a night, he only ran four. This, coupled with moving the start time from 7pm to 8pm, condensed the whole program, and most nights, the action is over by 10:30pm.

“People’s attention span doesn’t last much longer than that,” Mike says. “Keeping it short and on time makes people want to come back.”

Mike is big on signs, acronyms and other

handy tools to enforce the point he’s trying to make. There’s the ‘asphalt definition’ sign out front, and then there’s the infamous dry erase board on the wall out back where the drivers meet before the races. The most polite way to describe it? It’s the “Chicken Manure” board. On it goes the names of drivers who, in lieu of talking to Mike directly about any problems they experienced at the speedway, turn to online racing forums to air their grievances.

Maybe it’s due to his Army background, this penchant for bluntness, but no one could ever accuse Mike of mincing words—or not being effective. The board is blank. That is to say, there’s

Photo by Bob Wing, rewingphotos.com

Opposite: Ocala Speedway owner Mike Peters Above: Ocala Speedway

Gas up that pick-up, mini van, sports coupe, Harley or any other vehicle you can get your hands on this month and next, and head to one of the many racetracks in our area for a heart-racing adventure. Just please buckle up!

Ocala Speedway 9050 NW Gainesville Rd., Ocala Approx. 15 minutes from downtown ocalaspeedway.com / (352) 622-9400

O’Reilly All Star Circuit of Champions Sprint Car Series 410 Sprint Cars and Florida Mini Sprint Open Practice Night February 3 O’Reilly All Star Circuit of Champions Sprint Car Series 410 Sprint Cars and Florida Mini Sprint Racing February 4 & 5 Super Late Model All Star Shoot Out February 13

USAC “Bubba Army Sprint Car Nationals” and UMP Open Wheel Modifieds Open Practice February 16 USAC “Bubba Army Spring Car Nationals” and UMP Open Wheel Modifieds February 17–19 United Dirt Late Model Series Race (Regular season opener) March 4 Monster Jam Summer Heat April 15–17

Gate opens at 5pm / Racing starts at 8pm $12 for adults / $10 for seniors $7 for students ages 13–18 Free for children 12 and younger Free for children under 26 inches Special events have individual pricing

feb’11

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27

not a single name under the pile of chicken manure he’s drawn in black marker on it.

“That’s right,” he says simply. “No one wants their name up there. They need to tell me about their problem because that’s the only way it’s going to get fixed. Going straight to the Internet and telling people in China what happened at Ocala Speedway is not fixing your problem.”

The truth is Mike’s job is equal parts fan supporter, driver advocate and business entrepreneur—a kind of all-seeing, all-doing circus ringmaster. He takes the roles seriously and handles each deftly.

“I’m an ‘in the trenches’ kind of guy,” he says of himself. “It took me a year or two listening to everyone to show them that they could trust me. Then I put the staff in place that would do the job I wanted them to do.”

Mike speaks at length about the professionalism and dedication of his staff, which swells to 30 on race nights. It’s no small feat to run multiple racing classes in a two-and-a-half-hour time span. The speedway’s gates open at 5pm—ready or not, Mike stresses—so his team has to be prepared to meet every need without incident. Mike admits he’s demanding. In fact, his motto for his employees is “D.I.R.T: Do It Right Tonight.” But in the end, he won’t ask his employees to do anything he wouldn’t (and doesn’t) do himself.

“I clean the bathrooms here every week,” he says, “whether there were 10,000 people here or 500 people here. I’ve had people come in and clean them, but they don’t do it the way I do.”

“Mike has a racer’s heart,” explains top Ocalabased driver Ivedent Lloyd. “You’ve got to be a good businessperson to promote the races, pay the bills, to make money at it. It is a business, and a lot of people lose sight of that. But Mike is also a racer at heart, and you have to be involved. He understands both sides of it.”

Daytona International Speedway 1801 W. International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach Approx. 1.5 hours daytonainternationalspeedway.com (800) 748-7467 Budweiser Shootout February 12 Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 February 12 Daytona 500 Qualifying February 13 Gatorade Duel February 17 NextEra Energy Resources 250 February 18 DRIVE4COPD 300 February 19 Daytona 500 February 20 Daytona Supercross March 5 Ricky Carmichael Daytona Amateur Supercross Championship March 6–7 AMA Flat Track March 10–11

Ivedent Lloyd was just 14 years old when he first got behind the wheel at the Ocala Speedway. He had been going to the racetrack since he was five, tagging along to watch his father race. But this was his own first race and understandably, the teen was nervous.

“I had watched my dad and the other guys race there all those years, so it was nerve-racking,” he recalls. “But it was also very exciting.”

Three decades later with countless Ocala Speedway races (and wins) under his belt, the owner of Marion Machine & Tool still looks forward to every opportunity to race in front of his hometown crowd.

“If Ocala is racing late-models on a Friday night and I’m home, I’m there,” says Ivedent, who won the speedway’s annual Powell Memorial in 2009 and placed second in it last year. “There are people watching me race now that saw me the first time I got in a car. It’s a close-knit community.”

Also flying around the speedway’s track during Ivedent’s early racing days was a Zephyrhills native by the name of David Reutimann. Today, this NASCAR driver is undoubtedly the biggest name ever to come out of Ocala Speedway, but back then, he and Ivedent were just two young guns passionate about cars and speed and winning. They forged a close friendship that has lasted to this day, despite a healthy dose of friendly competition between the two.

“There were only a few tracks here in Florida that were dirt, so naturally you’re going to run into the same people—literally sometimes,” Ivedent says. “That’s how we became buddies. When you’re battling for the lead, you either become really big enemies or really big friends.”

“I was pretty aggressive back in those days and ruffled a lot of feathers,” the mild-mannered NASCAR driver replies while taking a break during test runs at Disney World. “But I ended up making some good friends that I respect a lot, like Ivedent.”

“Since we went back to dirt, the rest has been history.”

Daytona 200 March 12

Photo by Bob Wing, rewingphotos.com

—MIKE PETERS

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“If Ocala is racing late-models on a Friday night, I’m there.”

—IVEDENT LLOYD

A sheriff’s car pulls up to the speedway’s front

office, which, inside, is covered with framed photos of grinning racers peering out from their driver-side window or leaning against their car’s front bumper. Two volunteer officers walk through the door and greet Mike like an old friend. They’re passing by as part of their route, but really they’ve stopped to discuss the upcoming season with Mike. Both men are longtime racing fans.

Some people are dirt-only folks, explains Anthony Barberis, the more talkative of the two, although he himself isn’t picky. He just loves racing, period.

“But,” Anthony quickly adds, jabbing his thumb toward the photos on the wall, “there’s nothing like these guys on dirt. Picture 20-some of those guys out on that small track. It’s quick and tight—two-, sometimes three-wide. And for a fan?

Well, it’s just not racing until you get a little dirt in your beer.”

He’s referring to the not-uncommon occurrence of a clump of dirt flying into the bleachers and landing in a fan’s drink. Mike, nodding his head, agrees with this assessment.

“I told someone once, ‘Come out here on a Friday night to watch a real race and take your nap on Sunday when NASCAR is on,’” he adds.

The men erupt into laughter, fully recognizing that now they’re one-upping each other in singing dirt racing’s praises. But there’s some truth to Mike’s comment. With a bucking 410-horsepower engine under a late model’s hood, the adrenalin-soaked rush of flooring that machine around a sharp turn, the elusiveness of holding onto the lead when the ground changes so fickly under the tires, dirt racing seems to achieve a kind of rawness not quite replicated in other types of racing. It is, arguably, car racing in its purest, most honest form. And while the Ocala Speedway is proudly small-time, its track proves formidable for every driver who sets out on it. The action that unfolds on its surface is nothing short of a full-scale drama, and above all, it never gets old for anyone involved.

On this point at least, Mike, Buzzie, David, Ivedent and a whole lot of fans would certainly agree.

Photo by Bob Wing, rewingphotos.com

David’s father, Buzzie, is a racing giant in his own right, and he can still recall making the long but worthwhile drive from Zephyrhills to Ocala with his own father, who raced at the speedway in the 1950s.

“It seemed like it took forever to get there because back then, they didn’t have the interstate,” he remembers with a chuckle. “We had to go up 301 the whole way. It was an old dirt track with cross-ties for fence around it.”

In the 1980s, Buzzie started bringing David to the speedway, where he quickly began winning races. Nearly every weekend for years, the two would travel to Ocala for Friday night racing and then to East Bay Raceway in Gibsonton on Saturday night.

“I had some pretty good races at Ocala,” David recalls. “The track was unique. The other places I was racing at, they were all pretty symmetrical, where at Ocala, turning one and two was quite a bit different than turning three and four.”

David says that if his schedule allowed it, he would be back racing at the speedway as much as possible.

“If you live in the area and you’ve never gone to Ocala Speedway, you’re missing a great opportunity to have a really good time,” he adds. “It’s one of the coolest racetracks I’ve been to.”

At 69, the elder Reutimann still hits the speedway dirt every chance he gets. He hasn’t rid his bones yet of his competitive streak.

“What do they say? The thrill of victory and the agony of defeat?” Buzzie offers and then laughs. “I think there’s more agony of defeat in this business than thrill of victory, but it never gets old. You learn something new every week that you race. What else am I going to do?

Keeps me out of the bars and off the streets.”

In fact, dirt tracks have been the hallowed training ground of some of racing’s biggest drivers. Tony Stewart, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Kasey Kahne and many other NASCAR superstars came up on dirt, and Buzzie believes David’s own experience on the mutable surface has been invaluable in his asphalt career.

“You get a more seat-of-the-pants feeling racing on dirt,” he explains. “Pavement drivers don’t ever want the car to jump out from under them or run sideways. During a Cup race when David’s car is loose or the back-end hangs out, it doesn’t bother him. His dirt experience has helped him tremendously. You can make a dirt-track driver a pavement driver, but it’s really hard to make a pavement driver a dirt driver.”

From a fan’s perspective, dirt racing can also offer more excitement because the lead positions change more frequently. With a few well-handled corners and straightaways, a car lagging in fourth can move up to the front.

Track conditions change over the course of the race, and drivers use their gas and brake more to alter their fates.

For this reason among others, some people are strictly dirt racing fans. Count Mike Peters and Ivedent Lloyd among them. Neither men watch NASCAR. “Unless Reutimann’s racing,” Ivedent concedes.

“There’s nobody I’d rather see win on Sunday afternoon.”

Sebring Raceway 113 Midway Dr., Sebring Approx. 3 hours sebringraceway.com (863) 655-1442 Porsche 48 Hours February 5–6 Support Series Winter Test February 7–8 ALMS Winter Test February 9–10 Mobil 1 Twelve Hours March 16–19

Gainesville Raceway 11211 N. CR 225, Gainesville Approx. 1 hour gainesvilleraceway.com (352) 377-0046 Daytime Test & Tune February 5 Daytime Test & Tune February 12 Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series February 17–20 Daytime Test & Tune February 26 Import Face-Off February 27 Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals March 10–13 Test & Tune/No Box/NHRDA Diesel Drags March 26 Wednesday Night Test & Tune March 30

E S AP E FOR VALENTINE’S DAY

Romantic | Intimate | Elegant | Inspiring MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS TODAY 3 52 3 5 1 1 8 1 6 • 2 2 37 SW 19T H AV E R D . SU I T E 10 2 O CA L A • C U V E EW I N E O CA LA . C O M

352.629.5703 Nancy Porter

Graduate Gemologist (GIA)

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315 E SilvEr SpringS Blvd, ocala, fl www.ladyjEwElEr.com

We all like to think we’re at least a little bit tuned into romance and the opposite sex. But let’s face it—sometimes we need a gentle push in the right direction. With the most romantic day of the year quickly approaching, we thought it would be fun to offer up some of our favorite date suggestions, whether you’re a true romantic, a fun-loving adventurer, an extravagant splurger or a happy singleton. Feel free to mix and match, too. You’re on your own with the card and flowers, though!

By Karin Fabry-Cushenbery & Bonnie Kretchik

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1 Dinner & A Ride OPTION

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ou can’t beat Sky Asian Fusion when it comes to restaurants with a view in Ocala. Situated six stories above State Road 200, Sky offers guests a spectacular view of the city’s lights and expansive greenery.

“It’s tough to beat what we have going on as far as ambiance,” says General Manager Kevin Day. “Here at SKY we strive to put together an exceptional experience for all of our guests. From the moment you enter we want to take you out of the daily grind that we are all used to and expose all of the senses to great delight.”

And if you haven’t yet visited Sky, this month may be the perfect time to give it a try. With couples in mind, Sky will offer a complete Valentine’s Day menu, pairing several surf-and-turf items—each with a combination of classic Asian flavors and contemporary tastes.

“We are planning to do combo plates for couples to share,” says Kevin, “allowing for a more romantic evening. We’ll also have some fun-to-share desserts.”

Either before or after your meal, a visit to Sky’s authentic Japanese bar is a must. The green lighting (literally!) adds to the international flair of this one-of-akind restaurant. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made by calling (352) 291-0000.

So now that dinner is taken care of, next on the agenda is a romantic carriage ride through the quaint downtown streets of Ocala.

From 6–9pm, Ocala Carriage and Tours will be offering 15-minute downtown

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tours and 30-minute historic district tours. Rides will be available the Friday and Saturday before Valentine’s Day and Valentine’s night of course.

“Snuggle up and spend some quality time with your significant other under a moonlit night,” says employee Kim Carp.

“We offer as much or as little interaction as our guests choose. We can give some historical references or do what we call our ‘shut up and drive’ special.”

On chilly nights, blankets are available, and for an additional cost, Ocala Carriage and Tours offers a bottle of champagne to enjoy on your ride as well. How’s that for romance? Call (352) 867-8717 for reservations.

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Sunsets & Snickerdoodles

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othing screams passion like the vibrant colors of a setting sun. The orange, red and yellow hues seem to light the dusk sky on fire. And one of the best locales to take it all in is on the dock at Paynes Prairie Preserve just to our north. Bring the binoculars, too.

You and your better half just might spot an alligator or two lurking off in the distance. (We are in Florida after all!) Once the sun has set, head off to your final destination for the night—the Herlong Mansion Bed & Breakfast (right), just a five-minute drive south of Paynes Prairie in Micanopy and where lavish overnight accommodations await your arrival.

The 10 rooms and two cottages that make up the Herlong property are filled with antique furnishings and lush linens, enough to make any busy couple breathe a sigh of relief and relaxation.

“The ambiance here is classic and Southern,” says Megan D’Andrea who works the front desk. “The mansion

is a real couple’s retreat. Most rooms feature a Jacuzzi or claw-foot tub, and the accommodations are very luxurious.”

“All of our guests are invited for wine and fresh baked cookies in the evenings, and we will also offer in-room massages,” adds owner Caroline Stevens-West.

And in honor of Valentine’s Day weekend, the mansion’s chef will prepare a seven-course candlelit feast fit for a king on both the 13th and 14th. Or at least for those who want to be treated like a king and queen. On the menu is champagne and fresh fruit, a stone crab cocktail, baby greens with kiwi and fresh raspberry topped with a balsamic vinaigrette and feta cheese, Italian tomato basil bisque soup, mango sorbet and your choice of filet of beef with a bearnaise sauce or macadamia encrusted filet of grouper with white wine coconut milk sauce. Also on the menu are roasted fingerling potatoes, sautéed baby vegetables and strawberries in chocolate shells with raspberry mousse and chocolate ganache sauce. Yes, definitely a feast fit for royalty.

And well worth the price of just $160 per couple. As an added surprise, each couple will receive a special gift at their table. By the way, breakfast is included the following morning and features sparkling mimosas.

To reserve a room, call the mansion at (352) 466-3322 or visit herlong.com.

1 Goofy For Grownups OPTION

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lright all you single ladies and guys out there.

Just because it’s Valentine’s Day doesn’t mean you can’t have some fun yourself. Grab a group of friends, head south and make a day of it. Orlando or Tampa, the choice is yours.

Some major changes are taking place at Disney’s Pleasure Island, including the closing of the attraction’s nightclubs, but the Downtown Disney West Side is still a happening place. If you feel like splurging a bit and are in the mood for an amazing show, check out Cirque Du Soleil’s “La Nouba.” Take our word for it, there isn’t enough space here to tell you all the reasons you should see La Nouba. If, on the other hand, you want to let your inner child loose, Disney Quest may be the way to go. This five-story, 100,000-square-foot indoor attraction isn’t just for kids and features cutting-edge technology and five different play zones, not to mention a ton of arcade-style games.

Maybe even some you grew up playing! Our advice? Arrive early and head to the Explore Zone first to avoid lines. Then take your time discovering the rest of the attraction.

If after all that laughing and physical activity you’re looking for more grown-up dinner options, the opportunities are plentiful. Choose from Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill, The House of Blues, Bongo’s Cuban Café and Planet Hollywood—all within walking distance of Disney Quest. One last thing: before leaving Downtown Disney, you have

to take a ride on Characters in Flight, a tethered gas balloon experience allowing riders to see the Disney complex from a bird’s-eye view, 400 feet up.

Check out disneyworld.disney.go.com and click on “Things to do.”

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Hitting The Slots

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o you chose Tampa instead? Our top pick for an evening with friends in Tampa is the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. And you don’t even have to be a gambler to have a good time here! The atmosphere is fastpaced, exciting and fun, and live music is almost always playing. Of course if you do bring a couple bucks to gamble with, it makes the trip all the more enticing.

Who knows? You could walk away with thousands. The 90,000 square feet of gaming space includes over 3,600 of the hottest machines on the planet, more than 90 table games and 50 tables of live high-stake poker. If you want to go all out, pool your money and rent a luxurious room at the hotel. On-site restaurants include, of course, the Hard Rock Café, but also the upscale Council Oak Steaks & Seafood, Fresh Harvest featuring seven live-action kitchens and Rock ‘N Raw Sushi Joint. Visit seminolehardrocktampa.com for all the details.

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1 Explore & Enjoy OPTION

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n the mood for an adventure? Take a trip over to the Silver River State Park with your better half and spend the day enjoying Central Florida’s wildlife. With over 15 miles of cycling and hiking trails to explore, you and your sweetheart can stay active while experiencing different ecosystems and their inhabitants. Keep your eyes open for deer, turkey and armadillo as well as the occasional bobcat or Florida black bear.

If you prefer the water, cool off with a canoe ride down the Silver River.

Rentals are available, and the different launching points determine the intensity of your ride. Together you can decide if you want a heart-pounding, action-packed adventure or a romantic coast down the river.

If you and your sweetie are history buffs, be sure to stop by the Silver River Museum and Education Center. Here,

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you’ll experience what it was like to be an early pioneer. The museum houses a reconstructed cracker village including a house, church and school.

After a full day of activity, you’re sure to work up an appetite. Pack a romantic picnic lunch for two and eat in one of the park’s three open-air pavilions complete with grills, picnic tables, electricity and water.

If you’re looking for a longer adventure, spend the night! The park has over 50 campsites where you two can snuggle by a campfire or stay in one of 10 available cabins.

It just might be the perfect way to end a full day of activity and adventure together.

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Horseback Happiness

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f hiking and biking don’t light your fire, perhaps you and your love would like to experience nature on horseback.

Saddle up at Cactus Jack’s this Valentine’s Day for a fun-filled adventure on one of Debbie Zito’s trail horses.

What could be more romantic for two outdoorsy, adventurous souls than riding horses together among Central Florida’s flora and

fauna? The rides last one and a half hours and take you through the beautiful scenic trails of the Florida Horse Park and Cross Florida Greenway. Never ridden a horse before? Don’t worry! The trail horses at Cactus Jack’s are experienced professionals.

“We have great, safe and well-trained horses,” says owner Debbie. The two of you can learn to ride together in a safe environment while exploring some of the most beautiful and scenic parts of Central Florida.

If you can bear to take your eyes off each other for long enough, you might catch a glimpse of a few rare species of animals in their natural habitat. Often sighted are the Great Horned Owl, Red Tailed Hawk, Gray Fox and even coyote.

After your ride, plan to spend a romantic night at Shamrock Thistle and Crown Bed and Breakfast. Located only 15 minutes from Cactus Jack’s, this three-story Victorian Home boasts whirlpool suites with fireplaces and a full breakfast. How better to end your romantic adventure?

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From Coast To Coast

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alentine’s Day is all about going over the top, so try something incredibly unique this year and charter your own helicopter flight through Ocala Helicopters Inc. Take your date high above our city for a romantic view like no other. It’s the perfect way to splurge and give your date the time of their life on the most romantic night of the year.

Ocala Helicopters will fly you wherever you want to go. Our choice? Cedar Key. Plan a romantic stay at The Island Hotel and Restaurant, one of Florida’s most famous bedand-breakfasts, and experience a romantic dinner for two in the elegantly appointed dining room there. Or enjoy live entertainment at Cedar Key’s Valentine’s Day Dinner Dance catered by the Island Room. Music will be provided by The Dock Street Band.

If the East Coast is more your style, have your chopper pilot fly you to Ormond Beach for a romantic stroll along the water or a seafood dinner ocean-side.

Of course if you want to be home in time to kiss the kids goodnight, you could always opt for a nighttime aerial tour of Ocala. Don’t forget to pick up some delectable handmade chocolates from Ocala’s Chocolates and Confections for the ride. Finish your over-the-top evening off right by eating at any of our city’s fine dining establishments. But remember to make your reservations early as many restaurants fill up quickly! Call (352) 239-2254 to book your chopper ride.

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Sea-Level Serenity

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f you’re not completely sold on the idea of soaring high in the sky this Valentine’s Day but still want to wow your date, then make the short trip to Sanford for a romantic dinner cruise on the meandering St. Johns River.

Located at the Monroe Harbour Marina, the family-owned and -operated Rivership Romance company has been treating lovebirds to an incredibly romantic experience for over 25 years.

Owners Bob and Evie Hopkins take special care to ensure their passengers enjoy the experience as much as each other.

Surrounded by Florida’s wildlife on the beautiful moonlit waters of the St. Johns River, you and your sweetheart will be treated to a delicious buffet of hors d’oeuvres to start the night off. A decadent dinner complete with cocktails is sure to set the tone for an evening of romance.

Dance cheek to cheek or simply sit back and relax while the Rivership Romance flows through 26 miles of some of the most beautiful scenery Florida has to offer. Keep your eyes open for wildlife as you make your way up the St. Johns, one of only two rivers in the world that flow south to north. (The majestic Nile is the only other to flow backward.)

If you’re looking for a whole day of fun together, start off with a visit to Historic Downtown Sanford. Stroll down the brick streets and shop in any number of the quaint boutiques situated in this romantic town. Yes, there’s plenty to do before you set off on your evening of romance on the Rivership. For reservations, call (407) 321-5091.

No Ordinary

LOVE

Your beloved is exceptional in every way, so be sure that your Valentine’s gift reflects how extraordinary he or she is. Who ever said love is cheap?

Skip That

Give This

A dozen A dozen red roses red-hued roses officially named after her A walk on A walk on the the beach beach that ends at the door of your new oceanfront abode A candlelit A candlelit dinner at dinner inside home the Taj Mahal A heartshaped box of chocolates

A heart-shaped box with a chocolate diamond inside

A trip to A trip to the the movie movie theater theater store for a new home theater system for his new man cave A bottle of A bottle of wine wine from his new Napa winery A trip to You guessed it!

Paris, Texas Mais oui!

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L to R: Bibby Farmer-Hill, Betty Oare, Dana Waters and Jennifer Alfano. Not pictured: Robin Swinderman

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The Horsewomen of

HITS Five of HITS Ocala’s most fascinating female riders share their insights on the sport they love.

By Cynthia McFarland / Photos by John Jernigan

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here’s a reason why the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit draws exhibitors from all across the country and Canada. No other hunter/jumper circuit on the East Coast offers riders as much opportunity as HITS—from the young “short stirrup” riders on up to the sport’s most elite competitors. Not to mention the quality of both riders and horses is second to none, and the prize money has grown dramatically over the years.

When the event began last month, it marked the 30th anniversary of the popular show series. The 2011 HITS Ocala Winter Circuit has an estimated $50 million economic impact on Ocala and the surrounding area, but

that figure may rise as the circuit has seen a 10-percent increase in entries this year.

Approximately 5,400 individuals (including exhibitors, trainers, grooms and support staff), and 1,800 to 2,400 horses will participate in the event every week. Behind these impressive numbers are real people and real horses, some of whom have been competing here for years.

Ocala Style met up with five remarkable HITS women to learn their personal stories and discover why this competition is one of their favorite stops on the circuit. Their dedication proved both amazing and inspiring.

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Top of the Class Jennifer Alfano

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“What’s special is being able to win on a horse I’ve brought along.”

—Jennifer Alfano

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hen Jennifer Alfano competes in the hunter divisions at HITS this year, she will do so as the highest moneyearning hunter rider of 2010.

Recent winner of the President’s Distinguished Service Award from the United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA) for the second year in a row, Jennifer also earned the 2010 Rider Recognition Award, which is presented to the individual who has won the most money as a hunter rider. With numerous victories in top level Hunter Derbies across the country, Jennifer has earned $401,124 since 2006.

A champion at every prominent horse show in the U.S., she is recognized as the only hunter rider to have three First Year Green United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Horse of the Year awards (1996, 1997 and 2001), riding her horses Kansas, Big Bad Wolf and G.G. Valentine to those honors.

Raised in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Jennifer has been riding since the age of two and was a top junior rider, qualifying for the prestigious Maclay Finals and placing well at the USET Finals. In 1991, she began working for SBS Farms, one of the country’s top show barns, which operates out of The Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center in Buffalo, New York. Today, as head trainer and rider for SBS Farms, Jennifer, 42, competes as a professional, and at HITS, she’ll be riding primarily for that farm. She also has a few outside horses to show.

For a horsecrazy kid who always hoped to

make a career with horses, Jennifer is living her dream, but she admits it’s taken more time and effort than most people realize. Still, she feels “incredibly lucky.”

Currently at the top of her string is “Jersey Boy,” a nine-year-old Warmblood owned by SBS Farms that Jennifer has been riding for four years.

“Jersey Boy was extremely green when I started riding him, and now he’s one of the country’s top hunters,” she remarks. “What’s special is being able to win on a horse I’ve brought along. I’m lucky in that I’ve had the opportunity to have horses like that.”

As a professional, Jennifer trains both horses and riders. On a typical day, she’ll ride up to 10 horses. One might think that’s exercise enough, but during weeks she’s not showing, Jennifer also works out five or six days a week. She’s found that staying as physically strong as possible helps her body handle the inevitable wearand-tear that comes from constant riding.

On an average day at HITS, where she’s been showing for nearly 20 years, she will be coaching riders in addition to competing on a number of horses herself. She’s in the saddle before dawn and showing all day.

“We pretty much see the sun rise and set while we’re working,” she adds.

“I’ve always loved the area. It’s really horse country. Some of the country’s top hunters come out of Ocala. HITS has grown immensely since it outgrew the old show grounds and it gets better each year.”

As competitive as she is, there’s really no time in Jennifer Alfano’s life for any other interest or hobby.

“It’s pretty much all horses,” she says with a smile. “This job is all-consuming.”

An Eye For Talent Bibby Farmer-Hill

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howing is not just about winning. Just ask local trainer Bibby Farmer-Hill, whose greatest satisfaction comes from watching one of her students—human or equine—fully grasp a concept.

“I adore teaching. For me, the satisfaction of training is greater than

riding,” says Bibby, who has been involved with horses for five decades. “Having a student fully understand an idea and learn is exciting for me.”

Although she didn’t grow up in a “horsey” family, Bibby has been obsessed with the four-legged animals for as long as she can remember. She began riding at age six and did some showing, but found her niche once she started training in her late teens.

Not surprisingly, horses brought Bibby to Ocala. Her daughter, Kelley, was a successful junior rider with prominent area trainer Don Stewart. At that time, Bibby was training in West Palm Beach, but she heeded Kelley’s urging and in 1991 moved to Marion County, where she began working for Stewart. She’s been one of the trainers at Don Stewart Stables ever since.

She specializes in junior riders (age 17 and under) and ponies, but her expertise is about far more than teaching someone to become a better rider.

“Our students rely on us to help put them in the right classes and divisions so they can be successful. It’s not just about winning, but about enjoying what they’re doing,” explains Bibby, adding that this is one of the best aspects of HITS. “I can always find a place for every student to participate and that’s really important. You want everyone to have a good time, so you need lots of classes on the venue. HITS definitely offers this.”

Not every student has his/her own horse. Some will lease a horse or pony to ride while competing at HITS. Don Stewart Stables will take an average of 50 mounts to the show. Farmer has a hand in selecting and buying horses and ponies, and relishes that aspect of her job.

“A large and very satisfying part of our business is finding horses or ponies for riders, and not just our students,” she notes. “You want to have a good match so the rider can be successful. Don and I work well together at finding horses.

We have riders from all over the country come to try horses.”

HITS brings a flurry of activity to Don Stewart Stables, and Bibby especially

appreciates the opportunity to see many out-of-state friends who come to Ocala for the competition.

Show days are long, starting before dawn when Bibby and Don meet with their first students for pre-show lessons. Since the stable has riders at many different levels, there are students competing throughout the day, so Bibby’s work extends until well after dark. What with her continuing duties at the farm, she doesn’t have a day off during HITS, but you won’t hear her complain.

“I just love it when HITS comes to town. There’s more excitement in the air here at the farm,” Bibby says with heartfelt enthusiasm. “I am so fortunate to have a job I enjoy so much.”

A Balancing Act Robin Swinderman

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orses dominate virtually every waking moment of Robin Swinderman’s day. From her full-time job as office manager for official HITS show veterinarian Dr. Robert Barber, DVM, to training her own horses and competing in hunter classes at national shows, Robin’s life is filled with horses and that’s just how she likes it.

Born in Miami, Robin had already been riding for years when her family moved to Ocala when she was 10.

“My parents took me to a pony ride at the mall in Miami when I was about four,” Robin recalls. “After that I was pretty much hooked. I got my first pony when I was five, a white pony named ‘Misty’ they bought out of the local paper for $300. I rode her for about five years and she taught me a lot.”

Robin has been showing at HITS since she was 13, starting out in pony hunter classes. After graduating from Vanguard High School in 1987, Robin attended Stetson University, where she majored in accounting.

“I worked in a CPA office for three months after graduating, but I couldn’t stand being in an office without windows and not seeing my horses,” she admits.

She found the perfect mix of horses and numbers working at Christina

“I adore teaching. For me, the satisfaction of training is greater than riding.”

—Bibby Farmer-Hill

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“My favorite thing is bringing along young horses, selling them and seeing someone else have success with them.”

—Robin Swinderman

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Schlusemeyer’s Quiet Hill Farm in Ocala for 10 years—“I still do her books,” Robin adds— and in her current position with Dr. Barber.

Robin owns a 36-acre farm in Morriston, but her work with Dr. Barber takes her on the road for much of the spring, summer and fall, traveling to shows in Virginia, Vermont, Maryland and Pennsylvania before returning to Ocala for the winter. When traveling, she takes one horse with her to show, and while her job usually allows her to ride most mornings before work, her schedule at HITS often makes that very difficult.

Balancing work, riding and showing is a challenge, but Robin makes it all come together with dedication and careful scheduling. That devotion has lead to plenty of success showing as an amateur owner in the hunter divisions.

At last year’s HITS Ocala, she and “INXS,” her seven-year-old Trakehner gelding, were circuit champions in the Amateur Owner Hunter 36+ division.

INXS was also circuit champion of the 2010 Vermont Summer Festival in the Amateur Owner Hunters 35 & Over, and won The Adirondack Green Mountain Challenge trophy. The latter was for having the most points of any horse in any division from the two weeks of the Skidmore Saratoga Classic Horse Show and the first two weeks of the Vermont Summer Festival, the largest “AA” show in New England.

Robin and INXS are teaming up again at HITS this year and she’s proud of how far the horse has come.

“When I bought INXS he was five and had never shown over fences,” says Robin, who rides with local trainers Bob Braswell, Christina Schlusemeyer and Shachine Belle. “I love training. My favorite thing is bringing along young horses and training them, then selling them and seeing someone else have success with them.”

To date, her most successful horse is Storyteller, a Trakehner stallion she trained that earned multiple

championships at numerous major national shows. Robin has high hopes INXS will be equally successful.

Show ring accolades are always exciting, but developing a horse’s raw talent is Robin Swinderman’s greatest joy.

“I ride because I enjoy it,” she says simply, “not because it’s my job, and I wouldn’t be anything without my team and the support of my parents.”

A Family Affair Dana Waters

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orses are more than a hobby. They’re a lifestyle, especially for Dana Waters.

“I’m so blessed that horses are my life,” she says. “They’re beautiful animals and I’m with my husband and daughter.

It’s an amazing life!”

Dana was introduced to horses in elementary school by her mother, Gaenor (“GiGi”) Chapman, also an avid horsewoman.

“My first pony was an unbroken Shetland. I fell off that pony more than I fell off of all the horses put together in my life so far,” laughs Dana. “Thank goodness he was close to the ground!”

Dana, 50, who rides jumpers and shows as an amateur, has come a long way since that first challenging mount.

She regularly competes at the national level and in 1991 was National Champion Amateur Owner Jumper, riding a Thoroughbred gelding named No Sweat.

While hunter classes are much more subjective, jumping classes are judged strictly on faults and time.

As Dana puts it, “Hunters are judged on style and beauty similar to figure skating, while jumpers are judged on speed and the least number of faults, similar to ice hockey. If you jump clean and fast, you can win.”

Husband Chuck Waters of Waterworks Farm is a prominent local trainer who runs a successful selling operation, which means the Waters family always has a variety of horses at hand. This has definitely been a boon for daughter Hayley, 14, now a freshman at Trinity Catholic High School, who rode in her first lead line class at one year of age.

Dana Waters with daughter Hayley

“She’s had lots of horses, which has made her a good rider at a young age. Her father has kept horses for her each step along the way and it’s been great for her,” says Dana. “Local trainers Don Stewart and Christina Schlusemeyer have also helped her.”

In 2008, Hayley was National Champion Green Large Pony Hunter and is now riding jumpers, competing in the same division as her mother. Just because mother and daughter have a great relationship outside the ring doesn’t mean Hayley is about to cut her mom any slack.

“I really didn’t want to show against her. She’s very competitive. In a recent show, she beat me by 10 seconds,” says Dana.

“The truth is, it’s just you and your horse against the jumps, but it’s pretty exciting riding against each other.”

Dana has been showing at HITS for more than 20 years, but in 1997 she and Chuck decided to move to Marion County.

Now the Waters family lives at their farm in Sparr from October through June, and spends July through September at their original Waterworks Farm in their home state of Pennsylvania.

“The best thing HITS ever did was make us want to live in Ocala. We came here because of HITS,” she notes. “We used to rent stalls. One year when we were coming back, I told my husband, ‘If you can see yourself living here later in life, we should buy a place.’ There’s so much to do here if you’re into horses.”

Becoming a “local” has only increased Dana’s appreciation for HITS.

“HITS has always tried to cater to all the exhibitors, not just the most elite.

The amateurs and juniors all have good money classes to ride in and that makes a big difference when you’re trying to pay the bills for the horse show,” she says. “The competition here has grown and the level is

“I’m so blessed that horses are my life.

They’re beautiful animals.”

—Dana Waters

so much higher in the last 20 years. If you do well at HITS, you can show anywhere in the country and be competitive. If you win here, you can win anywhere.”

The Original Betty Oare

R

iding fashions and equipment preferences have changed over the years, but for Virginia-based horsewoman Betty Oare, the passion for competition has never faded.

Now 69, Betty remains highly active in the hunter world. In 2010, she competed in at least 24 shows and also judged several competitions. She serves on the board of several horse shows, something she feels allows her to give back to the industry. This year she plans to compete a little less to allow more time for judging, which she truly enjoys.

“I probably got my passion for horses from my dad,” Betty muses. “He was in the horse business and back then you did everything: hunters, jump horses, racehorses, fox hunters, steeplechasers, whatever. My love has always been hunters, although I rode a few jumpers way back.”

Growing up in Tryon, North Carolina, Betty honed her riding skills on the farm, exploring trails and galloping over the fox hunting fields. She didn’t compete in her first “A” show until her

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“I still get excited to see a horse jump, and I still enjoy competing as much as ever.”

—Betty Oare

SAVE THE DATES

HITS, which stands for “Horse Shows in the Sun,” puts on some of the richest horse shows in America. Check out the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit in person.

Competition began January 19 and will end March 20. Classes start at 8am and run until 4pm or later.

Remaining competition dates: FEBRUARY 8–13 FEBRUARY 15–20 FEBRUARY 22–27

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MARCH 1–6 MARCH 8–13 MARCH 15–20

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early teens, although she rode in her first lead line class at age five.

“I rode bareback because we only had one saddle,” Betty recalls. “My brother Bucky rode in the saddle and won the class. I was second.”

Betty and her husband, Ernie, a racehorse trainer and former show and steeplechase rider, have lived in Warrenton, Virginia, for 40 years. Betty competed on the hunter circuit as a professional for her father for many years and also earned her judging license, but went back to riding as an amateur to have more time to raise her family.

“To be as successful as possible as a pro, it really has to be 24/7,” she notes. “I had two sons and was also active in my church and other community things.”

Inducted into the National Show Hunter Hall of Fame in 2008 and into the Virginia Horse Shows Association Hall of Fame in 2009, Betty has certainly made an impact on the sport she loves.

She’s ridden multiple horses to Horse of the Year awards and received lifetime achievement and sportsmanship awards as a hunter rider from the World Hunter Rider Association. She also received the USEF Pegasus Medal of Honor.

Looking back, Betty reflects on how much has changed in the sport, down to the style of clothing.

“We have comfortable stretch riding breeches now, instead of the wool flared breeches. Today, you see a lot of boots with

Sundays feature the always-exciting Grand Prix classes with some of the sport’s best jumpers. HITS Ocala is offering 14 qualifying Grand Prix classes for the Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix to be held the weekend of September 10–11 at HITS-onthe-Hudson in Saugerties, New York. HITS is also offering the first-ever $500,000 Diamond Mills 3’ 3” Hunter Prix Final at HITS on the Hudson. The Devoucoux Qualifiers in Ocala are qualifying events for this historic hunter class.

zippers, but I still like the old traditional type without zippers,” she says. “We all grew up wearing hunting caps and my mother was well before her time because she sewed a tight elastic strap to my cap and made me wear it. Now you hardly ever see anyone in the hunting field without a safety helmet.

Our silk top hats are sitting on the shelf because they don’t offer any protection.”

“Tack and equipment have evolved as well,” she continues. “For example, in the past some appointment classes didn’t allow saddle pads, but now they do.

Saddles themselves tend to be flatter with less knee roll, and running martingales are no longer seen in the hunter show ring.”

Although Betty still frequently rides in a Pelham bridle with double reins while hunting, many hunt riders prefer snaffles with a single rein.

Betty has been showing at HITS in Ocala for at least a dozen years and will be showing three or four horses this year, mostly competing in the amateur owner hunter division over 3’3” or 3’6” fences.

She and her husband own a small house near the show grounds, and live in Ocala from mid-January through mid-March.

“I still get excited to see a horse jump a fancy jump, and I still enjoy competing as much as ever,” Betty says. “I always try to do the best job I can. If I get beat, that’s part of the game. I mostly ride against myself, but it’s still fun to have a nice round on a good horse that gives you a great effort. After all, that’s what makes us all keep doing this.”

Other events include the World of the Horse on February 27 and the Purina Mills Kids Day on March 13.

Admission is free every show day except Sundays when admission is $5 per person. Children under 12 admitted free.

HITS POST TIME FARM 13710 US HIGHWAY 27 / (12 MILES FROM 1-75) / (352) 620-2275

For more event information, visit hitsshows.com and click on “Ocala.”

WE

O LC

ME

Scan here with your Smartphone for a direct link to our website!

352-304 - 6888

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

‘Rest Assured, A Business

You Can Trust’ (L-R:) Steve Branham, Brent Spaulding and Chad Pelt

High school buddies Steve Branham and Chad Pelt never dreamed that the small sleep shop they opened in 2002 would evolve into an awardwinning nationally recognized success story.

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S

teve Branham and Chad Pelt are now the proud owners of four Sleep Centers and the Mattress Liquidation Center for a total of five stores that dominate our area.

In 1998, Steve went to work for his brother who owns a Sleep Center in Panama City. Four years later, he was ready to go into business for himself. At the same time, Chad was feeling the need for a change in his life also, so the two decided to partner and make the leap together.

“It was a huge gamble,” Chad remembers.

The young husband and his wife had recently welcomed their first child, and the comfort of a steady paycheck was hard to give up for the uncertainties of owning a business.

“It was rough in the beginning,” Steve adds.

“We went about a month and a half without a paycheck and ate a lot of Ramen Noodles.”

Their days were long and hard and involved performing all business operations themselves, including delivering the beds before and after the store was open. The first store opened in a 4,000-square-foot building on Highway 441 in Ocala, which they completely renovated, with nothing more than a 2,500-square-foot showroom to display their products.

“We’re not high pressure,” they agree. “It’s not about sales. It’s about helping people sleep better, which allows them to live better,” says Chad.

And it’s that desire to help people that has made their business such a success. As the company expanded, so too did the need for more space. Chad and Steve moved to a larger and more visible location on Highway 200 in 2004. In 2005 they hired Brent Spaulding, who advanced from a sales position, to store manager and now

We’re not high pressure here. It’s not about sales. It’s about helping people.

—CHAD PELT

the district manager. Seeing the hard work and dedication pay off, he plans on continuing the tradition by opening his own store in the near future. By the end of 2007, there were three stores total. In the midst of the recession, the fourth store was opened in November 2009 and the fifth in May 2010.

Providing exceptional customer service has been the staple of their business and is one of the primary factors that has attributed to their growth.

“We aim to allow the customer to determine what is best for them, without the high pressure,” Spaulding says.

Their customers certainly agree.

“It truly makes a difference to have a staff that knows how to treat a customer,” says Lori, a customer from Ocala. You can read all of their testimonials on their website.

The Sleep Center offers the most extensive selection of the top name brands under one roof, including Sealy Posturepedic, Simmons Beautyrest, Stearns & Foster, Tempurpedic and many others.

“We try to carry a complete selection from each of the major brands to give consumers plenty of choice,” Branham says.

Recently Sleep Center was given the highest industry honor, being internationally recognized in an industry-insider publication for outstanding sales customer satisfaction.

“It’s so important to do all you can to satisfy the customer. It leaves a lasting impression,” Steve adds. “We are very progressive and we’re always tweaking things to help people get the best value possible.”

The Sleep Center has the strength of a franchise, yet it’s locally owned and operated.

This provides national group buying power without sacrificing the local personalized service Ocala has come to know and trust.

Even though the business has been a huge success, these owners remain grounded.

“The money stays in Marion County.

We’re local, our kids attend Marion county schools and we’re a business you can trust,” Steve says proudly. “So come on by and take a nap!”

The Sleep Center 2255-A Parr Drive The Villages, FL 32162 (352) 753-0672 11250 SW 93rd Court Road Ocala, FL 34481 (352) 732-3100 3055 Southwest College Road Ocala, FL 34471 (352) 690-2339 17950 US 441 Summerfield, FL 34491 (352) 245-0025 Mattress Liquidation Center 1925 SW College Road Ocala, FL 34471 Monday–Saturday 10am–7pm Sunday 1–5pm thesleepcenter.biz

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straighten up!

352.351.4405 www.drjonesortho.com 1500 se 17th street, bldg. 100 ocala, fl 34471

In A Heartbeat

Winter Workout Survival p48

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Local heart atttack survivors share their health stories. p56

Farm-Fresh Food p50

Healthy Hair How-To’s p52

Kick Kidney Disease p54

and more!

Dental Dos & Don’ts February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. We’ve compiled some helpful tips from the AMERICAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION on how to reduce your child’s risk of tooth decay.

• Sugary foods and drinks are best consumed with meals because saliva production increases during meals. This helps neutralize acid production and rinse food particles from the mouth.

• Limit between-meal snacks. If kids crave a snack, offer them nutritious foods.

• If your kids chew gum, make it sugarless.

Sugarless gum can increase saliva flow and help wash out food and acid.

• Limit soft drinks altogether. Encourage your child to drink water and low-fat milk.

• Help your children develop good brushing and flossing habits.

• Schedule regular dental visits, beginning about six months after teeth first appear or by their first birthday at the latest.

• Avoid putting babies to bed with a bottle or sippy cup.

• Encourage your children to drink from a cup by their first birthdays.

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FEELINGWELL

Tackle The Treadmill The treadmill at the gym or home is a great way to get in a good workout without dealing with the outdoor elements. But treadmill workouts can also be terribly boring—even if you’re watching the Food Channel. Here are two treadmill workouts to erase the boredom and get your mind off that fabulous double chocolate brownie recipe! Just make sure you warm up for at least 10 minutes.

IT’S ALL ABOUT TEMPO: Pick up your normal pace by 10 seconds every five minutes for 15 minutes. Then do the tempo pacing in reverse, slowing down by 10 seconds every five minutes for 15 minutes. Zoom! Thirty minutes just flew by! Do another 30 minutes of tempo sets and you get the gold star.

CLIMB EVERY HILL: Experiment with the incline feature and add in some interval work. For example, go all out for 30 seconds at a two-percent incline or two minutes at a 10-percent incline. Then recover by bringing the treadmill to the level position and walking. Try for three sets a session and you’ll soon be thinking about tackling Mount Everest!

Source: Runner’s World

Feel The Burn According to the latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans, here are the estimated calories burned by a 154-pound person in an hour of: Walking

280

3.5mph

Walking

460

4.5mph

Biking

290

< 10mph

Biking

590

> 10mph

Weight Training

220

How to Have A Wiser Winter Workout

Weight Training

GO FOR LAYERS: And we’re not talking about eating a piece of three-layer chocolate cake before walking or jogging! Think of wearing a long-sleeved synthetic fabric running shirt with a fleece top for warmth. Then once you get going and have warmed up, you can always pull off your sweatshirt or jacket and wrap it around your waist while you finish your workout.

As you cool down, you might want to put it back on. On very cold and/or windy days, wear something with a hood or pull on a wool hat to keep your body heat from escaping from your head. You can worry about hat hair later!

Running

WARM UP, COOL DOWN: Know how you start your car on cold mornings, turn on the heat and let it warm up? Well, your muscles need more time to warm up in cold weather, too. Do some easy stretches to warm up your major muscle groups like your quads and hamstrings. If you’re going out for a jog, first walk briskly for 5-10 minutes before picking up the pace. When you’re done with your workout, cool down gradually with walking and stretching again. Taking time to warm up and cool down will help prevent pulled muscles and other injuries.

DRINK UP: Dry, cold air dries you out, too, and you need to remember to drink water or sports drinks before, during and after winter workouts.

Source: HealthSmart Today

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440

Vigorous Workout

590

5mph

Swimming

510

Slow Freestyle Laps

Hiking

370

Dancing

330

Golf Walking,

330

Carrying Clubs

Aerobics Basketball

Vigorous Game

480 440

ABCDEs of Melanoma Detection

Look for Danger Signs in Pigmented Lesions of the Skin

Consult your dermatologist immediately if any of your moles or pigmented spots exhibit:

Asymmetry One half is unlike the other half.

Diameter Melanomas usually are greater than 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser) when diagnosed, but they can be smaller.

Color

Border An irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined border.

Evolving A mole or skin lesion that looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape, or color.

Is varied from one area to another; has shades of tan, brown, or black; is sometimes white, red, or blue.

Call Our Office to Schedule an Examination Mohs Technician working with cryostat

DermatologyOnline.com

February is Heart Month.

Put your heart in good hands.

Signs and symptoms of a heart attack: • Chest discomfort. Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the chest or one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.

• Shortness of breath. May occur with or without chest discomfort.

• Other signs. May include a cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness.

If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms or needs medical attention, call 9-1-1 and ask to go to an Ocala Health Emergency Room at Ocala Regional Medical Center or West Marion Community Hospital.

We are an Accredited Chest Pain Center.

Ocala Style CPA 8.75x5.375FEB.indd 1

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EATINGWELL

Farm-To-You Deliveries “Super” fruits such as the acai have grabbed headlines lately, but behold the awesome apple, a nutritional powerhouse in a simple, edible package!

Apples contain quercetin, a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant phytochemical. They are also a rich source of the soluble fiber pectin, which stabilizes blood-glucose levels and lowers cholesterol. One medium apple also provides about 10 percent of daily vitamin C requirements, has no saturated fat—or any fat for that matter—and contains only 70-80 calories. And research studies have shown that people who ate an apple about 15 minutes before a meal tended to eat almost 190 fewer calories than when they didn’t eat an apple.

The Original Super Fruit

Sources: Pennsylvania State University, Emory University

Just about everyone would like to eat more organic foods, but sometimes you just can’t get to the farm. Not to worry, here’s a trio of area organic producers who can deliver their goods to you!

CRONES CRADLE CONSERVE:

Portion Distortion According to experienced chefs surveyed across the country, the best way to reduce calories in restaurant dishes is to make the portions smaller rather than change recipes. The chefs admitted that they are serving portions that are two to four times larger than the government’s recommended serving sizes!

The chefs surveyed included those who work in casual and fine-dining restaurants, as well as culinary educators and restaurant managers. Most said they were aware of the calorie content of their meals. They also added that they could reduce a meal’s calorie content by 10-25 percent before regular patrons would notice a difference in taste.

So next time you go out to eat, you might want to consider sharing!

Sources: Pennsylvania State, Clemson University

Ask And They Will Receive Turns out the key to getting your kids to eat more veggies and fruits is to keep offering them until you find the ones they like! It may take some persistence and patience, but nutrition experts say the reward is healthier kids.

The Institute of Medicine recommends that moderately active children ages 4-8 eat an average of 2 cups of vegetables and 1½ cups of fruits. Broccoli is a healthy but problematic veggie for kids, so the experts advise steaming it with a little butter. Offering small carrot sticks with low-fat dip also seems to work.

Here are the reported favorite veggies and fruits for kids ages 6-12: VEGGIES: Corn, green beans, carrots, peas FRUITS: Apples, bananas, grapes, strawberries, oranges Source: The NPD Group, National Eating Trends data

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Located in Citra, this ecological preserve and organic farm has a Farm Fare Program. With a $50 membership for the 13-week season and a $25 weekly delivery fee, members can receive a basket of organic products delivered on Wednesdays at the Ocala/Marion County Library. The basket includes six different vegetables, an herb, half a dozen eggs, flowers and recipes, which are all from Crones Cradle Conserve.

Special orders may also be placed for such items as grass-fed beef, organic chickens and goat cheese from nearby farms. cronescradleconserve.com or (352) 595-3377.

ROSAS FARMS: Also located in Citra, Rosas Farms offers free delivery to the home or office with a minimum $200 order of their grass-fed meats, pork, wild-caught seafood, free-range chicken eggs, local honey, homemade jams and raw cheeses, and fresh, whole hog sausage.

For smaller orders under $200, there is a $25 delivery fee. rosasfarms.com or (352) 353-9912.

HOME GROWN ORGANICS: Based in Ocala, this is an organic buying club. While there is no membership fee, the minimum order is $40 and includes between nine and 11 produce items. Fresh organic fruits and veggies are bought from area Florida farms as well as other southeastern farms. Organic and free-roaming poultry and grass-fed beef are also available by special order. Orders can be picked up at several delivery points throughout Ocala. homegrownorganics.vpweb.com or (352) 598-4184.

S P E C I A L

A D V E R T I S I N G

F E A T U R E

Is Your Life Becoming

A R e a l Pa i n ?

Outstanding Credentials of Dr. Zhou • Trained in Harvard Medical School • Board-certified in Pain Medicine and Neurology/Psychiatry • PhD in Psychology • Author of numerous books and journal articles on Pain Management • Former Director of Jackson Memorial Hospital Pain Clinic, U. of Miami • Winner of Physician Recognition Award, American Medical Assoc.; 2003 • Distinguished Physician Award, Florida Medical Assoc.; 2004, 2006

Suffering from chronic pain is no way to live your life. Fortunately for Ocalans, one of the world’s preeminent pain specialists has a large and growing practice right here in town to treat a wide variety of pain ailments.

Dr. YiLi Zhou of the Florida Pain and Rehabilitation Center has helped thousands of locals finally make debilitating pain a thing of the past.

Whether you suffer from back pain, joint ailments, sciatica or headaches, Dr. Zhou uses minimally invasive, non-surgical and effective treatments as a way to eliminate inflammation and pain. In fact, over the five years that his practice has been open, Dr. Zhou has personally administered more than 10,000 pain-relieving procedures to his patients with thousands of patients being pain-free after his treatment.

Dr. Zhou follows a strict philosophy of “patient first, quality first,” and frequently extols the advantages of leaving surgery as an option of last resort, often in articles he pens for the pages of the world’s most prestigious medical journals.

The results speak for themselves: the Florida Pain and Rehabilitation Center has never had a major complication in its five-year existence.

This stellar record coupled with Dr. Zhou’s honest and compassionate popular approach to pain management has made him one of the most popula practitioners in the area.

The practice’s growth has been remarkable. In five short years, the number of new patients who have sought treatment from Dr. Zhou has increased nearly 10-fold: from 267 in 2005 to 2,573 last year.

Consult with Dr. Zhou today for an honest assessment of your pain once again. problems and learn how you can begin to lead a pain-free life o

Formerly Comprehensive Pain Management of North Florida

Florida Pain and Rehabilitation Center Locations in Ocala, Gainesville, & Lake City 3320 SW 33rd Road, Ste. 200 | Ocala

352.629.7011 | cpmnf.com feb’11

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Nice Nails!

You might want to cut back on nail polish in the winter. Studies show that women who used nail polish remover at least twice a month were more likely to have brittle nails. And dry, cold weather only adds to the problem. When you moisturize your hands, make sure to include your nails, too, and come spring you’ll be able paint your nails candy apple red again!

Also, make sure you get plenty of iron in your diet for healthy nails. Go for lean cuts of beef like top round or even red kidney beans.

You might also want to try supplementing with biotin, which is part of the vitamin B family and is good for your nails and hair.

Source: Women’s Health Magazine

Getting Good ZZZ’s COOL DOWN: Instead of cranking up the heat on a cold night, go for a lower setting on the thermostat and an extra blanket. You’ll sleep much better when the room temp is no higher than 68 degrees.

KEEP IT COMFY: In the wintertime, go for sleepwear that’s comfortable like flannel or cotton—nothing that scratches or constricts.

RELAX: Turn off all electronics a few minutes before you go to bed and relax with a little light reading. Or try a little aromatherapy with sleep-inducing scents like lavender, chamomile and vanilla.

DON’T BE ALARMED: Try using an old-fashioned alarm clock that doesn’t jolt you and the rest of the neighborhood awake with blaring music or a fire-alarm sound. There are even clocks that wake you gradually with simulated dawn light.

ANTI-WRINKLE FOODS

Water, salmon, olive oil, grape seed oil, blueberries, orange juice, green tea, kale

Wrinkle Foods

A Messy Hair Affair Winter stresses your tresses, so be extra kind to your hair in the colder months! Here are a few cold weather hair care tips: SKIP THE SHAMPOO: Experts recommend washing thick hair every two to three days and fine, straight hair every other day to avoid a dry, itchy scalp.

And when you shampoo, finish with a cold water rinse to stave off split end and frizzies! Or you can try rubbing in a dry shampoo at bedtime and then comb it out in the morning.

DON’T BLOW IT: It’s best not to blow-dry your hair when it’s sopping wet, which makes your hair more susceptible to damage. Instead let it air dry a little until it’s damp, apply mousse and dry on the lowest setting. Or try washing and air-drying your hair before bedtime, then touch it up in the morning.

EAT WELL: High-protein, low-fat cottage cheese, with 14 grams of protein per half-cup, is great for your hair. Also try snacking on pumpkin seeds, which are loaded with zinc and help reduce hair loss.

Sources: health.com, Women’s Health Magazine

PRO-WRINKLE FOODS

Sugar, breads, pasta, coffee, processed foods, artificial sweeteners, MSG Source: The 24-Hour Pharmacist by local pharmacist Suzy Cohen

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Sweet Nothings really are nothing if they’re not heard.

Does Your Sweetheart Have Trouble Hearing?

Ira W. Klimberg, MD, FACS

J. Derek Thompson, MD

Welcome Dr. J. Derek Thompson The Urology Health Team is proud to welcome Dr. J. Derek Thompson. Dr. Thompson completed urologic training and an Advanced Urologic Fellowship at the University of Florida.

Two Locations to Serve You

Valentine’s Day is a nice time to remember that it is the special people in life that make all the difference. Imagine not being able to hear all that they have to say – constantly frustrated to make sense of the words, to have to read their lips rather than hear their voice, to struggle to understand what is going on in the conversation.

Well, it doesn’t have to be that way. With the latest advances in digital hearing technology from Siemens, there’s a hearing solution just right for your loved ones! Join us for our Brunch and Learn and get all the facts... dessert included!

See all the new 2011 instrument designs and colors.

You’re Invited To a Brunch and Learn!

The Real Cost of Hearing Loss When: Wed., February 9 Wed., February 23 Time: 10:00 am Where: Beneficial Hearing Aid Center 1847 SW 1st Avenue Ocala, FL 34471 Reservations: 352-629-4418, Seating Limited

Speaker: Leigh Ann Watts, Doctor of Audiology

Paddock Park – 3201 S.W. 34th St., Ocala

352-237-6162

Free Consultation & Demonstration ($149 Value) Give Your Valentine Better Hearing!

Call 629-4418 for your Complimentary Appointment

Doctors Recommend Us, Patients Refer to Us—Come See Us! Doctor of Audiology 2nd Generation Family Owned with Family Values 24 Years in the Business of Better Hearing

1501 N. U.S. HWY 441, Bldg. 1600

629-4418

352-751-6162

Quality name brands we offer: Siemens, Starkey, Phonak, Widex, GNReSound, Vivatone, Oticon, Unitron, Rexton, Interton, Sonic Innovations, Bernafon, Sebotek, Qualitone, Omni, MicroTech, Electone, Magnatone, Bosch, Lotus, UHS, Fidelity, Rion and Philips.

Accepting New Patients • We Accept Most Insurances

Leigh Ann Watts – 15 years experience Clinical Audiologist Amy Gibboney – 6 years experience Board Certified Hearing Aid Specialists Alene Lightfoot – 30 years experience Linda Haase – 24 years experience Hearing Aid Technician Robert Lightfoot – 8 years experience

Since 1984

1847 S.W. 1st Ave, Ocala www.beneficialhearing.com

352-629-4418 feb’11

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Mar

5

Kicking Kidney Disease According to the MARION COUNTY KIDNEY FOUNDATION, more than 500 area patients at any time are

United We Stand Wanna volunteer?

United Way could use your help.

THE TAX MAN COMETH:

Volunteers are needed to provide free income tax preparation assistance to Marion County residents. The IRS provides training to all volunteers, and UWMC arranges all locations.

Contact Krista Martin at (352) 732-9696, ext. 214 or kmartin@uwmc.org.

STAY ON BUDGET: Calling all volunteers who are good with managing money and interested in being personal budgeting workshop facilitators. Training will be provided, along with an instructor’s manual and other materials. Facilitators will work with businesses and organizations that are interested in hosting personal budgeting classes for their employees, clients and members. Contact Chris Cotter at (352) 732-9696, ext. 209 or ccotter@uwmc.org.

DAY OF CARING: United Way of Marion County’s 18th annual Day of Caring is set for Saturday, March 5. Day of Caring offers businesses, individuals, organizations and civic clubs the opportunity to help local non-profit human services agencies complete projects during one day of organized volunteerism. Contact Summer Gill at (352) 732-9696 or sgill@uwmc.org.

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regularly receiving life-saving kidney dialysis treatment and another 10,000 are dealing with chronic kidney disease. The MCKF, a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization, assists kidney patients through grants and educates the public about kidney disease. On March 5, the MCKF will host its second annual Kicking Kidney Disease 5K Run, Walk and Kids Fun Run at the Baseline Road Trailhead of the Cross Florida Greenway.

“Last year we had nearly 200 participants,” says Dolores Pina, MCKF board secretary. “We are a 100-percent, allvolunteer foundation and the run is our primary fundraiser. The money goes straight to the needs of the kidney disease patients.”

To pre-register online for the run, go to active.com. To do so in person, go to Ocala Sports at 303 SE 17th Street.

Visit marioncountykidneyfoundation.org or call Dolores at (352) 671-5013.

Hoof It For Hospice The 11th annual HORSES FOR HOSPICE TRAIL RIDE is Saturday, February 19, on the Cross Florida Greenway. Riders will gather beginning at 8am at the Florida Horse Park, off CR Feb 475 south of Ocala. Riders will be divided into groups led by 19 a trail boss with staggered start times, which begin at 9:15am.

Those who wish to ride must make their own horse arrangements. Lunch by Tommy’s BBQ and country western music by Bordertown will be provided after the ride.

“Over the past 10 years, we’ve had more than 1,500 riders participate and netted $107,000,” says Karen Haven, development coordinator for Hospice of Marion County. “It’s a great way to get to ride the Greenway trails for a good cause.”

The minimum donation to ride is $30. Wagons are welcome with a minimum donation of $30 for the driver and $10 per passenger. For those tenderfoots who don’t want to ride, there will be a $10 ticket for the lunch and entertainment. For more information, contact Karen Haven at (352) 854-5218.

Honoring Onie Ocala never had a better example of longevity and healthy living than with beloved local resident and supercentenarian ONIE PONDER. And with her recent passing on New Year’s Eve morning at the age of 112, we might never have another like her again.

Her indomitable spirit and inspiring liveliness, however, will live on in the

memories of those who met and knew her. During her last interview with Ocala Style, Mrs. Ponder attributed her good health to staying active as a youngster.

At the time of her passing, she was the oldest person on record in the state of Florida and the 21st oldest person in the world. Ocala Style is proud to have been a guest at her 112th birthday celebration on September 3.

One. Just one. And only one.

One of the best heart hospitals in the country is also rated the safest hospital in Florida.

It's a fact: Munroe Heart has been consistently—and repeatedly—rated as one of the top cardiac care programs in the United States. We’re also rated #1 in Marion County for overall cardiac care in medical excellence and patient safety.

As important, Munroe Regional has also been rated as the safest hospital in Florida by The Delta Group, the nation’s largest privately held healthcare information services company. And with good reason.

One reason why Munroe Heart has been so successful is because our renowned heart and vascular surgeons, cardiologists, cardiovascular electrophysiologist, cardiac anesthesiologists and care team of 275 highly-skilled, compassionate associates work exclusively at Munroe Regional. ey have worked together so well, for so long, which means that they can focus on the most important member of the team — you.

Munroe Regional has been rated one of the top 100 hospitals in the nation, top 10% in the nation, top 10% in the state and #1 in our market for medical excellence and patient safety in cardiac care in 2010 by The Delta Group, the nation’s largest privately held healthcare information services company.

So what does this mean? It means that Munroe patients who suffer a heart attack, have heart failure or undergo bypass surgery have fewer preventable complications and adverse events during their hospitalization. It means you can count on Munroe Heart.

Bottom line, we provide a real quality difference and that matters.

Your care is always your choice. And when it’s your heart, second best is not an option. Insist on Munroe Heart. Learn more at www.MunroeRegional.com/heart or call Munroe Regional’s Health Resource Line at 352-867-8181 or 800-575-3975.

Take a FREE tour: It would be our privilege to give you a “Behind the Scenes” tour of Munroe Regional. To arrange a tour, call Munroe’s Health Resource Line at 352-867-8181.

Munroe Regional Medical Center is the first Accredited Chest Pain Center in Marion, Lake, Sumter and Citrus Counties.

Ocala, FL

www.MunroeRegional.com feb’11

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An Unhealthy Balance February isn’t just about candy hearts. It’s American Heart Month, too. Did you know heart disease is the number-one killer of Americans? Fortunately, with certain lifestyle changes, it is also one of the most preventable diseases. Two local residents recently shared their personal heart attack stories with Ocala Style—and a local cardiologist weighed in on the importance of heart health—in the hopes of preventing it from happening to someone else.

By JoAnn Guidry Photography by John Jernigan

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Sergeant David McClain

A

t 6-foot-2 and a fit 198 pounds from more than two decades of weight training, Sergeant David McClain did not look like a heart attack waiting to happen.

On November 3, 2010, the 13-year veteran deputy of the Marion County Sheriff ’s Office woke up around 11am. McClain, a supervising road sergeant, had worked the previous night shift and had gotten off at 6am. After a breakfast of just coffee, he headed to his garage gym for his usual workout. But this was going to be anything but a usual workout.

“I started doing some arm curls,” says McClain, 52, who joined the U.S. Navy right out of high school. “And I got this tightness in my chest. It felt kind of like when you’re starting to get a chest cold. I even remember thinking the last thing I wanted was to get a cold.”

Then McClain started sweating—a lot, which he thought was particularly odd for such a comfortably cool fall day. He moved on to do

some shoulder lifts and the sweating got worse.

And he just wasn’t feeling right. Couldn’t put his finger on it, but he just wasn’t feeling like himself.

“I decided that maybe I hadn’t slept enough and just cut my workout short,” says McClain, an admitted Type A personality.

“I thought maybe if I took a shower, I’d feel better.”

The shower didn’t make him feel any better.

In fact, he was feeling worse by the minute.

He walked into the living room and sat down heavily on an ottoman, wiping the sweat from his brow with both hands. And when his hands dropped to his sides, that’s when the tingling in his arms began.

“I was starting to think that something was really wrong and maybe I needed to get to the hospital,” recalls McClain. “I was alone at home since my wife, Leona, was at work. I looked at my truck keys on the table, but I could feel myself getting weaker. I decided it wouldn’t be a good idea to drive myself to the hospital.”

McClain dialed 911 and then called his wife.

David McClain

In the ambulance on the way to Munroe Regional Medical Center, the paramedics hooked McClain up to the heart monitor. As soon as they got the first EKG reading, he was given a nitroglycerin tablet—then two more before they reached the emergency room.

Once in the ER, McClain got some surprising and disturbing news from Dr. Gregory von Mering, an interventional cardiologist with Munroe.

“The doctor told me I was having a heart attack,” says McClain, still with a bit of disbelief now months later. “He said I had a 100-percent blockage in my right coronary artery and he needed to go in right away. He handed me a clipboard with papers to sign and they wheeled me into the catheterization lab.”

Then, remarkably, 20 minutes later, it was all done. From the time McClain had arrived in the ER and had an angioplasty to place a coronary stent in his artery to clear the blockage and restore blood flow, only a mere 20 minutes had elapsed. Hospitals call it door-to-balloon (D2B) time. Munroe’s average D2B time is 48 minutes and the national average is 64 minutes.

McClain spent the night in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit, moved into a private room the next day, and was discharged the following day. Those three days gave him a new perspective on life.

Despite the fact that both his parents had died from heart health issues, McClain had never shown any symptoms. His blood pressure was normal. His cholesterol numbers were low. He always aced his annual physical exams. But when McClain went for follow-up care following his heart attack to Dr. James London, the chinks in his armor became apparent.

Right off the top, McClain has a high-stress job and usually works night shifts, which both play havoc with his diet and sleep. While on duty prior to his heart attack, he ate little except for the odd-hour lunch at 1:30am. On his off days, he tended to overcompensate and eat plenty of his favorites, particularly fried foods, and drank lots of sweetened tea.

A longtime snorer, McClain was diagnosed with sleep apnea prior to his heart attack and will likely always have to sleep with a face mask to regulate his oxygen flow.

Medical research has linked poor sleep habits to heart disease, as well as high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes and obesity.

And, yes, McClain had worked out with weights during and after his 22-year Navy career. But what Dr. London pointed out was missing in his fitness routine was cardiovascular exercise like walking, jogging or bike riding. London explained that between his erratic eating pattern and onesided fitness regiment, McClain’s body was always struggling for balance. Then on that November morning, it just couldn’t right itself, hence the heart attack.

“I knew my eating habits weren’t the best and I had always had poor sleeping habits because of the night-shift work,” admits McClain. “But I thought I was doing okay with my fitness because I had always worked out. I really didn’t realize how important cardiovascular exercise is for your heart.

A week after his heart attack, McClain began a 36-session rehab at Munroe’s LifeTime Wellness Center. He found new reason to like the treadmill, rowing machine and recumbent bike. The physical therapists urged him to change up his weight training, using lighter weights with more reps. At home, McClain added a treadmill and stationary bike to his garage gym, and he and Leona started taking long walks. Six weeks after his heart attack, McClain was cleared by Dr. London to return full duty to work.

“Now I eat breakfast and bring a bag of good snacks to work,” says McClain, who today weighs 190 pounds. “I usually pack fruit, nuts and raisins, and eat that during my shift. When we break for lunch at 1:30am, I try to make better choices than I used to about what I eat. No more fried foods and when I do have iced tea, it’s not sweetened with sugar.”

While still grappling with the idea that he had a heart attack, McClain knows he has to stay vigilant and not fall back into his old, not-heart-healthy ways. He wants to live a long, full life with Leona, his wife of 31 years.

They have two sons and four grandchildren.

“Dr. London told me that I had to realize that for the rest of my life I’ll always

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k ttac A t Hear A f able in O fort s or pa s m n o c g n s U e s n a Si l t t: full can mfor

be a heart patient,” says McClain, whose medication now includes a statin, betablocker, ACE inhibitor and a daily aspirin.

“But on the other hand, I don’t want to live my life worrying about having another heart attack. So I’ve made the lifestyle changes that I needed to make and still live my life on my terms.”

Depths of Denial Barbara Morrison

D

espite a family history of heart disease, Barbara Morrison still didn’t think it would happen to her. But when her younger brother had a heart attack at 39, Morrison took notice. Always active and a regular walker, she tried eating healthier. But a smoker since she was 15, she continued her two-pack-a-day habit and still believed it wouldn’t happen to her. Then two years later, when she was 44, Morrison had a major heart attack and her days of denial were over.

“My husband, Jim, and I had been doing household chores all day,” recalls Morrison, a soft-spoken woman with clear, light-blue eyes. “I got really tired and decided I’d had enough. I went in, took a shower and went to bed early. I woke up about 11:30pm with pain and a cold sensation in my back between my shoulder blades.”

Morrison had suffered with heartburn for most her adult life, so she thought maybe this was just an odd case of indigestion. She got out of bed, took an Advil and waited to feel better. Two hours later, the pain and the cold tingling in her back were still there. Jim wasn’t back yet from a night out with some friends. She woke up her daughter Karen and had her drive her to the Munroe Regional Medical Center ER. “Once they got me hooked up to the heart monitor, ran an EKG and checked my blood enzyme levels, they told me I had definitely had a heart attack,” says Morrison, who at the time was a physical rehab assistant. “And that I previously had had other heart attacks when I thought it was only heartburn. I was in shock.”

But the news only got worse for Morrison. Hours later, she was taken to the catheterization lab for what she thought would be an angioplasty. Instead, she was told she had three major blockages and coronary stents

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would not work for her. Morrison would have to undergo triple bypass surgery to restore the blood flow in her heart.

“I still couldn’t believe this was happening to me,” says Morrison. “My brother had a stent put in and he was good.

But I hadn’t been that lucky.”

Following the major heart surgery, Morrison also developed acute respiratory distress syndrome, likely, she admits, another ill effect of her lifelong smoking habit. The latter complication extended her time in the cardiac intensive care unit to two weeks.

“I was very depressed,” says Morrison.

“But one of the good things to come out of this was that I knew I had smoked my last cigarette.”

While still in the hospital, Morrison was referred to Dr. Srisha Rao, a cardiologist with the Cardiovascular Institute of Central Florida, for her follow-up care. Dr. Rao put Morrison on a medication regime of a statin, beta-blocker, ACE inhibitor and aspirin. For her post-op rehab, Morrison and her husband would walk every day, gradually extending the distance. Six weeks later, she returned to work.

Now 12 years after her heart attack, Morrison has thankfully not had another one. But she still struggles with health issues.

Last June, she had to have carotid artery surgery and while recovering in the hospital was diagnosed with sleep apnea. She now sleeps with a device that provides her with a steady oxygen supply.

“Outside of my family history, I know that most of my health problems can be traced to all those years that I smoked,” she says. “People don’t realize how addictive and dangerous smoking is until it’s too late.”

Morrison tries to eat a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables and lean meats. She’s had to cut back on her favorites like pizza, bread and pasta, and says she “had to break up with cheese.” Morrison knows she needs to lose a few more pounds to be healthier, so she works out at Munroe’s LifeTime Wellness Center.

sco eezing, chest; o t Di u an g Ches ure, sq nter of s or c e s e t pres ly in c ew minu k l f bac e udes usua than a m o Incl n c : t r more and the mfo r both h isco o c away dy D in one r stoma o B r o e t p r w p o a U f j m r o , Othe or disc k, neck with c cur c o pain the ba Can t , th: r arms Brea iscomfo f O d s s t tne hes king Shor thout c Brea or i : w s n r o Sig usea ble eat, na i s s r Po d sw Othe n a col ss i e n t d ou de est t thea o ch a ligh on t somewh ience i t i d e d r e a a p x r ly n n to e ticular ng n: I wome r i Wome mfort, han men a t o t s, p vomi disc likely symptom ausea/ n more common breath, ck. r ba e f h o d t n o s a tnes jaw o: shor ain in To D p and hing T t rtan ion Impo ciat Asso Most 911! art e H Call American ce: Sour

Barbara Morrison

“I’ll do water aerobics and try to put in about 30 minutes on the treadmill,” says Morrison, now 56 and a secretary in Munroe’s ICU for the past eight years. “I know if I eat better and keep moving, I’ll be healthier.”

An avid reader, Morrison and her husband like to spend weekends in Cedar Key, where Jim enjoys fishing. When she isn’t working, Morrison spends as much time as she can with her two grandsons. At three and four years old, she says “they give me plenty of exercise and keep me laughing.”

Morrison, who definitely knows she’s lucky to be alive, has this parting advice when it comes to heart health.

“Pay attention and take your family health history seriously,” she says. “Don’t think it can’t happen to you. And most importantly, don’t smoke.”

Love Your

Heart

• Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day. If you can’t do at least 30 minutes all at once, do 10-minute sessions throughout the day.

• Eat a variety of vegetables and fruits.

• Eat lean meats and poultry without the skin. Cook without added saturated or trans fats.

• Eat fish high in omega-3 fatty acids: salmon, trout, herring, sardines.

• Select fat-free, 1-percent or low-fat dairy products.

• Read labels and cut back on foods containing partially hydrated vegetable oils.

• Reduce consumption of beverages and foods with added sugars.

• Choose and prepare foods with little or no added salt. Aim for less than 1,500 milligrams of sodium a day.

• If you drink alcohol, drink in moderation: one drink per day for women, two drinks per day for men.

• Keep an eye on the size of your portions at home and particularly when you eat out.

• Don’t smoke and stay away from secondhand smoke.

Source: American Heart Association

Cholesterol What is it?

Cholesterol is a fatty substance produced in the body by the liver from the animal foods we eat, like meats, poultry, fish and dairy products.

Why is it bad?

Cholesterol causes plaque to build up in our arteries, and that plaque blocks the blood flow to the heart. Lowering cholesterol slows the process of the clogging of the arteries. Everyone should check with their doctor about getting a fasting Lipid panel test.

Source: Dr. James London

Overcoming The Odds

Local cardiologist Dr. James London weighs in on heart disease prevention.

H

ere’s a statistic that will, well, make your heart skip a beat: Every 25 seconds, someone has a coronary event and every minute, someone dies from one.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the messenger of that sobering statistic, also lists heart disease as the leading cause of death in the United States. While heart disease has many guises, the one that usually—and with good reason—grabs people’s attention is a heart attack. It’s a hard-to-ignore reminder of our mortality.

Fortunately, there is some good news about heart disease prevention according to Ocala cardiologist Dr. James London.

“Outside of genetics, there are modifiable risk factors for heart disease that can be addressed with aggressive prevention,” says London. “Heart disease prevention can prolong and improve the quality of life.”

On London’s list of modifiable risk factors are high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes and obesity.

“Proper diet and exercise can reduce high cholesterol, lower blood pressure and

prevent Type 2 diabetes,” says London.

“And to stop smoking is the most powerful intervention you can do. When you stop smoking, there is a 36-percent reduction in cardiovascular mortality and a 46-percent reduction in overall mortality.”

When it comes to diet, London recommends focusing on eating vegetables, fruits, lean meats in moderation as well as limiting portion sizes. He believes that exercise, a combination of aerobics and resistance weight training, is as important as diet.

“Try for 60 minutes of aerobic exercise like walking at least five days a week,” says London, who hosts a free Saturday morning Walk With A Doc program at Ocala Family Medical Center. “Resistance training is Dr. James London also important to increase muscle mass, which burns fat. Exercise is important because it burns calories, reduces weight and can lower bad cholesterol.”

London acknowledges that medications play a role, sometimes a lifesaving one, in treating heart disease, but he says, “The earlier you adopt a healthy way of life, the less likely you are to need medications to prevent a heart attack.”

“Heart disease prevention can prolong and improve the quality of ”

life.

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

because their medical needs are met immediately.”

Being on site also allows Dr. Pares the opportunity to form closer relationships with his patients.

“I see everyone everyday.

I pick up on subtleties,” he says.

“It’s like we are a family here.”

Another new initiative at Life Care Center of Ocala is the Healthy Hearts program, designed to help patients with cardiac conditions ife Care Center of Ocala, a 120-bed skilled improve heart health and maintain an active lifestyle. rehabilitation center and one of more than 220 Participants are monitored 24/7 with the facility’s Life Care Centers of America facilities nationremote telemetry monitoring system. This way, progwide, has recently adopted several new programs and ress and overall health can be observed constantly. is making many renovations that will greatly improve Patients also receive dietary counseling and weight the quality of each patient’s experience. management education. To support this program, the From wellness services like the exclusive Healthy facility has invested thousands of dollars to educate Hearts program to rehabilitation and skilled care, the the nursing staff on the latest in cardiac care. associates of Life Care Center of Ocala are dedi“This is over and above what other centers do,” cated to creating effective, personalized healthcare says Adele. “It improves the level of patient care here programs to meet each patient’s unique needs. beyond other facilities.”

Last October, Dr. Segismundo Pares became At Life Care Center of Ocala, therapy programs the center’s first on-site physician, which is a big plus are designed to help patients get better faster. for patients because they can receive immediate care Whether the patient is recovering from a physician familiar with from surgery, an illness or injury, or their condition rather than just trying to improve strength and going to the hospital. agility, the interdisciplinary team “We’ve seen nothing but creates care plans that target each positive results,” says executive person’s goals. director Janice Cericola, N.H.A. —JANICE CERICOLA And to ensure that as patients Dr. Pares works together recover they do so in maximum with medical director Dr. comfort, the facility has recently renovated, installing Robert Kitos and director of nursing Adele hardwood floors and tiling the bathrooms, giving Anahory. As a team, they create an environment walls a fresh coat of warm paint and adding flatwhere residents’ needs are met with knowledge and screen televisions to many rooms. compassion.

With so many advancements happening over just “We are so lucky to have Dr. Pares on site,” Adele a few months, it’s been a bit of a whirlwind for the staff. says. “It’s such a good thing for our patients and it But everyone agrees that the level of patient care has improves our quality of care.” been greatly enhanced, and that makes it all worth it.

Dr. Pares is thrilled as well to be a part of this new concept in patient care. An Ocala resident since 1989, he has extensive experience in family and geriatric medicine. With his background and passion for senior adults, Dr. Pares is an ideal fit for the opportunity.

Life Care Center of Ocala “We are making a difference,” he says. “In 2800 Southwest 41st Street the first eight days we’ve kept 12 people out of the Ocala, Fl 34474 hospital, and the quality of their rehab is improved (352) 873-7570

‘A New Model in

Patient Care’

L

We’ve seen nothing but positive results.

To achieve its mission of helping Ocala seniors live active, independent lives, Life

Care Center of Ocala has

recently made some major changes.

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Florida Pain Clinic

Stephen T. Pyles, M.D. Treatment of Acute & Chronic Pain

Dr. Pyles’ Florida Pain Clinic, founded in 1985, offers patients and their families a relaxed atmosphere in which to receive state-of-the-art treatment for their acute and chronic pain.

HOSPITAL STAFF PRIVILEGES Ocala Regional Medical Center West Marion Community Hospital Munroe Regional Medical Center Kindred Hospital

Specializing in the treatment of patients’ chronic pain • • • • • • • • •

Back Pain Pain in Upper/Lower Extremities Perineal/Pelvic Pain Phantom Limb Pain Abdominal Pain Chest Pain Pancreatitis Shingles (Post Herpetic Neuralgia) Cancer Pain

Leesburg Medical Center The Villages Regional Hospital

IV Sedation Available for Procedures

Florida Pain Clinic 3241 SW 34th Street | Ocala, Florida

352.861.4600

Renew

Dry Winter Skin $15 Off

Body Buff Treatment* Exfoliate and hydrate dry skin.

heroes aren’t born...

they volunteer!

Remember your sweetie on

Valentine’s Day

Join the Marion County Medical Reserve Corps.

Rebuilding their dreams depends on you.

Gift Cards Available.

Find us on Facebook®!

MAGGIE “MICKI” MIDDLETON

352.629.0137

x.2001 MarionMRC@doh.state.fl.us www.marioncountymrc.com www.medicalreservecorps.gov

352.861.8180

8385 SW 80th St. • Ocala, FL 34481 www.TheRanchFitnessSpa.com

No medical experience necessary

*Please mention ad at time of appointment. Offer expires 2/28/11. MM19228

ETING…. ITS ABOUT MAKING HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE CHOICES!

Lose Weight & Live Life Now! Physician-Directed Weight Management Programs Medical Spa Botox & Restylane Laser Photofacials Laser Hair Removal Smoothshapes Laser Cellulite Treatments Microdermabrasion Chemical Peels & the new VI Peel Massage Permanent Make-Up

Weight Management HCG & HGH Injection Programs Other fat burning injections and prescription appetite suppressants also available.

Diets Don’t Work.

It’s about making healthier lifestyle choices.

Michael Holloway, M.D.

Lifestyle Solutions Beauty Through Health

2139-B NE 2nd Street, Ocala 62

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352-368-2148 lsmedspa.com

Wing It!

the

Locals compete to be named “King of the Wing” on Feb. 24. p64

Chocolatey Desserts p64

Quick Bites p64

Dish

Bouquet Beauty Tips p66

His & Her Betty Cakes p68

and more!

National Gumdrop Day FEBRUARY 15 What ooey gooey candy has its own national day of recognition? The gumdrop of course!

These chewy, sugar-coated confections were first made in the early 1800s. Whether spicy or fruity, gumdrops add fun and flavor to a variety of treats. While no one is quite certain about the origin of National Gumdrop Day, this ode to the gumdrop is celebrated every February 15. And that’s reason enough for us! This year, take part by sharing these fun candies with your friends!

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Dish

the

RECIPES

Feb

Eat & Drink!

24

King of the Wing If you’re a wing connoisseur, don’t miss the 5th annual KING OF THE WING competition on February 24 from 5–7:30pm and feast on all-you-can-eat wings from some of the area’s best wing-serving restaurants as well as some amateur wing-makers. The competition will be held at ARC Marion on Maricamp Road, and advanced tickets are $20 per person or $175 for blocks of 10 and $25 at the door. Complete with music, beverages and free giveaways, this event is a wing lover’s dream! Proceeds benefit the disadvantaged and developmentally disabled of ARC Marion. (352) 694-4133.

Feb

5

Chocolately Creations Be sweet to your loved ones this month with these chocolate treats.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Hearts Makes about 18 hearts with 2½- to 3-inch heart cutter

Beers For Boobs!

2¼ cups all-purpose flour

Looking for a way to support the Susan G. Komen Foundation for the Cure without running a 5K? Well here’s your chance! The INTERNATIONAL BEER FESTIVAL AND CHILI COOK OFF will be held at the Sarasota County Fairgrounds and Robarts Arena on February 5. The festivities begin at noon with live entertainment from four different bands. Browse through vendors’ offerings while sampling over 100 different types of both international and domestic beers. Bring your appetite because there will also be over 50 different chili recipes to try as part of the chili cook off. Not into chili? No problem as there will be plenty of other options to snack on while you watch the pre-Super Bowl coverage aired live. Tickets are $20 for general admission and $70 for VIP, and monies raised benefit the Susan G. Komen Foundation for the Cure. serendipityforthecure.com or (941) 925-7581.

1

teaspoon baking soda

1

teaspoon salt

1

cup (2 sticks) butter, softened

¾ cup granulated sugar ¾ cup packed brown sugar 1

teaspoon vanilla extract

2

large eggs

2

cups (12-ounce package) Nestlé Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels

1

cup chopped nuts Metal or heat-safe heart cookie cutter(s) of desired size(s), 1 inch in height Various icings, sprinkles, Nestlé Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Mini Morsels

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line 15x10-inch jelly-roll pan with foil; lightly grease.

QUICK BITES

Atlantic Buffet opened for business on December 14 in the old Barn Hill Buffet location on Silver Springs Boulevard. Patrons will find not only Chinese and Japanese dishes in the abundant all-you-can-eat buffet, but also American and Italian specialties. A sushi chef is on hand to prepare a wide range of sushi creations. On the hibachi grill, chefs prepare Japanese food while you watch. “We have over 50 kinds of Chinese—including a lot of traditional dishes you won’t find everywhere— and Western food items, including pork tender and prime rib,” says manager Ricky. “We always offer 10 percent off lunch or dinner for seniors

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over 65 and all military. We’re a good place for parties, meetings and receptions, and can seat up to 150 people.” Lunch buffet is $6.99 on Monday–Saturday from 11am to 3:30pm.

Dinner buffet Monday–Thursday from 3:30 to 10pm is $9.99. Friday and Saturday features the weekend special dinner with lots of seafood, including crab legs, raw oysters and more, from 3:30 to 10pm for $11.99. On Sunday you’ll find the same weekend special dinner served all day from 11am to 10pm for $11.99.

2167 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala (352) 368-9888

2. Combine flour, baking soda and salt in small bowl. Beat butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar and vanilla extract in large mixer bowl until creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in morsels and nuts. Spread dough into prepared pan.

3. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely in pan on wire rack.

Lift from pan with foil handles to cutting board. Cut out hearts with cookie cutter(s).

Remove hearts while peeling away foil.

4. Decorate as desired.

Recipe courtesy of Nestle

DININGGUIDE

Bamboo Bistro 700 North Hwy441 (In Front of Target), Lady Lake / (352) 750-9998 Mon-Thu 11a-9:30p / Fri-Sat 11a-10p / Sun 12p-9p Experience the unique and unforgettable taste at Bamboo Bistro in The Villages! Offering Asian dishes from China, Japan, Vietnam and Thailand along with a full sushi bar, Chef Liang Wu incorporates the best variety of authentic Asian ingredients while using an array of cooking techniques. Our specialties include Peking Duck, Pepper Seared Filet Mignon, Seafood Delight, along with other seafood choices. Many wok entrees and noodle dishes available. A variety of Asian beers and the extensive wine list will complement any meal.

Chef Wu and Co-Owner Jian Daniels have created a wonderful new Asian Fusion dining experience in town that manages to be both elegant and casual.

Come join us for lunch or dinner and enjoy!

Arthur’s at the Hilton 3600 SW 36th Avenue, Ocala / (352) 854-1400 Sun-Sat 6:30a-10p Located in the Hilton Ocala, Chef Randal White tantalizes taste buds with his signature dishes such as Dijon Rosemary Crusted Lamb Chops and Marion Shrimp Rosette. This Valentine’s Day, celebrate with the Lover’s Liaison Package. Take a romantic carriage ride while sipping chilled champagne with your sweetheart. Let Chef Randal prepare a delicious four-course meal including Macadamia Nut Crusted Brie, and Columbian Rub Angus Tenderloin. Top it off with a decadent dessert and retire to a luxurious deluxe room for two. End your stay with a room service breakfast of Heart-shaped Belgian Waffles covered in chocolate chips, strawberries and whip cream!

February is the Month of Love at the Ocala Hilton.

Tilted Kilt 3155 E. Silver Springs Boulevard, Ocala / (352) 351-5458 / tiltedkilt.com Mon-Thu 11a-Midnight / Fri-Sat 11a-12a / Sun 11a-11p Have you heard the buzz around town about Ocala’s newest restaurant and sports bar? Everything at Tilted Kilt, from the delicious pub-style food to the friendly costumed staff, is exciting and fun! The menu features an array of satisfying options, whether you just want to snack or feel like having a full meal. Nachos, cheeseburger sliders, quesadillas and salads join over half a dozen hearty burgers, such as the Black & Bleu, The French Connection (lots of melted Swiss cheese and sautéed mushrooms and onions) and the BBQ Bacon. Other favorites include Maggie Mae’s Fish & Chips, Kilt Burner Wings, Chicken Tenders, the Ultimate Club Wrap and the Grilled Chicken Caesar Wrap.

Other favorites include such entrees as the Sausage Artichoke Fettuccini, Danny Boy’s Shepherd’s Pie and lasagna.

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What’s In Season?

Staying

Flower Power ^

Don’t let that gorgeous bouquet from the 14th wilt away on your dining room table. According to floral designer Julie Agresti with BO-KAY FLORIST, which specializes in Rio Roses, there are simple measures you can take to extend the life of your arrangement.

Troy Harbison, manager of the NORTH MAGNOLIA FARMER’S MARKET, has the scoop on the freshest produce available locally this month.

Onions Broccoli C. Cauliflower D. Mustard, collard & turnip greens E. Strawberries F. Kale G. Cabbage H. Carrots I. Spinach J. Swiss chard K. Brussels sprouts L. Romaine, red & green leaf lettuces

A

B

C

D

A.

1. Leave the bouquet in the original water for the first four days.

2. After four days, trim one inch off of each stem and change the water in the vase.

Slightly cool water is best. Warm water will encourage the blooms to open more quickly.

3. Follow the directions on the floral food packet that accompanied your arrangement.

These preservatives will help keep your blooms alive for longer.

4. Each day after re-cutting, add a small amount of cool water to the existing water.

5. Do not place the arrangement near direct sunlight or heat. Warm air from an air conditioning or TV vent, for example, will cause the flowers to open more quickly.

QUICK BITES

Joe & Vinny’s is just as Italian as the name sounds. Located on Maricamp Road in the old Ciccio’s location, Joe & Vinny’s is owned and operated by the father-and-son team of Vinny and Joe Paparopoli who bought the restaurant from the former owner last April and changed the name in November. “From day one, we changed the entire menu. Everything is fresh and cooked to order, and portions are good-sized,” says Joe, who does most of the cooking while dad Vinny helps.

On Monday night, a 20-inch cheese pizza is just $7.50. Tuesday night is all-you-can-eat pasta, while you get 10 percent off any entrée

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Wednesday through Saturday night. Monday through Saturday from 11am to 3pm, you can enjoy the $6.99 lunch buffet, featuring salad, pizza and various baked Italian dishes.

3535 SE Maricamp Road, Suite 1001, Ocala (352) 694-2224

QUICK BITES

Firehouse Subs opened a second Ocala location on November 20. The newest site on Silver Springs Boulevard joins the town’s first location on College Road. “The Ocala Firehouse Subs has always been a popular site and we knew we’d do well opening another one,” says John Papa, district manager for Ocala/Gainesville. Known for hot subs and

B.

The North Magnolia Farmer’s Market at 834 North Magnolia Avenue is open Fridays from 8am to 1:30pm.

(352) 207-4551.

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

oversized portions, the Firehouse Subs’ décor reminds patrons that the family who founded the chain has 200 years of firefighting history.

Best-sellers include the Hook & Ladder, which features smoked turkey and Virginia honey ham smothered with Monterey Jack cheese, and the New York Steamer with corned beef brisket and pastrami topped with provolone cheese. Other popular options include the Chief ’s Salad and Firehouse Chili. Both kids and adults seem to love the non-carbonated fountain drink Cherry Lime-Aid, an original recipe of fresh squeezed lime, blended cherries, simple syrup and ice.

4905 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala (352) 732-7827 / firehousesubs.com

DININGGUIDE

Ayuttaya Thai Cuisine 2437 SW 27th Avenue, Ocala / (352) 237-3433 / OcalaThai.com Lunch Mon-Fri 11:30a-2:30p / Dinner Mon-Thu 5p-9p / Fri & Sat 5p-10p / Sun 5p-9p Crossing the threshold at Ayuttaya is like stepping into a different world, far from the bustling activity of nearby SR200. Serving authentic Thai cuisine in an impeccable environment was the mission of owners Paul and Sherry Chanavorachai. Judging by a constantly busy dining room, it appears they have succeeded. Featuring a variety of vegetable, seafood and meat dishes that can be prepared using either traditional spices or milder variations (takeout included), every meal at Ayuttaya is like travelling to new and exotic places without ever having to leave Ocala. Forget your passport at home and decide for yourself.

Authentic Thai cuisine.

Takeout available. Ten years and going strong... thanks all!

Fiore’s Café 119 South Pine Avenue, Ocala / (352) 789-6980 Mon-Thu 3p-9p / Fri & Sat 4p-10p / Sun 4p-9p Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with the beautiful Tuscan décor at Fiore’s Café before you even take a single bite of the restaurant’s delicious Italian food. The interior of Fiore’s is simply stunning. Add to that the famous Black Seafood Linguini, Veal Chop Caprise, “Luis Favorite” Tilapia, New York style pizza, strombolis, calzones or any of the other numerous dishes available, and your dining experience couldn’t be finer. Try the newest items, too, including the antipasto misto, Italian meat pies and coconut jumbo shrimp. Complement your meal with a fine wine, a beer or Fiore’s famous, homemade sangria.

Enjoy Fiore’s at home with the take-out menu. Make your Valentine reservations now.

Welcome HITS!!

Cody’s Original Roadhouse 2505 SW College Road, Ocala / (352) 237-8182 / codysoriginalroadhouse.com Doors Open at 11a. Serving Lunch & Dinner Daily.

Cody’s Original Roadhouse – “Where Quality and Value Come Together!” Servin’ USDA Prime and Choice Steaks, rotisserie chicken, BBQ ribs, chops, fresh fish, burgers, salads and more!

Two Kids 10 & under Eat Free every Monday and Tuesday, with the purchase of 1 adult entree. Wednesday is FREE Fajita Night– Buy One, Get One Free and Thursday, cut into Cody’s 10 oz. USDA Choice Top Sirloin Steak for only $11.95! Daily 2-for-1 Happy Hour, Early Bird Specials till 6pm Mon.-Sat. After-church specials starting at $7.99 with dessert, plus there is always curbside takeout for those in a hurry.

Take-Out Service Available.

Locations also in Gainesville and The Villages. Check out our Valentine’s Day specials!

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His & Her Cakes BETTY CAKES will be one very busy bakery this month, turning out over 100

cakes in time for Valentine’s Day alone. Owner Betty Williamson recently shared with Ocala Style two of her company’s biggest sellers among men and women for the 14th: the Chocolate Decedent Cake (right) and the Chocolate Berry Basket Cake. The former, Betty says, is extremely popular with male customers because of both its endless supply of chocolate and its more masculine-looking chocolate curl decorations. The Chocolate Berry Basket, which is topped with fudge-covered strawberries and features an intricate weaved design, is a favorite among ladies. “Women love the strawberries!” Betty explains.

The Chocolate Decedent can be personalized, and the Chocolate Berry Basket can be made with white cake and white chocolate, if desired. Just imagine, a whole cake for each of you! (352) 622-3727.

QUICK BITES

Bamboo Bistro offers Asian fusion dining with a great variety of Chinese and Japanese dishes. The Lady Lake establishment, which opened last fall, offers a number of lunch specials every day from 11am until 3pm. There are several Wok Specials, which include a vegetable spring roll and soup. Pick from a variety of sauces to create your personal favorite dish. Bamboo Bistro also features a sushi bar with both sushi and sashimi, and be sure to ask about the sushi lunch special, which comes with soup. Also new and proving very popular are the steamed mussels in Thai basil sauce. The restaurant, which is open seven days a week, serves hot and cold saki, beer and a wide assortment of wines. Dinner is served from 3pm to close.

700 N. U.S. Highway 441, Lady Lake (352) 750-9998

“It’s been said that

cabernets go to your head and pinots go to your heart.”

David Lewis, general manager of CUVEE WINE & BISTRO, shares his picks for wines (and even champagne) to consider during the year’s most romantic month.

Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery opened in Ocala on January 2, making this the fifth Tilted Kilt in Florida. Located in the former Bennigan’s location on East Silver Springs Boulevard, which was completely remodeled from top to bottom, the Tilted Kilt is a Celtic-themed sports bar and restaurant featuring pub-style food, lots of televisions for sports viewing and personable “cast members” in playful plaid kilts. Live entertainment is planned. “Business is booming. It’s been well received by Ocala,” says co-owner and –operator Larry Stone. A full menu is offered for lunch and dinner seven days a week. Look for St. Patrick’s Day festivities and specials next month.

3155 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala (352) 351-5458 / tiltedkilt.com

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Prep: 15 mins / Cooking: 5 mins Refrigerating: 2½ hours Makes 8 servings

1

can (12 fluid ounces) Nestlé Carnation Evaporated Milk

2

large egg yolks

2

cups (1 12-ounce package) Nestlé Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels

1

container (8 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed and divided

BELLE GLOS “LAS ALTURAS,” 2008 PINOT NOIR

1

(Santa Lucia Highlands, CA) This wine coats the mouth with flavors of berry pie filling, sweet spices and plum that leads to an elegant and supple finish.

container (6 ounces) or 1 1/3 cups fresh raspberries, divided

1

prepared 9-inch (6 ounces) chocolate crumb crust

—David Lewis

DAVID BRUCE, 2007 PINOT NOIR (Sonoma County, CA)

This wine has an expression of red cherry, cranberry and plum coupled with lingering notes of nutmeg and cinnamon.

ROMBAUER, 2009 CHARDONNAY (Carneros, CA)

QUICK BITES

Chocolate Raspberry Mousse Pie

Rich and vibrant tropical fruit flavors blend with toasty oak notes. Peach, pear and a touch of pineapple integrate with creamy vanilla.

EROICA, 2008 RIESLING

(Columbia Valley, WA) This Riesling has a lovely, captivating perfume of acacia, honey, mineral, melon and tropical aromas. It exudes mandarin orange and sweet lime aromas, and flavors with subtle mineral notes.

You can never go wrong with champagne either! My favorite is VEUVE CLICQOUT ROSE (France),, a generously fruity and elegant rosé with raspberry, wild strawberry and cherry flavors as well as complex hints of almond and apricot pastries.

1. Whisk together evaporated milk and egg yolks in medium saucepan.

2. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring

constantly, until mixture is very hot and thickens slightly; do not boil.

Remove from heat; stir in morsels until completely melted and mixture is smooth. Pour into large bowl.

3. Refrigerate for 30 minutes until cool.

4. Gently stir in 2 cups whipped

topping.

5. Refrigerate for 2 hours until thickened.

6. Sprinkle 1 cup raspberries over crust. Spoon chilled chocolate mousse over raspberries. Dollop remaining 1 cup whipped topping on center of pie; top with remaining raspberries.

Recipe courtesy of Nestlé

DININGGUIDE

Chili’s Grill & Bar Many Convenient Locations Throughout Our Area / chilis.com Sun-Thu 11a-11p / Fri & Sat 11a-Midnight (lounge open till 2a, at I-75 location only) Happy Hour All Day Everyday From freshly prepared salads to mouth-watering burgers, Chili’s kicks up the flavor with food that’s anything but ordinary. Smokey, sweet and savory ribs are now slowsmoked over pecan wood and impossible to resist. Enjoy the flavor without the guilt thanks to dishes under 750 calories. Party Platters create the perfect event at Chili’s.

Happy Hour is all day every day with 2-for-1 drinks. New lunch break. Forget the old - go for the bold $6 lunch combos!

Scan here with your smartphone for a direct link to chilis.com

Crossroads Country Kitchen 7947 W. Highway 40, Ocala / (352) 237-1250 Mon-Thu 6a-8p / Fri-Sat 6a-9p / Sun 7a-3p Located west on Highway 40 in Ocala, the Crossroads Country Kitchen is a must for anyone craving down-home, country cooking. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, menu items range from homestyle chicken & dumplings to prime rib, fresh salads, seafood, prime steaks and burgers. If you’re in the mood for a real treat, try the Prime Rib Dinner For Two. Make sure to leave room for one of the tasty home-baked desserts, too! In the mood for a fresh fish fry? Tuesdays and Fridays are all-you-care-to-eat catfish. Big screen televisions will allow you to enjoy your meal without missing one second of the big game or race.

Located at the Crossroads of NW 80th Ave. and Hwy 40 West.

No matter what you have a taste for, Crossroads Country Kitchen is sure to become a new favorite.

Blanca’s Café Ocala Palms Golf & Country Club / 5000 N US Hwy 27, Ocala / (352) 867-0001 Sun Breakfast 8a-Noon, Dinner 1p-8p / Mon-Sat Lunch & Dinner 10:30a-9p Tucked in among the rolling greens of the Ocala Palms Golf & Country Club, Blanca’s Café is a gem of a find for diners looking for excellent food served in a warm, friendly environment.

Italian dishes and delicious homemade desserts are the café’s specialty, with a popular breakfast buffet offered every Sunday.

Patrons enjoy a full service bar and live entertainment weekly as well as spacious seating for up to 150. Try one of the weekly dinner specials Blanca’s offers, or schedule catering for your next event through the café. Whether you’re a newcomer in town or a local looking for somewhere new to dine, Blanca’s Café offers something to please every palate.

Special menu for Valentine’s Day – Call for reservations. Weekly entertainment, call for details.

Homemade pizza served daily.

Lunches now feature Beef on Weck & Monte Cristo Sandwiches.

Live Maine lobsters every Friday night. Reservation required.

Welcome HITS!

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DININGGUIDE

Latinos Y Mas 2030 S Pine Avenue, Ocala / (352) 622-4777 / latinos-mas.com Mon-Thu 11a-9p / Fri & Sat 11a-10p / Closed Sunday

Gift certificates and party platters available for any special occasion.

The beautiful, newly remodeled Latinos Y Mas is perfect for hosting private parties and can also cater or deliver to any of your upcoming events. Begin your Latinos Y Mas dining experience with an exotic Pineapple Martini or perhaps a Passion Fruit Caipirinha. Follow that with the authentic Peruvian Ceviche or Tostones Tico Rico appetizer. For your main entrée, try the Spanish Paella Valenciana or maybe the Mexican Chipotle Fajitas. Of course dessert is a must at Latinos Y Mas and rightfully so. You won’t be able to resist the homemade Passion Fruit Mousse or bestselling authentic Nicaraguan Tres Leches! Same great taste, new and exciting decor.

Ocala’s Chocolate & Confections 104 SE Fort King Street, Downtown Ocala / (352) 789-6882 / ocalaschocolate.com Mon-Wed 11a-9p / Thu-Sat 11a-10p / Sun 1p-7p

Chocolate also available for all occasions, Easter, birthdays, anniversaries, and Mother’s Day, etc. Give the gift of chocolate this Valentine’s Day! Now taking orders.

Ocala’s Chocolate & Confections

Ocala’s only handmade chocolate shop located just off the downtown square. Delectable, high-quality, handmade chocolates, ice creams, gift baskets, party favors and more.

Everything is made on-site by proud owners Keith and KerryAnn with natural European chocolate. Stop by for your favorite ice cream, Jamaican coffee and hot cocoa. Assorted truffles, fudge, caramel corn and brittles guaranteed to delight you! Book your corporate events, chocolate fountain or have your order shipped. Open on Valentine’s Day - Stop in for dessert. Extended hours during special events & holidays. Outdoor seating. Wi-Fi. Gift certificates available.

Super Buffet Pine Plaza / 620 South Pine Avenue, Ocala / (352) 369-9937 Sun-Thu 11a-9:30a / Fri & Sat 11a-10:30p

Voted in the Top 100 out of over 43,000 Chinese restaurants in the United States by Chinese Restaurant News.

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Finding the right place to dine is a nightmare. Wanting sushi, pizza, seafood, salad or Chinese food? There are loads of books and guides that will lead you to various places. But there is one place that carries all of these items. That place is called Super Buffet. With more then 300 items on its buffet, the consumer can choose from a hot, delicious food bar or a cold fresh fruit and dessert bar. The buffet offers generous portions, which explains the name “super,” so you can be sure to leave full and satisfied. Super Buffet is located in Pine Plaza by the Ocala Police Department. If you like to eat, come in and enjoy the buffet!

DININGGUIDE

Cuvée Wine & Bistro 2237 SW 19th Ave Rd, Ste. 102, Ocala / (352) 351-1816 / cuveewineocala.com Mon-Thu 4p-10p / Fri & Sat 4p-2a / Happy Hour 4p-7p & 11p-1a Cuvée Wine & Bistro is an elegant and approachable environment where you can embrace the age-old relationship between food and wine. In an inspiring and intimate atmosphere, Cuvée brings together the taste of upscale cuisine with the freshest ingredients combined with a wide array of wines from around the world. We guarantee your senses will be delighted and your palate overwhelmed. Feed your mind, your spirit and your curiosity at Cuvée.

Call for Reservations Private Parties and Off-Premise Catering Available

Jitterz Café Located in Almeida Plaza / 11783 Highway 441, Belleview / (352) 307-9870 Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Tue-Fri 7a-7p / Sat 8a-2p / Sun 8a-1p If you’re searching for a friendly eatery where the food is delicious, the staff is great and the atmosphere is just right, then look no further than Jitterz Café on Hwy. 441 in Belleview. This delightful spot has been getting rave reviews from patrons! Stop by for a breakfast of Almond French Toast, a fluffy omelet filled inside and out or the wonderful biscuits and gravy. Try a lunch of homemade soup, a fresh salad and a char-grilled burger. Old-time favorites like the Beef Burgundy or healthier selections like the Smoked Salmon Salad are perfect for dinnertime. For dessert, try our award-winning Bread Pudding topped with vanilla Grand Mariner sauce.

Jitterz’s tea and coffee bar encourages guests to sit a while and enjoy good company. Smoothies are available, and two-for-one beer and wine is offered all day, every day. Call for information about private parties and catering.

Tony’s Sushi & Steakhouse 3405 SW College Road, Ocala / (352) 237-3151 Mon-Thu 11a-10p / Fri & Sat 11a-11p / Sunday 3p-10p Tony’s Sushi brings scrumptious sushi favorites from New York and Miami to Ocala, served in a fun, family environment. All sushi dishes are made to order—choose from a variety of specialty rolls or create your own! Whether you prefer chicken, steak or seafood, talented chefs will prepare it with dazzling showmanship on the hot grill right at your table.

All entrées come with soup or salad and rice. In addition to the full Japanese kitchen, there is a full liquor bar and a beer selection, including imported Japanese beer and Sake.

For the truly adventurous, try Tony’s famous Sake Bomb!

We also provide catering and host private parties.

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Get

FISCALLY

FIT

Through Professional Planning Don’t leave your fiscal health to chance.

Let the professionals at The Fontaine Financial Group help you plan for and achieve your goals, whether you need a personal financial plan, a customized executive benefits program for your business, or a detailed asset allocation analysis. Our mission is to create cost-effective financial strategies for our clients by first assessing their aspirations and then identifying and prioritizing their short- and long-term goals.

We offer: Retirement Planning • Investment Services Estate Planning Strategies • Risk Management Financial Planning • Insurance for Business Owners

The

Low-Key Alternative To A High-Stress Environment

Dr. Urban’s Ocala-based cardiology practice is unlike any other. You’ll find no sterile white walls, tattered magazines, or televisions blaring the news. Instead, his office is warm and inviting.

The beautiful, unique décor, along with his courteous and professional staff make a visit to the doctor’s office an enjoyable experience.

Dr. Urban characterizes his office as the low-key alternative to what can often be a high-stress environment.

• Full-Service Cardiologist with 25 years experience

• Routine heart-health maintenance, including cholesterol and blood pressure • Acute- and critical-care patients, including heart catheterizations and angioplasty

ocalastyle.com

L-R: Grant McMahon, Financial Professional; Steven L. Smiley, CLU, CHFC; Jeff Zysek, MBA, Financial Professional

At The Fontaine Financial Group, you’ll have access to an extensive range of excellent products and services to help you achieve your financial objectives. You’ll have our professionals on your side.

The

FONTAINE Financial Group

• Preventative care

72

Jane B. Fontaine M.S., CFP®, ChFC, CLU, AEP™, CASL

feb’11

352.622.9090 Paul L. Urban,

MD, FACC, FAHA, FSCAI 1800 SE 17th St, #700, Ocala, FL

352.789-6008

fontainefinancialgroup.com

1721 SE 16th Avenue, Suite 103 • Ocala, Florida 34471

The Fontaine Financial Group, LLC, is not a registered investment advisor and does not provide legal or tax advice. Fontaine Financial Group, LLC Associates offer securities through AXA Advisors, LLC (NY, NY, 212-314-4600), member FINRA, SIPC. Jane B. Fontaine, Grant McMahon, and Jeff Zysek offer investment Advisor services through AXA Advisors, LLC. Annuities and Insurance products offered through AXA Network, LLC and its subsidiaries. The Fontaine Financial Group, LLC is not owned or operated by AXA Advisors or AXA Network. PPG58521(10/10)

Black is Back!

How To Engineer Fun p74

Scene

the

Country icon Clint Black talks love songs and more ahead of his Ocala concert. p75

Ozzy & Slash On Tour p76

Wicked Fun In Orlando p78

Social Scene p84

and more!

Carnival On Campus High wires and motorcycles on the grounds of TRINITY HIGH SCHOOL? You bet!

Well, at least for four nights this month.

The school’s annual Winter Carnival will be held February 24–27. See the high school in an entirely different light with circus acts, midway games, rides and, of course, plenty of carnival food on campus! The entertainment is free and armbands can be purchased for unlimited rides on Thursday and Sunday. The carnival’s hours are 5–9pm on Thursday, 5–11pm on Friday, 11am–11pm on Saturday and 11am–9pm on Sunday. trinitycatholichs.org or (352) 622-9025

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Birthday ‘Preludes’ Feb

5

Book It! If you love nothing more than curling up with a good book, then make sure you visit the Ocala library on Saturday, February 5 from 10am–4pm for its QUARTERLY BOOK SALE. The sale is held in Room C of the main library on Silver Springs Boulevard, and for six hours reading enthusiasts can browse through hundreds of books priced only 50 cents for hardbacks and 25 cents for paperbacks. Find timeless classics as well as new works by some of today’s most popular writers. Proceeds from the sale support the Ocala library. friendsoftheocalalibrary.org or (352) 368-4591.

The Ocala Symphony Orchestra will bring the 200-year-old tone poem Les Preludes by Franz Liszt to life during the “OSO BIRTHDAY BASH.” Following this masterpiece will be a performance of a bassoon concerto composed by 100-yearold Nina Rota and performed by guest artist Dr. Arnold Irchai. To top things off, the melodies of Bobby Darrin and Bernstein’s Symphonic Dances of Westside Story will make this Birthday Bash a night to remember! The magical event will be held on Saturday, February 19 at 7:30pm and Sunday, February 20 at 3pm at the Ocala Breeders’ Sales Auditorium. Tickets can be purchased directly from the website. ocalasymphony.com or (352) 351-1606.

Calling all Mr. and Mrs. Fix Its!

Feb

26

All Dolled Up If dolls and dresses were a big part of your life growing up, then be sure to head out to the La Hacienda Recreation Center in The Villages on February 11 for this SPRING FLING FASHION SHOW AND “DOLLS DELIGHT” event. From 10am to noon, take a walk down memory lane with dolls from your childhood, or bring a doll and get a chance to share your story while taking in fashions from Bealls located on Highway 441.

Tickets are $5. (352) 259-7247.

Feb

11

Feb

Three Cheers For Engineers

26

Talk about family fun with some learning power! On February 26, turn off the TV and head to The Discovery Center at Tuscawilla Park for the Florida Engineering Society-hosted ENGINEERING DAY 2011. Parents and kids, ages 7–15, will work in teams on a series of hands-on engineering challenges with prizes awarded to the top creators in each division. Imaginations are sure to run wild, and who knows? Maybe the activities will inspire your little ones to declare their college major early. Registration is free but limited to 150 participants. The day gets underway at 10am and runs through 3pm. ocalafl.org or (352) 401-3900.

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Feb 19&20

Looking to start a home improvement project this spring? Join other home building enthusiasts at the Circle Square Commons on February 26 from 9am-1pm for a free HOME IMPROVEMENT EXPO. Over 60 home improvement specialists and contractors will be on-site and ready to help answer questions and showcase some of the latest products. Whether you have a project in mind or just need some ideas, the expo will help bring you one step closer to living in the home of your dreams. csculturalcenter.com or (352) 854-8707 ext. 7530.

A QUICK

Q&A

CLINTBLACK

When it comes to country singer/songwriters, few have achieved such popular and critical acclaim as Clint Black. The New Jersey native’s career is a study in prolific songwriting, massive commercial appeal and remarkable longevity. One need look no further than such hits as “Killin’ Time,” “Like The Rain,” “When I Said I Do” and “Something That We Do” as proof. In honor of Valentine’s Day and his upcoming March 5 concert at Silver Springs, Clint recently shared with Ocala Style his thoughts about love—how he writes about it, what he’s learned about it over the years and how he likes best to express it. Interview by Kristina Kolesa

Does writing love songs come easily to you?

Did you know she could sing so well?

Sometimes they come easily and sometimes they require a lot of thought and crafting. With love songs, sometimes when I write them by myself, that’s easier. When I write with someone else, it’s a little more challenging because our perspectives are a little different. Since I fell in love and got married, whatever I write about love has to ring true for who I am and what my marriage is. In the case of “Something That We Do”—I think one of my best compositions—I co-wrote that with someone who had a pretty different view on it, so it was more challenging.

A song like “When I Said I Do” came quickly and easily. I wrote it by myself over a two-day period, just a couple of short sessions standing around in the kitchen. It really was derived out of a question that if my wife and I were standing on stage in front of the world, what would we say to each other? The answer was easily found. It really had an impact on our lives. My wife had to get new dresses for all sorts of occasions. [laughs]

I did. We sang together around the house, so it wasn’t news to me. But I didn’t realize it would take so much coaxing.

Yes, that was a huge hit, and not everyone gets to sing on stage with their spouse.

She was reluctant to do the song. She didn’t realize that I was writing it for us. She would agree to it and then back out, agree and then back out. It was four days before the deadline when she finally said, “OK, I’ll do it.” Then it was, “I’m not doing a video.” Then “I’m not doing the Tonight Show!” Then “I’m not going on tour!” It was a real big deal for us.

Who do you listen to today?

Do you use a different muscle to write happy love songs versus sad love songs?

We’re big Taylor Swift fans in my house. I have a young daughter, so you can imagine what we listen to—Taylor Swift, the Jonas Brothers, Selena Gomez, all the great Disney artists. I’m a closet classic rocker myself. I really like a lot of the guitar-based country music that’s out there.

I’m a traditional country artist by nature, but I love rock ‘n roll.

Probably yes. The sad ones don’t have to be true of my situation. It’s more like an actor putting himself into a scene and finding the truth in it and acting emotionally true in it.

One last love question—do you and your wife have any Valentine’s Day traditions?

But you’ve had heartbreak to draw on though, no?

I’ve been pretty lucky in that department. I think because I’ve always been focused on poetry and the lyrics of songs, I’ve learned a lot about love… and hopefully managed to keep from being a jerk! I’ve also managed to keep from misunderstanding my circumstances.

You’re renowned for writing all of your songs.

I still write all my songs. I have always had at least three albums worth of material. For me, it’s like having a house full of children, and you can’t send them all to college at the same time. So you have to choose 10 or 12 of them. I would be hard-pressed to send one of the neighbor’s kids off to college. Leave that to them. Whenever I go to make an album, I’ve got about 30 songs and at least 20 of them are left over from the last group.

So I have to continually put 20 to 25 songs on hold and try to put the best pairings together.

Not really. For us, it’s just about taking the time to focus on each other. That’s really what birthdays and holidays are about for us. When you’re out buying cards or candy, it’s about taking that time to think about the person you love, and it’s always a great little emotional trip. It’s a time to remember why you love that person. That always makes you want to do something to make them feel good. I’m glad I got a chance to talk about love. It’s a big challenge for a lot of people out there. Having relationships of any kind is wrought with challenges. When I hear people talk about failing at it, I always wish that I had something that I could impart because I’ve been so lucky.

Clint In Concert Catch Clint Black live in concert at 3pm at Silver Springs on March 5. Tickets are available online at silversprings.com or by calling (352) 236-2121.

feb’11

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Ticketmaster / (800) 745-3000 / ticketmaster.com All dates are subject to change without notice, so please call ahead to confirm venue listings.

Concerts Who

Where

When

John Pizzarelli

Robinson Theatre, Jacksonville

02/01–03

Charlie McCoy

Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

02/04

Jimmy Eat World

House of Blues, Orlando

02/04

Celtic Woman

Amway Center, Orlando

02/05

The Bellamy Brothers

Florida Sunshine Opry, Eustis

02/05

The Guess Who

Silver Springs, Ocala

02/05

Guster

House of Blues, Orlando

02/05

Gene Watson

Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

02/05

Celtic Woman

Times-Union Center, Jacksonville

02/09

Indigo Girls

The Venue, Gainesville

02/09

Paul Revere & The Raiders

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

02/09–12

Clay Aiken

Hard Rock Café, Orlando

02/11

Flogging Molly

House of Blues, Orlando

02/11

Craig Morgan

1-800 Ask-Gary Amphitheatre, Tampa

02/11

John Davidson

The Villages, Silver Springs

02/11–12

Kingston Trio

University Auditorium, Gainesville

02/12

Jake Owen

Silver Springs, Ocala

02/12

Edwin McCain

St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa

02/12

Lorrie Morgan

Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

02/12

Kingston Trio

The Villages, Lady Lake

02/14

Miranda Cosgrove

Tampa Theatre

02/16

Michael W. Smith/Amy Grant

Florida Theatre, Jacksonville

02/16

Miranda Cosgrove

Hard Rock Café, Orlando

02/17

Keiko Matsui

The Plaza Theatre, Orlando

02/17

Palatka Bluegrass Festival

Rodeheaver Boys Ranch, Palatka

02/17–19

Mount Dora Music Festival

Lakeside Inn, Mount Dora

02/17–20

Ozzy Osbourne/Slash

St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa

02/18

Johnny Winter

Freebird Live, Jacksonville

02/18

Sister Hazel

House of Blues, Orlando

02/19

Rodney Atkins

Silver Springs, Ocala

02/19

Asleep at the Wheel

Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

02/19

Haste The Day

The Social, Orlando

02/19

Tonic

St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa

02/19

Joan Jett & The Blackhearts

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

02/20

Ozzy Osbourne/Slash

Jacksonville Veterans Mem. Arena

02/22

Travis Tritt

Phillips Center, Gainesville

02/23

Buckcherry

Hard Rock Café, Orlando

02/23

Herman’s Hermits/Peter Noone

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

02/23–26

Brad Paisley/Darius Rucker

Amway Center, Orlando

02/24

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David Garrett

Florida Theatre, Jacksonville

02/24

Restless Heart

Ramada Orlando Convention Center

02/25

BlackHawk

Ramada Resort, Kissimmee

02/25

ocalastyle.com

feb’11

Oh Brothers, Where Art Thou?

Feb

This month, you can catch the 5 BELLAMY BROTHERS live and in concert at the Florida Sunshine Opry in Eustis on February 5. For over 35 years, Florida natives Howard and David Bellamy have been recording top country and pop hits, including “Redneck Girl,” “Get Into Reggae, Cowboy” and “If I Said You Had A Beautiful Body.” Perhaps their most famous hit, “Let Your Love Flow” was originally released 35 years ago this month and was recently named number 68 on BMI’s “Top 100 Songs of the Century.” Today the Bellamy Brothers celebrate their success touring the world and performing their oldest and newest hits. They’ll perform two shows on February 5: the first at 3pm and the second at 8pm. fsopry.com, (352) 821-000 or (352) 357-4448.

Carly Shay Live!

Feb 16&17

Chances are if you have a tween or a teen in your house, then you’ve heard all about MIRANDA COSGROVE. The iCarly star has become a success in both the acting and singing industries, especially after her single “Leave It All to Me” hit the charts in 2007. Since then, she has skyrocketed into fame with such newer hits as “Sparks Fly” and “Dancing Crazy.” A role model for the adolescent crowd, Miranda can be seen on several programs on the Nickelodeon network including her most well known role as Carly Shay. She will perform at the Tampa Theatre on February 16 and at the Hard Rock Café on February 17. mirandacosgroveofficial.com or ticketmaster.com.

A Metal God & A Guitar Hero Rock fans, rejoice! Two of the genre’s biggest gods are on tour together with a stop in Tampa this month.

The “Godfather of Heavy Metal” OZZY OSBOURNE will be joined on stage at the St. Pete Times Forum with former Guns N’ Roses guitarist SLASH for a concert of massive rock hits. The Ozzy Scream Tour will come to Tampa at the St. Pete Times Forum on February 18. How could it get any better? For ticket Feb 18 information visit ozzy.com or ticketmaster.com.

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THELOCALSCENE

Performing Arts Who

Where

When

God’s Favorite

Melon Patch, Leesburg

02/01–06

West Side Story

Bob Carr Perf. Arts Centre, Orlando

02/01–06

Steel Magnolias

IceHouse Theatre, Mount Dora

02/01–13

The Marvelous Wonderettes

Ocala Civic Theatre

02/03–27

Penn & Teller

Hard Rock Café, Orlando

02/03

Neil Berg’s 100 Years of Hollywood

Phillips Center, Gainesville

02/04

Phantom

Bay Street Players, Eustis

02/04–27

Celtic Woman

Amway Center, Orlando

02/05

Jacksonville Clean Kings of Comedy

Times-Union Center, Jacksonville

02/05

Royal Comedy Tour

Jacksonville Veterans Mem. Arena

02/11

Orlando Ballet: Battle of the Sexes II

Bob Carr Perf. Arts Centre, Orlando

02/11–13

The Canadian Tenors

The Plaza Theatre, Orlando

02/12

Mike Epps

Bob Carr Perf. Arts Centre, Orlando

02/14

Runt of the Litter

Times-Union Center, Jacksonville

02/14–16

Cirque Dreams Illumination

Times-Union Center, Jacksonville

02/15–20

What My Husband Doesn’t Know

Bob Carr Perf. Arts Centre, Orlando

02/15–16

Orlando Orch.: My Favorite Things

Bob Carr Perf. Arts Centre, Orlando

02/19

Black Girl Speaks

USF Theatre, Tampa

02/19

Tango Inferno

Times-Union Center, Jacksonville

02/22

Wicked

Bob Carr Perf. Arts Centre, Orlando

02/23–03/27

Jeff Dunham

Straz Jr. Center, Tampa

02/24

Serendib

The Hippodrome, Gainesville

02/25–03/20

What My Husband Doesn’t Know

Florida Theatre, Jacksonville

02/26

Harlem Globetrotters

O’Connell Center, Gainesville

03/03

Craig Shoemaker

The Improv, Tampa

03/03–06

Jo Koy

The Improv, Orlando

03/03–06

Kevin Hart

St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa

03/04

George Lopez

Florida Theatre, Jacksonville

03/04

Harlem Globetrotters

Amway Arena, Orlando

03/05

Church Mess: The Play

Times-Union Center, Jacksonville

03/05

Disney Live! Mickey’s Magic Show

St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa

03/06

Lewis Black

Straz Jr. Center, Tampa

03/10

78

Harlem Globetrotters

Jacksonville Veterans Mem. Arena

03/11

Orlando Ballet’s Bailamos!

Orange County Conv. Center, Orlando

03/11

Miracle in Rwanda

Times-Union Center, Jacksonville

03/11

Harlem Globetrotters

St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa

03/12

Danú

Phillips Center, Gainesville

03/13

Lewis Black

Florida Theater, Jacksonville

03/13

ocalastyle.com

feb’11

CF FACULTY EXHIBIT (FEB. 1– MAR. 12) Works of oils, acrylics, watercolors, ceramics and other media by faculty members from the College of Central Florida continues to be up on display at the Webber Gallery. cf.edu or (352) 854-2322, ext. 1552.

THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES (FEB. 3–27) Set in 1958, this high-energy musical takes the audience back to the days of poodle skirts and blue suede shoes through a number of Top 40 hits performed by the all-girl high school glee club, The Marvelous Wonderettes.

The Ocala Civic Theatre hosts this irresistible performance throughout the rest of the month. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students. ocalacivictheatre.com or (352) 236-2274.

11TH ANNUAL GREEK FESTIVAL (FEB. 4–6) If you are a fan of all things Greek, come out to the fair’s new location

this year—the Greek Orthodox Mission of Ocala in Belleview. The day will feature Greek food, music and dance along with plenty of activities for the kids. Admission is $1, and all proceeds benefit the Greek Orthodox Church Building Fund and other local charities.

The fair hours are 11am–8pm on Friday and Saturday and 1–6pm on Sunday. greekfestivalocala.com, (352) 237-1476 or (352) 622-1378.

BONKERZ COMEDY CLUB (FEB. 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 25-26) Ready for a good laugh? The Ocala Bonkerz Comedy Club will feature a number of performers this month including Frankie Paul, Al Yountz, Mike Rivera and Tyrone Davis. Ticket prices vary. bonkerzcomedy.com or (352) 425-8480.

FATHER-DAUGHTER VALENTINE’S DANCE (FEB. 5) Alright dads, grab your favorite little gal and head out to the Circle Square Cultural Center for the 5th

Wonderfully Wicked Ever wondered what the Wicked Witch of the West was like before she and Glinda the Good Witch had their falling out? That’s the premise behind this smash Broadway production now in its eighth year and arriving this month at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre in Orlando. From February 23 to March 27, WICKED will cast its spell on audience members from across the state. Don’t miss seeing this production for yourself! It won’t disappoint. ticketmaster.com.

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THELOCALSCENE

Sports MEN’S COLLEGE BASKETBALL UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA DATE

OPPONENT

TIME

Feb. 1 Feb. 5 Feb. 12 Feb. 24 Mar. 1

Vanderbilt Kentucky Tennessee Georgia Alabama

9:00p 9:00p 6:00p 7:00p 7:00p

FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY DATE

OPPONENT

Feb. 2 Feb. 12 Feb. 26 Mar. 2

Wake Forest Virginia Miami North Carolina

TIME

7:00p 3:00p 2:00p 7:00p

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA DATE

OPPONENT

Feb. 9 Feb. 12 Feb. 26 Mar. 2

Memphis Tulsa Southern Miss.

SMU

TIME

7:00p 7:00p 7:00p 7:00p

NATIONAL BASKETBALL LEAGUE ORLANDO MAGIC DATE

OPPONENT

Feb. 3 Feb. 8 Feb. 11 Feb. 13 Feb. 16 Feb. 23 Feb. 25 Feb. 27 Mar. 1 Mar. 4 Mar. 7 Mar. 18 Mar. 25

Miami L.A. Clippers New Orleans L.A. Lakers Washington Sacramento Oklahoma City Charlotte New York Chicago Portland Denver New Jersey

TIME

8:00p 7:00p 7:00p 3:30p 7:00p 7:00p 8:00p 6:00p 7:00p 7:00p 7:00p 7:00p 7:00p

MIAMI HEAT DATE

OPPONENT

Feb. 6 Feb. 8 Feb. 22 Feb. 25 Feb. 27 Mar. 3 Mar. 6 Mar. 8 Mar. 10 Mar. 12 Mar. 14 Mar. 16 Mar. 19 Mar. 25 Mar. 27

L.A. Clippers Indiana Sacramento Washington New York Orlando Chicago Portland L.A. Lakers Memphis San Antonio Oklahoma City Denver Philadelphia Houston

TIME

12:00p 7:30p 7:30p 7:30p 8:00p 8:00p 1:00p 7:30p 8:00p 3:30p 8:00p 8:00p 7:30p 7:30p 6:00p

COLLEGE BASEBALL UF GATORS DATE

OPPONENT

Feb. 18 Feb. 19

USF USF

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7:00p 4:00p

feb’11

Feb. 20 Feb. 24 Feb. 25 Feb. 27 Mar. 4 Mar. 5 Mar. 6 Mar. 8 Mar. 11 Mar. 12 Mar. 13 Mar. 15

USF Boston College Boston College Boston College Miami Miami Miami Georgia Southern Rhode Island Rhode Island Rhode Island FSU

1:00p 7:00p 5:00p 1:00p 7:00p 4:00p 1:00p 7:00p 7:00p 4:00p 1:00p 7:00p

FSU SEMINOLES DATE

OPPONENT

Feb. 19 Feb. 20 Feb. 22 Feb. 25 Feb. 26 Feb. 27 Mar. 8–9 Mar. 11–12 Mar. 13 Mar. 23 Mar. 25–26 Mar. 27

VMI VMI Jacksonville Hofstra Hofstra Hofstra Maine Boston College Boston College Stetson Wake Forest Wake Forest

TIME

2:00p 1:00p 4:00p 4:00p 2:00p 1:00p 6:00p 6:00p 1:00p 6:00p 6:00p 1:00p

UCF KNIGHTS DATE

OPPONENT

Feb. 18 Feb. 19 Feb. 20 Mar. 2 Mar. 4 Mar. 6 Mar. 8 Mar. 9 Mar. 11 Mar. 12 Mar. 13 Mar. 15 Mar. 18 Mar. 19 Mar. 20

Siena Siena Siena Maine Dartmouth Dartmouth Mount St. Mary’s Boston College Wagner Wagner Wagner USF Columbia Columbia Columbia

TIME

6:30p 4:00p 1:00p 4:00p 6:30p 1:00p 6:30p 6:30p 6:30p 4:30p 1:00p 6:30p 6:30p 4:00p 1:00p

NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE FLORIDA PANTHERS DATE

OPPONENT

Feb. 8 Feb. 10 Feb. 13 Feb. 16 Feb. 18 Feb. 27 Mar. 3 Mar. 6 Mar. 8 Mar. 10 Mar. 12 Mar. 15 Mar. 17 Mar. 19 Mar. 31

St. Louis Buffalo San Jose Philadelphia Red Wings New Jersey Montreal Washington Chicago Ottawa Tampa Bay Philadelphia Toronto New York Ottawa

TIME

7:30p 7:30p 5:00p 7:30p 7:30p 5:00p 7:30p 5:00p 7:30p 7:30p 7:00p 7:30p 7:30p 7:00p 7:30p

Annual Marion County FatherDaughter Dance. Girls (and their dads) ages 3–13 will enjoy a special evening out with the “man in their life” that will include dancing, refreshments, photo opportunities and plenty of memory-making.

Tickets are $30 per couple (plus $10 for each additional daughter).

Tickets are available at The Learning Wheel and Ocala Traditions. Call (352) 362-3306 or visit father-daughterdance.com for details.

CHERISH THE LADIES (FEB. 5–6) Enjoy the traditional music of Ireland during popular group Cherish the Ladies’ two stops in Central Florida this month. On Feb. 5, they will perform at the College of Central Florida’s Ocala campus at 7:30pm, and then on Feb. 6, they will perform at the college’s Lecanto campus at 3pm. Tickets are $24 for the Ocala concert and $23 for the Lecanto show. tickets.cf.edu or (352) 854-2322, ext. 1416.

CF INTERNATIONAL FILM SERIES (FEB. 8, 22, MAR. 1) The College of Central Florida’s film series continues this month with Tulpan (Kazakhstan, 2008) on Feb. 8 and My Darling Clementine (U.S., 1946) on Feb. 22. The series then concludes early next month on Mar. 1 with Everlasting Moments (Sweden, 2008). Each plays at the Appleton Museum at 2pm and at CF Building 8-110 at 7pm on its respective date. Free and open to the public. cf.efu/foundation or (352) 873-5808.

SONORA PONCEÑA SALSA COMPETITION (FEB. 12) Celebrate Valentine’s Day early and with some flair! This amateur-level salsa competition will be held at Las Palmas Restaurant on South Pine Avenue starting at 8pm.

Area physician Dr. Justin Ferns

and his dancing partner as well as talented local singer Gissella and a reggaeton group will perform.

Prizes will be awarded for the top three dance couples, and tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. (352) 732-2100.

VALENTINE’S DAY LUNCHEON (FEB. 14) The Florida Center for the Blind will be hosting a luncheon fundraising at the Hilton Hotel this Valentine’s Day. Lunch will be served at noon and a basket raffle will be held from 11:30am– 12:30pm. Tickets are $25 each. flblind.org or (352) 873-4700.

11TH ANNUAL HORSES FOR HOSPICE TRAIL RIDE (FEB. 19) The Hospice of Marion County will hold its annual trail ride on the Florida Greenway on Feb. 19.

Registration begins at 8am with the first ride departing at 9:15am.

The ride is approximately 2 hours long and will be followed by a lunch from Tommy’s BBQ and live entertainment by Bordertown.

The minimum donation to ride is $30, and proceeds benefit the Patient Care Programs. To enjoy the lunch and entertainment only, guests may purchase a $10 ticket. hospiceofmarion.com or (352) 854-5218.

THE ARTIST WITHIN DINNER AND AUCTION (FEB. 19) A signature event of the Marion Cultural Alliance, this dinner auction will be held at the Country Club of Ocala at 6:30pm.

Come view and bid on the works of artist/non-artist teams and see how these non-artists found their own inner artists and created their own masterpieces. Tickets can be purchased directly online. mcaocala.com or (352) 369-1500.

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feb’11

THELOCALSCENE and writing team of William and Sue Willis recreate the stories of Presidents George Washington and James Madison and their wives this President’s Day at Circle Square Cultural Center.

Complete with the costume and dialect of the time, the Willis duo take you back in time for an historical and entertaining evening. Children welcome. masterthepossibilities.com or (352) 854-3699.

SENIOR AMATEUR GOLF TOUR DEBUTS (FEB. 21) The Senior Amateur Golf Tour is kicking off its first season in North Central Florida with a private course tournament at the Heathrow Country Club in Heathrow at 10am. The tour will consist of 16 tournaments throughout North Central Florida including the Country Club of Ocala and Gainesville Country Club. The tour membership fee is $85 and includes a tour gift pack and reduced rates on tournament practice rounds.

Interested golfers can sign up online. senioramateurgolftour.net or (352) 446-3446.

WEST COAST SWING WORKSHOP AND PARTY (FEB. 26) Dance Dance Dance in Wildwood will host a West Coast Swing workshop with Stephen White from 7–8pm.

A dance party will follow the workshop from 8–10pm with light refreshments. Tickets are $15 a person. dancedancedance.biz or (352) 748-3279.

JAZZ IN THE HOOD (FEB. 26) The Summer Springs Sweet Adeline’s chorus presents this jazz-inspired reproduction of Little Red Riding Hood at the First Christian Church of Ocala at 3pm. Following the performance there will be a basket

raffle and light refreshments.

Tickets are $15 per person or $25 per couple. Children are welcome and tickets are $5 for ages 6-12 and free for children under 6. firstchristianocala.org or (352) 288-8841.

DR. TONY CAMPOLO (FEB. 27) Leading preacher and activist Dr. Tony Campolo will speak at the MTI Auditorium from 7–9pm. A Professor Emeritus of sociology at Eastern University, Dr. Campolo will present his talk “Tough Issues Thoughtful Christians Face.”

The lecture is free to the public but tickets must be reserved in advance. tonycampolo.com or (352) 622-7881.

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL (MAR. 3–13) Strawberries, vendors and music, this 76th annual Florida tradition in Plant City is a bonafide family affair featuring fair rides, craft vendors, a pageant, parades, plenty of food and a star-studded lineup. Musical acts this year include Kenny Rogers, 38 Special, The Judds, Trace Adkins, Charley Pride, Clint Black, Chubby Checker, Tanya Tucker, Rick Springfield, George Jones, The Doobie Brothers, Billy Ray Cyrus and Lady Antebellum. flstrawberryfestival.com or (813) 752-9194.

To have an event considered for Ocala Style Magazine’s The Scene Send a short description (and a color photo, if possible) 60 days in advance to: email: Calendar@ocalastyle.com fax: (352) 732-0226 mail: Ocala Style Magazine The Scene, 1007 E. Fort King St., Ocala, FL 34471

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Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K SILVER SPRINGS This past October the American Cancer Society hosted its 2ndAnnual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer fundraising event at Silver Springs Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Theme Park. More than 2,000 participants raised over $128,000 for breast cancer research, education, advocacy and services.

Helen Prather, Lena Jedlicka and April MacCuish

Yvette, Misty & Brooke Mullins

PHOTOS BY JOE DEMARTINO Continued on page 86

Meera & Jasmine Maharaj, Leigha Torino and Vashti Nugent

Colleen Wilcox

Terri Copin-Perez and Stephanie Smith

Amber & Cloey Heilman Angie Ray, Cynthia & Grayson Brown

View more Social Scene photos and purchase prints of your favorites at ocalastyle.com

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Mary Stanley and Cindy Fischer

Tabitha Graff and Melissa Pettry

Grace School

why Grace?

Grace provides an unrivaled, closeknit community for all ages.

Grace provides an unmatched program of academic excellence.

Grace provides an unparalleled number of opportunities for enrichment outside the classroom.

Grace School was the first private school in Marion County, and we hope that you will join us as we continue to be Marion Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier Christian school. We will strive each day to fulfill our mission statement:

To Prepare Our Children for Life, To Honor and Glorify God, In a Christ-Centered Environment Of Academic Excellence.

Grace School 352.387.3090 4410 SE 3rd Ave | Ocala, FL 34480

www.graceschoolocala.org Accepting Applications for the 2011-2012 School Year

Accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools and Florida Kindergarten Council.

Grace School does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion or gender.

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Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K

Jennifer Brannon, Cara Newby and Merrissa Snyder

SILVER SPRINGS This past October the American Cancer Society hosted its Second Annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer fundraising event at Silver Springs Theme Park. More than 2,000 participants raised over $128,000 for breast cancer research, education, advocacy and services.

PHOTOS BY JOE DEMARTINO Continued from page 84

Kara & Levi Mackaben, Marion Hueber and Patricia Clarke

Supporters from Community Bank & Trust Kennedy & Casey Simpson, Chance Wilkins, Robyn Andrews and Alex Andrews John & Margie Perales

“Pink Crusades of Life Care”

View more Social Scene photos and purchase prints of your favorites at ocalastyle.com

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Jessica Fleck and Carol Thurber

Melissa & Zach Andrews, Jake & Amanda Bradshaw Amanda & Jackie McDonald, Sarah Stillman, Karen McDonald, Ginny Barr, Eileen Sullivan and Kyra Stillman

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Ocala Royal Dames Walk & Golf Scramble

LaVerne Hope, Donna Crippen and Sue Morris

JULIETTE FALLS GOLF CLUB Late last fall, the Ocala Royal Dames for Cancer Research hosted its first double-header golf event to raise money for cancer research. A morning walk to benefit pediatric brain tumor research was followed by a golf scramble and luncheon. The non-profit, all-volunteer organization raised $6,300 from the event.

PHOTOS BY JUDY GREEN

Linda Francz and Eglaes Younger

Suzanne Smith and Erika Dailey

Joe & Stacey Shoemaker and family: Bree, Sam, Jordan and Greg

Nancy Porter, Jett, Suzanne & Tripp Green

Monica Haufler Bruce & Starling Bennett, Greg Lord and Bob Hunter

View more Social Scene photos and purchase prints of your favorites at ocalastyle.com

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Roberta Teany, Pam Patnode, Susan Smith and Wendy Turner

Michael Horrigan & children: Malachi, Julian & Isabella with Elizabeth and Abigail Grant

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quarter_page.indd 1

1/24/11 14:48

March 19, 2011, 6:00-11:00pm | Circle Square Cultural Center at On Top of the World | Tickets $150 or $1800 for Table of 10 Physician’s Honor Roll: Dr. Mohammad Kamal, Dr. Alan Richman Cattle CAN Sponsor: Odyssey Hospice

Scanlon Training Center

For additional information contact Cara Newby at 352-629-4727 ext. 5820.

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Taste of Class THE VILLAGES SAVANNAH CENTER The Rotary Club of The Villages presented culinary samplings from some of Lake and Sumter counties’ finest restaurants during its sixth annual fundraiser at The Villages’ Savannah Center. With the theme of “A Touch of Elegance,” the evening also featured live music by the Paul Vesco Orchestra and the Lenny Wilson Quartet.

Brent & Robin Johnson

PHOTOS BY KIM LEROUX Continued on page 92

Sylvia & David Gardner

Ed & Kathi Yuiska Connie Kershner and Marilee Lyman Larry & Cheryl Moran

Jon Scheihing and Paula Chambers Tommy & Kelly Yoder, Kelly & Eleazar Flores

View more Social Scene photos and purchase prints of your favorites at ocalastyle.com

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Marilyn & Dan Hetzer Jim & Mary Levitt

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Taste of Class THE VILLAGES SAVANNAH CENTER The Rotary Club of The Villages presented culinary samplings from some of Lake and Sumter counties’ finest restaurants during its sixth annual fundraiser at The Villages’ Savannah Center. With the theme of “A Touch of Elegance,” the evening also featured live music by the Paul Vesco Orchestra and the Lenny Wilson Quartet.

Jamie Ross, Christy Kitt and David Lambert

PHOTOS BY KIM LEROUX Continued from page 90

John & Bev Katsoulis

Amy & Josh Pittman John Robinson, April Dickens, Jessica Clinton and David Lewis Lyndsey & Daylynn Wills

Bob & Michele Bridgeman Carman Martinez, Elena Thompson, Glenn Routzahn, Meredith Hallferd and Fred Marlin

View more Social Scene photos and purchase prints of your favorites at ocalastyle.com

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Kelly Romine, Kevin Lin, Amber Umland and Jian Daniels Jaime Stewart and Brandon Butner

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In adults shellfish, peanuts and tree nuts are the most common food allergies. While for children milk, eggs, soy, wheat, shellfish, peanuts and tree nuts are the most common.

Want to find out more? Give us a call to schedule an appointment, and we’ll be happy to discuss whether Adiana Permanent Contraception is right for you.

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352.622.1126 | aacfinc.com feb’11

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Platforms Opening Night OCALA ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX Big-city nightlife came to Ocala in late October with the grand opening of Platforms at the Ocala Entertainment Complex. The 8,000-square-foot facility features a large dance floor, an upstairs VIP area and a fully stocked bar—all spots where the club’s guests mingled on opening night.

Pete Scotto, Chris McMullen and Daniel Tillis

PHOTOS BY KRISTINA KOLESA

Lilly & Scott Noon

Tracy Haskins, Sarah Luke and Gabriela Lima Sharmaine Abbott, Chris Bryant and Cristin Stoop Spring Smith and Samantha Steiner

Mike Shadlich, Gabbi Flick, Breyer Barnett, Gina Hosaflook, Brandon Bryant, Alex Schwab and Kenneth Hoffman

View more Social Scene photos and purchase prints of your favorites at ocalastyle.com

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Stephanie Santiago and Chris Bethune

Ginger Hoffman and Reka Holland Caitlin Damiani and Alli Staffieri

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www.FamilyFootAnkle.org

Same Day Appointments Possible feb’11

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