Ocala Style Jul'11

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MAGAZINE

July2011

8

Seaside Getaways Sand, Surf & Sunsets

127 mi. d n a l s I Amelia Caaptiva, 247 mi.

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Watering Holes Cool

Breeds A plethora of pet facts & stats

Dive In! Erica Zeno and her fin friends

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July2011

Vol13 No7

Features Pets On Parade p20

As a nation, we Americans are crazy about our pets. Whether you call them companion animals or fur babies, the dogs and cats that share our homes enrich our lives in countless ways.

BY CYNTHIA MCFARLAND

Photos by Dave Meardon Photography

p30

ON THE COVER

Seaside Escapes Whether it’s a romantic retreat for two or a fun-filled family vacation you’re after, we, the editors of Ocala Style, have put together a list of what we feel are a handful of Florida’s mustvisit beaches.

BY KARIN FABRY-CUSHENBERY & MELISSA PETERSON

Beating The Heat p40

Looking for a way to cool off this summer? Sure, swimming pools and sprinklers are fun, but how about a trip to one of our area’s natural watering holes? Ocala Style takes a look at a few of the most popular ones, and maybe even a few you’ve never heard of.

BY JOANN GUIDRY

In Case Of Emergency p58

Life is full of bumps, bruises, bites, cuts, falls and creepy crawlers. Sometimes it seems that we humans are just an accident waiting to happen. So we decided to do a little research and pass on some first-aid tips for some of life’s little emergencies.

BY JOANN GUIDRY

The Ice Cream Experience p75

Soft serve or scoop, in a parlor or at your home, eating ice cream is a personal, nostalgic experience.

As an ice cream enthusiast who has yet to suffer from brain freeze, I journeyed to get the inside scoop (pun intended) on the beloved frozen treat.

BY AMANDA FURRER

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July2011 Vol13 No7

Departments The Publisher p6

An inside look at this month’s issue.

The Buzz p9

The real people, places and events that shape our community

BY KEVIN CHRISTIAN, AMANDA FURRER, BONNIE KRETCHIK, CYNTHIA MCFARLAND & RAVEN MCMILLAN

p80

CHITCHAT p10

Five locals share their favorite summer vacation locations.

GIVINGBACK p12

A purr-fect party, a new online directory and a charity picnic.

ONE-ON-ONE p14

Dolphin trainer Erico Zeno talks about life with her finned friends.

The Pulse p45

Ideas to keep you fit and healthy all year long

p14

p81

BY AMANDA FURRER, JOANN GUIDRY & BONNIE KRETCHIK

FEELINGWELL p46

Fighting inflammation from the inside out.

LOOKINGWELL p48

An exercise revolution for the couch potato in each of us.

LIVINGWELL p50

Energy vs. chill drinks. What you need to know.

p68

The Dish p63

Our best recipes, restaurant news and culinary quick bites

BY KARIN FABRY-CUSHENBERY, AMANDA FURRER, BONNIE KRETCHIK, CYNTHIA MCFARLAND, RAVEN MCMILLAN & MELISSA PETERSON

DININGGUIDE p65

Frozen concoctions to help you beat the heat.

p48

The Scene p79

A Star-Spangled celebration, fun for the whole family at Jervey Gantt and a summer art festival.

BY AMANDA FURRER & BONNIE KRETCHIK

AQUICKQ&A p81

Marion County’s public libraries will offer a plethora of family-friendly activities this summer, all geared toward encouraging your little ones to read.

The View p94

Pete Tesch discusses the ‘Six Pillars’ of Economic Success.

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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.

OFFICE/PRODUCTION MANAGER CYNTHIA BROWN / cynthia@ocalastyle.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR JASON FUGATE / jason@ocalastyle.com

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS KEVIN CHRISTIAN / kevin@ocalastyle.com JOANN GUIDRY / joann@ocalastyle.com DEBBIE INGRAM / debbie@ocalastyle.com CYNTHIA MCFARLAND / cmcfarland@ocalastyle.com PHOTOGRAPHERS JOE DEMARTINO / joe@ocalastyle.com JUDY GREEN / judy@ocalastyle.com JOHN JERNIGAN / jernigan@ocalastyle.com SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES VICKI BAKER / vicki@ocalastyle.com LORI TANI / lori@ocalastyle.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES ANDY CALDWELL / andy@ocalastyle.com RUSSELL CREASEY / russell@ocalastyle.com SALLY LEWIS / sally@ocalastyle.com SHARON MORGAN / sharon@ocalastyle.com GREG MOSLEY / greg@ocalastyle.com MITZI WELCH / mitzi@ocalastyle.com ASSOCIATE EDITOR MELISSA PETERSON / melissa@ocalastyle.com EDITORIAL ASSISTANT BONNIE KRETCHIK / bonnie@ocalastyle.com EDITORIAL INTERNS AMANDA FURRER / amanda@ocalastyle.com RAVEN MCMILLAN / raven@ocalastyle.com ACCOUNTING DOREEN ROCKWELL / doreen@ocalastyle.com

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Ocala Style Magazine, July 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” denote a paid advertising feature. Publisher is not responsible for claims and content of advertisements.

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How To Use Microsoft Tags Throughout this issue, you will find Microsoft Tags, like the one you see below. Follow these easy directions to get started and join in the scanning fun!

Cool It!

S

ummertime in Central Florida. The sun is scorching. The humidity is climbing. And all we can think of is any way and every way to beat this heat.

I’m happy to say that relief is on the way. While not quite a cold glass of lemonade and a shady spot to sit, our July issue offers teeth-chattering ways for staying cool. And I don’t Summer just mean by using gives full the magazine to fan yourself—although meaning to that’s not an entirely bad our state’s idea. As you’ll see in the sunshiny pages to come, we’ve compiled countless moniker. helpful tips for chilling out.

We remind our readers that you don’t necessarily need to stay inside to tackle the high temperatures with our collection of favorite watering holes on page 40. We show you where to make a splash (or simply take a dip) locally by highlighting a few familiar spots like Juniper and Rainbow Springs as well as others that might be completely new to you. Ichetucknee Springs, anyone?

There’s simply no substitute for ice cream on a blisteringly hot day, which is why we dish on the frozen treat on page 75 with tempting toppings to try, local ice

cream parlors to visit and ultra-adventurous flavors from around the world.

Sometimes, you’ve just got to avoid the heat altogether by heading for the coast.

We’ve got you covered in “Seaside Escapes” on page 30. From Rosemary to Delray, the beaches of our sun-kissed state are second to none, and we share with you not only where to stay but also where to play and where to eat. Full disclosure: I lobbied hard for Captiva to be included on this list. The shell-strewn beach at this sweetly secluded island is a personal favorite of my family, and I felt certain it would be for yours, too.

Yes, for all our complaining about the dog days of summer, we should, in fact, be grateful for our seasons. After all, they mark the passage of time, and summer gives full meaning to our state’s sunshiny moniker.

Still I can’t help but ask as I brace for the sauna-like heat when I open my front door: Is it fall yet?

In the meantime, kick back, stay cool and enjoy this bit of summer reading!

Until next time,

Sweet Summer Giveaway!

Check out page 70 to find out how you can win one of these fun kitchen gadgets.

Make your own cake pops, donuts, whoopie pies and snow cones this summer!

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2. Follow the steps to download the free Microsoft Tag Reader application.

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

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

Baby Boom Congratulations YAVELLIE CERVANTES and JAMIE STUCK, the winners of our Breastfeeding Bonanza contest!

Jamie’s bundle of joy is expected on July 16, and the stork will visit Yavellie on September 21. Ocala Style wishes both ladies and their families the very best with their new additions. Be on the lookout for photos of the new arrivals in future issues!

THE NEW LEADER “Thank you for your patronage over the last 31 years. In the coming months, construction will be completed on our new state-of-the-art facility, at the corner of 17th Street and Highway 200. Currently, we are right next door.

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Dive In! p14

Destination: Vacation p10

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Funds For Our Furry Friends p12

Beat the Heat And Save a Few Dollars

S

ummer in the Sunshine State might seem like you’re living in the Sahara, but thanks to OCALA UTILITY SERVICES’ temporary summer relief credit, you’ll be cool as a cucumber and save a few extra dollars.

The summer relief credit will take off 10.7 percent on residential accounts and 11.4 percent for commercial/industrial customers. The original price of $141.34 for a household using 1,200 kilowatts per month will be reduced to $126.03. While this credit program is in effect, Ocala Utility Services will have the fifth lowest electric rates in Florida.

Class Acts p16

and more!

Want to save additional money on your electric bill and the planet? Here are some simple energy-saving tips:

» Install compact fluorescent light bulbs, which use less energy and last 10 times longer than incandescent light bulbs.

» Air-dry clothes on a laundry line instead of using a dryer.

» Clean and change air filters on air conditioning units so that they work more efficiently.

» Turn off lights and ceiling fans when leaving a room.

Source: ocalafl.org

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CHITCHAT

Bon Voyage!

What’s Your Favorite Summer Vacation?

It’s July, and that means it’s vacation time! Having trouble planning your summer getaway? Then perhaps your fellow citizens can help you decide. We hit the streets of Ocala to see what five local people had to say about their favorite vacation destinations.

Deborah Harren

Wes Harren

“

I’d have to say that to New Smyrna Beach is my favorite place to vacation. I love the peace and quiet.

My favorite vacation vacation destination is St. Lucia.

It’s absolutely fabulous! Such a beautiful area and a great place to get away to.

“

“

“

Top Spots

Mary Ellen Woelfel

“

I’ve been a flight attendant for years, so I’ve been almost everywhere.

But of all the places I’ve gone, Tahiti is my favorite. It’s so calm and peaceful and very natural, and it’s a great place to fall in love, too.

BY CAR:

»

Cocoa & Daytona Mountains of Georgia & North Carolina: Atlanta & Asheville Great Smokey Mountains Florida Sun Coast: Tampa, St. Pete & Sarasota Charleston & Myrtle Beach

Eastern Caribbean Western Caribbean Bahamas Alaska Europe

Source: aaasouth.com

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“

“

“

breaking, wastes gas and can lower your mileage by as much as 33 percent, not to mention it’s just dangerous.

» Vehicles reach their optimum mileage at different

EcoDRIVING Save Bucks at the Pump

Not everyone wants to take to the sky or the sea for their summer getaway, but with gas prices skyrocketing, sometimes it feels like your pockets are emptied before the trip even starts. But don’t cancel your plans just yet. Try these simple driving strategies to help get the most mileage for your money.

BY CRUISE:

» » » » »

“

My grandparents grandparents have a beach house in Hilton Head, South Carolina. I have so many fond memories of vacations there. It’s definitely my favorite. But Disney World is a close second. It’s great for the kids.

Hawaii for sure! I for just enjoy the peace of the beach and relaxing all day. It’s just such a beautiful place.

» Aggressive driving, such as rapid accelerations and

» Orlando Beaches:

» »

Jason Carr

“

Check out these popular vacations booked through AAA Auto Club South.

»

Lilly Mahadeo

jul’11

speeds, but with most cars, mileage decreases rapidly over 60mph, so stay within the speed limit and avoid excessive speeding.

» Like to use your trunk as your second closet? This habit could be costing you. For every 100 pounds stored in your car, the mpg efficiency can drop as much as 2 percent.

» Avoid idling, especially in larger cars. Idling gets you 0mpg but still burns fuel.

» If you’re going to be on the highway for a long time, put it in cruise control, which allows for a more consistent ride and more efficient gas usage.

Source: fueleconomy.gov

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GIVINGBACK

Red, White & Brew In an effort to honor the military, BUDWEISER is altering its iconic design to feature special patriotic cans that will be in stores this summer. During the length of the “Here’s to Heros” campaign, Budweiser will donate $.05 to the Folds of Honor Foundation for every star-spangled case sold. FHF is an organization that helps support the families of fallen soldiers through scholarships and other opportunities.

Woman of the Year Greater Ocala Women’s Club

Every year the GREATER OCALA WOMEN’S CLUB announces its choice for Woman of the

Year. The Woman of the Year is a club member who puts her all into the organization, giving without complaint, making herself available for others in need and showcasing an overall positive energy and attitude. This year, Sandra Stipins took the title.

“She’s a wonderful center of the club,” says fellow member and Third Vice President Judy Spesney. “She’s quiet, patient,

Jul

BRIDGING THE GAP New Online Charity Directory In order to bridge the gap between the helpful and the helpless, Mark E. Hazen has organized a new online directory of charities. A wide range of Florida and Marion county organizations will use the directory to assist the needy.

“I discovered that many people in Marion County who had contact with those in need did not know how to assist them or to whom to refer them,” Mark says.

Visit the directory at benevolence-support-services.com. Those with questions can call Mark at (352) 502-6200.

L-R: Elsie Hamrick, President; Sandra Stipins, Woman of the Year; Carolyn Campbell and Bermice Peer

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Give To The Girls

kind. You know whenever you go to Sandy, she will help.”

Sandra is the Second Vice President of GOWC and a part-time librarian at the College of Central Florida. She has been a key player in many fundraising events to benefit the Women’s Shelter, the Ocala Civic Theatre and the Nursing Association Scholarship Foundation.

CHARITY PICNIC

HIGHLAND MEMORIAL PARK is hosting a picnic to benefit Pace Center for Girls on July 22 from 11:30am to 1pm. Lunch will be on a donation basis. Relax in the shade or take your lunch to go. For more information, contact Beverly Brown at (352) 369-1020.

Let’s Give ‘em Something to Talk About

6

Hairdressers Against AIDS

Hair salons have long had the reputation of being a place to gossip. But instead of the usual he-saidshe-said, hairdressers across the nation are talking about a much more serious subject. Lindsey Glen, a local stylist and managing partner of Shear Express, has been spreading the word for the HAIRDRESSERS AGAINST AIDS foundation. HAA is a national campaign sponsored

by L’Oréal and UNESCO to help raise awareness of AIDS. On July 6, Lindsey will be speaking to a group of 100 styling students at The Salon Professional Academy in The Villages about the campaign and how they can share their awareness with future clients.

Jul

The Purr-fect Summer Paw-ty 12

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The HUMANE SOCIETY OF MARION COUNTY is inviting animal lovers to the “Dog Days of Summer and Cats Too!” cookout and benefit. The “paw-ty” takes place July 15 at 5:30pm

in the clubhouse at the Ocala Municipal Golf Course on East Silver Springs Blvd.

Come out and enjoy the food, fun and (furry) friends. Tickets are $25 per person.

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ONE-ON-ONE

Erica Zeno Takes The Plunge

By Cynthia McFarland

We spend a lot of our time behind the scenes cleaning and making sure everything is healthy for the dolphins. We get pretty smelly!

—ERICA ZENO

Erica Ze no age 3, , SeaWo at rl Orland d o.

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N

ot many people can say they’ve achieved their dreams before age 25, but that’s certainly proved true for Ocala native Erica Zeno, a dolphin trainer at the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta.

“My parents took me to SeaWorld when I was 3, and that was the first time I saw a dolphin and a killer whale. I knew then I wanted to be a marine mammal trainer,” says Erica, 24.

Born in New York, Erica and her parents, David and Barbara Zeno, moved to Ocala when Erica was just 3. She attended Shady Hill Elementary and is a 2005 graduate of Belleview High School. Active in swimming, track and field, and horseback riding, Erica was always sports-oriented. A serious riding accident at age 15, when a horse fell on her, only slowed the teen down long enough for her body to heal.

When Erica was 21 and still in college, she submitted her application to SeaWorld San Antonio and also applied to be an intern at the Great White Shark Institute in South Africa.

Accepted for the internship, she was preparing to leave for South Africa when she got the call to come for an interview at SeaWorld. Out of more than 300 applicants from around the world, only 60 were invited for interinter views. Of those 60, just two were hired. Erica was one.

“This is all she’s ever talked about, and it just goes to prove that if you want something bad enough, you’re going to find a way to get it,” says Erica’s father David, who retired from the NYPD. “We’ve always encouraged Erica to pursue her dreams. If you don’t have a dream, it’s tough to get up in the morning. It’s easier to go to a job you like than one you don’t, no matter how much money you’re making.”

Erica graduated from the University of South Florida in 2010 with a degree in psychology, the most preferred degree for a marine animal trainer,

as the work is largely based on behavior modification techniques.

Continuing her college education while working at SeaWorld was challenging, but Erica persevered, thrilled to be doing what she’d always wanted.

“A lot of people said it was a kid’s dream, but I never gave up those dreams,” she reflects. “I was still the girl who wanted to be a dolphin and killer whale trainer.”

When she heard the Georgia Aquarium, the world’s largest with more than 10 million gallons of water and more aquatic life than any other aquarium, was developing a state-of-the-art dolphin facility and recruiting an elite team, Erica sent in her résumé. She got the job and started this past fall, working with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in preparation for the AT&T Dolphin Tales show that opened to the public in April.

In between three shows a day, Erica still finds time for training and working on new behaviors with her talented co-stars.

“I get to build relationships with these incredibly amazing animals, and I get to work with a fantastic, dedicated group of people,” she says. “I can’t ask for anything better. There’s not much of my day that I’m not smiling and laughing; not many people can say that about their work.”

Erica’s job is about more than being in the spotlight with intelligent marine mammals, though.

“We spend a lot of our time behind the scenes cleaning and making sure everything is healthy for the dolphins. We get pretty smelly!” she laughs.

Early in 2010, the tragic death of Dawn Brancheau, a SeaWorld Orlando killer whale trainer, made world headlines, but it never swayed Erica.

“In every job there are dangers,” she says pragmatically. “I don’t have any issues getting

in the water and doing what I do. We spend a lot of time building relationships with our dolphins, and I have a lot of faith in those relationships.”

In truth, Erica spends more time with her finned “co-workers” than with her own pets—a cat, a dog and a ball python.

She appreciates that her job at the Georgia Aquarium means she’s only a five-hour drive from Ocala and makes it a point to get home to see her family every couple months.

The Zenos also make the trip to Atlanta to visit Erica and watch her perform.

“None of this would be possible without my parents,” —ERICA ZENO Erica admits. “They’ve encouraged me and supported me unconditionally; I appreciate that more than anything. I look up to them, and I’m proud to be their daughter.”

Having reached many of her career goals at such a young age, Erica is optimistic about both the present and the future.

“I’m so happy here; I can’t see myself going anywhere else. I’d like to become a senior trainer eventually and would like to retire here,” she says. “I feel like I’ve been in the right place at the right time at a lot of points in my life. That—along with my goal setting—has taken me a long way.”

“One of the things I love about my job is the connection I make, not only with the animals, but with the people,” adds Erica. “We try to touch hearts and teach minds; if I can touch one person a day, I’ve done my job.”

One of the things I love about my job is the connection I make, not only with the animals, but with the people

Want To Learn More? georgiaaquarium.com

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Buzz

the

CLASSACTS

Student achievements and district news that shape Marion County public schools.

Kudos To Our Volunteers Seven local residents earned “Volunteer of the Year” honors from the district for their outstanding contributions to local schools. The district awards are named, in part, for Henry Duda (far left in photo), a 92-years-young district volunteer.

By Kevin Christian

Pictured alongside Duda are (l-r)

John Kotsubka, Winner of this year’s “Henry Duda” Award, Sunrise Frank Russo School-wide Senior Volunteer, Belleview-Santos Robert Middlebrook Senior Classroom Volunteer, Marion Oaks Marion Renda School-wide Adult Volunteer, Dunnellon Elementary

The Big Gator At Greenway Gator quarterback John Brantley made his fifth trip to Greenway Elementary, this time to congratulate students scoring a 4 or 5 on this year’s FCAT writing test.

Dozens of students listened as he talked about accomplishments and teamwork and then handed out autographed cards and posed for pictures. He even brought along his game helmet for kids to try on!

UPDATE!

Book Bowl Results

Heidi Vierthaler Adult Classroom Volunteer, Belleview-Santos Anthony Deleon, Student Classroom Volunteer, Belleview-Santos

More than 5,000 volunteers donated nearly 158,000 hours this past school year.

REDDICK-COLLIER CARES After tornados ripped through Alabama this spring, students and staff at Reddick-Collier Elementary wanted to help. Being hundreds of miles away and in the middle of the school year didn’t help, but these kids didn’t let that stop them. Instead, they collected nearly 1,000 items for tornado victims to show how much they cared. Safety Patrol members picked up the items each morning and counted, sorted and then boxed them for shipment.

Principal Vernon Chisholm and Guidance Counselor Janice Ray led the troops in the one-week drive, which collected everything from blankets and pet food to cleaning supplies and dry goods.

Readers from

A “Sticky” Situation

Shady Hill Elementary beat

The Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) at Dunnellon Middle School came up with a couple of creative fundraising ideas: Tape the Teacher and Dime Wars between the homerooms each morning. Students purchased strips of duct tape to adhere their favorite teacher to the wall—in this case, Alden Cooper.

In all, students raised over $1,000 to benefit the March of Dimes.

Madison Street Academy students to capture the title in this year’s Sunshine State Elementary Book Bowl for Marion County.

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Tatiara Fernandez Student Classroom Volunteer, Dunnellon Elementary

Everything’s Green At Hillcrest Students and staff at Hillcrest School celebrated Earth Day in a big way this year by sprucing up their campus and planting new trees in the process.

Hundreds of folks donned green T-shirts to mark the occasion and then posed smack dab in the middle of their work.

Bringing Back The Bull When the “Mighty Bull” disappeared from the Howard Middle campus last year, people wondered where he went. Turns out he went to the workshop for a new facelift.

Several coats of paint and a new logo later, the Mighty Bull now stands outside the school’s new cafeteria. The school held a special unveiling event and honored the winning logo designer, Jayda Gordon.

In other Howard news, the school will welcome a new principal this coming year, Rob Hensel, following former Principal Kathy Collins’ retirement.

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

‘An Ocala

Tradition’ A

Ocala Christian Academy has been providing area children with a solid Christian education, fused with strong academics, since 1972.

ministry of Central Baptist Church, OCA has a total contributing staff of over 70 that brings a tremendous depth of knowledge and skill to the school. As a matter of fact, 16 instructors have 20plus years at OCA. The educators and professionals at OCA make sure each child is treated as an individual, while still working to maintain a very family-like atmosphere throughout the K3-12th grade school.

Separate brick and mortar buildings exist for elementary, middle and high school students, and each grade level offers both challenging academics as well as a variety of extracurricular activities. In fact, OCA is fully accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). This accreditation allows OCA students to transfer credits to any school, and it allows OCA graduates the opportunity to be accepted at any college or university. ACSI is recognized by the Florida Department of Education and OCA is among a select few of the private schools in our area to have a third-party accreditation.

“Even our three- and four-year-olds follow an enriched academic program,” says Sharon Loyd who serves as the elementary principal and guidance counselor. “Our K’s are learning to read, write in cursive, and understand foundational arithmetic.”

“Of course there’s plenty of time for fun and recess, too,” Sharon adds with a smile.

An open-enrollment school, OCA requires entrance testing beginning in first grade. A variety of scholarships are accepted, including McKay and Step Up, and religious affiliations are not taken into consideration.

Children at OCA attend chapel services once a week and Assistant Pastor Matt Lahmann says the services are very uplifting and age appropriate.

OCA is currently hiring additional staff for a projected 16-students-per-teacher ratio in grades first through 12th. One-on-one time with the teacher and individualized attention is the norm at OCA and the results are impressive.

“Over the past 40 years we have consistently posted among the highest rated academics in Marion County and nationally,” says Lahmann. “Our scores are representative of our entire student body. All students are required to take the Standardized Achievement Test annually.”

In addition to the standout academic programs offered, beginning in fifth grade, a full sports program is also available.

“We’re members of the Florida High School Athletic Association,” says Ronald Carpenter, the school’s middle and high school principal. “Football, volleyball, golf, cheerleading, softball, baseball, we have them all. Our teams are tryout-based and we’re always looking to be competitive while placing an emphasis on glorifying the Lord through our actions.”

All elementary grades have recess, and structured physical education classes. Beginning in ninth grade, the HOPE program combines physical education with wellness applications.

Electives are offered to students once they reach ninth grade and options include the fine arts, vocational arts, foreign languages, among others. A full computer lab, library, art studio and music room are available to students in all grade levels.

Students wear casual uniforms at OCA and annual tuition is just $4,800 for each grade level and family discounts are offered. OCA is a reasonable investment considering the high quality of academics provided and the peace of mind in knowing that the school adheres to strict class safety and discipline standards, including a zero-tolerance bullying policy.

Before- and after-care is also available every school day beginning at 7am and ending at 5:45pm.

Parents who choose OCA can rest assured that their children are being nurtured and cared for in a positive, uplifting way.

And that’s really what Ocala Christian Academy, an Ocala tradition, is all about.

Ocala Christian Academy 1714 SE 36th Avenue Ocala, FL 34471 (352) 694-4178 / ocacrusaders.com

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

‘Continuing to

C

For over 75 years, CAMPUS USA Credit Union has served North Central Florida with best-of-market rates and worldclass service. We are happy to have celebrated 10 years in Ocala in May.

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AMPUS USA Credit Union opened its doors as Gainesville Florida Campus Federal Credit Union in 1935. GFCFCU was the 171st credit union to receive a federal charter and the first to be on an American college campus. Our modest beginnings consisted of 25 members with $206 on deposit.

Even then, part of our mission statement was to empower members so that they may reach their full financial potential—and to provide world-class service. In 2001, CAMPUS USA Credit Union opened our first service center outside of Gainesville, on State Road 200 in Ocala.

Marion County residents welcomed CAMPUS USA Credit Union with open arms, and our member satisfaction ratings have continued to thrive. The employees of CAMPUS take pride in the world-class service we provide for our members—it is the poignant difference that distinguishes us from other financial institutions.

We would like to thank all residents of Marion County for our continued success. As many financial institutions are closing their doors, you have helped us to continue to shine strong.

Currently, we have three convenient Ocala service centers and one in Summerfield serving over 8,000 members in Marion County. We hope to continue to grow and look forward to many more years to

Shine’ come. Please stop by any of our Service Center locations and give us the opportunity to exceed your expectations. Together, we will continue to shine strong!

(800) 367-6440 www.campuscu.com CAMPUS USA Marion County Locations To Serve You Ocala Service Center 3097 SW College Road Silver Springs Blvd Service Center 2444 Silver Springs Blvd.

West Marion Service Center 11115 SW 93rd Court Road Summerfield Service Center 17950 S US Hwy. 441

Get a hot rate for a cool addition.

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APR1 fixed Up to 6 years

(other rates and terms also available)

Home equity Loan from CamPuS ● Up to 90% financing available ● No closing costs for home equity loans $10,000 to $50,000 2

● Use the equity in your home for a new pool, home improvements, education expenses or even a vacation

Apply online at campuscu.com for fast approval, or call 754-9088 and press 4 today!

YYour our savings federally insur insured ed to at least $250,000 and backed by the full faith and cr credit of the United States Government

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Membership is open to everyone in Alachua, Clay, Columbia, Lake, Marion and Sumter counties!3

OFFER NOT AVAILABLE ON EXISTING CAMPUS LOANS. OFFER IS FOR NEW LOANS ONLY. MAY NOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. Subject to credit and property approval. Your rate may be higher based on your credit worthiness and property valuation. Higher rates apply to non-owner-occupied properties. Offer excludes mobile homes. Property insurance is required; flood and/or title insurance may be required at an additional expense to the borrower. Example: a $50,000 loan at 4.871% for 6 years would require 72 monthly payments of $799.22 and a final payment of $266.70; total finance charge of $7,710.37, for a total of payments of $57,543.37 and a total amount financed of $49,833. APR = Annual Percentage Rate. APR is 4.99% 2. No closing costs for fixed-rate home equity loans $10,000 to $50,000. $350 off closings costs for loans over $50,000. Normal closing costs range from $125 to $1,000. Appraisal fees not included and may be required prior to closing. 3 Credit approval and initial deposit of $5 required. Mention this ad and we’ll waive the $15 new member fee.

Ocala 3097 SW College Rd. East Ocala 2444 E. Silver Springs Blvd. West Marion 11115 SW 93rd Court Rd. G’ville - E. Campus 1200 SW 5th Ave. W. Campus 1900 SW 34th St. Jonesville 107 NW 140th Terrace Hunter’s Walk 5115 NW 43rd St. Tower Square 5725 SW 75th St. Shands at UF Room H-1 Springhills Commons 9200 NW 39th Ave. Summerfield 17950 US Hwy. 441 Lake City 183 SW Bascom Norris Dr. jul’11

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A PLETHORA OF PET FACTS, TRIVIA

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& SURPRISING STATISTICS

By Cynthia McFarland

A

s a nation, we Americans are crazy about our pets. Whether you call them companion animals or fur babies, the dogs and cats that share our homes enrich our lives in countless ways.

Research has proven that interacting with a pet can lower blood pressure, reduce depression and boost immunity. Playing with your dog or cat can increase natural levels of serotonin and dopamine, which have calming, pleasurable properties. If you’ve had a heart attack, you’re likely to survive longer if you have a pet. Kids raised in homes with dogs and cats are less likely to have allergies and asthma than children who grow up in a pet-free environment.

All those studies and statistics aside, it’s impossible to quantifiably measure the benefits of spending time with a beloved animal. My own life has been molded and blessed by the relationships and unconditional love of numerous four-legged friends through the decades. Although I can personally attest to the lovable qualities of a donkey companion, for the sake of practicality, this article is devoted to more common animal pets. Read on to learn more about the dogs and cats who share our lives.

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PETS:

By The Numbers

63 85 75 75 25 20

%

U.S. households that have at least one companion animal

million

Cats owned in the U.S.

million

Dogs owned in the U.S.

%

Owned pets that are spayed/neutered

%

Purebred dogs in shelters

%

Current pet cats that were originally strays

10-20 15-20

Current pet dogs purchased from breeders

from shelters/rescues

% %

Current pet dogs & cats purchased from pet shops

Average annual cost 700-875 $ of basic food/supplies/ vet care for dog or cat

33 50 3.9 22

million

Dogs in the U.S. considered overweight or obese

% Pet dogs in U.S. on heartworm prevention %

Pet cats in U.S. on heartworm prevention

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America’s Most Popular Pets

I

f your family dog is a is a Labrador Retriever, you’re in good company. The breed has consistently ranked as the most popular breed in the U.S. over the past decade.

The AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB recognizes over 150 breeds. Check out the following list of most popular breeds to see if your Fido is included. Of course, if you are the proud owner (make that “pet parent”) of a mixed-breed dog (also known as a mutt, “Heinz 57” or mongrel), you already know that sometimes the best dogs come without fancy pedigree or papers. Among the recognized dog breeds, here are the most popular: 1. Labrador Retriever 2. German Shepherd 3. Yorkshire Terrier 4. Beagle 5. Golden Retriever 6. Bulldog

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W

hile the CAT FANCIER’S ASSOCIATION recognizes 41

pedigreed breeds of cats, most domestic kitties aren’t purebreds. Approximately 95 percent of our pet cats fall into the mixedbreed categories known as “domestic shorthair” and “domestic longhair.” Americans own more shorthairs, with only about one in 10 domestic pet cats being longhaired. Among the recognized cat breeds, here are the 10 most popular: 1. Persian 2. Maine Coon 3. Exotic 4. Siamese 5. Abyssinian 6. Ragdoll

7. Boxer 8. Dachshund 9. Poodle 10. Shih Tzu Source: akc.org

Designer Dogs

% Current pet dogs & cats that were adopted

2-10

Best In Breed

ith all the varieties of dogs in the world, you’d think there would be a breed to satisfy everyone.

Apparently not.

“Designer dogs” have become quite popular in recent years. Also known as hybrids, designer dogs are created by crossing two purebred parents of different breeds.

Buyers should note that temperament, characteristics and physical conditions of hybrids aren’t as predictable as with purebreds.

“These ‘designer breeds’ are not really breeds, they’re just mixes, not that there’s anything wrong with a mixed breed. You can get a lot of good things with a mix,

such as hybrid vigor, and sometimes, you don’t have the problems of some specific purebred breeds,” explains Holly Samko, DVM, of Blitchton Road Animal Hospital in Ocala.

It’s important to realize, however, that some of the hybrids and “new” breeds can have different characteristics than expected. For example, Dr. Samko notes that Miniature Australian Shepherds may not have the same personality and temperament as a “regular” Australian Shepherd because they’ve been crossed with other breeds to make them so small.

“It takes several generations to develop a reliable breed standard,” adds Dr. Samko.

The following are just some of the hybrid dogs currently available.

Miniature Schnauzer + Yorkie = SNORKIE Akita + Boxer = BOXITA Boston Terrier + Pug = BUGGS

Cocker Spaniel + Poodle = COCK-A-POO Miniature Schnauzer + Yorkie = SNORKIE Schnauzer + Poodle = SCHNOODLE

W

From Fido To Fancy Popular Pet Names

W

7. Birman 8. American Shorthair 9. Oriental 10. Sphynx Source: petplace.com

hile some pet parents like to come up with unusual names for their “four-legged kids,” certain names remain on the most popular list year after year. Interestingly, the No. 1 most common male and female names are the same for both dogs and cats, and quite a few names make an appearance on both lists.

LARGE DOG

MEDIUM DOG

SMALL DOG

CAT

AGE OF PET

Age in “Human Years”

6 mo

9

10

1

16

2

24

3

28

4

32

5

36

6

40

42

45

7

44

47

50

8

48

51

55

9

52

56

61

10

56

60

66

11

60

65

72

12

64

69

77

13

68

74

82

14

72

78

88

15

76

83

93

16

80

87 120

O

ne of the most challenging things about being a pet parent is that our four-legged kids can’t talk. It’s up to us to notice when an animal isn’t feeling right so we can seek veterinary care. Cats are especially good at masking pain, so pay attention to their body language and actions. Serious consequences can develop rather quickly if a cat stops eating, so don’t ignore this sign or “wait a few days” to see if it goes away!

Health conditions and illnesses in dogs and cats can often be resolved if treated promptly. Know what’s normal for your specific animal(s). Make it a point to observe your pet and its behavior every day, and contact your veterinarian if you notice any of the following:

Pampered

Longest-lived dog breeds, on average?

Toy Poodles, Japanese Spitz, Border Terriers, Tibetan Spaniels. No. 1 killer of dogs: behavior

issues and overpopulation. The sad truth is that more dogs age 3 and under are relinquished to animal shelters (and consequently euthanized) because of behavior problems than any other reason.

Longest-lived cat breeds on average?

The Siamese and the Manx. You can practically double your cat’s age by making it a totally indoor cat. Outdoor cats have an average lifespan of only 3 to 5 years, while those living indoors average 12 years and can often live into their late teens or longer.

Sources: dogbreedinfo.com, purina.co.uk, pets.webmd.com, calculatorcat.com, petiquettedog.com, American College of Veterinary Behavior, and Department of Clinical Studies School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania

Pets

M

any Americans consider their pets part of the family and don’t mind opening their wallets to prove it. According to Bloomberg Businessweek, Americans spend $41 billion (yep, that’s billion with a “B”) on their pets annually. Some other sources even report a higher figure.

At CASSIE’S CLOSET PET SHOPPE in Ocala, high-end pet accessories are all the rage, ranging from fancy collars and harnesses to bows, tutus and other “dog fashion” items. Holistic and raw dog food and organic treats are also best

Top 10 Most Popular Cat Names:

Top 10 Most Popular Dog Names:

MALE: Max Tigger Oliver Jack Tiger

MALE: Max Charlie Jack Buddy Jake

Jasper Oscar Charlie Leo Toby

FEMALE: Bella Kitty Lucy Luna Chloe Sophie Lily Lola Molly Misty

Tucker Duke Toby Bear Oscar

• Reduced appetite or loss of appetite • Decrease in normal activity • Change in bathroom habits/litter box use • Urinating more or less than normal • Vomiting • Diarrhea • Persistent coughing • Labored breathing not connected to exercise • Lethargy, quieter than usual • Sleeping more than normal • Hair loss/itching/scratching • Stiffness/difficulty standing up • Limping

sellers. The shop, which opened in 2004, features a boutique concept that has proven popular with discerning pet owners. Cassie’s Closet specializes in teacup and small breed puppies and also has a children’s boutique.

In The Villages, DIVA DOGHOUSE, which opened last December, has an array of specialty items for the pampered pet, including everything from custom-made doggie dresses with real Swarovski crystals to dog T-shirts, sparkly harnesses and organic pet bakery items such as yogurt-coated dog treats. The Spa At Diva Doghouse stays busy with upscale grooming services with perks, including polish on toenails, a spritz of fragrance and a bow or bandana.

FEMALE: Bella Maggie Daisy Bailey Molly Chloe Lucy Sophie Sadie Lola Source: Petbabynames.com

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Sources: bringmypet.com, businessweek.com, cassiesclosetinc.com and divadoghouse.com

I

t’s time to discard that old wives’ tale about figuring pet ages.

Although there are some variations among sources, veterinarians generally agree that a 1-year-old dog or cat is roughly equal in age to a 15- or 16-year-old human. Not all dog breeds age at the same pace; after age 5, medium breeds (21 to 50 pounds) and large breeds (over 50 pounds) age faster than small breeds (20 pounds and under). Use this chart to compare your pet’s age to the approximate equivalent in human years.

in Years

HOW Old IS THAT DOGGIE IN THE WINDOW?

Happy Healthy Pets = Pets

Facts & Figures On Unwanted Pets

A

ccording to the HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE UNITED STATES, prior to 1970, animal shelters

were euthanizing dogs and cats at the shocking rate of 100 animals per 1,000 people in the same community.

Although this disturbing statistic has dropped significantly to about 12.5 animals per 1,000 people, the fact that any animals are euthanized simply because they are unwanted means more needs to be done.Thanks to efforts by groups, such as The Humane Society, our country has become much more aware of animal welfare issues. Humane Society figures show that U.S. animal shelters spent about $800 million on animal welfare in 1972, compared to roughly $2.4 billion in 2007. Research has proven that the increase in money spent has resulted in a decrease in the number of animals euthanized and the shelter animal population overall.

Today, there are approximately 5,000 animal shelters across our nation, along with countless rescue and foster groups. Although a number of shelters have become “no kill” organizations, the fact remains that millions of unwanted dogs and cats are still euthanized annually. Every year, between 5 to 7 million dogs and cats become part of the shelter population, and of those, 3 to 4 million are euthanized (five out of 10 dogs and seven out of 10 cats) because there aren’t enough people willing and able to adopt.

Do your part by spaying and neutering your pets, and consider adopting an animal from a shelter or rescue rather than buying from a breeder or pet shop. Statistics also show that only 20 percent or less of lost dogs are returned to their owners. Make sure your pets have identification, such as tags, microchips or tattoos to increase the likelihood of their return in the event they are lost or wander off.

Marion County has made it highly affordable to spay/neuter pets and protect them with microchips.

THE NEUTER COMMUTER, a mobile spay/neuter clinic, provides lost-cost services Tuesday through Friday by appointment only. The $25 fee includes the spay or neuter surgery, rabies vaccine, license and microchipping. Call (352) 307-1351 in advance to make an appointment.

“Each household can have up to three animals done within a one-year period,” says Elaine DeIorio, Marion County Animal Services spokesperson. “If you want a microchip only, it’s just $5. There’s no appointment necessary for microchipping, and it only takes a few minutes.”

That simple, inexpensive microchip can mean the difference between a happy ending and never finding a lost pet. “A brown tabby cat with a unique number from its own microchip is much more identifiable than all the other brown tabbies we get,” says DeIorio.

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Why Adopt?

“I

f you adopt a pet from an animal shelter, you are actually saving a life. We have so many animals that need homes, and by adopting, you make room for another animal to come into the shelter,” says Shawna Hale, vet tech manager and head vet tech for the Humane Society of Marion County.

Contrary to the belief that shelters are filled with mixed-breed animals, Hale says they regularly take in purebred dogs of many different breeds.

At Marion County Animal Services, dogs and cats are always offered for adoption, but at times more unusual pets, including birds and “pocket pets,” such as hamsters, are available. Spokesperson Elaine DeIorio explains that sometimes these animals are surrendered by people who can’t care for them or are taken in by the county on cruelty cases. Two major Ocala pet care stores, PetSmart and Petco, routinely offer dog and cat adoptions, making it easy to add a four-legged member to your family and save a life at the same time.

“It’s ‘kitten season’ in the spring and fall, but we have older cats all the time,” says Kathy Beckwith, adoption coordinator for Feisty Acres Cat Rescue through Petco.

“An adult cat is often better because children and kittens don’t always mix. With an adult cat, you already know what their personality is; with a kitten, you won’t know until around six months.”

If you find a stray kitten and adopt it, don’t wait too long to make that spay/neuter appointment. “Cats reach sexual maturity well before one year of age,” says Kathy, “and can have kittens when they’re not much more than a kitten themselves.”

Where to Adopt Locally An adoption fee typically includes spaying/neutering, microchipping and initial vaccinations. Some adoptions even offer “goodie bags” with treats and pet food coupons.

PETCO 4475 SW 40th Ave, Ocala (352) 291-9130, Feisty Acres cat adoption coordinator (352) 425-8712 petco.com

Humane Society of Marion County

PetSmart

(352) 873-PETS humanesocietyofmarioncounty.com

3500 SW College Rd, Ocala (352) 237-0700 petsmart.com

Marion County Animal Services (352) 671-8700 marioncountyfl.org/animalservices.htm (You can also use their website to search for lost animals, as pictures are posted as animals come in.)

petfinder.com (type in your ZIP code and type of pet you’re looking for to discover photos and descriptions of area pets available for adoption)

THE COMPANION

PET LASER

Now Available In Ocala Dr. Kevin Stoothoff and Dr. Lisa Laviola-Dowd are proud to offer their patients the incredible benefits of the latest and most state-of-the-art therapeutic veterinary laser. Laser therapy stimulates blood supply, reduces pain, speeds healing and reduces inflammation.

Disorders that respond best to laser therapy: • • • •

Wound Healing Disc Disease & Back Pain Post Surgical Pain Relief Arthritis

• • • •

Select Skin Conditions Periodontal Disease Severe Ear Infections And much, much more!

Other Services Offered: • • • • • •

Laser Therapy Veterinary Supervised Boarding Dentistry Emergency Grooming Microchipping

• Digital Radiology • Digital Tonopen for eye pressure measurement • Acupuncture • Surgery • We file pet insurance

SOUTH OCALA

ANIMAL CLINIC 3760 SE Lake Weir Ave., Ocala, FL 34471 Dr. Lisa Laviola-Dowd & Dr. Kevin Stoothoff

352-622-5253

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

‘Man’s

Best Friend’ K

The team of trainers at K-9 Perfection brings years of experience to training dogs in everything from basic puppy obedience to advanced guard and protection dog training.

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-9 Perfection is a team of three trainers consisting of John Lockett, DeDe Bruno and Damon Hill. Not only are all three highly experienced and accomplished professionals, but they also have a deep undying passion for dogs. Whether you’re bringing home a new puppy and would like lessons in basic obedience or are looking for a lifetime companion in a trained canine protector, K-9 Perfection will make sure your pet lives up to all your expectations as man’s ideal best friend.

The team’s 55 years of combined experience has fostered outstanding results in canines of all sizes, breeds and temperments. Together the team has received well over 100 awards and honors in training disciplines, ranging from AKC obedience to the advanced protection services employed by the military and police.

“My father trained police dogs during my childhood,” relates K-9 Perfection owner and trainer John Lockett. “He gave me my first German Shepard puppy when I was 3, and I’ve been handling and training dogs my whole life,” he says.

Though cute and cuddly as a puppy, man’s best friend can develop into his nightmare if not properly trained. This is precisely the scenario that the team at K-9 Perfection works to prevent in the average household. John, who has been in the dog training profession for over 28 years, has special advice on this matter.

“Most of the dogs that wind up in the SPCA are not necessarily bad dogs. A lot of them got there because the family simply didn’t understand the fundamentals of proper training. Like children, puppies grow in developmental stages. Their training should start at around 3 months of age.”

John emphasizes that all dogs should be given the opportunity to learn obedience at an early age. “If you don’t allow bad habits to develop in the first place, you won’t have to waste your energy fixing them later,” he says.

“We’ve trained dogs to be everything from personal protectors to police and drug-sniffing dogs,” says John. “A trained protection dog is an alarm, deterrent and weapon all in one.”

John believes in a positive reinforcement approach to his training.

“Our trainers only take on two dogs at a time; otherwise, they can easily find themselves spread too thin,” he says. During their stay, the dogs are worked and played with daily. Often, they’re taken into public so that they learn to behave in all situations, not just while at the training facility. After the initial stay, the trainer and owner work one on one to ensure a proper transition from class to home.

Along with several obedience packages, the team at K-9 Perfection also offers both protection and guard dog training. John’s training courses are more advanced than many of the basic classes commonly offered. Clients have the option of either leaving their dog with John and his team at their beautiful 6-acre facility or of establishing a training schedule where the trainers come directly to the owner’s home. Clients that decide to leave their dog at K-9 Perfection can rest assure that their pet will receive the individualized attention and care it deserves.

“Once you are my client, you’re my client forever,” says John. He is always available to work with owners over the phone should a crisis later arise and takes great pains to guide all members of the family in responsible handling of their dog.

“Here at K-9 Perfection, saftey is our greatest concern. Our mission is not only to bring back a well-trained pet but to provide each household with a loved and well-adjusted family member.”

K-9 Perfection (352) 553-7163 K9-perfection.com

Scan here with your smartphone to view our website.

Love

For the

Animals of

Central Florida Pet Crematory has served the Marion County area since 2002. It is our goal to help you say goodbye to your special friend in the most caring and understanding way.

Lisa Elliott - Crematory Director

Central Florida Pet Crematory offers a way for pet owners to provide the respect and loyalty after death that their pet freely gave them in life

For many pet owners, cremation offers a special comfort.

It completes the eternal bond by allowing them to obtain the cremains of their beloved pet. Whether the pet owner relocates or lives in an area where burial is not possible, they will always have the peace of mind knowing their beloved pet and cherished memory of their pet will always be with them. We can assist you 24/7. In most cases, services are completed with in 24 hours.

Central Florida Pet Crematory is owned by local veterinarian Dr. Rick and Janet Erwin and is located adjacent to Belleview Veterinary Hospital. Euthanaisa services provided.

—Janet Erwin

352-307-2256 10505 SE 36th Ave, Belleview

Dr. Cara Erwin-Oliver

cflpetcrematory.com

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

“Our clients want to have one-of-a-kind items for their pets,” Brenda says.

“They’re crazy about their dogs and even try to outdo each other with their pet’s outfits” she laughs.

And having four dogs of her own, Brenda has experienced the passion of shopping for pets. This is part of the reason she took on this venture, constantly looking for unique and high-end items for her pets.

“I researched for three years to find something different,” she says. “I wanted to be more upscale and luxury.

I wanted to do something one of a kind.” irst popping up in Naples, Fla., in 2005, And luxury it is! In May, the boutique then in Norcross, Ga., in 2008, the chain expanded to offer spa services to its clientele. The made its way to The Villages in 2010; a full-service spa extends to its guests every service perfect complement to the area’s 60,000-strong imaginable, from basic grooming to pedicures pet population. and polish. Spa services are by appointment When owners bring their pets to Diva only to ensure pets get expedited Doghouse, Brenda wants them and undivided attention by the to feel like family. She knows I researched professionals at Diva Doghouse. her customers are very close to for three years to It’s a perfect opportunity for their pets, often treating them find something pets to be pampered while Mom like children. When visiting the different. I wanted and Dad shop for themselves at boutique, all canine companions to do something The Mercantile across the street. have their photos taken, and the one of a kind.

Or, while puppy parents have a bite photos are posted on the Diva’s Friends Wall—Diva being Brenda’s —BRENDA SLAVICH at the Tea Plantation next door, pets can nibble on treats from Diva Yorkie and the shop’s namesake.

Doghouse’s organic gourmet bakery.

“It’s just a fun atmosphere,” Brenda says.

Not only does Diva Doghouse keep pets “People come from all over. There’s something in the latest fashions, it’s also a shop with a different everyday and something for everyone. conscious. Diva Doghouse works closely with Never a dull day.” local pet organizations and rescues to help find There’s never a dull moment for shoppers, homes for the less fortunate Fidos and Fluffys in either. The boutique features everything and our community. anything a pet could want, ranging in prices from With open arms to every pet and its owner, $5 organic treats to $1,000 Swarovski crystal Diva Doghouse takes pride in its specialized collars. T-shirts, tutus, harnesses, toys, luxury customer service by providing one-on-one care bedding and pet home items are available in and one-of-a-kind products day after day. This is enough variety to meet the style needs of any definitely a doghouse you’ll want to be in! breed.

Brenda attends several trade shows throughDiva Doghouse out the year to make sure that Diva Doghouse 1111 Canal Street / The Villages, FL 32162 keeps up with the latest trends and stocks up on (352) 750-3482 the newest styles in pet couture, customizable divadoghouse.com accessories and spa products.

‘One-on-one Care,

One-of-a-kind Products’

F

After 12 years in real estate, Brenda Slavich believed it was time for a new challenge.

As an animal lover and pet owner, she decided to open a luxury pet boutique, and Diva Doghouse made its debut.

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352.304.9560

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352-629-8000 Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sunday closed 2370 SW College Rd., Ocala, FL 34474

Weekday Mornings 5:30-10:00 AM jul’11

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SEASIDE 30

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inding yourself daydreaming about a much-needed getaway? Maybe something with white sand, cool surf and spectacular sunsets? Whether it’s a romantic retreat for two or a fun-filled family vacation you’re after, we, the editors of Ocala Style, have put together a list of what we feel are a handful of Florida’s must-visit beaches.

The best part? Getting to any of these sun-drenched destinations doesn’t involve air travel or complicated arrangements.

Instead, each is accessible in a matter of hours—and most on one tank of gas! By Karin Fabry-Cushenbery and Melissa Peterson

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26°31’ n 82°11’ w

a tropical retreat

Photos by Dave Meardon Photography

C A P T I VA I S L A N D

Affectionately known as Sanibel Island’s smaller sister, Captiva Island is located an hour and a half north of Naples on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Considered one of the state’s hidden gems by many, Captiva Island is sure to, well, captivate you.

FROM OCALA: 247 mi., 4 hrs. & 24 min.

S TAY

Perhaps one of the most popular ways to stay on this secluded barrier island is by renting a vacation home or condo. Plenty of companies offer rentals on the island, most with searchable Internet databases. One we like is captiva-island.com, managed by American Realty of Captiva.

The site is very user friendly and not only features a seriously huge selection of properties, from quaint cottages to sprawling compounds, it also showcases all the island has to offer, from water activities and tours to shopping and dining options.

E AT

You can tell just from the name that The Bubble Room is no ordinary restaurant. Where else can you dine

amongst old movie glossies, life-size Mickey Mouse replicas, twinkling Christmas lights and nostalgic memorabilia from the 30s, 40s and 50s—collectively known as “bubble things.”

An award-winning restaurant, the menu is filled with unique items, such as Smarvelous She Crab Soup, Cluck Gable and the Eddie Fisherman. And the presentations? They’re just as interesting.

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Before bidding farewell to the Bubble Room, stop by the Emporium Gift Shop for some truly, um, memorable memorabilia!

P L AY

No mention of Captiva Island would be complete without talking about shelling. After all, the island is considered one of the best in the world for collecting rare and beautiful shells. Situated along the Gulf of Mexico with an east-west orientation, the island serves as a natural collection net for a huge variety of seashells—all colors, all sizes. After you collect your treasures, head over to Sanibel-Captiva Road and the BaileyMatthews Shell Museum, the most comprehensive museum in the nation dedicated entirely to shells.

Not into shelling? No problem.

There’s plenty more to do. If you’re looking for an off-shore adventure, visit captivacruises.com to select a cruise that’s perfect for you. Choose from the 90-minute Dolphin Watch & Wildlife Adventure Cruise or the

one-hour Sunset Serenade with live music. If you’re interested in a longer excursion, those are available, too!

Did we mention there’s also a lighthouse and fishing pier, the C.R.O.W. Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, Captiva’s historic Chapel by the Sea, a marina and much more?

You’ll have to check it out for yourself to fully appreciate all this island land has to offer.

WANT THE D E TA I L S ?

This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Captiva Island. Check out CAPTIVAISLAND.COM for all the must-have details.

Photos courtesy of www.ameliaisland.com

30°36’ n 81°27’ w

Bottom Right: Take a quick trip to the Snak Shak on Centre Street in Fernandina Beach to satisfy your cravings! From old-school candy, like Dots, Mary Janes and Sugar Babies, to the candy popular with today’s generation, it’s a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.

the laid back lifestyle

AMELIA ISLAND/FERNANDINA BEACH White sand beaches, abundant wildlife, crystal clear waters. It’s no wonder Amelia Island was named No. 5 among the Top 10 North American Islands by Conde Nast Traveler’s 2010 Reader’s Choice Awards. Visit for yourself to find out why!

FROM OCALA: 127 mi., 2 hrs. & 31 mins.

S TAY

Featured in countless magazines and on many television shows, the Elizabeth Pointe Lodge overflows with charm and luxury, and from the moment guests arrive, they are pampered and taken care of. A wine and hors d’oeuvres reception takes place every evening and a full ocean-view breakfast is included each morning.

A variety of deluxe accommodations are available, including 20 rooms and suites in the Main House, each with their own unique décor and appeal. The Ocean House features four deluxe sitting rooms, several with private ocean-view decks.

The amenities and accoutrements at the Elizabeth Pointe Lodge are too numerous to mention. Future guests can check out elizabethpointelodge.com for all the details, not to mention stunning pictures.

For a completely different experience, the Florida House Inn, located in the heart of Fernandina Beach’s historic downtown, opened in 1857. Southern charm and hospitality abounds at the inn, which includes a parlor room, an English pub, wraparound porches and lush gardens. More information can be found at floridahouseinn.com.

E AT

From the sun-drenched coastline to the historic downtown area, Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach offer plenty of dining choices to satisfy every palate. There are more than two dozen eclectic eateries to choose from in the historic district alone, so good luck making that decision quickly!

With a slogan like “Eat Here, Get Gas,” how could you not check out T-Ray’s Burger Station. Housed in an old Exxon gas station, it’s where the locals go for the perfect burger. Maybe you’d prefer to check out the island’s oldest and most nostalgic restaurant—The Marina.

A variety of seafood, beef and poultry meals are available, and don’t forget to try one of the yummy homemade chowders.

Founded in 1989, the Beech Street Grill in the historic district is famous for its seafood dinners, but visitors can also get a taste of Southern Low Country cooking as well. The Creole flavors are sure to add a bit of a kick to your day.

P L AY

Sure, beaches are known for snorkeling, swimming and even biking. But Amelia Island is known for that and much more: a 400-year-old history that includes Scottish smugglers, Cuban freedom fighters and yes, even pirates! The city offers history buffs plenty of opportunities to explore the area’s rich history, including walking tours of the downtown and historic districts, the Amelia Island Museum of History, Fort Clinch and even ghost tours. Now come on, what trip to the beach would be complete without a ghost sighting?

WANT THE D E TA I L S ?

For a direct link to the Amelia Island 2011 Visitor’s Guide, visit AMELIAISLAND.COM. Check out all the cool stuff we didn’t have room for!

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82°44’ w The BEACH BISTRO boasts the highest Zagat rating for food and service in the state of Florida and is included in Zagat’s “Top Restaurants in America.”

FUN FACT

Anna Maria Island holds the Guinness record for the most consecutive days of sunshine, with a whopping 768 days of sunshine in a row!

ple n & Ma Bourbo umbo J Grilled Shrimp

an island in the sun ANNA MARIA ISLAND

This barrier island at the southern tip of Tampa in Manatee County offers guests a front-row seat to spectacular sunsets night after night.

FROM OCALA: 144 mi., 2 hrs. & 33 mins.

S TAY

It seems that visitors to Anna Maria Island can’t say enough good things about An Island Getaway at Palm Tree Villas. A two-minute walk from the Gulf of Mexico, these quaint rental villas come complete with full kitchens (including granite counters), full baths, semi-private garden patios and plenty of space—perfect for a family vacation to the beach.

Studio to three-bedroom layouts are available, and prices are extremely reasonable. Don’t forget to stop by Publix on your way to the villas to stock up on the necessities.

Another option is the BeachHouse Restaurant on nearby Bradenton Beach where live music adds a fun, festive flair to your beachside dining experience. The fun doesn’t stop there, though. Beach volleyball nets are set up, and there’s plenty of space for the kids to play in the sand before and after (even during) your meal. The restaurant is situated on 650 feet of beachfront property and outside dining isn’t a problem here as the vast covered deck extends from one end of the restaurant to the other. Check out beachhouse.groupersandwich.com

E AT

On our quest to find the best dining options in and around Anna Maria Island, one restaurant’s name surfaced again and again—Beach Bistro. A bit on the pricier side, Beach Bistro is known as much for its intimate ambiance as for its highly acclaimed dishes. Rated the No. 1 place to eat on the island by tripadvisor.com users, Beach Bistro offers diners stunning, panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico, not to mention complimentary valet service. As a matter of fact, the staff takes beachside dining to a whole new level, with several tables situated right in the sand. Their website, beachbistro.com, features full menus, not to mention the pricelist.

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for all the details.

P L AY

A cool way to see the city is via a Segway. Seg’s by the Sea and Zegway by the Bay both offer guided tours that include all the stopping points in and around Anna Maria Island. Don’t forget your camera!

If a boat tour is more to your liking, try out A.M. Island Adventures in nearby Cortez (also known as one of Florida’s original fishing villages,

so bring your pole). The 21-passenger cruise may include snorkeling time, sandbar searches for shells or sand dollars, and exploring the water for sea life, including dolphins and manatees.

If you have the kids in tow, you may want to check out The Fish Hole on Bridge Street. This miniature golf adventure is sure to bring a smile to their faces.

If all of that surf and sunshine leaves you longing for a little city escape, take a quick day trip to nearby Sarasota. Just 30 minutes away, this waterside metropolis boasts an abundance of recreational activities, including the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, the Ringling Museum of Art and Ca’d’Zan Mansion and the Sarasota Jungle Gardens.

WANT THE D E TA I L S ?

Wanna start planning your island getaway now? Grab your pen and paper and check out ANNAMARIAISLAND.COM.

Photo courtesy of Bradenton Area CVB

27°31’ n

30°20’ n 87°27’ w

a natural indulgence PENSACOLA BEACH

Located on Santa Rosa Island, the world’s largest barrier island, Pensacola Beach offers vacationers everything from relaxing beach activities to the hustle and bustle of nearby Pensacola, and all with spectacular waterfront views.

FROM OCALA: 384 mi., 6 hrs. & 13 mins.

S TAY

Portofino Island Resort offers guests luxurious accommodations surrounded by nature’s best offerings. Bordering the Gulf Islands National Seashore, the area surrounding Portofino Island Resort is natural and unspoiled. With 360-degree water views of the Gulf of Mexico and Santa Rosa Bay, the resort is perfect for a lazy day spent in the sand and surf.

More than 300 two- and three-bedroom units are available for rent, and each features a waterfront view, not to mention top-of-the-line amenities, including full furnishings.

Complimentary services for resort guests include beach chairs and umbrellas, a Catamaran cruise to the Portofino Boardwalk, a dolphin cruise and one round of golf each day on any of the four Emerald Coast courses. And that’s just a handful of the offerings! There are seven outdoor pools on site, a full-service (and then some) spa and honestly too many services and amenities to mention. For more information, visit portofinoisland.com.

E AT

Portofino Island Resort offers guests plenty of dining options, including its signature restaurant, Terracotta, where patrons can enjoy fresh coastal cuisine overlooking the serene waters of Santa Rosa Bay.

If you’re looking for something a bit more casual, Terrazzo Grille offers al fresco-style dining that includes lighter fare, such as soups, salads and sandwiches.

For an evening nightcap or late-night snack, the Cobalt Bar is a tropical outdoor eatery that features live music and a full-service bar.

For options off resort property, the Portofino Boardwalk includes nearly a dozen dining choices and Pensacola’s famous Seville Square and historic district is just 20 minutes by car.

P L AY

The aforementioned Portofino Boardwalk is a quick catamaran cruise away (Did I mention that’s free for resort guests?) and includes more than a dozen dining, shopping and entertainment options.

Plus, don’t forget all of the water-related activities taking place in and around the resort itself, including Adventure Beach.

Adventure Beach features bikes, in-shore charter fishing, sailing and kayak rentals, snorkeling and more. If you’re feeling a bit more

Pensacola is just a hop, skip and a jump away (otherwise known as a 20-minute car ride) and offers great recreation activities, including Z (a zoo), the National Naval Aviation Museum, a lighthouse and more. Oh yea, and you can even witness the Blue Angels practicing their death-defying stunts.

adventurous, there’s Adventure Cove where you’ll find an inflatable waterpark, a water trampoline, Float Your Boat towed rafts, cruise opportunities, eco tours and more.

WANT THE D E TA I L S ?

One visit to Pensacola Beach will leave you longing for more. Plan your stay at VISITPENSACOLA.COM.

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27°36’ n 82°44’ w

GETTING THERE

Have a little cash on hand when traveling to the park. There is no entrance fee, but there are two toll bridges from the mainland to the park for a total of $.85.

a rustic delight

F O R T D E S O T O PA R K , T I E R R A V E R D E

Bordered by the Gulf of Mexico to the west and Tampa Bay to the east, Fort De Soto Park, named America’s No. 1 beach by “Dr. Beach” in 2005 and TripAdvisor in 2008 and 2009, is a chain of five interconnected islands just south of St. Petersburg.

FROM OCALA: 133 mi., 2 hrs. & 24 mins.

S TAY

Although the typical resorts and hotels can be found nearby, we suggest utilizing the park’s camping facilities, where you can sleep just feet away from the park’s pristine shores.

Whether camping by tent, RV or pop-up camper, the 238-site camping area offers picnic tables, grills, water, electricity, laundry facilities, restrooms, showers and a camp store. Special campsites are available for visitors who are traveling with their canine companions. Reservations are recommended and can be made up to six months in advance.

E AT

When visiting Fort De Soto Park for a day trip, take advantage of the convenient concession stand located within the park that serves typical snack bar-type food, perfect for lunch. If you’re camping at the park, you’ll want to take advantage of the grills provided at each campsite. Whether grilling hamburgers and hot dogs or the fresh fish you caught earlier that afternoon, what’s camping without cooking dinner over an open fire? For a night out, take a short trip to St. Petersburg Beach and try Sea Critters Café or Paradise Grille.

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P L AY

Whether soaking up the sun, fishing off the pier, embarking on a canoe or kayak adventure, or exploring the historic fort, there’s no shortage of things to do within Fort De Soto Park. Rent a bicycle, hike a trail or romp with your pooch at the designated dog beach. Whatever you do, don’t miss visiting Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge, an island a short ferry ride from the park. Visitors to Egmont Key can rent snorkeling gear for an extra fee.

WANT THE D E TA I L S ?

Visit PINELLASCOUNTY.ORG/ park/05_ft_desoto.htm or call (727) 552-1862 for campsite reservations and additional information on the park and its activities.

Scan here for campground rates and availability and to make your reservation online.

27°16’ n 82°33’ w

America’s top beach

Photos courtesy www.sarasotafl.org

S I E S TA K E Y

With sand made of 99 percent pure quartz, there’s a reason Siesta Key was just named America’s No. 1 beach for 2011. If you’re looking for sugar-white sand, wide beaches and water so clear you can see your toes, Siesta Key is located along the calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, just south of Sarasota.

FROM OCALA: 157 mi., 2 hrs. & 38 mins.

S TAY

While most visitors choose private home or condo rentals on Siesta Key, one luxury resort option is the Hyatt Siesta Key Beach, featuring multi-bedroom, condo-style residences, many with Gulf-view terraces, with beach concierge and complimentary poolside cabanas. Future guests can visit siestakeybeach.hyatt.com to check out rates and make reservations.

For accommodations closer to the action of Siesta Key Village and more moderately priced, check into Siesta Sands on the Beach.

Located right on the water, these condos sleep four guests, offer a fully equipped kitchen and display old-Florida style decor. As a guest at Siesta Sands on the Beach, you basically have your own apartment with the beach as your backyard—what more could you ask for! Visit siestasands.com to view a photo gallery of the accommodations.

E AT

Great views, live music, casual atmosphere, award-winning cuisine. Siesta Key has a restaurant to meet everyone’s need. For unpretentious dining with a lot of personality, check out the Siesta Key Oyster Bar. A few blocks from the beach and in the heart of Siesta Key

Village, SKOB, as it’s often shortened to, is the perfect place to kick back and enjoy a cold beer, a dozen raw oysters and daily live music.

For a little more sophistication, visit Ophelia’s on the Bay, located at the southern end of Siesta Key overlooking Little Sarasota Bay. Voted Best Waterfront Restaurant by the Sarasota Herald Tribune, Ophelia’s offers fine dining that is known for mixing American-style cuisine with a variety of other flavors.

P L AY

Visitors flock to Siesta Key for the beach, but if you can tear yourself away from the shore, there are many other activities for the entire family. For the more adventurous in your group, Siesta Key Bike & Kayak offers guided kayak eco-tours through the shallow, protected waters of South Lido’s exotic mangrove tunnels. Make sure you make reservations, though, because tours might not be available for the same day.

If you’re up for a 30-minute drive, take the youngsters to the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

in Sarasota where you can see sharks, dolphins, manatees and sea turtles, along with more than 100 other species of marine life.

And when you need a break from sunbathing, venture down to Point of Rocks, a shallow formation of limestone rocks that extends into the Gulf from the middle of the western shore of Siesta Key. Known for its geologically unusual rock formations, this part of the beach is habitat for a wide variety of fish and other sea creatures. It’s a perfect combination of fun and exploration!

WANT THE D E TA I L S ?

Can’t get enough of Siesta Key? Visit SARASOTAFL.ORG for more ways to plan the perfect vacation.

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30°16’ n 86°00’ w

a break from the ordinary

Photos courtesy of Rosemary Beach Cottage Rental Company

ch ary Bea Rosem ls a t n e Re Cottag

ROSEMARY BEACH

Inspired by traditional beach towns, Rosemary Beach, located on Florida’s northwest Gulf coast between Panama City and Destin, was designed to bring back the 1950s notions of community and convenience.

FROM OCALA: 324 mi., 5 hrs. & 19 mins.

S TAY

Visitors, or temporary residents as they are often called, to Rosemary Beach can stay in one of the many carriage houses and spacious multi-bedroom cottages available through the Rosemary Beach Cottage Rental Company, all individually designed and decorated and many with large porches and balconies. Guests of the Rosemary Beach Cottage Rental Company are guaranteed availability at Camp Rosemary. All rental guests enjoy complimentary court time at the Racquet Club and access to the Fitness Center and all four community pools.

There is one hotel in Rosemary Beach, the Pensione Inn, a contemporary European inn featuring 11 guest rooms, each with a Gulf view. Guests enjoy complimentary access to the community Fitness Center and tennis at the Racquet Club.

E AT

Most of the restaurants in Rosemary Beach can be found in the town center, which is a quick five-minute walk from any of the area’s vacation homes. Restaurant Paradis offers nightly fine dining service and a full-service lounge. Fresh, seasonal fare, abundant Gulf seafood, steaks and fine wines are served in a warmly elegant, wine-country setting. Don’t miss half-priced entrees every night from 5pm to 6pm!

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Perfect for lunch with the kids after a full day on the beach, Dog Man Du, a mobile hotdog cart, is open seasonally. Dog Man Du is also the perfect stop during Moonlight & Movies and Kids’ Rock the Block parties, part of Rosemary Beach’s special summer events’ series.

For more fare that will please the young—and the young at heart—try Sno-Balls, a New Orleans-style snow cone shop, The Sugar Shak, a Willy Wonka-inspired candy store, or the newly opened Sugga Pies Cupcake Shoppe & Bakery. Talk about sugar overload!

P L AY

Outdoor amenities are abundant in Rosemary Beach. The community is structured around a series of parks and green spaces, the perfect place for enjoying an impromptu game of Frisbee or having a picnic.

Rosemary Beach is extremely pedestrian friendly, so park your car when you arrive and forget about it!

Everything is within walking distance, but if you need a little zip, cruise around on a bicycle from Bamboo

Bicycle Company. Adult and kid’s

bikes can be rented for a day or weekly, and rates average $20 per day.

During the summer months, Camp Rosemary offers kids ages 5 through 12 a series of daily events designed to enhance their vacation experience, including sports activities, arts and crafts, beach expeditions and sandcastle building, swimming pool games and more. Thursdays are Teen Nights at Camp Rosemary, and teens can join their friends for movies and other fun activities.

WANT THE D E TA I L S ?

Everything you need to know about Rosemary Beach, including vacation rental availability, can be found at ROSEMARYBEACH.COM.

26°27’ n 80°4’ w

where quaint meets modern

Photos courtesy of Delray Beach Marketing Cooperative

D E L R AY B E A C H

With two miles of pristine beachfront property and a vibrant downtown area featuring more than 300 boutiques, galleries and restaurants, Delray Beach, located between West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale, is where the intimate beach village meets big-city sophistication.

FROM OCALA: 255 mi., 4 hrs. & 13 mins.

S TAY

Delray Beach offers accommodations from quaint to luxurious, historic or modern. If you want to stay in the heart of the action, consider Crane’s BeachHouse Hotel & Tiki Bar, located off Atlantic Avenue only a few blocks from the beach.

The hotel has 27 Key West-style rooms and suites. The Tiki Bar is a popular hotspot for locals and tourists alike and features live entertainment on select nights. Visit cranesbeachhouse.com to take a virtual tour of the property.

For a beachfront view, stay at the Marriott Delray Beach, located just across A1A. With 180 rooms, a full-service spa, a fitness center, shopping on site and several dining options, guests can relax on the beach during the day and experience Atlantic Avenue’s nightlife in the evening. Future guests can check out marriottdelraybeach.com for rates and photos of the hotel.

Warning: Once you see it, you’ll want to go!

E AT

Downtown Delray’s Atlantic Avenue is a charming streetscape filled with fine dining restaurants. For casual fare with a Delray flare, try City Oyster & Sushi Bar. The seafood at City

Oyster is flown in daily from fisheries in the Northeast and filleted right in the kitchen. Open for lunch and dinner, City Oyster is also a great place for having a drink with friends and people watching, with the grand bar running the length of the restaurant.

To dine where the locals do, head over to the Pineapple Grove Arts District and check out Joseph’s Wine Bar and Café. Perfect for an evening when you’ve got extra time, Joseph’s has an amazing wine collection of over 2,000 bottles. This father-and-son establishment is the place to enjoy authentic Mediterranean cuisine.

P L AY

For a taste of natural Florida, visit the Wakodahatchee Wetlands park, a free adventure where visitors can see alligators, turtles and more than 140 different types of birds.

Stroll along the three-quarter-mile boardwalk through the park’s three ponds for a chance to learn about wetlands ecology and the natural history of the area.

Pineapple Grove Arts District is located just off Atlantic Avenue. The

Scan here for a map of the Pineapple Grove Arts District and a preview of the art on display.

area features an eclectic mix of cafes, boutiques, galleries and spas. While here, make sure to take the Pineapple Grove Artwalk, a series of public art displayed throughout the area.

There are so many activities off the shore that it’s easy to forget about Delray’s award-winning beaches.

For a more serene beach experience away from downtown, visit Atlantic Dunes Park. In addition to lifeguards, the park offers a classic boardwalk, a pavilion, public restrooms and showers, and picnic tables.

WANT THE D E TA I L S ?

There’s so much to do in Delray Beach! Want to see what we weren’t able to include? Visit DOWNTOWN DELRAYBEACH.COM and VISITDELRAYBEACH.US.

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It’s hot!

HEAT Beating The

That’s the refrain we say and hear a lot during summers in Florida—aka our extreme weather season.

And with the arrival of the sweltering heat, along with its faithful sidekick humidity, we start looking for ways to cool off! Sure, staying inside with the air conditioner blasting is one option. But do you really want to stay cooped up for months?

There’s another way to cool off during our heatwave season—visiting one of Florida’s springs or lakes!

Obviously, we can’t cover all of Florida’s natural watering holes, but we can take a look at a few of the most popular ones, and maybe even a few you’ve never heard of. Any would be a great choice to jump in and cool off!

Written & Compiled By JoAnn Guidry

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Photo courtesy visitflorida.com

Ichetucknee Springs State Park

The upper 3.5-mile section of the Ichetucknee River, which includes eight major springs, is a protected state park. The Ichetucknee River continues on for 2.5 more miles and joins the Santa Fe River. The main spring of the river was designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1972. No motorized boats are allowed on this part of the river, which is Florida’s most popular tubing destination. There is also scuba diving in Blue Hole Spring and the Ichetucknee River. Wildlife abounds along the river, including beavers, otters, turtles, wild turkeys, wood ducks, egrets and, of course, alligators. Tubes, snorkeling and diving equipment can be rented from private vendors just outside the park. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, there is a full-service concession area inside the park, offering food, refreshments and outdoor products.

COOL FACTOR Swimming, tubing, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, canoeing

FYI Entrance fee, hiking, picnic area, no on-site camping, dogs allowed

LOCATION Fort White, FL

CONTACT (386) 497-4690 / floridastateparks.org/ichetuckneesprings

K.P. Hole Park

Part of the Marion County Parks and Recreation Department, K.P. Hole is not technically a spring. Only a mile and a half south of Rainbow Springs and on the Rainbow River, the K.P. Hole benefits from its ideal location with cool, spring-fed water. The protected swimming area has been a local favorite for decades, and legend has it that in the early years, there were designated days for men and women to swim separately. And just to make sure no peeping toms snuck a peek at women in their scandalous full-length swimsuits, a sheriff was on guard. Makes you wonder who was watching the sheriff, huh? The Rainbow River is ideal for kayaking, tubing and canoeing, with the average tubing trip taking about four and a half hours. Rentals are available at the park.

COOL FACTOR Swimming, kayaking, canoeing, tubing

FYI Entrance fee, picnic areas, full bathroom facilities, public boat ramp, no pets CONTACT (352) 489-3055 / kphole.com

LOCATION Dunnellon, FL

Rainbow Springs State Park

Measuring 250 feet wide, the Rainbow Springs pool is the fourth largest spring in the state.

Seven openings in the aquifer feed the main spring bowl, which is surrounded by five smaller springs and combined with hundreds of sand boils to create the Rainbow River.

The river flows for about 5.6 miles and then joins with the Withlacoochee River. Rainbow Springs is designated as a National Natural Landmark, and there’s archaeological evidence dating back 12,000 years that the area was important to prehistoric people for clean water, food, making stone tools and, dare we say, cooling off!

COOL FACTOR Swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, canoeing, tubing

FYI Entrance fee, on-site camping, picnic area, hiking, formal gardens, dogs allowed

LOCATION Dunnellon, FL

CONTACT (352) 465-8555 floridastateparks.org/rainbowsprings

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Photo by Stacey Brown

Ginnie Springs

Located along the Santa Fe River, the Ginnie Springs Recreation Area is a popular kayaking, canoeing and tubing destination. This series of clear, blue springs and extensive cave systems also attract open-water divers (scuba & snorkeling) and cave divers. Privately operated, there is a campground store that rents recreational gear and sells supplies. There is also a dive shop that offers dive training and Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) certification.

COOL FACTOR Swimming, scuba diving, cave diving, snorkeling, kayaking, canoeing

FYI Entrance fee, on-site camping, picnic areas, children’s playground, volleyball, no dogs

LOCATION High Springs, FL

CONTACT (386) 454-7188 ginniespringsoutdoors.com

Wakulla Springs State Park

Recognized as one of the largest springs in the world, Wakulla Springs discharges an amazing 260 million gallons of water per day! Following Tropical Storm Fay in 2008, there was a record spring flow water discharge of 1.5 billion gallons a day. The spring pool is 315 feet in diameter, and the aquifer vent that feeds it, about 185 feet deep beneath a limestone ledge, is estimated to be 82 feet wide and 50 feet high. This opening extends into a network of caves, 280 to 300 feet deep, which to date measures 28.6 miles, making it the fourth-longest explored aquatic cave system in the world.

Wakulla Springs is a National Natural Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There is an on-site 1937 lodge, offering 27 guest rooms, a dining room, a gift shop, a snack bar and meeting facilities. Also, don’t miss the two-story dive platform in the swimming area!

COOL FACTOR Swimming and snorkeling

FYI Entrance fee, river boat tours, hiking, picnic areas, playground, horse trail, dogs allowed

LOCATION Wakulla Springs, FL

CONTACT (850) 926-0700 / floridastateparks.org/wakullasprings

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Salt Springs

Named for the presence of potassium, magnesium and sodium in the water, Salt Springs is the headwater of the four-mile-long Salt Springs Run. Fed by several spring vertical vents, the large spring pool is shallow and surrounded by concrete walls and sidewalks. The average 74-degree water is perfect for swimming or snorkeling. From Lake George, motorized boats can travel up Salt Spring Run but, of course, are not allowed in the spring pool.

Fishing is also prohibited in the spring pool.

COOL FACTOR Swimming, snorkeling, boating

FYI Entrance fee, on-site camping, hiking, picnic areas, dogs allowed on leash

CONTACT (352) 685-2048 / floridasprings.org

LOCATION Ocala National Forest/Salt Springs, FL

Alexander Springs

Located on the eastern side of the Ocala National Forest, Alexander Springs is the only first magnitude spring within the forest. Multiple spring vents beneath a limerock ledge supply a constant flow of cool spring water, perfect for swimming at a nearly constant 72 degrees. On one side of the large pool’s shoreline is a sand beach and stairs leading down into the spring pool. The remainder of the shoreline is a native floodplain of sweetgum, maples and cabbage plants.

The Timucuan Trail has two boardwalk overlooks along the spring run, which flows eight miles until joining the St. Johns River and is popular for kayaking and canoeing. A nearby concession offers rentals for the latter.

COOL FACTOR Swimming, kayaking, canoeing, scuba diving with certification

FYI Entrance fee, on-site camping, picnic areas, hiking, dogs allowed on leash

LOCATION Ocala National Forest/Altoona, FL

Carney Island Recreation & Conservation Area

CONTACT (352) 669-3522 / floridasprings.org

COOL FACTOR Swimming, kayaking, canoeing

FYI Entrance fee, on-site camping, hiking, picnic areas, dogs allowed on leash

LOCATION Ocala National Forest/ Silver Springs, FL CONTACT (352) 625-3147 floridasprings.org

Juniper Springs

Constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and located in the Ocala National Forest, the Juniper Springs Recreation Area is one of the oldest on the East Coast. Juniper Springs consists of large and small limestone vents discharging millions of gallons of water a day. One of the unique qualities about Juniper Springs is the limestone wall surrounding it, giving the spring an almost backyard pool appearance. The ancient live oaks scattered throughout the property only add to the springs’ character. The Old Millhouse spillway separates Juniper Creek and the spring pool. Juniper Creek, which flows for seven miles through the Juniper Prairie Wilderness Area and then meets up with Lake George, is popular for canoeing.

Famous for its large swimming area on the beach of Lake Weir and Little Lake Weir, the park, which is operated

by Marion County Parks and Recreation, also offers a boat ramp, personal watercraft area, concession stands, canoeing and kayaking, playgrounds and outdoor showers.

Located in Ocklawaha, the property was historically used for agriculture dating back to the 1600s and was named after Captain John L. Carney and his brother E.L. Carney, who purchased the land in 1875. The park, which spans more than 750 acres, was acquired by Marion County in 1990 to protect its ecology and provide a recreation area for residents based on the land’s natural resources.

COOL FACTOR Swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing

Comprised of two spring vents, some 65 million gallons of water flows from Silver Glen daily to Lake George in the Ocala National Forest—nearly a one-mile trek. Boats are allowed to travel on the spring run but are prohibited from entering the spring itself. This protected spring is a favorite with swimmers and snorkelers in the summer and manatees, which come from the St. Johns River, in the winter. Canoe rentals are available year-round. The Spring Boils Trail leads to Jody’s Spring, named after the main character and a spring in Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings’ The Yearling.

FYI Entrance fee, fishing, hiking, picnic areas, no on-site camping, no dogs allowed

LOCATION Ocala National Forest/ Ft. McCoy, FL

LOCATION Lake Weir/ Ocklawaha, FL

CONTACT (352) 671-8560 marioncountyfl.org/Parks/Pr_Directory/Park_Carney.aspx

Silver Glen Springs

COOL FACTOR Swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, canoeing

FYI Entrance fee, hiking, picnic areas, fishing

CONTACT (352) 236-0288 floridasprings.org

Splashing Around Town Want to stay cool without traveling outside city limits? Try one of Ocala’s public pools.

Jervey Gantt Aquatic FUN Center 2390 SE 36th Ave. (352) 624-2410 Hampton Aquatic FUN Center 255 NW Martin Luther King Blvd.

(352) 622-6803

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30

Celebrating

Years

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A 21st Century Workout

Get in shape by gaming p48

Ins & Outs of Inflammation p46

Pulse

the

Quench Your Mood p50

DIY Diagnosis p52

SPF Secrets p56

and more!

Safety First (Don’t Go) Out with a Bang This 4th of July

I

t’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt. Each year, over 100 injuries related to fireworks are reported in hospitals.

Improper fireworks usage can lead to burns, and flying debris can land on surrounding buildings and forestry, causing fires. To prevent disaster and ensure safety while lighting or watching fireworks, here are a few tips provided by the NATIONAL COUNCIL ON FIREWORKS SAFETY:

» Use fireworks outdoors only. » Obey local laws and regulations on fireworks.

» Only persons over 12 should be allowed to handle sparklers of any type.

» Keep pets inside or secured. The noise can cause animals to run away.

» Always have water handy. Stand near a hose, or keep a bucket nearby.

» Only use fireworks as intended; don’t try to alter or combine them.

» Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then stick it into a bucket of water.

» Wear safety goggles if you are the shooter, and keep spectators at a safe distance.

» Use common sense!

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Pulse

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FEELINGWELL

4 3

Inflammation Nation

2

Fighting Inflammation From The Inside Out

O

ur stressful lifestyle, poor diets and sedentary ways have made us an inflammation nation. And medical experts and researchers are now blaming chronic systematic inflammation as a major underlying cause of many diseases, including heart disease, various cancers, Alzheimer’s, obesity, asthma, diabetes, lupus, Graves’ disease, fibromyalgia, Crohn’s disease, atherosclerosis and arthritis.

Chronic inflammation is your immune system’s inflammatory response run amok. A healthy inflammatory response is how the body protects itself against invaders, but when the immune system is under constant attack by poor dietary choices or reacts to a flood of stress-induced cortisol hormones, it goes into overdrive and stays there—hence, chronic inflammation.

1

Take A CRP Test A CRP blood test measures inflammation levels in the blood. Test results can range from 1.0 to 4.0 mg/L (milligrams to liters) and up. A CRP level below 1.0mg/L is best, and anything above 3.0mg/L indicates a high risk of inflammation. A CRP test can signal possible heart disease; high CRP levels are often found in those with autoimmune diseases and cancer.

Source: Stop Inflammation Now

Source: Inflammation Research Foundation

Choose This

Not This

WATER

SUGAR

(6-8 glasses a day)

(high-fructose corn syrup, sugar alcohols, artificial sweeteners)

NUTS & SEEDS TEA

ALCOHOL YEAST DAIRY PRODUCTS

(green, white, oolong)

FISH

(wild salmon, sardines, mackerel)

(lactose intolerance)

VEGETABLES

WHEAT & OTHER REFINED GRAINS

(fresh and frozen)

(gluten sensitivity)

LEAN PROTEIN

NIGHTSHADES

(grass-fed beef, turkey)

(tomatoes, white potatoes, eggplant, bell peppers)

FRUITS

(especially berries)

CORN

LEGUMES

(kidney beans, black beans, white beans)

Source: Dr. Mark Hyman/ UltraImmunity

BROWN RICE

Terrific Turmeric Turmeric root is a bright orange-colored relative of ginger root, both of which are considered anti-inflammatory spices. According to many studies, including those at the NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF HEALTH, turmeric,

ingredithe major ingredi ent in Indian

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Check Your Oil

GET YOUR OMEGAS IN Many experts believe that one reason for our current epidemic of inflammatoryrelated diseases is an imbalance in fatty oil consumption. We consume too much omega-6 from meats and vegetable oils, like soybean, corn and safflower, and not enough omega-3 from oily fish, like salmon, anchovies and sardines. Other good sources of omega-3s are walnuts and flaxseed. Grass-fed beef is also higher in omega-3s than grain-fed beef.

Source: Duke Integrative Medicine Report

curry dishes, has been found to have more than two dozen anti-inflammatory compounds. Ongoing research is studying turmeric’s ability to fight cancer and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

You can buy turmeric in any supermarket spice section and sometimes in the fresh produce section as well. It is also available in supplement form.

However, always check with your physician before taking any dietary supplement.

MOVE IT Physical activity is a great way to keep inflammation under control by lowering the body’s level of C-reactive protein (CRP), the body’s marker for inflammation. The lower the body’s CRP, the less inflammation is present. Scientists think that exercise causes the body to make more antioxidants and other inflammationdousing chemicals.

Source: The Inflammation Cure

Turmeric Tea 1. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil.

2. Add 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric, reduce to a simmer for 10 minutes.

3. Strain the tea through a fine sieve into a cup; add honey, grated ginger and/or lemon to taste.

Source: drweil.com

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

Dr. Zhou Has Moved!

Outstanding Credentials of Dr. Zhou • Trained in Harvard Medical School

With nearly 17,000 patients visiting the Florida Pain and Rehabilitation Center in 2010, it’s no wonder the practice was experiencing growing pains (pun intended)! Well, problem solved. Dr. Yili Zhou recently opened his new facility, a 4,200-square-foot space, just minutes from his old location.

• Board-certified in Pain Medicine and Neurology/Psychiatry

Dr. Zhou, along with the other doctors and staff members, are thrilled to bring their newly expanded practice to their Ocala patients.

• PhD in Psychology

“Our main goal is to solve the patient’s problem and take the pain away,” says Dr. Zhou. “Suffering from chronic pain is no way to live your life.”

• 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

Practice physicians Drs. Warycha and Vu agree.

“Dr. Warycha is a board-certified physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist,” says Dr. Zhou. “He is an expert in conducting nerve function tests. Dr. Warycha also uses ultrasound-guided joint injections. The technique is more accurate and less painful than other procedures.

“Dr. Vu is board certified in physical medicine and is a board-certified pain specialist who joined the practice this year,” adds Dr. Zhou. “He is very nice and every one loves him. We’re excited about the practice’s growth.”

Fortunately for Ocalans, Florida Pain and Rehabilitation Center, is right here in town to treat a wide variety of pain ailments. Dr. Zhou has helped thousands of locals finally make debilitating pain a thing of the past.

2006 - 2010

17,000

30% increase in patients each year

Whether you suffer from back pain, joint ailments, sciatica or headaches, the physicians at Florida Pain use minimally invasive, non-surgical and effective treatments as a way to eliminate inflammation and pain. In fact, since opening his practice in 2006, Dr. Zhou’s facility has seen a 25 to 30 percent increase in patients each year. From 3,444 patients in 2006 to nearly 17,000 in 2010! That’s thousands of people living pain free.

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

3,444

2011

2009

2008

2007

2006

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

Formerly Comprehensive Pain Management of North Florida

Florida Pain and Rehabilitation Center Locations in Ocala, Gainesville, & Lake City 1910 SW 18th Court, Ocala

352.629.7011 | cpmnf.com jul’11

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LOOKINGWELL

Living Room Fitness Calling All Couch Potatoes

Maybe you’re just not into the gym scene or your hectic schedule leaves little time to exercise. Thanks to some pretty nifty technology, you can now get a good workout right in your living room! Keep in mind, some of the games are available for multiple game systems, so check product availability.

Nintendo Wii Console: $200 Depending on the game being played, users might stand on a motion-sensitive balance board or use a hand-held remote while playing a Wii game. Here are some of the most popular Wii fitness games:

Wii Fit Plus

Software $20, Board $99

The original Wii Fit allows you to work toward general fitness goals through basic exercises like blocking soccer balls, power hoop twirls and ski jumping. With an upgrade to Wii Fit Plus, you can select fitness activities such as yoga, aerobics, strength training and balance games.

Jillian Michaels 2011

$20

Fitness diva Jillian Michaels is your virtual personal trainer, taking you through a series of high-intensity exercise routines, including running, jumping jacks, crunches, hip twists, planks and side lunges.

Zumba Fitness

$40

More than 30 Zumba routines incorporate nine different hot Latin dances. Your virtual Zumba instructor connects with you through a revolving party atmosphere. There is also a Zumba belt that turns your Wii remote into a hip motion sensor.

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XBOX 360 Kinect Console: $300 Instead of using a handheld remote, the Kinect controller for the Xbox 360 has an infra-red sensor that follows 48 body points to track your movements, then uses this information to control your on-screen character.

Your Shape: Fitness Evolved $50 A virtual personal trainer guides you through hundreds of exercises in three categories, including gym, fitness and personal trainer.

Dance Central

A DVD

Workout Putting Your DVD Player To Work For You

P90X Extreme Home Fitness Workout Program $150 Hosted by personal trainer Tony Horton, this is the ultimate athome fitness training DVD. Using the Muscle Confusion Training Technique, you are constantly challenging your body through a series of 12 individual workouts, each with their own DVD. Also included is a comprehensive three-phase nutrition guide with specially designed supplement options, a fitness guide and calendar, and free online support.

$38

This first controller-free, body tracking, fully-immersive dance video game helps you take your moves to the next level. And all to the tunes of an awesome soundtrack.

UFC Personal Trainer $50 This game delivers a challenging and motivating UFC fitness experience that includes the best and most effective exercises utilized by today’s renowned UFC fighters.

Jillian Michaels 30-Day Shred $15 She’s back! In this 60-minute integrated fitness program, Michaels mixes cardiovascular exercise and strength training while focusing on building six-pack abs like hers!

Rodney Yee-Yoga Burn

$15

Looking for something a little different than the average gym workout? Then yogi master Rodney Yee may have the answer for you in this 60-minute, one-disc DVD. Yee leads you through a series of continuous yoga moves to tone, sculpt, strengthen and burn fat. And all while helping you be more mindful of your body and soul.

Sources: womensfitness.co.uk, livestrong.com and amazon.com

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LIVINGWELL

To Drink Or Not To Drink?

That Is The Question Forget the cup of coffee or the glass of Chardonnay. The latest craze in beverages for pepping up or calming down are energy and chill drinks. But what exactly are these enhanced beverages?

What’s In Them?

The FDA does not define the terms “energy drink” or “chill drink,” so essentially these beverages can contain anything, as long as the ingredients are legal. In general, energy drinks contain a combination of caffeine, sugar, amino acids and B vitamins, and chill drinks are non-alcoholic and contain some combination of valerian root, melatonin, B vitamins and, sometimes, a sugar substitute.

ARE THEY SAFE? Generally speaking, manufacturers of these beverages claim they are safe for the average, healthy adult when used in moderation.

Because these drinks are not regulated by the FDA, the ingredients in these drinks are not consistent. It is up to consumers to read the labels and know their sensitivities to the ingredients in each drink.

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There are hundreds of different drinks available.

Here is a list of five of the most popular energy and chill drinks.

Energy VS. Chill There are several questions to consider when selecting your drink.

First, do you want to be energized or relaxed? Second, consider how much actual drinking you want to do. Drinks such as 5-Hour Energy and iChill come in 2-ounce shots, while energy drinks like Monster come in 24 ounce cans.

You also need to consider the ingredients. Many energy drinks contain as much sugar as a can of soda, but some have a sugar-free alternative. Most chill drinks are lower in sugar or are sugar free, but the use of sugar substitutes varies among brands. The use of herbs, extracts and vitamins is different for each drink, so you need to be aware and read the labels before you buy.

It is important to note that these drinks are meant to be consumed in moderation by healthy adults. Studies suggest that overconsumption of energy drinks can be linked to aggressive behavior, especially among teens, and they are not recommended for those with high blood pressure or heart disease. The side effects of chill drinks vary by drink. The best way to consume these drinks is to read the labels, follow the directions and heed the warnings about consumption.

Energy Drinks

Red Bull

AMP

(3 Servings/Can)

(2 Servings/Can)

5-Hour Energy

Ounces/Serving

8.3

8.4

8

8

2

$1.99

$1.99

$1.99

$1.99

$2.99

Calories/Serving

110

120

100

110

15

Caffeine/Serving

76mg

74mg

80mg

80mg

138mg

Sugar/Serving

27g

23g

25g

30g

0g

Chill Drinks

Blue Cow

Just Chill

iChill

Drank

Mini Chill

Ounces/Drink

10

8.4

2

16

2

$1.72

$2

$2.41

$2.25

$3

Calories

0

50

0

110

0

Sugar

0g

12g

0g

27g

0g

Cost/Drink

Cost/Drink

Monster Rockstar

(Costs per drink were based on amazon.com prices) Sources: consumersearch.com, energyfiend.com and amazon.com

Pictured left to right: J. Derek Thompson, MD and Ira W. Klimberg, MD, FACS

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Q. What’s new and exciting in urology?

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Paddock Park – 3201 SW 34th St., Ocala

352-237-6162

outpatient procedure with a rapid recovery. We are using the InterStim bladder pacemaker to treat overactive bladders without medication, as well as outpatient bladder lifts and slings for urinary incontinence. Prostate cancer treatment is advancing, and we are excited to provide single-day, outpatient implant radiation therapy, as well as short-course external beam radiation for our cancer patients.

Q. What is unique about your urologic specialty facility?

A. Our comprehensive services make us unique. We have on-site laboratories and offer diagnostics, imaging and specialty surgery all in one convenient location, allowing for one-stop care. Our professional team includes urologists, pathologists, radiologists and radiation oncologists.

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

352-751-6162

Accepting New Patients • We Accept Most Insurances jul’11

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BEINGWELL

Test Yourself!

Home Health Tests

At Home Kits For The Do-It-Yourselfer

H

ere are some of the most recent home-test kits on the market. Check with your local pharmacy for availability, or find them online.

Yay or Nay?

VITAMIN D TEST

SLEEP CHECK

ANTIOXIDANT CHECK

DRUG TEST KITS

A hormone made in the skin, research is showing that many people are deficient in this key bodyregulating hormone. With this test, you can determine your vitamin D levels by providing just four drops of blood via mail to the lab.

This test checks your levels of melatonin, the hormone produced by the pineal gland, which regulates our 24-hour circadian body rhythm.

You send in a saliva test to a lab.

We all hear how important antioxidants are to our health, and with this test, you can actually find out your antioxidant levels.

You send off a urine sample to a lab for analysis of free radical activity levels.

There are tests that detect levels of marijuana, cocaine, OxyContin, vicodin, oxycodone, opiates, amphetamines, methamphetamines and ecstasy in the body.

PERFORMANCE CHECK

C REACTIVE PROTEIN (CRP) TEST

THYROID TEST

CHOLESTEROL TEST

Everyone wants more energy, and this is a test to check the levels of the hormones most responsible for providing energy to our body: testosterone, cortisol and DHEA. You have to send in a saliva sample to a lab.

Increased levels of C reactive proteins, which are produced by the liver, indicate inflammation in the body and can be used for early detection of coronary heart disease. You send in four drops of blood to a lab and receive results in three weeks.

This test might be worth trying if you suspect you’re suffering from hypothyroidism. You send in three drops of blood to a lab to measure your thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level.

With four drops of blood, a lab will give you a full lipid panel profile (total blood cholesterol, HDL & LDL & triglyceride) with glucose levels, too.

Coming Soon STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY researchers have developed a Breathalyzer-like device to measure breath gases to screen for diabetes and high cholesterol. The university is also working on a similar device to detect lung cancer by breath analysis. The former may be available over the counter later this year.

Source: homehealthtesting.com

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We are a do-ityourself nation, so it’s no surprise that this can-do attitude has spread to home-test kits.

Sure, pregnancy home-test kits have been around for a long time, but now the market has expanded to other health topics as well. Most hometest kits involve taking samples of either your blood, urine or saliva, and then mailing it off to a lab.

Make sure the tests are FDA-approved.

The labs should be regulated by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment (CLIA) and certified by the College of American Pathologists (CAP).

Of course, while being self-sufficient is a good thing, when it comes to your health, always consult and follow-up with your doctor once you have your home-test results. There are some things best left to the professionals!

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

L-R: Derek Farr, D.O. and Nirav Gupta, D.O.

‘Restoring

Active Lifestyles

“Traditional procedures help alleviate pain, but newer procedures help patients regain function as well,” says Dr. Farr, who along with Dr. Gupta were the first surgeons in Marion County to offer the reverse total shoulder procedure.

“This procedure has restored the quality of life for so many people,” says Dr. Gupta. “We have many people in the community who want to stay active in their older age, and this procedure has allowed them to,” he says, recounting stories of patients who have returned to playing pickleball pain free after surgery.

Dr. Farr, who specializes in sports medicine, offers many other procedures, such as hip resurfacing, which places a metal cap over the femur and preserves the integrity of the bone.

“You don’t want to replace a hip in a younger person. This procedure allows me to treat younger people without having to resort to such extremes,” he says, emphasizing that he and Dr. Gupta exhaust all non-surgical options before resorting to surgery.

“We want the best for our patients,” says Dr. Gupta, whose close friendship with Dr. Farr is an advantage for patients.

“We have been friends since we met 12 years ago,” says Dr. Farr. “We have the same philosophy. We are not afraid to ask each other for advice or consultation.”

“It’s an advantage to our patients to have both of us working for you,” says Dr. Gupta, who works in the operating room with Dr. Farr on more complex cases.

These doctors are more than just colleagues.

Their families spend weekends and vacations together, and both watched as each other married and started families.

“We’ve wanted to work together since we met, so this is a dream come true for us,” says Dr. Farr.

The family-like atmosphere at Twin Palm Orthopedics is noticeable from the moment you walk in. The friendly staff and physical therapists, along with the doctors, are a team, and they work together to give their patients the best orthopedic care around.

to Marion County’

P

Best friends Derek Farr, D.O., and Nirav Gupta, D.O., of

Twin Palm Orthopedics, restore active lifestyles to Marion County residents with cutting-edge procedures and a state-of-theart facility.

hysical health is something we tend to take for granted. Daily activities, such as walking, lifting and carrying, are often done without much thought. But when joints start to deteriorate or traumatic events occur that limit mobility, what once was an easy task can become a source of great pain or anxiety. That’s why it’s important to find a team of orthopedic doctors who not only offer cuttingedge technology but also care about their patients’ recovery and return to daily activity.

Derek Farr, D.O., and Nirav Gupta, D.O., at Twin Palm Orthopedics have brought a comprehensive practice to Marion County, offering some of the latest procedures in orthopedic surgery. Both board-certified and fellowship-trained doctors studied at Michigan State’s Pontiac Osteopathic Hospital before settling in Ocala. Their brand-new state-of-the-art facility features 10 exam rooms, digital X-ray technology as well as onsite physical therapy.

“This building was built specifically for orthopedics,” says Dr. Farr of the new location for Twin Palm Orthopedics. The layout and design make the offices and exam rooms easily accessible for patients, and onsite physical therapy allows for the doctors and physical therapists to work closely on the patients’ rehabilitation.

“I put as much emphasis on the rehabilitation process as I do on the surgery,” says Dr. Farr, who feels that being able to control the physical therapy environment after surgery allows for an optimal outcome.

The facility is not the only aspect of Twin Palm Orthopedics that is cutting edge. Dr. Farr and Dr. Gupta have introduced a variety of procedures not commonly offered.

Twin Palm Orthopedics 2640 SW 32nd Place Ocala, Fl 34471 (352) 369-1099 twinpalmortho.com

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At Ocala Health System, quality healthcare matters.

We know that there is a real difference in the quality of care provided by area hospitals – and that it matters. So when you select a healthcare provider to treat you or a loved one, choose one that is committed to quality care … and one that consistently delivers on that quality care – Ocala Health.

Ocala Health ranks highest in all four key quality measures.

Our advanced approach to quality patient care is confirmed in the most recent survey results posted on Hospital Compare (www.hospitalcompare.hhs.gov), a site created by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Hospital Quality Alliance (HQA). Providing public access to these results makes it easier for patients and their families to make informed healthcare decisions.

Ocala Regional Medical Center • West Marion Community Hospital Family Care Specialists • Ocala Health Surgical Group Advanced Imaging Centers

You have a choice.

Choose quality.

Choose Ocala Health.

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Pneumonia Heart Attack/Chest Pain

Surgical Care Improvement Project

Heart Failure

The information above is from the CMS web site: hospitalcompare.hhs.gov. This information was made available to the public on 4/10/11. †No patients met the criteria for inclusion in this measure calculation.

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THEDOCTORSAREIN

The No. 1 Way to Keep Your Skin Young And Healthy

By Michael Roizen, M.D., and Mehmet Oz, M.D.

Slathering on sunscreen daily makes you 50 percent less likely to develop melanoma, the most deadly of all skin cancers, and 70 percent less likely to develop invasive melanoma, the worst of its kind.

H

ere comes summer, and after last winter’s endless storms, who isn’t cheering?

But before you park your towel in a sunny spot, we have a public-service announcement: Pick up some sunscreen, pronto. There’s a brand-new, rock-solid reason to coat your body with this healthy stuff.

An Australian study has confirmed, in flashing neon lights, a message we hope you have memorized: Slathering on sunscreen daily makes you 50 percent less likely to develop melanoma, the most deadly of all skin cancers, and 70 percent less likely to develop invasive melanoma, the worst of its kind.

We’re hoping that will light a fire under your flip-flops, if nothing else has. Because, despite years of sun-safety campaigns that make stop-smoking advocates look like slackers, melanoma rates have shot up 45 percent. And two less-risky types of skin cancer (squamous cell and basal cell) are up 16 percent.

Yes, genes play some role in this, but sun exposure (including tanning beds) is responsible for 65 percent of melanoma.

“OK, YOU Docs,” we hear you saying, “but which sunscreens are safe and effective and not goopy?” Smart questions.

Here’s an update on last summer’s sunscreen-cancer controversies and what you should buy this year.

Controversial ingredients. Some researchers have raised red flags about two absorbable sunscreen ingredients: oxybenzone and retinyl palmitate (a form of vitamin A). Both are found in hundreds of sunscreens.

The concerns? Oxybenzone, which has been used in sunscreens as a partial UVA/UVB shield since 1978, has been called a hormone disruptor that mimics the effects of estrogen in lab studies. Retinyl palmitate has triggered genetic mutations when exposed to sunlight in the lab. In other words, one or both might have a cancer connection. The dangers of these ingredients have been disputed by the American Academy of Dermatology and others. WE THINK: Until the research is clear, we’re sticking with sunscreens that use nanoparticulated zinc oxide or titanium

dioxide to block UVA/UVB rays. Not only do they work instantly and stay put, but unlike chemical sunscreens, neither is absorbed.

SPF “inflation.” There’s a decent case to be made that the Sun Protection Factor numbers on many sunscreens may be too high and create a false sense of security. But even if they’re dead accurate, few people apply sunscreens perfectly or use enough. So squirt on a lot and go high, not low. Although technically an SPF 30 filters out only 4 percent more UVB rays than an SPF 15 (97 percent versus 93 percent), if you go with an SPF 30 (higher if you burn easily), you also get better protection against UVA rays.

They’re the kind that penetrate deeper and cause skin damage that leads to wrinkles and cancer. WE SAY: An SPF 30 is the bare minimum you should use.

Mystery UVA protection. That familiar SPF number measures only protection from burning UVB rays. Despite years of wrangling and thumb-twiddling, the Food and Drug Administration still doesn’t require sunscreen makers to list UVA protection levels. So you have to scour the ingredients list for UVA blockers, such as avobenzone, dioxybenzone, ecamsule, meradimate, the aforementioned oxybenzone, sulisobenzone and zinc dioxide and titanium dioxide. WE LIKE: You guessed it, sunscreens that use nanoparticulated zinc oxide. It creates an instant physical barrier against UVA/UVB rays.

Wallet-busting prices. You can easily plunk down $20, $30 or more for a fancy brand, but spending a bundle could backfire because you’re likely to use it sparingly. Fact is, adults need to apply at least 1 full ounce (a shot-glassful) and then reapply it every few hours or after swimming or sweating. WE BET: That’s lots more than you’re using.

Goop avoidance. Excuses for skipping sunscreen (sticky, smelly, greasy, chalky, stings your eyes) are fading fast.

Drugstores are jammed with choices: spray-on or rub-in; fragrance-free or scented; tinted or transparent; oil-free or creamy; sturdy enough for sweaty sports or gentle enough for tiny tots; anti-acne or anti-aging. ALL YOU HAVE TO DO? Choose it and use it.

The YOU Docs, Mehmet Oz and Mike Roizen, are authors of YOU: On a Diet. Want more? See The Dr. Oz Show on TV (check local listings).

To submit questions, go to RealAge.com. (c) 2011 Michael Roizen, M.D. and Mehmet Oz, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

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Eventful Smiles Cosmetic Teeth Whitening

Anxious about the

Dentist?

No Worries...

IV Sedation

Now available at

Exceptional Dentistry

The medication acts quickly to sedate the patient Patients will have little or no memory of their treatment

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For more information call (352)

332-OPAL (6725)

See More PhotoS and VideoS at

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SPECIALS 2 for $299 1 Block West of Hwy 441on Hwy 200

352-732-9779 OcalaDive.com

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IN CASE OF

EMERGENCY

E

Stuff happens. Life is full of bumps, bruises, bites, cuts, falls and creepy crawlers. Even though your 5-year-old daughter knows better than to pull that hot cookie sheet out of the oven, she still does. And your curious little boy just had to catch one of the bees buzzing around that flower. Maybe you're yapping away on the phone with your best friend while chopping veggies for a salad when oops! Sometimes it seems that we humans are just an accident waiting to happen.

So we decided to do a little research and pass on some first aid tips for life's little emergencies.

And if you find yourself or someone in your family with a big emergency, we've got you covered there, too.

Written & Compiled By JoAnn Guidry

A Shot To The Schnoz

So your kids got carried away with the roughhousing and now one of them has a bloody nose. Painful and messy, but nothing life-threatening.

STAY CALM AND FOLLOW THESE STEPS: SIT UP STRAIGHT AND LEAN FORWARD. By sitting upright, you reduce the blood pressure in the veins of your nose and slow down the blood flow. Leaning forward will help you avoid swallowing blood, which can irritate your stomach.

PINCH YOUR NOSE. Using the thumb and index finger, pinch the nostrils shut and breathe through your mouth; continue this for five to 10 minutes to stop the blood flow.

PERFORM FOLLOW-UP CARE. For several hours after the nosebleed, don't blow your nose or bend down. If re-bleeding occurs, blow forcefully to clear nose of any blood clots and use a decongestant nasal spray. Pinch your nose again and then call your doctor.

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The Ivy Itch

You took a lovely hike in the woods and came out with an unwanted souvenir—a poison ivy rash. What you've got is an allergic reaction to urushiol, a chemical found in poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac. Symptoms, which usually develop within 12 to 48 hours after exposure, include redness, itching, swelling and blisters. Depending on how sensitive you are and how much urushiol you contacted, the rash can last up to eight weeks.

If you develop a fever greater than 100 degrees Fahrenheit, the reaction is severe and widespread, or doesn't improve after several weeks, call your doctor.

HERE'S SOME HOME FIRST-AID TIPS: APPLY an over-the-counter corticosteroid cream for the first few days, then calamine lotion.

SOAK in a cool-water bath containing a colloidal oatmeal product or baking soda.

TAKE an oral antihistamine.

PLACE cool, wet compresses on the affected area for 15 to 30 minutes a day.

Source: mayoclinic.com

You name it, we likely have it here: fire ants, bees, wasps, hornets, spiders, biting flies, and, of course, our state insect—mosquitoes.

If you're bitten or stung and have a serious allergic reaction—nausea, facial swelling, difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, shock— seek medical help immediately!

MOVE AWAY from the area where you were bitten or stung.

REMOVE THE STINGER, if there is one, to prevent the release of more venom.

Mystery Cuts & Scrapes

Sometimes it seems like there are sharp edges everywhere. We're not even sure how it happened, but we look at our hands or shins and we're bleeding. Nothing serious but it's best to take care of it to avoid infection and maybe a trip to the doctor's office.

CLEAN THE WOUND. Rinse with plain water. (Soap, hydrogen peroxide and iodine can irritate rather than aid.)

Use sterilized tweezers to remove any dirt or debris.

WASH AREA with soap and water.

APPLY A COLD PACK or cloth filled with ice to reduce pain and swelling.

PUT HYDROCORTISONE cream or calamine lotion on the area until symptoms subside.

TAKE an antihistamine.

FOLLOW THESE FIRST AID TIPS: STOP THE BLEEDING. If the cut doesn't stop bleeding on its own, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or bandage for 20 to 30 minutes.

Bug Off!

APPLY AN ANTIBIOTIC AND BANDAGE. This helps keep wounds moist to discourage infection and helps the healing process.

Change the dressing daily.

Stitches are usually necessary if the wound is more than ¼-inch deep, gaping, jagged-edged or has fat or muscles protruding. A tetanus shot might be necessary if the wound is deep or dirty and your last shot was more than five years ago.

Don't Get Carried Away

Florida is blessed with hundreds of miles of beaches, but be aware that ocean water is never calm, and one of its dangers is rip currents. Unfortunately, many people drown each year when they are caught in a rip current. Always check with the lifeguard station as to the status of rip currents and heed all posted warning signs!

HERE ARE SOME RIP CURRENT SAFETY TIPS FROM THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE: REMAIN CALM to conserve energy and think clearly.

NEVER FIGHT against the current. Think of it like a treadmill that can't be turned off and you need to step off to the side of it.

SWIM OUT of the rip current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle away from the current and toward the shore.

FLOAT OR CALMLY TREAD water if you are unable to

IF YOU SEE SOMEONE CAUGHT IN A RIP CURRENT, DON'T BECOME A VICTIM YOURSELF. GET HELP from a lifeguard, or if one isn't available, CALL 911.

swim out of a rip current.

When you are out of the rip current, swim toward shore.

THROW the rip current victim something that floats like a lifejacket, cooler or inflatable ball.

IF YOU ARE STILL UNABLE to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arms and yelling for help.

YELL instructions on how to escape the rip current.

REMEMBER many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

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Too Hot To Handle

We've all had that momentary mental lapse where we've reached for something that was way too hot and we got burned. What we experience in this case is a minor or first-degree burn: Only the outer layer of skin is burned, it's usually red with swelling and, yes, it's painful. More serious second- and third-degree burns need immediate medical attention.

HERE'S HOW TO PUT THE FIRE OUT OF THAT MINOR BURN: COOL IT. Put the burned area under cool, not cold, running water for 10 to 15 minutes.

Another option is to immerse the burn in cool water or apply cold compresses. Do not put ice directly on the burn.

COVER IT. Loosely wrap a sterile gauze bandage around the burn, avoiding putting pressure on the sensitive skin.

Do not use cotton or other material that might leave lint stuck to the burn.

The Heat Is On

Outdoor activities during our sweltering Florida summers can lead to heat exhaustion and potentially life-threatening heatstroke. Remember to drink plenty of water, take breaks in the shade and wear light, loose-fitting clothes and a hat when you're out and about in Florida's sunshine.

THE SIGNS OF HEAT EXHAUSTION INCLUDE: Feeling faint or dizzy Nausea Heavy sweating Rapid, weak heartbeat Low blood pressure

Cool, moist, pale skin Low-grade fever Heat cramps Headache Fatigue

WHAT TO DO IF YOU SUSPECT HEAT EXHAUSTION: GET OUT of the sun and into a shady or airconditioned location.

LIE DOWN and elevate the legs and feet slightly.

LOOSEN or remove clothing.

DRINK cool water or other non-alcoholic, caffeinefree beverages.

COOL down by spraying or sponging with cool water and fanning.

MONITOR carefully. If body temperature rises above 102 degrees Fahrenheit, fainting, confusion or seizures occur, call 911.

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RELIEVE THE PAIN. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever if needed.

DON'TS. Don't apply ice, butter or ointments. Don't break blisters. All of this can cause further damage and increase chances of infection and a trip to the doctor!

A Burning Sensation

Maybe you fell asleep while reading that romance novel by the pool. Next thing you know, you have a sunburn, a common ailment in Florida.

HERE'S SOME RELIEF TIPS: COOL IT. Take a cool bath or shower.

MOISTURIZE. Apply aloe vera or moisturizing lotion several times a day.

BLISTERS. If your sunburn is severe enough that you develop blisters, leave them alone and intact to speed healing and avoid infection. If the blisters burst on their own, apply antibacterial ointment to the area.

EASE THE PAIN. If needed for headache and low fever, take an over-the-counter pain reliever.

DON'TS. To avoid infection, don't use petroleum jelly, butter or other home remedies on your sunburn.

Source: mayoclinic.com:

Bolts From The Blue

During our hot and humid summer days, thunderstorms are a regular afternoon occurrence. And thunderstorms usually mean lightning! In fact, according to the National Weather Service, Florida is considered the “Lightning Capital of the World” with an annual average of 10 deaths and 30 injuries from lightning strikes.

HERE ARE SOME THUNDERSTORM AND LIGHTNING SAFETY TIPS FROM THE AMERICAN RED CROSS: Inside Tips

Outside Tips

UNPLUG appliances and avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances.

AVOID taking a bath or shower, or running water for any other purpose.

FIND safe shelter in a building or car.

Picnic shelters, dugouts and sheds are not safe shelters.

AVOID high ground, water, tall trees and metal objects, such as fences or bleachers.

TURN off the air conditioner, TV and computers to avoid destructive power surges.

DRAW blinds and shades over windows to avoid flying debris from shattering glass.

GET OUT of the water if you are boating or swimming, and find safe shelter immediately.

Struck By Lightning CALL 911.

If the person struck isn't breathing or has no heartbeat, start CPR until emergency crews arrive.

Pack A Kit

It's a good idea to keep a well-stocked first-aid kit in your home and another in your car. You can either buy first-aid kits from a pharmacy or put one together yourself. EITHER WAY, HERE'S WHAT A GOOD FIRST AID KIT SHOULD INCLUDE:

Slither Away

The good news is that there are many more non-venomous snakes than venomous ones in Florida. Who hasn't seen a harmless black snake slithering around the azalea bushes in your garden? But beware, there are venomous snakes in Florida, including the Eastern diamondback rattlesnake, the Dusky pygmy rattlesnake, the coral snake and the water moccasin. Familiarize yourself with what they look like and if you encounter one, the No. 1 thing to do is stay calm. Snakes generally avoid people, so give them some space and back away slowly. DO NOT try to pick up it up, kick it, poke it with a stick or threaten it in any way!

IF A SNAKE BITES YOU, HERE'S WHAT TO DO: IMMOBILIZE the bitten arm or leg.

Remain as quiet as possible to keep the poison from spreading through your body. If possible, position yourself so that the bite is at or below the level of your heart.

REMOVE any jewelry before you start to swell.

CLEANSE the wound, but don't flush it with water; then, cover it with a clean, dry dressing.

SPLINT the bitten arm or leg to reduce movement, but keep it loose enough not to restrict blood flow.

THE BASICS

MEDICATIONS

First-aid manual Adhesive tape Antibiotic ointment Antiseptic solution or towelettes Bandages Instant cold packs Cotton balls Disposable gloves Duct tape Gauze pads Eye goggles Petroleum jelly Plastic bags Safety pins in assorted sizes EMT Tooth Saver/Save-A-Tooth Scissors Tweezers Needles Soap/instant sanitizer Sterile eyewash Thermometer Triangular bandage Turkey baster

Aloe vera gel Anti-diarrhea medication Oral antihistamine Over-the-counter pain relievers Calamine lotion Hydrocortisone cream EpiPen to treat allergic reactions Syringe, medicine cup or spoon EMERGENCY ITEMS Cell phone and recharger Emergency contact information Medical consent forms Medical history forms Waterproof flashlight Extra batteries Sunscreen Mylar emergency blanket Source: mayoclinic.com

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Christmas in July

Have you booked a space for your holiday party yet?

Don’t wait until there’s nothing left. Now is the time!

20

%

Discount

Off the Entire Event for December Holiday Parties Booked Sunday through Thursday

10

%

or

Discount

Off the Entire Event for December Holiday Parties Booked Friday or Saturday

Hilton Ocala / 3600 SW 36th Ave, Ocala / HiltonOcala.com / Call 352-854-1400 Parties must be booked and contracted with the deposit by the deadline date. Deadline is September 1st, 2011.

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Cut It Out!

There’s a cutter for every cookie p64

Sugar Rush p64

Feelin’ Blue! p66

Dish

Pop Goes the Cake p68

Ice, Ice Baby

O

ne of summer’s simple pleasures is a refreshing cup of shave ice.

That’s right. Shave ice, without the “D.” Apparently, we’ve been saying it wrong for years. In Hawaii, where it was introduced to America by the Japanese, the treat is known simply as shave ice. From common cherry to tropical guava, blended or poured in a rainbow, this versatile dessert is sure to keep you cool, even on the hottest of summer days.

Giveaways Galore! p70

and more!

And a shave ice and snow cone are not one in the same.

The syrup poured on top of a snow cone flows to the bottom because of the ice’s pellet-like appearance. In contrast, syrup poured on a shave ice sticks to the ice because of its more compact, snow-like consistency.

So now that you’ve been educated on the finer points of icy summer treats, go, have one.

Indulge! But don’t worry if you call a shave ice a snow cone or vice versa.

After all, a shave ice by any other name is still just as sweet.

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Dish

the

RECIPES

A Sweet Treat Sugar lovers delight!

Cookie Cutter Cookies Makes 3 dozen

Making the Cut Selecting a cookie cutter is all about the impression you want to leave, literally. Below is a guide on cookie cutter types and usage.

Cutout Style: Plastic or metal, only the shape’s outline is created when pressed into rolled dough.

Cookie Stamp: Plastic or metal, a stamp makes an individual cutout while also imprinting the dough’s surface.

1

Cookie Mold: Wood, ceramic or plastic, using a mold results in a more detailed, embossed design.

½ cup granulated sugar

Cookie Press: A cylinder with a plunger and interchangeable plates, a press is a quicker alternative for larger batches.

You can personalize a cookie for any occasion. Surprise a traveler with an airplane cutout, or use a baseball stamp for a sports fan. Browse through cookie cutters of all themes and types at cookiecutter.com and kitchenkrafts.com. kitchenkrafts.com Source: ehow.com

cup butter, softened

2½ cups sifted all-purpose flour 1. Mix together all ingredients.

2. Refrigerate dough for several

hours.

3. On a floured surface, roll and

cut dough with cookie cutters.

Quick

Dust rolling pin and cookie cutters

Tip with flour so dough won’t stick.

4. Spread out cookies on cookie

sheet.

5. Bake in oven at 350°F for eight to 10 minutes.

6. Let cookies cool on rack.

7. Decorate cookies with frost frost-

ing, sprinkles and/or nuts.

The Sweet & Lowdown Not All Artificial Sweeteners Are Created Equal

We rely on artificial sweeteners to control weight and serve as a sweet substitute for diabetics. Yet accusations of cancer-causing ingredients and even weight-gain have put their reputation in jeopardy.

These sweeteners are FDA-approved but, as with all things, should be consumed in moderation.

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Aspartame

Sucralose

Saccharin

Found in Equal and NutraSweet

Found in Splenda

Found in Sweet’N Low

In 1965, James Schlatter was searching for a gastric ulcer treatment. The chemist discovered aspartame when he licked his finger to pick up a sheet of paper.

In London, a chemist accidentally created a small explosion of compounds in his lab. Mistakenly hearing “test it” as “taste it,” the chemist discovered the solution to be sweet.

In 1998, Splenda was released.

In 1880, scientist Ira Remsen was working on a coal tar experiment. A substance from his lab accidentally spilled on the hands of his colleague, Constantine Fahlberg. When Fahlburg ate lunch that day he found the substance caused his sandwich to taste sweet.

Pros: 160 to 220 times sweeter than sucrose (sugar). Safe for pregnant women.

Pros: 600 times sweeter than sucrose. Can be used for baking.

Cons: Can’t be used for baking.

Cons: May change texture and give

Sufferers of the hereditary disease phenylketonuria should not ingest aspartame products because of the breakdown compocompo nent phenylaline.

food “artificial” taste when substituted in recipes. Due to bulking agents, consumption overload negatively affects diabetics and may cause weight-gain.

Sources: medicinenet.com and The Taste of Sweet by Joanne Chen (Three Rivers Press)

Pros: 200 to 700 times sweeter than sucrose.

Cons: Bitter aftertaste. A possible

allergic response to sulfonamides.

Small amounts are recommended, as the government lists saccharin as a possible carcinogen. Pregnant women should limit intake, as saccharin may cross the placenta.

DININGGUIDE

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.

Mesa de Notte 2436 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala / (352) 732-4737 / mesadenotte.com Mon–Fri 11a-10p Sat & Sun 3p-10p Chef Jose Moreno invites you to join him at his newest endeavor, Mesa de Notte, a fine dining Italian restaurant serving beer and wine. Traditional Italian cuisine as well as unique specialties, all served with gourmet pasta made in-house. Every dish consists of only the freshest ingredients, including fresh seafood and vegetables, hand-cut steaks, veal, duck and more.

Each meal is complemented by your choice of 13 different sauces, all rooted in Italy. Choices include livernese, puttanesca, frances, pomodoro, bolognaise, pesto, vodka, piccata, and oil and garlic. Mesa de Notte’s extensive wine list features 80 choices of international fine wines, many served by the glass.

Open seven days a week. Monday through Friday, 11am–10pm; Saturday and Sunday, 3-10pm.

Visit Mesa de Notte for an experience you won’t forget.

Happy Hour daily from 3–7pm.

Take-out also available

Victoria’s 19773 East Pennsylvania Avenue, Dunnellon / (352) 465-4635 Tues-Sat 11a-9p / Sun Noon-8p / Closed Mon Sit back, relax and enjoy the delicious homemade cuisine of Victoria’s Restaurant. Located on the idyllic Rainbow River, Victoria’s is locally owned and operated with owner Victoria Slocumb on-site preparing the day’s fresh fare. With outdoor deck seating available, you can watch as boaters, kayakers and tubers make their way downstream while enjoying any of the homemade specialty pizzas, pastas and panini sandwiches.

Be sure to try their famous walnut gorgonzola chicken salad sandwich. The menu includes soups, salads, panini sandwiches, pizzas, calzones, strombolis, burgers, seafood and decadent desserts, as well as traditional Italian entrees, such as lasagna, eggplant parmesan, and spaghetti and meatballs.

Everything at Victoria’s is made on-site with the freshest ingredients. Beer and wine is also served.

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DEADLINE:

July 31

Are You Chef Enough?

Summertime

Want to put your culinary skills to the test?

CULINARY COMBAT pits three of the region’s top chefs against each other in an “Iron Chef ”-style event to benefit the Shriners Hospitals for Children, and applications are currently being accepted.

Chef Rick Alabaugh, two-time Culinary Combat winner and executive chef at the Country Club of Ocala, will be taking on the area’s best challengers.

The event will feature a secret ingredient, and each chef will have one hour to create a three-course meal.

The event, which will be held October 2 at the Hilton Ocala, will include a food show, featuring gourmet items by local restaurants, a beer and wine tasting, and live entertainment.

To submit an application, find out more about sponsorship or the food show, or purchase tickets, visit culinarycombat.com or call (352) 427-7400. Applications are due

by July 31.

Blues From Hand Pickin’ to Finger Lickin’

Homemade muffins, pancakes and pies taste even sweeter when brimming with fresh blueberries. And it doesn’t get much more homemade than hand picking your own ingredients. However, blueberry season is drawing to a close here in Central Florida, so you better get to pickin’! P.S. Don’t forget the sunscreen, it’s hot out there!

Bay Lake Blueberry Farm

(USDA-certified organic farm) 20525 CR 315, Fort McCoy (352) 546-3834 Open 7am-1pm Friday & Saturday the first 2 weeks of July $2.50 per pound

Water Water

Everywhere!

Our bodies are comprised of 70 percent water, but some days, it feels like we’re bone dry!

Although water is the best way to stay hydrated, if the thought of drinking one more sip of plain Type ol’ H2O has you reaching for a can of soda, fear not! The latest Calories trend in water drinking is adding enhancers. Either liquid or Flavored powder, these additions to your With water come in a variety of flavors Nutrients and can contain added nutrients.

Added

Special Capella K2O Flavor Protein Drops Water Mix

Mio

Propel Zero

Liquid

Powder

Liquid

Powder

0

0

0

30

Sucralose, acesulfame K

Sucralose

Stevia

Sucralose, aceculfame K

None

Vitamin C & B, calcium

None

5g protein, 5g fiber

Sources: kraftbrands.com/mio, propelzero.com, capellaflavordrops.com, specialk.com

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QUICK BITES

Latin American Café has built a faithful clientele since opening in April 2010.

Owned by Manny and Isabel Camps, the eatery offers dine-in and take-out and is located on 25th Avenue in the same plaza as Crunchies & Munchies. “We’re real Cuban food,” says Manny. “These are my mom’s recipes from the past 60 to 70 years. We want to be known as the ‘Home of the Cuban Sandwich’ and the ‘King of the Cuban Steak Sandwich.’” Latin American Café is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner Monday through Friday from 8am to 6pm and on Saturday from 8am “until we run out of food or want to go home,” says Manny.

1427 NE 25th Avenue, Ocala (352) 351-CUBA latinamericancafeonline.com

QUICK BITES

Sweet Stop Bakery just celebrated its two-year anniversary in June. Owner Cindy Morales has been doing custom cakes for many years and decided to open her own bakery in 2009.

From breakfast strudel and cinnamon rolls to pies, pastries, cookies and cupcakes, the shop offers a full bakery line. She also often makes “cake pops,” sweet treats on a stick, and mouthwatering savory breads, including the highly popular pepperoni bread and spinach feta bread. “People are going crazy over them,” says Cindy. Sweet Stop Bakery is located in Regency Square, and is open Tuesday through Friday 8am to 5:30pm and Saturday 9am to 2:30pm.

2502 NE Jacksonville Road, Ocala (352) 236-3600 thesweetstopbakery.com

DININGGUIDE

Bamboo Bistro 700 North Hwy 441 (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 of 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 entreés and noodle dishes are available as well. 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.

El Toreo 3790 East Silver Springs Boulevard, Ocala / (352) 694-1401 E. Silver Springs Blvd: 7 Days 11a-10p / SR 200 7 Days 11a-11p / Happy Hour Daily 4p-7p New lunch specials include Taco Salad on Monday, $3.95; Speedy Gonzalez on Tuesdays, $3.95; Quesadillas on Wednesday, $5.45; Chimichangas on Thursdays, $4.95 and Burrito Supreme on Fridays, $3.95. New dinner options include Fajita Mondays, $7.95; Chimichanga Tuesdays, $6.95; Alambre Wednesdays, $6.95; Tacos de Bistec Thursdays, $6.95; and Enchilada Fridays, $6.95. Don’t miss “Margarita Mondays” with $1.95 margaritas. On Tuesdays, kids 12 and under - 99¢ from the children’s menu (take-out not included).

Wednesday is 99¢ margaritas and $1.95 for domestic and imported beers. Saturday is 2-for-1 margaritas all day.

Join us every day for happy hour from 4-7pm and get 2-for-1 wells or drafts. Whether it’s delicious food, great drinks or a festive atmosphere, there are more reasons than ever to visit either El Toreo location today.

THE BEST MEXICAN FOOD

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

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Pop To It! S

weets on a stick are the perfect treat. There’s a pop for all seasons, all reasons.

For parties, desserts, everyday and special occasions, pops are tops!

OK, enough of the silly clichés.

They can be as simple as classic cake pops—crumbled cake mixed with icing, then shaped into balls and dipped into melted candy. Or, you can create hundreds of other pop shapes and flavors from cake, brownies, cookies and crispy cereal treats.

Visit wilton.com to order pops books and supplies, find recipes and much more.

Basic Cake Ball Pops Yields 48 1-tablespoon-sized cake pops 1

box (about 18 ounces) cake mix

1

box (about 3.4 ounces) instant pudding mix

1⁄3 cup vegetable oil ½ cup creamy white decorator icing 1

4

eggs

bag (14 ounces) Wilton Candy Melts

1

cup water

Lollipop sticks

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray two 8-inch or 9-inch round pans or one 13x9x2-inch sheet pan with vegetable spray.

There’s no limit to the possibilities with cake pops!

two minutes. Pour into prepared pans.

3. Bake 30 to 35 minutes for round pans, 35 to 40 minutes for sheet pan, or 2. In large bowl, combine until toothpick inserted in center comes out cake mix, pudding mix, clean. Cool in pans 10 eggs, water and oil; minutes; remove from beat at medium speed pans to cooling grid and with electric mixer for

cool completely. Divide cake in half; freeze one half for future use.

4. In large bowl, use hands to crumble cake until no large chunks remain. Add icing; mix with fingers.

Form mixture into balls.

Chill in refrigerator at least two hours.

5. Melt Candy Melts

according to package directions. Dip sticks into melted Candy Melts and insert into cake balls. Wait until candy is completely firm before dipping the pops completely in melted Candy Melts.

Making cake pops just got a whole lot easier! Check out page 70 to win a cake pop maker!

Tri le Di ers

Create a rainbow effect with three layers of color!

Works with any trio of Wilton Candy Melt colors, or try light, medium and dark shades of the same color. Lighten Candy Melt colors by adding melted white Candy Melts.

MEDIUM CAKE POPS Dark cocoa, white and any favorite color Wilton Candy Melts, melted Candy color set (optional) 1. Dip cake pops completely in melted cocoa or white candy; place in decorating stand and chill until firm.

2. Create two shades of each

candy color by adding more or less white Melts, or using candy colors.

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3. Dip pops in lightest candy shade, covering bottom 2/3; chill until firm.

4. Dip pops in darkest candy

shade, covering bottom 1/3; chill until firm.

5. Start with a pop that has

already been completely candy dipped and chilled as your base color. Dip pop 2/3 deep in second color of melted Candy Melts. Tap and chill until set.

6. Dip pop 1/3 deep in third Candy Melt color. Tap to remove excess.

7. Place pop on parchment-

covered cake board and chill until firm.

Try Trifocals!

Medium cake pops White, red, orange and green Wilton Candy Melts, melted Garden Candy Color Set (black used) Candy eyeballs, spice drops, bananashaped hard candies

1. Dip cake pops in melted candy.

Place in decorating stand; chill until firm.

2. With pointy knife, cut small holes in sides of cake pops for ears.

3. Insert banana candy, securing

with melted candy.

4. Cut small piece of spice drop and shape for nose.

5. Attach nose and eyes with melted candy.

6. Pipe black tinted candy mouth, let set.

7. Pipe white candy dot teeth.

DININGGUIDE

Ipanema Brazilian Steak House 2023 South Pine Avenue, Ocala / (352) 622-1741 / www.ipanemaocala.com Lunch Tue-Fri 11a-2p / Dinner Tues-Thu 5p-9p, Fri & Sat 5p-10p, Sun 4p-9p Happy Hour Tue-Fri 5p-7p / Closed Monday A Churrascaria (Portuguese for barbecue) is a dining experience where roaming Gauchos slice and serve fire-roasted meats from skewers in a continual fashion. Ipanema Brazilian Steak House boasts 11 of the finest cuts of meat complemented by an opulent salad and vegetable bar, delectable desserts, and delicious wines, beers and cocktails. Brazilian native and executive chef Alonso Esgaib invites you to embrace the flavors of his homeland and experience the magnetism of Ipanema for yourself. Enjoy the weather and come dine on our new covered patio area! Become a fan of Ipanema on Facebook at www. facebook.com/ipanemaocala. Great discounts online!

We now offer an extensive appetizer menu and full dinner service outdoors.

Happy Hour: 2 for 1 premium drinks and house wines Tue-Fri, 5p-7p.

Krazy Kones 5801 West Highway 40, Ocala / (352) 351-0020 Sun-Thu 11a-9p / Fri & Sat 11a-10p Looking for a delicious cold treat on a hot summer day?

Krazy Kones offers 24 flavors of soft-serve ice cream as well as hand-dipped Working Cow ice cream. Homemade ice cream sandwiches are made with your choice of either chocolate chunk or peanut butter cookies. Krazy Kones offers more than sweet treats, too. Sink your teeth into a Chicago-style hot dog or Vienna Italian beef sandwich. Hamburgers and cheeseburgers, made from Angus beef, and Polish sausage by Vienna are also favorites on the menu. Add a side of potato salad or coleslaw and you have a meal fit for a king.

Having a summertime celebration? Krazy Kones will custom make ice cream cakes with any flavor of ice cream they serve.

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.

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Quench Your Thirst Imagine having hundreds of choices, and all at the touch of a button. Well now you can with the touch screen Coca-Cola Freestyle Fountain. And the only place you can find the fountain in Ocala is either FIREHOUSE SUBS location.

“Our guests love it,” says Glenn Willard, general manager of the Six Gun Plaza location. “Firehouse Subs was the first company nationwide to put the

START YOUR DAYS OFF RIGHT

This free smoothie class at FRANCK’S COMPOUNDING LAB begins at 7pm on July 21 and includes sampling, demos and a book signing. Learn to radically change your nutrition in just 10 minutes a day.

For details, please call (352) 622-2913.

Smoothie Class

One 1

2

Sweet

Ocala Style Magazine has all the tools you need to satisfy your sweet tooth. From cake pop makers to donut makers, we’ve got it all. And, we’re giving them away!

Wanna take one home? First, like us on Facebook. Already done?

Post a comment to our profile picture anytime in the month of July to be automatically entered into our One Sweet Giveaway contest. The winners will be revealed in September!

1. Babycakes Cake Pop Maker plus Cake Pops by Bakerella (Two Lucky winners)

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2. Babycakes Donut Maker 3. Babycakes Cupcake Maker 4. Babycakes Whoopie Pie Maker 5. Shaved Ice Party Package, plus S900A Shaved Ice Machine

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6. Snow Cone Party Package, plus S700 Snow Cone Machine

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Abigail’s Café & Coffee Shop in Dunnellon offers a great spot for lunch and features incredibly tasty homemade soups, gourmet sandwiches, salads, quiches, fresh desserts and a variety of specialty coffee drinks.

Owner Christina Fernandez has run the establishment since September 2007. Come out on August 13 from 5-10pm for “Hot Summer Nights,” a charity BBQ event benefitting the Special Olmypics. “The streets are closed to traffic, and there’s live music and activities for the kids,” says Christina. Open for lunch Monday through Saturday from 11am to 4pm.

20607 W. Pennsylvania Avenue, Dunnellon (352) 489-1818

QUICK BITES

Giveaway!

Up For Grabs:

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QUICK BITES

machine into a metropolitan area, and we’ve had a great response so far.”

With the touch of a finger, guests can peruse the vast menu of Coke products, mixing flavors to create a perfect, one-of-a-kind drink.

“My personal favorite is a strawberry Sprite,” says Glenn. “There’s plenty of flavors to choose from, some you’ve never heard of, like orange, peach or raspberry Coke. The Freestyle is a great addition to Firehouse.”

6

Roma Italian Restaurant certainly knows how to turn out authentic Italian fare, but in a delightful twist, they also have fresh Maine lobster every Friday evening. Located in the new Publix plaza on Highway 27 just west of I-75, Roma Italian Restaurant has lobsters shipped in from Bar Harbor, Maine, every Thursday. You can order a 1-pound or 1 1/2-pound lobster or a 1 1/2-pounder stuffed with crab. Meals come with two sides, and prices are reasonable. The full Italian menu is also always available. Roma Italian Restaurant serves lunch and dinner seven days a week. Monday through Thursday from 11am to 9pm, Friday and Saturday from 11am to 10pm, and Sundays from 12-9pm.

2775 NW 49th Avenue, Ocala (352) 368-7662

DININGGUIDE

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

“Where Quality and Value Come Together!” servin’ USDA Prime and Choice Steaks, rotisserie chicken, BBQ ribs, chops, fresh fish, burgers, salads and more! Kids eat free every Monday and Tuesday, Wednesday – Buy One, Get One Free Fajitas and Thursday, Steak Night with $11.98 steak specials! Daily 2-4-1 Happy Hour 11am-7pm, Early Bird Specials till 6 pm Mon. thru Sat. Sunday - after church specials starting at $8.99 with dessert.

4th of July Combo Special: ½ slab Baby Back Pork Ribs and ½ BBQ Rotisserie Chicken, $13.98 Sunday and Monday only.

Locations also in Gainesville and The Villages in Lake Sumter Landing. Take-Out Service Available.

My Mochi Frozen Yogurt 2611 SW 19th Ave. Road (By Regal Cinemas), Ocala / (352) 671-1556 Open 7 Days a Week 12p-12a Mochi frozen yogurt is causing a craze her in Ocala! Did you know yogurt is one of the healthiest foods in the world? Not only healthy and delicious, Mochi frozen yogurt is also 100% natural, nonfat, low calorie, cholesterol free and serves wight times more live and active cultures than normal yogurt. Indulge in Taro, Coconilla, Lychee and more! Top off your swirly creation with cereals, nuts, candies, and fresh fruit cut daily!

Caution: Mochi frozen yogurt is addictive and may cause extreme cravings!

Scan here with your smartphone for a direct link to our Facebook page.

SKY Asian Fusion 3600 SW 38th Ave. / Located on the 6th floor of the Holiday Inn & Suites (352) 291-0000 / ocalasky.com / Lunch / Mon-Fri 11:30a-2p / Dinner Mon-Thu 5p-10p Dinner Fri-Sat 5p-11p / Sunday Brunch 11a-2:30p Escape to a realm of Asian-inspired cuisine at Sky Asian Fusion.

This fine-dining experience in a casual atmosphere overlooks the beautiful city of Ocala. The menu offers the exotic tastes of China, Japan, Thailand and Korea with dishes such as Thai Curry Duck and Szechuan Shrimp. There are even some with an American twist, such as the Kobe Burger and Citrus Scallops.

Enjoy a full bar, succulent appetizers and decadent desserts with your meal.

On Sundays, feast on a full brunch with all of your traditional favorites.

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PROMOTIONAL

Fiore’s Cafe...

A Memorable Dining Experience Since opening in its current location in August 2010, Fiore’s Café has been delighting diners with its Tuscanyinspired ambiance. While Fiore’s is known as the “Home of the 18” Pizza,” the dining experience promises to be so much more. Specialty dishes, such as black seafood linguini, veal chop caprese, Chilean sea bass with fresh mango chutney or aprium salsa and a multitude of homemade pastas, are sure to please.

Adding to Fiore’s already excellent service, the locally owned establishment is taking its hospitality to the next level. As always, new and exciting dishes are being offered, along with live entertainment in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Fiore’s is planning some special events to change things up a bit for its diners.

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In July, the ever-evolving eatery will host two “Wine and Tapas Nights” on July 13 and 20. From 6-9pm, local talents Scott and Michelle Dalziel will serenade diners while they have the opportunity to sample a wide variety of Italian wines.

The professional staff at Fiore’s can suggest a perfect dish to complement your wine selection. Perhaps the veal osso buco would be the perfect pairing for your pick of red wines. There will also be a number of delicious authentic Italian tapas available that are not part of the regular menu.

“Like” Fiore’s Facebook page to view the menu, nightly specials and exciting future events planned. And with new and exciting dishes being offered along with the fun upcoming events, guests are encouraged to check the Facebook updates often to stay informed on the latest tastes of the night.

Fiore’s is open seven days a week.

Set aside an evening soon to relax and savor an authentic Italian meal the way it was meant to be enjoyed. You are guaranteed to have a memorable dining experience.

Fiore’s Cafe 119 S. Pine Ave., Ocala (352) 789-6980 fiorescafe2011@hotmail.com

QUICK BITES

My Mochi Frozen Yogurt just had their grand opening on June 18, bringing all-natural frozen yogurt to Ocala. The family-owned franchise is located in The Agora in Paddock Center, just across the parking lot from the Hollywood 16 theater and Easy Street. Open seven days a week, from 12pm-12am, My Mochi, a self-serve shop, offers plenty of options, including nine flavors of yogurt, 28 dry toppings and 18 cold toppings.

Just create your own yogurt concoction and pay by weight at $.45 per ounce. “We used to drive to Gainesville to get it,” says owner Wendie Longares. Fortunately, that’s no longer necessary! Active cultures in the yogurt make this cold treat healthy as well as delicious.

2611 SW 19th Ave Rd., Ocala (352) 671-1556 / mymochi.biz

What’s In Season?

FROM FARM TO PLATE Whether shopping at your local grocer or perusing the vendors at one of Ocala’s farmers markets, this list provides the scoop on the freshest produce available this month.

Bell peppers B. Cantaloupes C. Mushrooms D. Onions E. Peanuts F. Potatoes G. Snap beans H. Watermelons A.

Source: Florida Department of Agriculture

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

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 mouthwatering 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

Stevi B’s 3101 SW 34th Avenue, Ocala / (352) 390-8181 / stevibs.com Sun-Thu 11a-9p / Fri & Sat 11a-10p The Stevi B’s dining experience was created with families in mind. The Ultimate Pizza Buffet makes it easy for parents to relax, knowing their children are getting fresh, wholesome food at value prices. With a large game room, Stevi B’s is also the perfect place for birthday and team parties or a special Pizza Tour program, taking kids behind the scenes to show them the secrets of the pizza-making pros.

Specialty pizzas offered include Loaded Baked Potato, Mac & Cheese, BLT, Chicken Fajita and Cheeseburger, among many others. All pizzas are made with fresh dough and ingredients and 100% real cheese.

Scan here for email club sign-up page.

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

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

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Brooklyn’s Original Pizzeria and Restaurant 1011 NE 14th Street, Ocala / (352) 304-6292 Mon- Thu 11a-8p / Fri & Sat 11a-9p / Closed Sunday Spice up your night out by visiting on Wednesdays to take in the live entertainment, featuring music from the ‘50s and ‘60s.

Seniors receive a 15% discount.

Looking for authentic New York-style pizza and cuisine without making a trip to The Big Apple? Now under new ownership, Brooklyn’s Original Pizzeria and Restaurant serves an array of Italian dishes, including pasta, stromboli and calzones, made with fresh ingredients in an open-kitchen atmosphere. Available for dine-in, take-out or delivery, try one of the daily lunch specials under $6, and remember Brooklyn’s Original Pizzeria and Restaurant the next time you need to schedule catering for an event.

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream 2707 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala / (352) 622-2110 / brusters.com Sun-Thu 12p-10p / Fri-Sat 12p-11p Try an ice cream cake or pie from Bruster’s Real Ice Cream.

Banana Thursdays, banana splits are 1/2 price if you bring your own banana.

Bruster’s believes there’s no richer reward in life than the smooth, creamy pleasure of fresh ice cream. Bruster’s rotates over 30 of their 145 flavors every day, and because every generous scoop is made just a few steps from the counter where it’s served, it always tastes fresh. Favorite flavors include Birthday Cake, Cotton Candy, Peanut Butter Puddles, White Turtle and Key Lime Pie. Don’t forget their free doggie sundaes and baby cones for children under 40 inches.

Scan here with your smartphone for a direct link to our website.

Tilted Kilt 3155 E. Silver Springs Boulevard, Ocala / (352) 351-5458 / tiltedkilt.com Mon-Thu 11a-Midnight / Fri-Sat 11a-12a / Sun 11a-11p Other favorites include such entrees as the Sausage Artichoke Fettuccini, Danny Boy’s Shepherd’s Pie and lasagna.

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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.

Ice Cream Experience the

I

t’s the height of summer and you’re sitting on your stoop, patiently tapping your foot. You perk up your ears doglike, glancing both ways down the street. Then you hear it: a

lighthearted tune traveling in the breeze. Allowance coins jingling in your pocket, you run down to the sidewalk, careful not to fall and scrape your knees. A man in a window leans forward to take your order. You point to a sticker, slightly faded from sunlight. You hand him your money as he hands you your snack. Paper torn, a lick, a crunch. Hands slightly grubby, your treat is already melting from the summer heat. The music fades as the ice cream truck drives off, farther and farther away, until all you hear are the neighbors’ sprinklers and the song of cicadas. At least, that’s what I remember when I bite into a Nestlé Drumstick.

Soft serve or scoop, in a parlor or at your home, eating ice cream is a personal, nostalgic experience. As an ice cream enthusiast who has yet to suffer from brain freeze, I journeyed to get the inside scoop (pun intended) on the beloved frozen treat.

My first stop is a place where people are a little crazy—at least when it comes to serving up dessert. By Amanda Furrer

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Behind the Scenes at Bruster’s

B

efore I commit myself to the soft serve life, I venture to the other side of town for a little tour inside Bruster’s, where hard ice cream rules the roost.

BRUSTER’S REAL ICE CREAM was founded by

A Superb Soft Serve

A

zany setup greets me as I step inside KRAZY KONES ice cream parlor on Silver Springs Boulevard. Neon pink and blue walls, photos of miniature horses and posters of ogre-sized Chicago hotdogs are all a part of the décor—besides the gigantic metallic contraption the owner proudly pats behind the counter.

“This is the Electro Freeze,” says Bob Rutledge, who opened Krazy Kones with his wife Colleen in October 2010.

The Electro Freeze is a soft serve ice cream machine that feafea tures vanilla, chocolate and a tasty swirl of both flavors. The parlor specializes in soft serve ice cream

and depends on the Electro Freeze, but its star is the Astro Blender, a powerful machine with the capacity to blend any combination of more than 24 flavors. The options are only as limited as the customer’s imagination.

“We’ve probably got the best soft serve ice cream within a hundred miles,” Bob says, handing me a cone of chocolate.

Admittedly more partial to the hard stuff, I take a careful lick and instantly become enamored by the creamy, smooth texture. This soft serve doesn’t run the gamut of fast food chain ice cream, which can sometimes be gritty and leave a strange aftertaste. Alas! I have been converted!

Besides churning out sublime ice cream, the Rutledges also raise miniature horses on their farm— hence the photos.

“You’re going to love this.”

Bob slaps his hand on his knee, “Know what the name of our farm is? Candyland!”

Bruce Reed in Bridgewater, Pennsylvania in 1989. The demand for Bruster’s tasty treats became so popular that Reed started franchising in 1994. Lucky for ice cream-loving Ocalans!

At Bruster’s I’m welcomed inside by franchisee Richard Sturgis. A wondrous place lies beyond the glass slide windows where customers make their order. The scent of waffle cones hangs thickly in the air, and it’s a mystery how the workers can restrain themselves from digging into the rows of ice cream freezers.

Since its opening, Bruster’s has won first place in the desserts category at Taste of Ocala for four consecutive years. And it’s no wonder!

The secret to their success is that there is no secret—just good ol’ fashioned ice cream making.

“We don’t churn backwards,” says Richard, “we

Love Is a Many Blender Thing

With Krazy Kones’ Astro Blender, the flavor combinations are endless.

Consider the possibilities (and yes, this is just the beginning): Cheesecake + Peanut Butter = Peanut Butter Cheesecake Espresso + Amaretto = Amaretto Coffee Crème de Menthe + Chocolate = Mint Chocolate Peach + Vanilla = Peaches and Cream

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just make ice cream the oldfashioned way—with the best ingredients we can get.”

Richard’s favorite flavor of the moment is peanut butter puddles, but he tells me it changes quite often. The most popular flavor? Butter pecan.

Before Bruster’s, Richard worked in property management.

“I was the complaint department,” he says.

He reaches into a freezer and hands me a sample of black raspberry ice cream. One taste and I immediately say, “Whoa!”

Richard beams. “How cool is it that I get to hear that every day?”

Clearly Richard’s complaint department days are over.

With a Cherry On Top

It’s always sundae at Bruster’s. Check out their top ten toppings: 1. Hot fudge 2. Peanut butter sauce 3. Caramel 4. Reese’s cups 5. Cookie dough 6. Pecans 7. Gummi worms 8. Rainbow sprinkles 9. Strawberries 10. Butterscotch sauce

Serve Me Up Some Nostalgia

Here’s a taste of the Youngs’ extensive inventory. Your sugar-tooth’s discretion is advised.

A Bittersweet Business

A

fter visiting the previously mentioned parlors, it was time Nutty Buddies to track down the glorified symbol of childhood dog days: Push-Up Pops the ice cream truck. Luckily, I didn’t have to sprint down Strawberry the street to chat with SHERMAN YOUNG, a popular ice cream Shortcake Bars truck driver in Marion Oaks. My heart starts to race when I see his Snow Cones mammoth of a truck decked out in stickers. Apparently, you never Creamsicles grow out of that desire to chase.

Ice Cream Sandwiches On average, an ice cream truck offers 20 to 25 snacks and drinks. Sherman’s truck exceeds expectations with 90 choices.

Italian Ices “Everything on the truck is there for a reason,” says Krunch Bars Sherman. “It’s somebody’s favorite. If someone asks for Chocolate Éclair Bars something, you don’t just say, ‘We don’t carry it.’” This philosophy Bomb Pops (AKA Firecrackers) has earned Sherman and his daughter Sarah a loyal customer base, and with 22 neighborhoods and 100 to 200 stops a day, that’s a lot of ice cream to hand out.

“Families comment on how I’ve grown up, and then we see their kids While being an ice cream truck driver sounds like a sweet job, there and then say, ‘Wow!’” says Sarah. are plenty of mechanical snags to contend with. But the Youngs have The Youngs’ relationship with their customers is built on reliability endured and are no strangers to life’s challenges. and trust. Unlike some sellers, the Youngs don’t refreeze their products.

After his retirement from a car business in Massachusetts several years Sherman knows you don’t fool around with a customer’s happiness. ago, Sherman was divorced, a single parent and basically homeless. He started Occasionally, however, the Youngs do get an unhappy customer. The driving the ice cream truck to make a living. music box signaling their arrival plays 50 songs, including Christmas carols.

“As a single parent,” Sherman says, “this was the answer for me.” A “We have old people shaking their fists at us,” Sarah laughs. high school honors student, Sarah helps her father with the business while Haven’t they ever heard of Christmas in July? also doing schoolwork on the truck.

Inside the Pint

So what’s left after visiting ice cream shops and hunting down the mystical ice cream truck? The cherished frozen section at the grocery store, of course! After scouring the freezers and leaving handprints on the foggy doors, I’ve discovered a few flavors worth trying.

HÄAGEN-DAZS ROCKY ROAD: Ben and Jerry’s

isn’t the only ice cream with a conscience. HäagenDazs is donating money to help fund honeybee research. Honeybees, which pollinate one-third of our food supply, are disappearing at an alarming rate. You can help the honeybees by purchasing bee-built flavors, such as Rocky Road: a rich chocolate ice cream with gooey marshmallow and roasted almonds. To learn more, visit helpthehoneybees.com.

Would You Eat That ?

You don’t know you’ll like it unless you try it—but even the most adventurous globetrotter would hesitate with these ice cream flavors!

BEN AND JERRY’S LATE NIGHT SNACK: Famous (or infamous maybe) for pints chockfull of nuts, syrupy swirls and even peanut butterfilled pretzels, Ben and Jerry’s has done it again with Late Night Snack. Fudge-covered potato chip clusters are mixed with Fair Trade Certified vanilla bean ice cream with a caramel swirl. Salty and delightfully sweet, it’s a perfect pairing of flavors to trigger the taste buds.

BLUE BELL ICE CREAM SOUTHERN BLACK BLACKBERRY COBBLER: In my opinion, Blue Bell’s

lusvanilla has the creamiest texture and most lus cious taste. This brand’s ice cream can stand alone without any mix-ins, but the Southern Blackberry Cobbler is a taste-worthy marvel. With pieces of pie crust and blackberries that give the vanilla ice cream a lavender tinge, this flavor is truly a “berry” good dessert.

Want to Splurge?

Purchase Cuisinart’s MIX IT IN SOFT SERVE ICE CREAM MAKER,

Puerto Rico: spaghetti and France: caviar ice cream, candied cheese ice cream, sardines bacon ice cream and brandy ice cream England: beer-flavored ice cream Japan: squid ink ice Italy: spleen and artichoke ice cream cream, horseflesh Source: squidoo.com ice cream

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which comes with built-in dispensers for toppings and a cone holder. Makes making your own ice cream at home a cinch!

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RAISE A BUD RAISE MONEY FOR MILITARY MILITA T RY FA TA F FAMILIES MILIES

This summer, Budweiser will donate up to $2,000,000 to Folds of Honor, including a donation for every Budweiser sold.* The Folds of Honor Foundation provides education scholarships for the dependants of military service men and women killed or disabled while serving.

So just by enjoying a Budweiser with friends, you’re helping the families of our military heroes that protect our great nation.

Budweiser, Proudly Serving, Those Who Serve. *Maximum donation of $2,000,000 includes $100 for every home run hit in select professional baseball games, 5¢/case of Budweiser sold, 5/26 – 7/10, and $46,500 for Dave Winfield’s 465 career home runs. For details, visit facebook.com/Budweiser

Limited Edition Cans

©2011 Anheuser-Busch, Inc., Budweiser® Beer, St. Louis, MO

Fun For The Family

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Make a splash this month at the Jervey Gantt Aquatic FUN Center p80

Slam Dunk! p80

A Real Page Turner p81

Boy Bands Unite p82

Social Scene p88

and more!

Step Right Up!

G

et your popcorn, get your peanuts and get in 15&16 line to see the greatest show around! Back by popular demand, the Starfish Circus will return to the Ocala Civic Theatre.

Students of the Starfish Circus camp will perform the skills they’ve learned in this completely kid-run circus spectacular. See high-flying trapeze acts, tumbling, juggling and amazing feats of acrobatic skill. Three one-hour performances will showcase the talents of these newly trained circus superstars. No auditions are necessary to enroll in the camp. Tuition is $175, and the camp is limited to 60 students.

Camp runs July 11-15 from 9am4pm. Performances are at 7pm on July 15 and 2pm and 7pm on July 16. Tickets for the show are $10 for adults and $5 for students. ocalacivictheatre.com, starfishcircus.com or (352) 236-2274.

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Family Fun Come to the JERVEY GANTT AQUATIC FUN CENTER for a night of family fun. From 7:15-9pm there will be music and entertainment and a whole slue of games, including basketball, water polo, hula hoop contests and much more!

Admission is $4.50 for adults and $3.50 for children and includes a hot dog, chips and a drink. ocalafl.org or (352) 624-2410.

Jul

4

God & Country Day

Jul

Summer Art Festival

Celebrate our Nation’s birthday at Golden Ocala Golf and Equestrian Club for the annual God and Country Day event sponsored by the OCALA JAYCEES. Start the day off at the Freedom Run 5K held at Veterans Memorial Park. Then, beginning at 1pm, browse through local vendors and enjoy the food, games, arts and crafts displays, and bounce houses for the little ones. When the sun goes down, get ready for the best fireworks display in town. The event is free with a $1 donation to park. ocalajaycees.org or (352) 680-1686.

A PURR-FECT PAW-TY Jul

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Come to the Ocala Municipal Golf Course for an evening of fun, food and entertainment to benefit your four-legged friends at the Dog Days of Summer & Cats Too! cookout. There will be music, dancing and refreshments, along with a 50/50 raffle. The evening begins at 5:30pm, and tickets are $25. Proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Marion County. humanesocietyofmarioncounty.com or (352) 873-PETS.

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The artwork of over 60 local artists will be displayed at The VILLAGES ART LEAGUE’s fifth annual Summer Art Festival. The event features artwork of all media on display and for sale and will be held at the Lake Miona Recreation Complex from 9am-3pm.

There will be several door prizes and a raffle for a personal portrait by award-winning artist Frank Zampardi. Proceeds benefit Operation Shoebox.

The event is free and open to the public. thevillagesartleague.org or (352) 751-1033.

“3 On 3” Basketball Tournament The UNITED WAY OF MARION COUNTY invites the community to get involved in a “3 On 3” basketball tournament held at the Boys and Girls Club at 9am. The tournament will be pool play format, with the top four teams advancing to the final bracket. Not a hoopster? No problem! There will also be a variety of contests in between matches, including a three-point shootout, slam dunk contest and half-court shot. Prizes will be awarded!

Registration deadline is July 8. uwmc.org or (352) 368-3737.

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30

A QUICK

Q&A

SUMMER READING PROGRAMS Summer is here, and kids and parents are looking for things to do. Nancy Young, head of the children’s department at the MARION COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY, recently spoke with Ocala Style about the wide variety of activities for every member of the family, including reading programs, performances, activities and much more!

Chinese acrobats, as well as book clubs, movies and story times that all explore different cultures.

Tell me a little bit about some of the summer programs the library offers.

We have a wide variety of programs for all ages. There are book clubs, reading programs, performances, films and fun interactive activities offered at all locations in Marion County.

Each year the library has a theme that encompasses all of the different programs and activities.

What is this year’s theme?

This year’s theme is “One World, Many Stories.” It is a celebration of different cultures and allows children, tweens, teens and adults a chance to explore new places through reading and different activities.

What incentives do you offer kids to keep returning to the library?

When the children take a reading log, they return it every week and get a surprise, such as an activity puzzle book, pencil or bookmark.

The “Marion County Reads” program offers cash prizes for young readers, and some of our activities include tasty incentives, like cupcake decorating and bread making.

It’s all very thoughtfully planned. We want to educate and entertain at the same time.

It’s all very thoughtfully planned. We want to educate and entertain at the same time.

Describe some of the activities and how the programs work.

The summer reading program allows children as young as infants to check out books and keep track in their very own reading log.

Keeping with our theme, there are a variety of performances, such as Irish dancers and

Why is it important for kids to read during the summer?

There has been research that a child’s brain needs to be stimulated while it is developing.

When school is out, children need activities

to keep them stimulated or they may have a harder time when school resumes.

Why is it important for children to visit the library?

During the school year, children are told what to read. During the summer time, they get to experiment with different types of books and learn what they want to read about. It’s an important step in their development.

How much do these programs cost?

The best part about these programs is that they are all free. Between the different locations, there is something to do almost every day.

Want To Know More?

For a complete list of activities, visit your local library branch or check out the Marion County Public Library website, library.marioncountyfl.org, or call (352) 671-8551.

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Who

Where

When

John Michael Montgomery

Twin Oaks Amphitheatre, Silver Springs

07/04

Motley Crue

St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa

07/06

Natasha Bedingfield

The Ritz Ybor, Tampa

07/14

Jason Aldean

1-800-ASK-GARY Amphitheatre, Tampa

07/15

Brittany Spears

Amway Center, Orlando

07/20

NKOTBSB, with Matthew Morrison

Amway Center, Orlando

07/22

American Idol Live

Amway Center, Orlando

07/24

Vans Warped Tour

Central Florida Fairgrounds, Orlando

07/29

Selena Gomez

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

07/30

Cinderella

House of Blues, Orlando

07/30

Selena Gomez

St. Augustine Amphitheatre

07/31

Vans Warped Tour

Vinoy Waterfront Park, St. Petersburg

07/31

Kings of Leon

1-800-ASK-GARY Amphitheatre, Tampa

08/02

Lil Wayne

1-800-ASK-GARY Amphitheatre, Tampa

08/03

Hillsong United

1-800-ASK-GARY Amphitheatre, Tampa

08/05

Bryan Adams

The Plaza Theatre, Orlando

08/09

Rascal Flatts

1-800-ASK-GARY Amphitheatre, Tampa

08/19

Good Ol’ Country Loving Celebrate America’s independence with JOHN MICHAEL MONTGOMERY at Silver Springs’ July 4th Extravaganza, presented by Country 103.7 The Gator. The compelling country singer is known for his power ballads and love songs, including “I Love the Way You Love Me,” “All in a Day” and “Life’s a Dance.” Gainesville’s own rock band Monster will open the show at 4pm, and Montgomery will hit the stage at 7pm. Visit silversprings.com for event details and ticket prices, or call (352) 236-2121.

Photo by Scott Reed

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

Concerts

Backstreet’s Back (And NKOTB, too)!

Jul

22

The Backstreet Boys are back, and they have teamed up with one of the hottest boy bands of the 90s, New Kids On The Block. The new team goes by the name NKOTBSB and have been playing to sell-out crowds with reincarnated versions of the songs that made them famous. The joint tour has been such a success that they have doubled the number of dates and will be coming to Orlando’s Amway Center. The tour will also feature Glee star Matthew Morrison. ticketmaster.com or (800) 745-3000.

THELOCALSCENE

Performing Arts Who

Where

When

Chris Tucker

Times Union Center for Perf. Arts, Jacksonville

07/15

Starfish Circus

Ocala Civic Theatre, Ocala

07/15-16

Voice Theatrical’s Broken Yet Chosen: The Epitome of Hope

Bob Carr Perf. Arts Centre, Orlando

07/16

Working

Ocala Civic Theatre, Ocala

07/22-31

Jim Gaffigan

Hard Rock Live, Orlando

07/23

Larry the Cable Guy

Ocean Center, Daytona Beach

08/01

Brian Regan

David A. Straz, Jr. Center for Perf.

Arts, Tampa

08/20

Disney’s Phineas and Ferb

Lakeland Center Youkey Theatre, Lakeland

08/21

BONKERZ COMEDY CLUB (JULY 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23, 29-30) The Ocala Bonkerz Comedy Club will feature a number of performers this month, including Carmen Vallone, Genesis, Danny Johnson, Mark Allen and Jason Hunter. bonkerzcomedy.com or (352) 425-8480.

YOUTH SUMMER CAMPS (THROUGHOUT JULY) Check out the list of summer camps offered by the City of Ocala, including golf, tennis, swim and much more. Contact the City of Ocala Parks and Recreation Department

for more details. ocalafl.org/recpark or (352) 368-5517.

INSOMNIAC THEATRE (MONTHLY PERFORMANCES) Stop in the Insomniac Theatre for an evening of unique entertainment. Monthly improv and open mic performances will keep you laughing through the night. Check the website or call for details and times. insomniactheatre.com or (352) 897-0477.

YOUTH SWIM LESSONS (THROUGH JULY) The City of Ocala offers swim lessons for Continued on page 84

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Sports ATLANTA BRAVES

MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL TAMPA BAY RAYS DATE

OPPONENT

July 1 July 2 July 3 July 15 July 16 July 17 July18 July 19 July 20 July 21 August 2 August 3 August 4

Cardinals Cardinals Cardinals Red Sox Red Sox Red Sox Yankees Yankees Yankees Yankees Blue Jays Blue Jays Blue Jays

TIME

7:10pm 7:10pm 1:40pm 7:10pm 4:10pm 8:05pm 7:10pm 7:10pm 7:10pm 7:10pm 7:10pm 7:10pm 12:10pm

FLORIDA MARLINS DATE

OPPONENT

July 4 July 5 July 6 July 7 July 8 July 9 July 10 July 19 July 20 July 21 July 22 July 23 July 24 August 4 August 5 August 6

Phillies Phillies Phillies Astros Astros Astros Astros Padres Padres Padres Mets Mets Mets Cardinals Cardinals Cardinals

DATE

OPPONENT

July 1 July 2 July 3 July 4 July 5 July 6 July 7 July 15 July 16 July 17 July 25 July 26 July 27 July 28 July 29 July 30 July 31

Orioles Orioles Orioles Rockies Rockies Rockies Rockies Nationals Nationals Nationals Pirates Pirates Pirates Pirates Marlins Marlins Marlins

TIME

7:35pm 7:10pm 1:35pm 7:10pm 7:10pm 7:10pm 1:05pm 7:35pm 7:10pm 1:35pm 7:10pm 7:10pm 7:10pm 7:10pm 7:35pm 7:10pm 1:35pm

TIME

6:10pm 7:10pm 7:10pm 7:10pm 7:10pm 7:10pm 1:10pm 7:10pm 7:10pm 12:10pm 7:10pm 7:10pm 1:10pm 7:10pm 7:10pm 7:10pm

ARENA FOOTBALL ORLANDO PREDATORS DATE

OPPONENT

July 1 July 23

Pittsburgh New Orleans

TIME

7:30pm 7:30pm

TAMPA BAY STORM DATE

OPPONENT

July 1 July 16 July 23

New Orleans Georgia San Jose

TIME

7:30pm 7:30pm 7:30pm

JACKSONVILLE SHARKS DATE

OPPONENT

July 9 July 22

Dallas Spokane

TIME

7:00pm 8:00pm

THELOCALSCENE children over age 3 at the Hampton Aquatic FUN Center and the Jervey Gantt Aquatic FUN Center throughout the summer. Lessons are comprised of eight 30 minute sessions. $50 per two-week session. ocalafl.org or (352) 629-2489.

KAYAK OUTINGS (THROUGH JULY) The Marion County Parks and Recreation Department offers kayaking classes and outings throughout July. Contact the Parks and Recreation Department for details. ocalafl.org/recpark or (352) 671-8560.

THROUGH THE COLLECTOR’S EYE (THROUGH JULY 10) Artwork in a variety of media and styles from five important Florida collectors will be on display at the Florida Museum for Women Artists in Deland. A special exhibit walk-through will take place on July 8 from 5-7pm.

Free with museum admission. floridamuseumforwomenartists.org PATRIOTIC CELEBRATION (JULY 2) Come to the On Top of the World town square for a free patriotic celebration

featuring live entertainment by The Harvest Trio and Karen Hall, and a fly-over of four World War II planes. The event runs 5-9pm. circlesquarecommons.com or (352) 387-7580.

RED, WHITE AND BLUES (JULY 2) Head to Ocala’s downtown square to celebrate our nation’s birthday, and enjoy music, food and fun for the whole family. The event runs 6-9pm, and admission is free. ocalafl.org or (352) 629-8444.

APPLETON’S FIRST SATURDAY PROGRAM WITH GRANDMA MOSES (JULY 2) The first Saturday program at the Appleton Museum will bring children ages 4-12 back in time to the days of Grandma Moses from 1-3pm.

Admission is free for members and included with museum admission for non-members. appletonmuseum.org or (352) 291-4455.

GOD AND COUNTRY DAY (JULY 4) This all-day event begins at 7am with a 5K Freedom Run at the Veterans Park and continues with a fun festival beginning at 1pm in Golden Ocala. There will be performers, games, food and craft vendors, and a thrilling fireworks display. ocalajaycees.org or (352) 680-1686 TRIPS ‘N’ TOURS (JULY 6) The Appleton Museum’s Trips ‘N’ Tours program will take visitors by coach to Lake Monroe for a threehour cruise aboard the Rivership Romance. $80 for members, $90 for non-members. appletonmuseum.org or (352) 291-4456.

FARMERS MARKET (JULY 7) Circle Square Commons will host an evening farmers market every Thursday from 5-8pm through August. circlesquarecommonsfarmersmarket.com or (352) 387-7580.

TAKE STOCK IN PETS GOLF TOURNAMENT (JULY 8) Tee

off for the third annual Take Stock in Pets Golf Tournament to benefit the Humane Society of Marion County. The event takes place at the Baseline Golf Course. Tickets are $50 per golfer or sponsor a hole for $100. humanesocietyofmarioncounty.com or (352) 387-0737.

INSPIRATIONS! (JULY 8) W.O.W. Fellowship presents Inspirations at the Pioneer Garden Club of Ocala. This social mixer of relaxed fun, delicious dining and entertainment begins at 7:15pm.

The show starts at 8pm. Attire is dressy casual. Tickets are $20.

(352) 615-2024 or (352) 209-2359.

NEW DIMENSIONS SUPPORT GROUP (JULY 8) The New Dimensions Blind and Visually Impaired Support Group will meet at the IHOP in Leesburg at 11:30am. Following lunch, a registered dietician will speak. newvisionfl.org or (352) 435-5040.

RACING AT OCALA SPEEDWAY (JULY 9, 16, 23, 30) Stop by the Ocala Speedway for non-stop action every Saturday night in July. Gates open at 4:30pm, and racing starts at 7pm. Tickets are $12 for adults, $8 for students and $5 for children 6-12. Kids under 5 get in free. ocalaspeedway.com or (352) 622-9400.

OCALA ART GROUP (JULY 13) The Ocala Art Group will hold their monthly meeting at the Appleton Museum from 11am-3pm. There will be a business meeting followed by demonstrations. mcaocala.com or (352) 369-1500.

PREVIEW RECEPTION FOR WITNESS TO CREATIVITY II (JULY 15) The Florida Museum for Women Artists in Deland will host a membership preview reception from 5-7pm for the Witness to Creativity II exhibit. Admission is free for members and $10 for non-members. The exhibit will Continued on page 86

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Includes Cart Tee off anytime after 3:30pm and play as much as you like until dark.

352-861-3131

13601 SW 115 Ave 2 miles south of 484 on HWY 200

Personalized Service For All Your Real Estate Needs!

BASIC WILD CAVING EXPERIENCE (JULY 16) This is a beginner program for anyone over age 8 interested in exploring an unimproved cave. This activity requires strenuous physical activity. Cost is $32 per person, and pre-registration is required. ocalafl. org or (352) 671-8560.

www.diverserealtygroup.net

Honda oil filter. Plus tax and shop supplies if applicable. Must present coupon at time of service. Offers can not be combined

1800 SW COLLEGE RD.

New Dental Office In Ocala 20+ Years Experience / Cosmetic Dentistry Fillings and Bridges / Dentures and Whitening Extractions and Cleaning / Root Canals Veneers / Implants

FREE CONSULT Crowns Teeth (3 or More) Whitening $ $

499 99

Dr. Charles Odaiyar

General & Cosmetic Dentistry

352.351.4412

Churchill Square - 303 SE 17th St Located Next to Publix Most Insurances Accepted ocalastyle.com

SCRAPBOOK FOR BREAST CANCER (JULY 15) A night of scrapbooking, embroidery, knitting, jewelry making and other crafts will be held at the Marion County Extension Office. Admission is $5, and no reservations are required. The event begins at 6pm and lasts until the last person leaves. (352) 732-5982.

FLICK AND FLOAT (JULY 15) Head to the Hampton Pool for a dip in the pool and a film on the big screen.

Movie starts at 8:15pm. Film TBA. ocalafl.org or (352) 401-3918.

352.307.4655 | 352.362.8780

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be on display through September 4. floridamuseumforwomenartist.org or (386) 873-2976.

jul’11

ROLLER DERBY (JULY 17) The Ocala Cannibals will start their season with a home match against the Sarasota Roller Girls at the Ocala Entertainment Complex. Doors open at 4:30pm. Match begins at 5:15pm.

Tickets are $5 in advance or $10 at the door. ocalacannibalderby.com or (352) 454-2018.

CHARITY PICNIC (JULY 22) Highland Memorial Park will host a charity picnic to benefit the Pace Center for Girls from 11:30am-1pm.

Lunch is served on a donation basis.

Eat on site, or take your lunch to go.

(352) 369-1020.

KIRK CAMERON SPEAKS ON MARRIAGE (JULY 29) Childhood actor Kirk Cameron will present Feed Your Faith’s “Love Worth Fighting For” marriage event at the First Baptist Church of Ocala. The event will run from 7-10pm, and tickets range from $20 to $35. feedyourfaith.org or (866) 973-9610

ALLSTATE MORTGAGE GOLF SCRAMBLE (JULY 29) The 8th annual Allstate Mortgage Golf Scramble will be held at the Ocala Golf Club.

Lunch begins at noon and golf starts at 1pm. Registration is $75 per person or $300 for a team of four players.

Proceeds benefit the Scholarships for Hope Fund, a program of The Hope Foundation benefitting ARC Marion. heartoffloridahope.org or (352) 351-2479.

FLORIDA FUN MINI MATCH (JULY 31) This ballroom competition judges dancers against a standard rather than against each other. All level of dancers are welcome and costumes are not required. The competition is hosted by Dance Dance Dance and will be held at Jumbolair from 1-5pm. dancedancedance.biz or (352) 748-3279.

SUMMER ART CAMP (AUG. 1-5) The Appleton Museum of Art will host an art camp from 9am-12pm for children ages 7-14. $85 for members, $95 for non-members. appletonmuseum.org or (352) 291-4455 ext. 1613.

CONNECT B2B EXPO (AUG. 15) The Hilton will host this free event from 1-8pm. Seminars on social media, public relations, branding, media buying, business strategy as well as an “Ask The Expert” with industry leaders will be held. An exhibitor expo from 3-8pm will also take place. Stay for a poolside networking mixer at 8pm for $20.

Exhibitor space is available for $100. connectb2bexpo.com or (352) 201-4882.

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

Introducing Munroe Foundation’s New Capital Campaign

The Children’s Emergency Department at Munroe Regional Medical Center

We are asking for your help...

At Munroe Regional Medical Center, community isn’t just a place, it’s a promise. To us, the families of Marion County are our families, neighbors, friends, and coworkers. At Munroe’s Children’s Express we treat 25,000 children a year - that’s a lot of children! We have a plan, and that’s to build a Children’s Emergency Department within the walls of our medical center.

This Children’s Emergency Department will allow Munroe to continue meeting the needs of our community.

OPENING 2012 9 CHILDREN’S EXAM ROOMS FAMILY WAITING ROOM X-RAY AND TRIAGE ROOMS NAMING OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR UPDATES

To Learn more or donate to the project, please visit us at

www.MunroeFoundation.com Or call (352)

351-7233 jul’11

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Junior League of Ocala Pig Out BBQ Bash FLORIDA HORSE PARK

The Junior League of Ocala hosted the inaugural Pig-Out BBQ Bash on May 14 at the Florida Horse Park. Sanctioned by the Florida BBQ Association, this professional barbeque contest included a number of competitive BBQ-ers from around the state.

Jessica Anthony and Kellie Lewis Greyson Stuart and Tammy Myer

PHOTOS BY JOE DEMARTINO

Linda Myer, Reagan Grace Carlisle and Alice Carlisle

Scott Wheller, Robert Villella, C.J. McGuier, Chase Foy and Ress Jones

Jason, Brock & Melanie Ramey, Tricia Hayes Darrin Joiner and Damon Land Jadyn & Mindy Vates, Shannon Prue

View more Social Scene photos and purchase prints of your favorites at ocalastyle.com

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Dale Hemmelgarm and Dianne Busch Kevin Brafford

352.629.5703 315 E SilvEr SpringS Blvd, ocala, fl www.ladyjEwElEr.com

The Choice is CLEAR More readers. More buying power. More impact. More value.

Ocala’s real magazine is also Ocala’s best media value.

Over $73 million on dining at full service restaurants

Ocala Style has the largest audience with liquid assets of $100k+.

100,051

#1 Local Radio Station

79,146

Ocala Magazine

Over $153 million on personal care services, hair care products & cosmetics

14,300

118,488

Star-Banner-Weekday

Over $14 million on watches and jewelry

25,440

OcalaStyle MAGAZINE

Over $461 million on clothing and accessories

27,935

#1 Local Radio Station

Over $165 million on home furnishings and accessories

147,716

34,370

Ocala Magazine

Ocala Style Magazine Readers Spent

Star-Banner-Weekday

Graduate Gemologist (GIA)

Ocala’s Lady Jeweler understands the need to stay within budget while making her happy. Come in today to review our wide range of engagement rings that will make your bride smile and your future bearable!

OcalaStyle MAGAZINE

Nancy Porter

Ocala Style has the largest overall audience.

Over $127 million on physician/specialists services

To maximize your advertising dollar, call (352) 732-0073

Sources: The Media Audit 2009: 4 issue cume audience, 2009 Annual Consumer Buying Power data from The Media Audit and the Department of Labor Statistics.

TODAY. jul’11

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Lifestyle Solutions Luau LIFESTYLE SOLUTIONS

Guests to Lifestyle Solutions summer luau event on June 23 enjoyed complimentary services, cocktails and even Hawaiian-inspired fare. Lifestyle Solutions in Ocala is a physiciandirected comprehensive weight management program and medical aesthetics center.

Dr. Michael Holloway and Tom Ingram

Linda Doyle and Connie Claire

PHOTOS BY MITZI WELCH AND JANIE POPE

Dr. Michael Holloway and his father Neva Wise, Vivian Goney and Ashley Geise

Brooke Little and Tress Guinn Cheryl Moraw, Laurie Tilelli and Donna Gagnon Sheri & Terry Perzy

View more Social Scene photos and purchase prints of your favorites at ocalastyle.com

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Brandy Johnson and Joe Alberti Shannon Garmley and Gina Sarno

The true meaning of SPECIALIZING IN ALL TYPES OF CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION

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jul’11

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Ocala Health & Rehab Extreme Makeover Party OCALA HEALTH & REHAB

In honor of Ocala Health & Rehabilitation Center’s newly completed renovations, the group held an extreme makeover party in mid-June.

Participants were treated to a variety of refreshments and hors d’ouevres.

Beautiful gift baskets and floral arrangements were also given away as door and raffle prizes. Ocala Health & Rehab has been serving the Ocala community for more than 30 years.

Barbara Giles and Wendy Doston

Brandy Williams, Terry Burton and Tonya Colamenta

PHOTOS BY KAREN SCOTT

Mica Mink and Johnathan Schwartz

Iris Lopez, Patricia DeBautte , Terry Pritchett and Pat Koelln

Jackie Hinnerman and Anna Karrich Trey Adams and Cynthia Montalvo Karen Scott, RN and Dr. Poonam Warman

View more Social Scene photos and purchase prints of your favorites at ocalastyle.com

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PETETESCH

The ‘Six Pillars’ To Economic Success

A

Pete Tesch, President/CEO of Ocala/Marion County Economic Development Corporation

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lmost three years after the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression, Florida’s and the nation’s economies still languish. Most of the economists said it would be a long and slow recovery, and they were right. Marion County has been the poster child for the anemic economic condition. The big drivers—construction and real estate—will not be bouncing back, and the economists told us that. They were right about that, too. Modern history shows that all previous recessions experienced by our community had significant increases in housing sales and building permits after the downturn ended.

Not this one. People are still surprised and dumbfounded.

As the dust settles from the 2011 Florida Legislative session and the fallout of a $4 billion budget deficit, our communities will most likely experience further economic trauma as government employees lose their jobs and the effects of ensuing cutbacks of services take hold.

Adding to further disenchantment with our economic malaise is the simple truth that the government can’t really create jobs. Instead, its primary role should be to simply set the stage for private sector job creation.

While our state government attempts to patch together some sort of economic recovery strategy, the Florida Chamber Foundation, headed by Dr. Dale Brill, is finally summoning the private sector to come up with a realistic and industrious game plan. Now known as the “Six Pillars” Community Initiative, the Florida Chamber has crafted a collaborative process that links all of our state’s diverse communities to collective economic prosperity and high-paying jobs for our children’s future.

The “Six Pillars” concept focuses on the critical factors that will determine Florida’s, as well as Marion County’s, competitiveness and ability to attract and retain world-class companies:

It is important for the business community to come together and use their talents and energies to help jumpstart the economy.

1. Talent Supply & Education. Now is the time to build our community’s future workforce with education and training as its foundation.

2. Innovation & Economic Development.

Quality job creation will be based on technology and innovation. Transforming our existing industries is critical for retention and expansion.

3. Infrastructure & Growth Leadership. To be a truly global player, Florida must make timely investments in communications and infrastructure, as well as get a grip on our natural resources allocation and growth management practices.

4. Business Climate & Competitiveness.

This pillar ensures that we maintain a probusiness climate while keeping our business costs and tax burden reasonable.

5. Civic & Governance Systems. Making sure that government on all levels is held accountable and provides services in the most efficient way.

6. Quality of Life & Quality Places. Along with education, we must provide for excellent health care, public safety, aesthetic natural environments and a robust culture.

Recently, community and business leaders from the EDC and Ocala/Marion County Chamber gathered with Dr. Brill to learn about the “Six Pillars” framework and talk about aligning our business agenda and economy strategy in that context.

The basis of the collective conversation was to further refine the long-term economic strategy for our community, improve the business development delivery system and find the most effective way to execute those services. As a result, our Boards of Directors will now determine if the preferred vehicle is the “Six Pillars” and, if so, whether we join in the statewide conversation with the Florida Chamber.

As we look forward to future prosperity, the key issues to stimulate change are job growth and economic diversification. To achieve those goals, it is important for the business community to come together and use their talents and energies to help jump-start the economy. It is all about local people solving local problems.

For further information: ocalaedc.org and floridachamberfoundation.org.

ARE YOU

REALLY PREPARED FOR

RETIREMENT?

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roper retirement planning requires education and experience. No one understands the complexities of financial preparation better than Jane Fontaine of The Fontaine Financial Group.

Ms. Fontaine is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM professional, and has the Chartered Financial Consultant* (ChFC) and the Accredited Estate Planner (AEP) designations with an illustrious career that spans more than three decades. This lifetime of experience in financial strategies allows her to develop specific and stable retirement plans, a process that includes:

• Determining the financial and tax efficiency of your desired retirement plan • Implementing your plan with appropriate financial products • Financial coaching for retirees, professionals and small businesses owners

Ms. Fontaine’s clients develop a sense of financial health because of her outstanding credentials. Ms. Fontaine holds a Master’s Degree in financial planning and services and has the Chartered Life Underwriter* (CLU) and Chartered Advisor for Senior Living (CASL) designations. Additionally, Ms. Fontaine also was honored with the Golden Life Award from AXA Advisors for 30 years of outstanding performance in the financial industry. She is a member of the Million Dollar Round Table Life and Court of the Table, for 30 consecutive years.

• Identify and prioritize personal and business financial goals and wealth management • Shift the focus from asset allocation to lifestyle income management * From the American College Jane B. Fontaine M.S., CFP ®, ChFC, CLU, AEP™, CASL The Fontaine Financial Group Associates, left to right:

Grant McMahon, Financial Professional Steven L. Smiley, CLU, ChFC Jeff Zysek, MBA, Financial Professional

The

FONTAINE Financial Group

1721 SE 16th Avenue, Suite 103 Ocala, FL 34471-4641 Phone 352.622.9090 Email: jane.fontaine@axa-advisors.com www.jane.fontaine.myaxa-advisors.com www.fontainefinancialgroup.com

YOU WILL BE PREPARED FOR RETIREMENT WITH FONTAINE FINANCIAL GROUP! CFP® and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER are certification marks owned by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. These marks are awarded to individuals who successfully complete the CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

Associates of The Fontaine Financial Group, LLC offer securities and Jane Fontaine offers securities and investment advisory services through AXA Advisors, LLC (N.Y., N.Y. 212-314-4600), member FINRA/SIPC. Annuities and insurance products offered through AXA Network and its subsidiaries. The Fontaine Financial Group, LLC is not a registered investment advisor and is not owned or operated by AXA Advisors or AXA Network. AXA Advisors and AXA Network do not provide tax or legal advice. PPG 62411 (5/11) TM

Our goal is to create and retain customers for life.

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Growing older should not have to mean that you give up the hobbies and activities you love the most. But sometimes getting around, or getting time away from a loved one that you care for (so that you can do the things you love to do too) can be difficult. Luckily, Comfort Keepers® makes it easy for you to keep doing the things you love whether it is playing golf or doing aquatic aerobics.

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