Ocala Style May'17

MAY’17

Ocala

GONE (SUMMER) CAMPIN’ 126 BOREDOM BUSTERS

Women of Style Real estate pro Joan Pletcher talks horses, homes and life in Ocala

Living Little Sweeten Your Summer

Considering Ocala?

Thunder Ranch – STATE OF THE ART training and rehabilitation center located on 170 +/- Acres.

Equestrian features include: 3 barns with 120 stalls, 3/4 +/- mile race track with a great surface. Additionally there is a cold-water spa. State-of-the-art aquatic pool which provides a low impact environment in which horses can exercise as they prepare to return to training. The pool is designed to allow the horses’ feet to remain on the ground, providing them safety while allowing water resistance. 24 Lush green paddocks, round pens, and 5 European walkers complete the package. The private main residence with entertainment area includes a summer kitchen, conversation areas, fireplace and guest house.

Additional Improvements: Two manager’s residences and an equipment building with covered parking complete this impeccable facility.

Country Club of Ocala

Exquisite estate home in the Country Club of Ocala with magnificent views overlooking the golf course. This estate sits on over 2 acres, with room for a pool, cabana/summer kitchen and your own tennis court. This gorgeous home on a cul-desac creates luminous appeal throughout and was designed for family entertaining featuring formal living room, formal dining room, upstairs game room sporting built in entrainment center, pool table and beverage bar overlooking golf course.

Chef ’s kitchen features center island, stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, breakfast nook, hardwood floors, and is the gathering hub for the family room with concealed wine room and fireplace. Home office features built in book cases, and cabinets. Master suite features sitting area, fireplace and opens to covered lanai. True family home!

Bridle Run

Breathtaking views from every window in this custom-designed home with gated entrance, located on cul-de-sac in equine friendly neighborhood. Living room features soaring solid cedar vault ceilings, Spanish tile flooring, fireplace and beautiful views of the farm. Chef ’s kitchen with granite countertops, bar seating plus breakfast nook with magnificent views. Spacious family room opens to the kitchen and has French doors leading to lanai. 4-stall barn plus apartment overlooking the lush green pastures completes this desirable package.

9.75 +/- Acres - $699,000

Rustic Elegance in the Southwest

This 2-story French country home is secluded on 2.9 acres. Country living at its best while being just moments from the amenities of the city. Spacious family room features stone fireplace, French doors leading to pool and screen-enclosed lanai. Gourmet chef ’s kitchen, raised bar with seating island and built-in beverage cooler. Gorgeous master suite with spacious spa-like master bath, plus has adjoining room which could be used for nursery, exercise room, storage, or office. Additional workshop/storage building is perfect for extra cars and tractor. Zoned A-3, so horses are welcome! $519,000.

Steadfast Farm

Location is only one of the many attractions to this 33.90 +/- acre Ocala horse farm in the northwest. Main residence has the option of being 2 residences having 2 kitchens, 5.5 baths, family gathering room with peckycypress walls and fireplace, formal dining room, office, 4 bedrooms plus 3 bonus rooms and 2 entrances. Main barn features 10 oversized stalls. Tack room/studio apartment with full bath, feed room, plus half-bath, plus round pen and loading chute. 3/8 +/- mile grass conditioning gallop to start your yearlings. Additional barns are: 12-Stall CB barn with Eurocizer, feed and tack rooms. 8-stall barn with half bath, tack and feed rooms.

Additional improvements: 4-stall pole barn with 220-amp hookup.

1-car garage/workshop with 220-amp hookup. Extra tall and deep garage has 10-foot roll-up door. $1,199,999.

Other horse farms and land are available for sale in the Northwest as well as the Southwest.

For these and other properties, visit JoanPletcher.com for information, videos and more choices.

352.347.1777 | Cell: 352.266.9100 | 352.804.8989 | joan@joanpletcher.com Due to the privacy and at the discretion of my clients, there are additional training centers, estates and land available that are not advertised.

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Contents MAY’17

MAY’17

Ocala

GONE (SUMMER) CAMPIN’ 126 BOREDOM BUSTERS

Women

Cover and photo on this page by John Jernigan

of Style Real estate pro Joan Pletcher talks horses, homes and life in Ocala

Living Little Sweeten Your Summer

Cover model: Joan Pletcher

In This Issue

050 Leading Ladies.

Meet Ocala’s Women of Style, featuring real estate pro Joan Pletcher of Joan Pletcher Real Estate Network.

034 Happy Campers. School’s out, and it’s time we trade classes for summer camps. › By Laurel Gillum 044 Living Tiny. Life might just get bigger when your lifestyle becomes smaller. › By Cealia Athanason

068 The Taste Of Summer.

Tip your hat to Florida’s watermelon growers, and enjoy a sweet summertime staple. › By Cynthia McFarland

MAY ’17 ›

011

Contents Continued

027

074

068

015

044

034

In Every Issue

015

THE BUZZ

027

THE HIVE

073

THE DISH

085

THE SCENE

The real people, places and events that shape our community.

Dedicated to enriching the lives of local families.

Our best recipes, restaurant news and culinary quick bites.

Your guide to what’s happening in and around Ocala.

By Laurel Gillum, JoAnn Guidry, Bonnie Kretchik, Melissa Peterson and Judge Stephen Rogers

By Kevin Christian & Laurel Gillum

By Angelique Anacleto, Karin Fabry-Cushenbery, Laurel Gillum and Sean Trapani

By Ralph Demilio, Laurel Gillum, Bonnie Kretchik and Ronald Wetherington

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ARTIST’S CORNER

018

ROUNDUP

020

BENCHMARKS

021

BUSINESS BRIEFS

022

HORSIN’ AROUND

012

› Ocala

.com

028 G O O D T I M E S 030 P A R E N T I N G P O I N T E R S 031 C L A S S A C T S 032 K I D S ’ K O R N E R 033 S N A P S H O T S

074 M A S O N J A R M E A L S

087 A Q U I C K Q & A

076 T E A T I M E

092 T H E S O C I A L S C E N E

076 Q U I C K B I T E S 078 A N I N T E R N A T I O N A L T A S T E

Ocala

FRESH, HEALTHY, DELICIOUS VISIT OUR TASTING ROOM

• Experience the quality of our extra virgin olive oils and rich, thick balsamic vinegars.

Magazine

• Browse our market and taste our fresh spices, herbs, rubs and seasonings. Shop our local honey, soaps and lotions, jams, jellies, olives, condiments and so much more.

TREAT YOURSELF AND YOUR SENSES

PUBLISHER

Kathy Johnson kathy@ocalastyle.com

OFFICE/PRODUCTION MANAGER

Cynthia Brown

THE OLIVE OIL MARKET

cynthia@ocalastyle.com Editorial

16 S Magnolia Ave, Ocala | 352.512.0177 Located downtown on the square in Ocala

EXECUTIVE EDITOR MANAGING EDITOR

www.theoliveoilmarket.store

Karin Fabry-Cushenbery Melissa Peterson

karin@ocalastyle.com melissa@ocalastyle.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR & SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST

Cealia Athanason

The Peacock Cottage

cealia@ocalastyle.com FOOD & LIFESTYLE CONTRIBUTOR

Robin Fannon

Ocala’s New Plant Shop!

SOCIAL SCENE EDITOR

Ronald W. Wetherington ronald@ocalastyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angelique Anacleto Brett Ballantini Kevin Christian Jim Gibson Laurel Gillum JoAnn Guidry

Bonnie Kretchik Cynthia McFarland Katie McPherson Judge Steven Rogers Sean Trapani

Art CREATIVE DIRECTOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Jessi Miller Kristy Taylor

• Unique Houseplants • Fun Classes

Fairy • Garden Gifts Gardens • Supplies

Located in Chelsea Square 3243 East Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 352-624-0116 • thepeacockcottage@gmail.com Like us! facebook.com/thepeacockcottage

www.dandypot.com

jessi@ocalastyle.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ralph Demilio Sheila Hartley

sheila@ocalastyle.com

John Jernigan

jernigan@ocalastyle.com

Crys Williams 123RF.com Sales

DIRECTOR OF SALES

Dean Johnson

deanjohnson@ocalastyle.com

Premium Cigars, Pipe Tobacco & Accessories Ready to make the switch?

SALES MANAGER

Sharon Morgan

sharon@ocalastyle.com SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Lori Tani

lori@ocalastyle.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

We have the largest selection of E-Juices in Ocala!

Dawn Anderson

dawn@ocalastyle.com

Liza Fritz

liza@ocalastyle.com

Skip Linderman

skip@ocalastyle.com

Peggy Sue Munday

peggysue@healthylivingmagazines.com

Cecilia Sarco

cecilia@ocalastyle.com

Tammy Walters

tammy@healthylivingmagazines.com DISTRIBUTION

Dave Adams

dave@ocalastyle.com

Debra McQueen Rick Shaw

OCALA PUBLICATIONS, LLC.

o: 352.732.0073 › f: 352.732.0226 1007 E. Fort King St., Ocala, FL 34471 ocalastyle.com

OCALA STYLE MAGAZINE / MAY 2017 / VOL. 19, NO. 5 Published monthly by Ocala Publications, LLC. All contents © 2017 by Ocala Publications LLC. 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.

OCALA / MARION COUNTY

FONTS

OCALA / MARION COUNTY

CHAMBER & ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP

OCALA / MARION COUNTY

CHAMBER & ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP OCALA / MARION COUNTY

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MAIN FONT:

TAGLINE & ARROW

OcalaPublications

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MOVING FORWARD MOVING FORWARD MOVING FORWARD MOVING FORWARD

TRADE GOTHIC BOLD (Kerning 50pt) TAGLINE FONT:

Sweet Leaf Tobacco Shop 1220 E. Silver Springs Blvd. • 352-512-0346 www.facebook.com/ocalasweetleaf Mon-Sat 9am-10pm, Sun 11am-7pm

This product is NOT a safe alternative to cigarettes.

Must be 18 years or older to enter. Must show valid ID.

PLANTING TREES AROUND YOUR HOME CAN SAVE YOU MONEY. Did you know you could save up to 20 percent on your energy bill by planting trees on your property that are the right size and in the right place?

For information on vegetation management and how you can conserve energy, visit www.ocalaelectric.org Last year, Ocala Electric Utility (OEU) supported the Energy-Saving Trees program and gave away a total of 258 trees to utility customers within its service territory. By partnering with this program, residents were provided free trees to effectively shade and beautify their homes and community. OEU is also a proud supporter of the Fourth Grade Foresters USA, and gave away 1,630 trees to

TH E R E AL PE O PLE , PL AC E S & E VE NTS THAT S HAPE OU R CO M M U N IT Y

the

B U Z Z page

15

Splish Splash The summer sun is shining strong, and what better way to cool off than with a visit to one of the local pools or splash pads! Here’s a list of area pools and pads due to open this month, including the new Lily’s Pad at the Lillian F. Bryant Park.

Jervey Gantt Aquatic FUN Center, Ocala

Open May 20 through September 4 Admission: $2 for children, $3 for adults.

Open swim hours: 11am-5pm Monday through Saturday, 12-5pm Sunday (352) 624-2410

Hampton Aquatic FUN Center, Ocala Open May 27 through September 4 Admission: $2 for children, $3 for adults.

Open swim hours: 11am-5pm Monday through Saturday, 12-5pm Sunday (352) 622-6803

Citizens’ Circle Splash Pad, Ocala Free admission Open from dawn to dusk (352) 624-2849

Lily’s Pad (Splash Pad) at Lillian F. Bryant Park, Ocala Grand opening May 20 Free admission (capacity is 75 people) Open from dawn to dusk (352) 629-8389

The Wilma Loar Splash Park, Belleview

Free admission Open dawn to dusk (352) 245-7021

AN ARTIST’S OASIS

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ON THE AIR

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FIGHT OR FLIGHT

020

BUSINESS BRIEFS

021

R I G HT O N TARG ET

022

Buzz

ARTIST CORNER

Photos courtesy of Rainbow Springs Artist Cooperative

THE

A Co-op Comes Together

Dunnellon is well on its way to establishing itself as an art hub in Central Florida with the recent opening of the Rainbow Springs Artist Cooperative. › By Bonnie Kretchik

M

oving “fearlessly forward” is how Susan DavisJones describes the founding of Dunnellon’s latest addition to the art scene. The Rainbow Springs Artist Cooperative opened its doors as the final weeks of 2016 drew to a close. Located in Dunnellon’s Historic Village, the cooperative is the realized vision of Walter Mclellan and Chuck Dillion, two long-time residents of Dunnellon.

“Walt and Chuck had a vision for a real artist hub in Dunnellon, and without those two, I don’t think we would have gotten this off the ground,” says Susan who, although modest, has also played a major role in the cooperative’s founding. The former president of the Rainbow Springs Fine Arts Association acted as one of the key players in organizing the art festivals that would eventually pave the way for the establishment of the cooperative.

The first festival was held the Saturday before Thanksgiving in 2015, and although the weather was

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less than ideal, with downpours sending crowds running for cover and damaging some of the artists’ work, the event saw enough of a turnout to be considered a huge success.

“People came out of the woodwork for the festival, and we thought maybe we could actually put together an artist cooperative,” says Susan, noting that neither she, nor anyone else involved, knew much about the process. “I won’t lie; we learn as we go,” she adds.

“We try to learn from other cooperatives, and if something doesn’t work, we change it.”

The cooperative, and all of its members, personifies what it means to be a grassroots organization. The members do the work themselves, including cleaning, painting, hanging grid walls as well as designing, organizing and hosting classes for members of the community.

“In a relatively short period of time, a lot has been accomplished,” says Mclellan, whose long-term goals include establishing Dunnellon as an art hub.

Artist and Education Coordinator Jackie Nash has worked tirelessly to introduce new artists to the community through hosting various classes.

“Several of our classes are taught by artists with a following, but many people don’t know how many

wonderful new artists we have right in the area,” she says. Along with a number of community-based classes geared toward artists and non-artists alike, the cooperative will host a summer program this year for area children.

“So many kids in the school system don’t have the opportunity to experience art, so we’ve made the classes affordable so more can attend,” says Susan.

Thanks to the City of Dunnellon and grants from both the Marion Cultural Alliance and Florida Cultural Affairs, the Rainbow Springs Artist Cooperative is now open four days a week, Wednesdays through Saturday, and is growing in notoriety in the community. With the goal of bringing art education and culture to Dunnellon, the cooperative is well on its way to revitalizing the area.

LEARN MORE › Rainbow Springs Artist Cooperative › 20804 West Pennsylvania

Ave., Dunnellon › rainbowspringsart.com or (352) 445-8547

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2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU 115 NE 8th Ave 16910 S. Hwy 441, Ste. 204 Ocala, FL 352-351-0011 Summerfield, FL 352-245-3388

Country Club of Ocala

Magnificent Estate Home and Development Opportunity

Luxury Living

On 6.68+/- acres, which offers incredible development possibilities in downtown Ocala. Home offers grand formal rooms & entertaining spaces, palatial master suite w/ sprawling 2nd story porch, gourmet kitchen w/ butler’s pantry, library w/ built in cabinets, solarium, elevator and unfinished basement.

2-bedroom guest home.

Exquisite outdoor living!

4+/- acres in Turning Hawk Ranch.

Spectacular home includes 6 bed, 5 bath plus 3 half baths. Generous formal and informal living areas with cinema room & guest/in-law apartment. Pool area is beyond beautiful. Full outdoor kitchen plus outdoor bonus/guest room.

BROKER ASSOCIATE/REALTOR ®

marybethelliott1@gmail.com

This extraordinary 4 bedroom 4 bath home is the perfect blend of luxury & sophistication with formal living & dining room, spacious kitchen with island & custom cabinets & 2 downstairs guest rooms. Beautiful custom Travertine staircase leads to second level with club room, media area & wet bar, along with guest suite and private bath. Beautiful balcony overlooks the pool. Master wing includes study w/extensive built-ins, bedroom w/ custom moldings & exquisite bath.

Exceptional outdoor living with pool, outdoor kitchen, & cabana w/ fireplace. Large 4 car garage with storage cabinets and utility room with dog wash.

$1,600,000. ML#510085

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MAY ’17 ›

017

THE

Buzz

ROUNDUP

Listen Up Climbing in popularity, almost 20 percent of U.S. adults between the ages of 18 and 49 are tuning into podcasts at least once a week. Check out these interesting topics, recorded by locals for locals.

Subscribe to these Florida-based podcasts for updates and get to know the Sunshine State like never before.

INVEST FLORIDA – A REAL ESTATE PODCAST

Hosts Eric Odum and Steven Silverman showcase their combined experience in the real estate investment market to offer reasonable ideas in lending, investment strategies, property management and development. Perfect for Floridians looking for opportunities in real estate. investfloridashow.com or available on iOS and Android (weekly)

FLORIDA MEMORY – A DIVISION OF LIBRARY & INFORMATION SERVICES

Explore trademarks from Florida, or dive into the past lives of famous Floridians. The Florida Memory Project is dedicated to educating future generations about the nostalgic history and culture of the Sunshine State. floridamemory.com or available on iOS and Android (weekly)

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THE NOLECAST: FLORIDA STATE FOOTBALL ANALYSIS

The leading podcast about Florida State sports, Bud Elliott and Ingram Smith discuss FSU football and recruiting as well as Seminole’s basketball and baseball teams. Brush up on your sports lingo—these guys will put you to the test!

Available on iOS and Android (weekly)

THE GATOR NATION FOOTBALL PODCAST

Special guests include people from opposing teams and members of the Gator Nation. Listen in for a detailed analysis and discussion about all things football. This podcast is recorded in Gainesville, where Allen Williams and James Di Virgilio, both UF graduates, reside.

Available on iOS and Android (weekly)

THE FLORIDA PROJECT PODCAST – WEEKLY WALT DISNEY WORLD NEWS & DISCUSSION

Grab your Mickey Mouse ears.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or an annual passholder, this podcast will discuss current news items, tips, vacation planning, attraction history and answer listener questions relating to the most magical place on Earth: Walt Disney World.

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WHAT ALES YA: FLORIDA BREWER & BEER TOUR

Speak to the masterminds behind Florida’s best breweries in a podcast about life in Florida, Florida beer and the brewers who make it.

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ALL ABOUT WINE

PUBLIC NEWS SERVICE – FLORIDA

The Public News Service based in Florida provides reporting on a wide range of social, community and environmental issues that pose a threat to our sunny state. This podcast is meant to raise awareness and help our community members to join forces. publicnewsservice.org/state-florida/FL (weekly)

Each week, Ron Hunt of Florida Estates Winery invites wine enthusiasts and wine makers alike to listen in and discuss different wine related topics. Pick up a glass, kick back and relax.

Available on iOS and Android (weekly)

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019

THE

Buzz

BENCHMARKS

Flight Plans

By Judge Steven G. Rogers

I

t had been a long and contentious trial. The jury was deliberating, and the defendant told his attorney he was going outside the courthouse to smoke a cigarette. Because he was out on bond pending the outcome of the case, there were no restrictions on the defendant leaving the courthouse.

When the jury reached its verdict, the court clerk contacted the attorneys and asked them to return to the courtroom. It was at that time the defense attorney reluctantly told me her client was not responding to her phone calls or text messages.

Security confirmed the defendant was not outside the courthouse.

Seeing no reason to delay the verdict, I asked the attorneys to be seated at their respective tables and had the jury brought back into the courtroom. The defendant’s chair was empty as the clerk announced the guilty verdict.

As I was giving my thanks and final instructions to the jury, the defendant abruptly entered through the back

doors of the courtroom. Looking confused and sweating profusely, he was also accompanied by two officers from the Ocala Police Department. The defendant was seated at the defense table, and the jury was excused.

In the moments that followed, the defendant explained that he had an “uneasy” feeling about the jury’s decision in his case. Rather than waiting for the verdict to be announced, he decided to take off running from the courthouse and leave his fate to his own two feet as opposed to the votes of six jurors.

In a most unfortunate set of circumstances for the defendant, his chosen path for escape was through an apartment complex near the courthouse. A shooting had been reported at this apartment complex just minutes before the defendant fled from the courthouse.

So, as a large number of law enforcement officers were converging on the neighborhood to investigate the shooting, they saw the defendant sprinting through the neighborhood— wearing a full dress suit—in the middle of the afternoon. When stopped by law enforcement officers, the defendant said that he had nothing to do with the shooting and further explained, “I’m in trial with Judge Rogers right now.” In an effort to validate his story, the officers gave the defendant a free escort back to the courtroom—just in time for him to be remanded into custody based upon the WHEN FACED WITH THE guilty verdict.

TEMPTATION TO FLEE THE Many people may ask, “Why was the defendant not COURT’S JURISDICTION WHILE A in custody during his trial?” Florida Rule of Criminal CASE IS PENDING, DEFENDANTS Procedure 3.131(a) (2017) answers this question as follows: SHOULD TRUST THE SKILL OF “Unless charged with a capital offense or an offense THEIR ATTORNEYS AND ALWAYS punishable by life imprisonment and the proof of guilt CHOOSE FIGHT OVER FLIGHT. is evident or the presumption is great, every person charged with a crime or violation of municipal or county ordinance shall be entitled to pretrial release on reasonable conditions.”

The standard jury instructions for criminal cases state the defendant is to be presumed innocent. This presumption stays with the defendant unless and until the defendant’s guilt is proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

The majority of defendants on pretrial release do not miss their scheduled court appearances. For those who do, any money posted for bail is forfeited, and a warrant is issued for the defendant’s arrest.

Facing criminal charges is certainly a stressful time for most people. But when faced with the temptation to flee the court’s jurisdiction while a case is pending, defendants should trust the skill of their attorneys and always choose fight over flight.

Judge Steven G. Rogers currently serves as a circuit court judge. He lives in Ocala with his wife, three children and an extremely spoiled Australian Shepherd.

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THE

Buzz

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Opening Soon!

Construction of the College of Central Florida Jack Wilkinson Levy Campus is on schedule, and the campus is set to open for fall 2017 classes in August. Students applying to be among the first to attend the campus in August do not have to pay the regular $30 application fee. The campus will feature a comprehensive student center with enrollment services, counseling and advising, financial aid, testing, computer stations, a campus bookstore, student lounge and student life office, a health and wellness area, five fully equipped multi-purpose classrooms, a large multi-discipline science lab, three state-of-the-art computer labs for college credit and corporate education courses, as well as faculty offices and adjunct space. The community will also benefit from 3,000 square feet of exhibit and conference space that will accommodate 180 participants in single or dual events.

Restoring Ocala

The Florida Municipal Electric Association (FMEA) recently recognized Ocala Electric Utility with a “Restoring Communities Award” for its efforts to quickly and safely restore power to Florida communities in the aftermaths of Hurricanes Hermine and Matthew. Ocala Electric Utility was among 20 Florida municipal electric utilities honored for their work to restore power within their communities and for sending aid to their fellow municipal electric utilities. Utilities were awarded based on restoration times, customer communication efforts and the levels of mutual aid provided. Ocala Electric Utility received its award at the 17th Annual Florida Lineman Competition on April 22 in Lakeland.

Tree Town

The College of Central Florida has earned Tree Campus USA recognition for its dedication to campus forestry management and environmental stewardship. This is the eighth year that CF has been recognized.

Tree Campus USA is a national program of the Arbor Day Foundation that honors colleges, universities and their leaders for promoting healthy management of their campus forests and for engaging the community in environmental stewardship.

CF met the five core standards of tree care and community engagement in order to

Thanking Our Heroes

The Greater Ocala Woman’s Club made a presentation to Ocala’s City Council to publicly thank the men and women of the Ocala Police Department for their service to the community. The presentation was made by Charlene Earl, GOWC past president, and several club members to OPD representatives. The club presented packets of mints to the Chief of Police to be given to all law enforcement officers and doggie bones for the special law enforcement K-9s. GOWC is the local chapter of the national General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) and is a nonprofit volunteer organization whose purpose is to promote and provide charitable, educational and philanthropic activities.

receive 2016 Tree Campus USA status.

The standards are establishing a campus tree advisory committee, providing a campus tree-care plan, dedicating annual expenditures on the campus tree-care plan, participating in an Arbor Day observance, and instituting a service-learning project to engage students.

“The Arbor Day foundation requires we have a tree-care plan,” said Stephen MacKenzie, CF senior professor of Environmental Sciences. “We also report on the service activities we do with trees to qualify for tree campus.”

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THE

Buzz

HORSIN’ AROUND

“You have to be fast and accurate. You can’t take longer than 1314 seconds on most courses or you get a time penalty.”

Photo by Bei DeVolld

Photo by Doren Claire

-Connie Claire

Hitting The Bull’s Eye

A local couple is leading the mounted archery charge as an emerging equine sport in the United States. › By JoAnn Guidry

H

aving been a serious competitor for decades in hunter/jumpers and three-day eventing, lifelong horsewoman Connie Claire was looking for a new target for her equine passion.

“My husband, Doren, and I went to a mounted archery demonstration at the Grand Oaks Resort and Museum in Weirsdale about seven years ago,” says Connie. “Lukas Novotny, who lives in Umatilla and is a world champion in mounted archery, was conducting it. Doren and I were blown away. We decided right then and there it was something we wanted to do.”

Mounted archery is just what it sounds like: a rider shooting a bow and arrow while riding a horse. Originating in Asia and the Middle East, mounted archery was used in war, hunting and protecting herds; the earliest

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documentation dates back to 9th century B.C. In the modern version, the sport of mounted archery involves the rider shooting arrows at targets on various courses while the horse is at a full gallop.

“With Lukas as our instructor, Doren and I began learning mounted archery from scratch,” says Connie.

“You can use any horse breed. But you do need a horse that can gallop without you holding the reins. You and your horse have to trust each other. The rider is busy pulling arrows out of the hip quiver, loading the bow and shooting at the targets.

So there’s no hand free to steer the horse.”

In competitive mounted archery, riders are shooting for the bull’s eye on courses with names like Korean, Qabaq and Hungarian. The targets can be straight ahead, to the side, behind,

even up above. Each rider gets four runs on each course, and their time is averaged.

“You have to be fast and accurate,” says Connie, who currently competes on Tranada, a Paso Fino, and Leo, a Mangalarga Marchador. “You can’t take longer than 13-14 seconds on most courses or you get a time penalty. And the horse has to stay at a full gallop; if it drops into a trot, you will be disqualified.”

Thanks to Novotny, the Claires have traveled to Brazil, Turkey and Jordan to participate in mounted archery competitions.

“In Turkey, we rode Arabian stallions. It was a crazy, wonderful experience,” says Connie. “In Jordan, we were the guests of the king and again rode amazing Arabian horses.

Never in my life did I think I’d get to have these experiences.”

The Claires, along with Novotny, are doing their part to grow the sport of mounted archery in this country. At their Dunnellon-based Archers’ Point Stable, they hold clinics, give lessons and are doing community outreach with school and club programs.

“Mounted archery is a great equine sport,” says Connie. “There’s a lot of history to it, and people enjoy learning that, too. If you can ride, then it’s just a matter of learning the shooting technique. Once people get into mounted archery, they love it. It’s a fun and empowering sport.”

LEARN MORE › Archers’ Point Stable › 11990 SW Hwy 484, Dunnellon › Connie & Doren Claire, (352) 598-1249, doren54@yahoo.com › Mounted Archery Association of the Americas › mountedarchery.org

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MAY ’17 ›

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Take a

to a

Healthier Community Everyone wants to live better, longer, right? When you take a step toward living a healthier lifestyle, it’s easier to stay on track when healthier options are easy to find. Measure Up Marion brings the resources of community organizations together to make it easier to be healthy where we live, learn, work, worship and play.

Let’s Eat Healthy

download the

Let’s Eat Healthy APP

Want to reduce the risk of heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes? Eat more foods containing fiber, like peas, beans, broccoli, blueberries and blackberries.

www.MeasureUpMarion.org

What We Are Doing 1,674+ Residents 12,209 Employees have access to housing with Tobacco-free grounds

have access to Wellness Programs at work

Find Restaurants With Healthier Menu Options

55,795 Patients

of 97 providers can access MyHealthStory to better coordinate their health information with multiple providers

45 Locations CATCH Kids Club teaches healthy eating choices in 45 locations including preschools and 37 elementary schools

85,000+ Residents have access to free Diabetes management classes

190,000+ Residents have access to healthier restaurant menu options

Who’s Helping Us: Local Restaurants • Gator Joe's • Harvest Market and Deli • La Hacienda • Mojo's (x 3) • Molly's MaGuires Maguires • Ocala Fresh Produce • Pineapple Pam's Cafe • Shuckers • The Lunchbox

Concessions

• Todd and Shellys Farm Fresh Produce • Wayne's Kitchen Local Restaurants Chain Supporters • Burger 21 • Snappy Tomato Pizza • Subway (Pine Ave) • Uncle Maddio's

• Big Sun Youth Soccer League • Blessed Trinity Catholic School Athletics • College of Central Florida Concessions • Highland’s Youth Baseball • Oak Griner Youth Baseball • Ocala Shocker Park • Ralph Russell Park • Rotary Sportsplex of Marion County • Scott Carrigan Baseball • St. John Lutheran School Athletics • Wrigley Ballpark Concessions

up

up

vegetables

Let’s get to work on developing healthy habits! Starting a new healthy habit can be easier and more fun when you join others doing the same thing. Your “work family” can be a great source of motivation and support! Measure Up Marion helps local companies create programs that encourage physical activity, promote healthier snack options in vending machines, and teach people about making healthy lifestyle changes.

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BOTH CURRENTLY TAKING APPLICATIONS WESCHOOLS ARE CURRENTLY TAKING APPLICATIONS

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27

D E D I C ATE D TO E N R I C H I N G TH E LIVE S O F LO C AL FAM I LI E S

Sources: cnn.com

Detergent Deterrence By now we’re all aware of the choking hazard that laundry or dishwasher detergent pods pose to little ones. Did you also know these colorful little pods can lead to some pretty serious chemical burns if the pouch is punctured and the detergent gets in the eyes?

The number of chemical burns to the eyes caused by laundry detergent packets increased from 12 instances in 2012 to nearly 500 in 2015.

Cases include packets breaking open and contents getting into one or both eyes and the contents leaking on to children’s hands, which they then rub into their eyes. The liquid detergent

F A M I LY G A M E N I G H T

028

in laundry pods has a higher concentration of surfactants, chemicals responsible for stain removal, and these ingredients, which are normally safe, can cause irritation—especially to the eyes—at higher concentrations. The damage can be severe and cause lifelong scarring and sight issues, perhaps even blindness.

Keep Laundry pods, along with all other chemicals, out of reach of children. If an accident of this nature happens, immediately flush out the eyes with cool water for 20 minutes and follow up with a trip to the emergency room.

W E LCO M E TO TANTRU M TOW N

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CLASS ACTS

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KIDS’ KORNER

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› GOOD TIMES

Fun & Games It’s all fun and games until… Nope! It really is all just fun and games. Check out these new titles for your next family game night.

HEDBANZ ELECTRONIC

Ages 7+, Spin Master It’s the game everyone loves in a new fast-paced, team-based electronic version! Can you guess what’s in your headband? Use three highly amusing methods to guess and give clues, including asking yes-no questions, having a team member describe what’s in your headband or—the most entertaining—acting it out.

The new electronic host runs the game and keeps score so you don’t have to.

STICK STACK: A GAME OF THRILLING TACTICS

Ages 8+, Wonder Forge Ready, steady, stack! Keep your hand steady as you add stick by stick to the stack, making sure to match colors along the way. Be careful, though. One wrong move can send the tower tumbling.

THING TWO AND THING ONE WHIRLY FUN GAME

Ages 4+, Wonder Forge Thing One and Thing Two have made a mess. Help them clean it up before Mother gets home. This game challenges kids to work together as a team while practicing color and shape recognition.

REALLY BAD ART

Ages 12+, Wonder Forge So you think you’re an artist? Try creating a masterpiece in six seconds’ time. Each round,

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players will select two cards with two separate phrases. After you draw a short illustration, those cards are then shuffled with a dummy card and laid out next to the game board. Then everyone secretly votes on which piece of art corresponds to which card. Can they guess yours correctly?

SUSPICION: A GAME OF SECRET IDENTITY AND DEDUCTION

Ages 10+, Wonder Forge Take on the persona of a world-class jewelry thief. Make sure to keep your identity a secret, though, as you make your way through a masquerade party, pocketing precious gemstones. Keep your eyes peeled and your mind sharp to unmask other guests before they catch on to you!

BOP IT! GAME

Ages 8+, Hasbro Bop It! Game is new and improved with moves for today’s modern gamer. Hip it, drink it, selfie it, hammer it, answer it, cradle it, saw it, sing it, golf it, comb it— you name it, they have it. This new and improved Bop It! features three solo and social play options.

MONOPOLY: ULTIMATE BANKING EDITION GAME

Ages 8+, Hasbro The Monopoly Ultimate Banking game features an allin-one Ultimate Banking unit with touch technology that makes the game fast and fun. Players can instantly buy properties, set rent and tap their way to fortune.

The best part? Game play takes about 30 minutes.

FANTASTIC GYMNASTICS GAME ESCAPE ROOM: THE GAME

Ages 16+, Spin Master Choose from four different escape room adventures (Prison Break, Nuclear Meltdown, Virus and Temple of the Aztec), and solve the mystery. Once you start, you are “locked in,” with the objective to find codes and solve puzzles to “escape” within 60 minutes by solving puzzles in riddles. The countdown clock just adds to the excitement.

TRIVIAL PURSUIT: 2000s EDITION GAME

Ages 16+, Hasbro How well do you remember the 2000s? This board game features 300 trivia cards, 1,800 questions and six categories, all related to the new millennium. If you have answers, this game is for you.

Ages 8+, Hasbro Time your rhythm and speed in order to stick the landing. Play alone or create a tournament with the neighbor kids. Either way, it’s loads of fun.

TOILET TROUBLE

Ages 4+, Hasbro Who doesn’t love a funny toilet game?

Spin the toilet paper roll, flush the toilet and hope for the best.

Warning: You may get wet!

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MAY ’17 ›

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› PARENTING POINTERS

Kicking & Screaming

On the surface, a tantrum is nothing but a scene starring an unruly child— loud, embarrassing and uncontrollable. This behavior, however, is far more complex.

TANTRUMS BY AGES › 18 to 24 months old. Around this age, an

outburst will likely occur due to lack of ability to express feelings. › 30 to 36 months old. This group imagines they

can take on more than they are capable of, resulting in frustration. › 42 to 48 months old. Stress and sleepiness are

huge behavioral factors.

Here are some ways to turn the volume off when a meltdown comes on.

Wait for it.

Alan Kazdin, Ph.D., author of The Kazdin Method for Parenting the Defiant Child, makes it clear that reasoning with your child in the heat of the moment is pointless. He recommends waiting until your child has cooled off and then approaching the situation and discussing what went wrong.

Give them space.

If the situation allows you to step back, a lesson is in place for your child to work their feelings out alone.

This way, they learn to use self-control, without engaging in a loud or extensive argument.

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Distractions.

Out of fear that a tantrum might take place in a public setting, some parents find it helpful to carry a handful of distractions. Toys, books or a favorite snack can keep a little one busy and avoid meltdowns.

Comfort them.

A firm hug assures your child that you care about what they are feeling inside.

Speak calmly.

No one likes to get yelled at. “Talking in a soothing voice shows your child that you’re not going to let her behavior get to you. It also helps you stay relaxed,” says Ray Levy, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist and co-author of Try and Make Me! Simple Strategies That Turn Off the Tantrums and Create Cooperation.

Incentives.

Sit down with your child and make a behavior chart.

Each day of the week, at the end of the day, your child will receive a sticker based on their behavior. At the end of the week, depending on how many stickers they have earned, they should receive a prize, such as a trip to the ice cream store or a new book. This positive reinforcement just may encourage your little one’s best behavior.

Sources: birthandparenting.com, parents.com, pediatricsofflorence.com

M

ost often, tantrums take root when a child is feeling frustrated, angry or upset. Emotions such as these are overwhelming, especially at a young age. The limbic system, responsible for monitoring the external world and then coordinating the necessary internal physical changes to deal with it, becomes flooded with stress signals. The neocortex portion of the brain is equipped to handle logic and reasoning. When the limbic system is flooded, the neocortex does not function properly, causing little ones to overreact.

Oddly enough, our limbic systems have a way of communicating with one other. In the same way that we can sometimes sense what another person is thinking or about to do, our limbic system helps another person’s limbic system calm down or grasp a situation. The way we react to our child’s behavior is a key factor in how they choose to behave in the future.

THE

Hive

› CLASS ACTS

Purple Hearts At Sunrise

MOCK DUI FOR PROM SEASON

The goal is to make it as real as possible, so organizers use a recorded 911 call, actual wrecked cars, real-life first responders, a hearse and a real coffin. The scene is Prom 2017, and juniors and seniors at West Port High watch as their friends’ bodies are draped with white sheets and another friend fails a field sobriety test. The Mock DUI exercise illustrates how devastating drinking and driving is, especially at a time when many young people feel invincible. Following the exercise, students walked past a make-shift memorial where friends and family members mourned and the driver stood by wearing jail stripes and handcuffs.

There’s new reserved parking at Sunrise Elementary these days, but you have to have a purple heart to park there—literally! The school’s new Purple Heart Reserved Parking is close to the office in the front lot. Sunrise is the latest to receive the special parking area thanks to Superintendent Dr. Heidi Maier. Principal Jennifer Beck’s own father was the guest of honor thanks to his military service and actually receiving the Purple Heart medal. More schools are already on the calendar to receive similar parking spots in the near future.

An EGGcellent Event

Extended Day students at Hammett Bowen Jr. Elementary sampled Easter early—even before Good Friday! Kids scoped out and scooped up hundreds of plastic eggs from the PE field, all stuffed and placed by school staff members. The Extended Day program offers fun and structured childcare for working parents at reasonable prices.

Lee Singers On Campus

The Lee Singers from Lee University in Cleveland, Tennessee, pulled up to West Port High recently to share with choir students in the school’s magnet program.

The ‘Singers, with a 54-year history of travelling around the world,’ shared traditional, contemporary and other music styles with more than 100 students in the room. The group ended with their own rendition of “Somebody to Love Me,” a song they sang with Singers Alum Jordan Smith, who won the 2015 season of NBC’s popular show The Voice.

MATHcounts For Sure!

Each year, middle school “mathlete” students compete to serve on math teams to represent their school in the MATHcounts competition. This numbers-based contest includes five timed rounds in both individual and team components. With nine local teams in this year’s match, these students from Howard Middle School finished in first place (l-r): Emilio Guerrero, Gabriela CortesArroyo, Rushi Patel, Tarun Koti, Daniel Liu, Nikitha Gummadi and Coach Pamela Earnest. Meantime, students from Osceola Middle captured the runner-up spot.

Students Shine At Media Festival

344 videos. 46 first-place trophies.

Four Best of Show prizes. Two free computers. And one sensational night for the 16th annual Marion County Student Media Festival. Hundreds of students and parents from 30 schools packed the auditorium at West Port High to honor the best and brightest video production students. Winners strutted across stage as two dozen community leaders showered them with kudos and words for producing such great work. The entire festival aired lived on the Marion Education Channel and is available on YouTube’s “MCPSmedia” page.

MAY ’17 ›

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› KIDS' KORNER

Last month, we asked area elementaryaged kids about their favorite outside activity. Here’s what they had to say!

JUNE QUESTION:

What’s your favorite fruit or vegetable to eat? › Entries due by May 15.

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Each month we pose a question to local kids in grades kindergarten through fifth. Answers can be submitted in the form of a short story, poem, paragraph or drawing. We’ll choose a few to feature each month. If your child’s submission is selected, they will receive their own Team Style bee trophy. Submissions can be emailed to melissa@ocalastyle.com or mailed to the Ocala Style Editorial Department at 1007 E Fort King Street, Ocala, FL 34471.

THE

Hive

› SNAPSHOTS

THESE LOCAL KIDS KNOW HOW TO HAVE FUN! CHECK OUT THEIR PHOTO-WORTHY MOMENTS.

Jr. Magic Basketball League Photos by Crys Williams @ E.D. Croskey Recreation Center

The City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Jr. Magic Basketball League held clinics and games for community littles during the months of January and February. These children learned new skills at the clinics before putting them into practice at their games—all the while having loads of fun, of course!

Members from both teams grinning at the game

Niesha Fillmore and Kylen Bell

Jalaysha Thomas and Jaliyah Kinsler

Lisa Rawls and Corynte Graham

Jack and Susan Sheaves

Lionel Manning Jr.,Jamieka Manning, Ebony Timmons, Curtis Langston, Amir Manning and D’Mareon Manning

WANT TO SEE YOUR KIDS ON THE PAGES OF OCALA STYLE? Send your photos from around town and local events to melissa@ocalastyle.com. Yours might just get picked!

MAY ’17 ›

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HAPPY CAMPERS Written & Compiled by Laurel Gillum

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Summertime in Florida makes for one happy camper. After all, school’s out, and it’s a time to trade classes for summer camps. Spend your summer days learning to fence, painting a masterpiece or gliding through a pool—there’s a camp for everyone. campers 4 years of age and older. tkofarm.com or (352) 219-0248

EDEN FARM June 5-9, 26-30; July 24-28, Monday-Thursday; 9am-3pm, Friday; 9am-12pm Children ages 5 through 14 will learn skills in horsemanship, from riding and cleaning stalls to grooming and safety. edenfarmocala.com or (352) 572-7658

HAVENSIGHT FARM June 13-15, 20-22, 27-29; July 11-13, 18-20, 2528, Tuesday-Thursday; 9am-4pm

FARMING FRENZY CAMP CABALLO FOR KIDS June 19-23, 26-30; 9am-12pm

The Marion Therapeutic Riding Association will host Camp Caballo For Kids, an equestrian day camp for horse lovin’ kids ages 7 to 14. Children with disabilities are also welcome to apply. mariontherapeuticridingassociation.org or (352) 732-7300

DREAMCATCHER CAMP June 5-9, 12-17; 9am-12pm; July 12, 19; 9am-1pm

This camp by the Marion Therapeutic Riding Association is for kids ages 8 to 14 who have experience around horses. mariontherapeuticridingassociation.org or (352) 732-7300

Kids can learn about all aspects of horsemanship at this farm located in Summerfield. havensightfarm.com or (352) 553-8698

HARLEY FARMS June 12-16, 19-23, 26-30; July 10-14, 17-21, 2428; 9am-3pm With horseback riding, games, arts, crafts and more, kids will enjoy a summer camp full of equestrian fun. harleyfarmsocala.com or (352) 812-3811

GREY DAWN STABLES Dates throughout June, July and August

This camp is for both the older kids and the young buckaroos and includes horsemanship skills, trail rides, proper tacking, grooming, horseback riding and crafts. greydawnstables.com or (352) 427-9721

UNCLE DONALD’S FARM July 6-August 3, Thursdays only; 9:45am-3pm

Children will dabble in architecture by drawing, painting and “building” buildings.

Meet the Masters 10am-12pm; ages 4-6

Through art and stories, a new artist will be introduced each day. Children will experience media of all types.

Block Party 1-4pm; ages 7-12

Using the ARTSpace’s massive LEGO collection, kids will explore the fundamental principles of engineering and design.

Week of June 12-16 The World of Art 9am-12pm; ages 7-12

This camp will incorporate mixed-media works of art inspired by people and cultures across the globe.

Pop Art 1-4pm; ages 7-12

Campers will create pop art with a variety of colorful mixed-media art.

Two-Week Pottery for Teens (June 12-23) 1-4pm; ages 13 and up

Week of June 19-23 The Wonders of Brazil 9am-12pm; ages 7-12

OWL HOLLOW FARM Weekly and monthly sessions in June, July and August, Monday-Thursday; 9am-4pm

Explore the Amazon rainforest, fascinating festivals and creative traditions of our South American neighbors. The culture and colors of Brazil will be applied to pottery, paint, printmaking and metal.

Children of all ages are welcome to join and learn how to ride, groom and take care of horses. Pack a swim suit; there’s swimming, too! owlhollowfarm.net or (352) 237-4132

This camp offers instruction in arena/trail riding taught by handlers and instructors for

Architecture FUNdamentals 9am-12pm; ages 7-12

Build, decorate, glaze and fire! Learn how to throw on a pottery wheel and combine it with hand building to make amazing pieces like pots, mugs and more.

Cows, chickens and goats, oh my! Milk a goat, search for fresh chicken eggs and feed farm animals at this camp, located in Lady Lake. Camp is for children ages 6 to 13 and takes place on Thursdays only. uncledonaldsfarm.com or (352) 753-2882

TKO FARM SUMMER CAMP Dates throughout June, July and August; 8:30am2:30pm

Week of June 5-9

CALLING ALL ARTISTS THE APPLETON MUSEUM OF ART

Children ages 4 and up can join the Appleton Museum for an array of art-themed camps. appletonmuseum.org or (352) 291-4455

Behind the Scenes 9am-12pm; ages 7-14

Paint backdrops and props for the production of Space Pirates. Kids will visit the Ocala Civic Theatre, be part of the script reading and learn what it takes to create a set.

MAY ’17 ›

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Week of July 10-14 It’s Good to be Queen or King!

9am-12pm; ages 7-12

Create your own kingdom! But first, you’ll need a crown.

Meet the Masters 2-4pm; ages 4-6

Through a variety of stories and artwork, young artists will be introduced to some of the greats.

Week of July 17-21 Down on the Farm 9am-12pm; ages 7-12

Create mixed-media works of art inspired by the animals, the land and life on a farm.

Brickworks 1-4pm; ages 7-12

This week, children will explore fundamental principles of engineering while creating nontraditional objects.

Week of July 24-28 Up, up in the Air 9am-12pm; ages 7-12

Spread the wings of your imagination and create mixed-media art inspired by flight.

Art from Nature 9am-12pm; ages 7-12

Did you know you can make paint from berries and spinach? Artwork will be made using the Earth’s natural resources.

Painting and Collage 1-4pm; ages 11 and up

Express your individuality and creative side. Learn a variety of painting techniques and experiment with different media.

BENSON ACADEMY OF DANCE June 10-27

Join Marion Ballet Theatre’s Summer Dance Intensive to take your dance skills to the next level. Ages 6 and up will meet from 10am-5pm.

The Kinder Summer Intensive for ages 4-6 will be 10am-12pm. Dancers will practice ballet/ pointe, modern/contemporary, jazz, tap, musical theatre and yoga. marionballettheatre.org or (352) 629-6155

MARY ELLEN SCHOOL OF DANCE Dates TBD

Week of June 26-30 Space Pirates 9am-4pm; ages 7-14

PERFORMING ARTS CONSERVATORY Dates TBD

Musical Theatre Intensive 9am-4pm; ages 8-14

At PAC, each genre of performing arts will feature its own camp with a new theme each week. pacocala.com or (352) 237-5678

THE DANCE COMPANY OF OCALA

Whether you want to dance like you’re a fairy or a ninja, The Dance Company of Ocala can make it happen this summer! dancecompanyocala.com or (352) 415-3350

Summer Dance Intensive June 26-July 21; 5:30pm-6:30pm; ages 7-13 June 26-July 21; 5:30pm-8:30pm; ages 11 and up Fairytale Camp June 26-30; 9am-12pm, ages 4-9 Pirates and Fairies Camp July 10-14; 9am-12pm, ages 4-9 A variety of evening dance classes throughout July for ages 2 and up

OCALA CIVIC THEATRE

Ready Player One 9am-12pm; ages 8-12 Intro into Musical Theatre 1-4pm; ages 4-7

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The Art of Performing Magic 9am-12pm, 1-4pm; ages 8+

Superhero Boot Camp 9am-12pm; ages 4-7 Dance 101 1-4pm; ages 8-12

Week of June 5-9

› Ocala

Space Pirates 9am-4pm; ages 7-14

No matter what you’re looking for when it comes to dance, there is a little something for everyone this summer at Mary Ellen’s. Times and prices vary. maryellenschoolofdance.com or (352) 732-2030

Children ages 4 and up will experience activities related to music, dance, drama, magic and much more at one of these fun summer camps.

Apprentice-level, intermediate-level and specialty classes are available in a variety of themes in addition to the following performance camps. ocalacivictheatre.com or (352) 236-2274

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Week of June 19-23

Scene Study Intensive 9am-4pm; ages 8-14 Magic Tree House: The Knight at Dawn 9am-4pm; ages 7-14

Week of July 17-21 Comedy Club 9am-12pm; ages 8-12 Oh the Places You’ll Go 9am-12pm; ages 4-7 Fairytales with a Twist 1-4pm; ages 8-12 Disney Mash-up 1-4pm; ages 4-7

Week of July 24-28 Acting for the Stage 9am-12pm; ages 8-12 Padawan Training Camp 9am-12pm; ages 4-7 Jedi Trials 1pm-4pm; ages 8-12 Introduction to Performance 1pm-4pm; ages 4-7

Week of July 31-August 4

Week of June 12-16

Filmmaking 9am-4pm; ages 10-15 Princess Pageant 9am-12pm; ages 4-7

Starfish Circus 9am-4pm; ages 7-18

End the Summer Singing 1-4pm; ages 8-12

See the Ocala Civic Theatre catalogue for more details on summer camps.

MOVIE MAKING MADNESS St. John Lutheran School

May 30-June 2; 9am-12pm

OCALA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY SPORTS CAMPS

OCA will offer several camps to teach the fundamentals of football and basketball. ocalacrusaders.org or (352) 694-4178

Kids who will be in third through eighth grades will create a movie from scratch, including planning, filming and editing. stjohnocala.org or (352) 622-7275

Football Camp May 25-26, 5:30-7:30pm; May 27, 9am-12pm

ARTIST HUB OF OCALA Dates throughout June

Girls’ Basketball Camp Dates TBA

The Artist Hub of Ocala at Brick City Center for the Arts will host a variety of camps for children in kindergarten through ninth grade. Campers will work with pottery, watercolors, acrylics, colored pencil and more. (352) 867-9660 or artisthub1@centurylink.net

PICASSO’S PALETTE June 5-July 28, weekdays only; 9am-12pm, 1-4pm Children ages 5 and up can experience the world through art with a different country and different art projects each week. picassospalette.com or (352) 789-6670

OCALA SUMMER MUSIC CAMP June 5-9; 9am-4:30pm

Hosted by Trinity Catholic High School, this camp will help improve musical skills for any middle or high school student involved with band, choir or color guard. ocalasummermusiccamp.com or director@ocalasummermusiccamp.com

Open to boys and girls entering third through eighth grades

Open to girls entering fifth through ninth grades

Boys’ Basketball Camp Dates TBA

Open to boys entering grades six through 12

SOFTBALL CAMP AT COLLEGE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA (MARTY SMITH SPORTS CAMP)

CF is offering a variety of softball camps for children in middle and high school. cfsoftballcamps.com or (352) 854-2322

Elite Camp August 12; 9am-1pm

and have a lot of fun. foresthighfootball.com or (352) 671-4717 or paul.austin@marion.k12.fl.us

ST. JOHN LUTHERAN SCHOOL SPORTS CAMPS

Campers will have a chance to hone their skills at these camps. stjohnocala.org or (352) 622-7275

Basketball Camp June 5-9; 8am-12pm

Open to kids in third through ninth grades

Volleyball Camp June 11-15; times TBA

Open to kids in third through ninth grades

Mini Cheer Clinic August 2-4; 12-3pm

Open to kids entering first through fifth grades

SKATE-A-WAY SOUTH Dates throughout summer; 7:30am-5:30pm

All skating aside, a day at this camp includes a morning snack, lunch, an afternoon snack, face painting, balloon animals and skating lessons. skateawaysouth.com or (352) 671-8100

Grades six through 12

Youth Camp August 19; 10am-1pm Elementary

Individual Showcase August 26; 8am-2pm Grades nine through 12

VOLLEYBALL CAMP AT COLLEGE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA (MARTY SMITH SPORTS CAMP) Dates TBD

Children ages 6 through 12 will learn techniques such as arm swings and advanced ball control. patriotvolleyballcamps.com or (352) 854-2322

OCALA POWER UNITED VOLLEYBALL Location, dates and times vary

ALL SORTS OF SPORTS BASEBALL CAMP AT COLLEGE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA (MARTY SMITH SPORTS CAMP) June 12-15; July 17-20; 9:30am-4pm

Children ages 6 through 12 will learn position fundamentals, offense, defense, hitting and base running all with daily awards. There will also be daily swimming and movie time. Lunch is included. gocfcamps.com or (352) 854-2322

Ocala Power United will offer volleyball summer camps for children in grades eight and under and a separate program for high school students. ocalapowerunited.com or (352) 351-4837

CAMP PATRIOT BASKETBALL CAMP AT COLLEGE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA Dates TBD

Boys and girls ages 8 through 18 can learn basketball skills and drills. camppatriotbasketball.com or (352) 427-7435

FOREST HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL CAMP June 6-8; 9am-1pm

Children entering second through eighth grades can learn the fundamentals of football, make new friends

ARCHERY CAMP June 26-30; 8am-5pm

This is an exciting camp for children ages 9 to 16. It will teach hand-eye coordination and patience. Different target mediums will be used to make the sport fun and interesting. marionparksrec.org or (352) 671-8560

EN GARDE FENCING CLUB CAMP June 19-23; July 17-21, July 31-August 4; 8am-4pm Learn to fence from a former Ivy League champion and assistant coaches from the University of Florida.

Camp is open to boys and girls ages 8 through 14. engardefencingclub.com or (352) 286-9608

TRINITY CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL CAMP June 12-14, June 19-21; 9am-12pm

Learn the fundamentals, skills and drills of football at this three-day summer camp for kids in grades three through eight. tccelticfootballclub@yahoo.com or (352) 622-9025 MAY ’17 ›

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FRANK DELUCA YMCA SPORTS CAMPS Dates TBA

The YMCA will offer a variety of sports camps, including lacrosse, flag football, soccer, basketball and volleyball. Camps are open to children entering second grade through eighth grade. Each camp runs 8am to 1pm. ymcacentralflorida.com or (352) 368-9622

BALCONY GYMNASTICS Throughout summer, week-long sessions; 7:30am-5:30pm

Kids ages 5 through 12 will receive an introductory look at gymnastics, karate and dance while also playing games and making crafts. balconysports.com or (352) 401-3663

GRACE’FULL GYMNASTICS CAMP June 12-16; July 17-21; 9am-12:30pm

A girl’s camp full of dancing, gymnastics, baton and karate, including snacks and crafts. facebook.com/gracefullgymnastics or (352) 694-3055

SUMMER TENNIS CAMP Week-long sessions between June 5-Aug 4; 10am12pm Players ages 7 and up will improve their foot work, physical conditioning and singles/doubles match play strategy. A team of tennis professionals will teach a variety of drills which will be used to build coordination and skills that will enable students to sustain rallies and improve upon match play. ocalafl.org or (352) 629-8453

FIRST TEE OF GREATER OCALA Dates and times vary depending on age and level.

Kids 5 years and older can learn the game of golf. thefirstteegreaterocala.org or (352) 362-2258

challenges, zip lining and more. marionparksrec.org or (352) 671-8560

FIREWISE NATURE CAMP June 5-9, 12-16, 19-23, 26-30; July 5-7, 10-14, 1721, 24-28; 8am-5pm Firewise Nature Camp at Brick City Adventure Park for children ages 6-12 presents a fun, new nature theme each week that includes a Firewise Community segment. This weekly camp includes hands on activities, arts & crafts projects, hikes and games and is highlighted by guest speakers and weekly field trips. marionparksrec.org or (352) 671-8560

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Activities, adventures, interactive games, sports, arts, crafts, swimming, Lily’s Splash Pad, field trips and more await at this camp for kids ages 6 to 12, which takes place at the Lillian F. Bryant Community Center & Park. ocalafl.org/recpark or (352) 629-2489

KAYAK/PADDLE BOARD CAMP June 19-23; July 24-28; 8am-5pm

Kids ages 10 to 16 will learn the basic skills of kayaking and stand-up paddling. Program is located at Brick City Adventure Park and includes instruction and local outings. ocalafl.org/recpark or (352) 629-2489

2017 OUTDOOR CAMP June 5-9, 12-16, 19-23, 26-30; July 3-8, 10-14, 1721, 24-28; 9am-4pm

This camp features field trips and outdoor activities for kids ages 8 to 12. Themes include “Code Breakers,” “Science Around the World” and “Shark Tank.” The camp takes place at the Discovery Center. ocalafl.org/recpark or (352) 629-2489

Kids ages 9 to 16 will take part in a fun-filled week of outdoor activities at Brick City Adventure Park, including kayaking, paddle boarding, tubing, ropes

MRS. BRYANT’S SIZZLIN’ SUMMER CAMP May 30-July 28; 7:30am-5:30pm

Kids will learn bank/boat fishing, boating safety, handling a small boat, types of tackle, casting tips, knot tying, fish identification, cleaning and preparing fish and fishing rules and etiquette at this camp located at Brick City Adventure Park. All campers will receive a rod and reel, tackle box and tackle. The final day will include a family fish fry. marionparksrec.org or (352) 671-8560

2017 ADVENTURE CAMP May 30-June 2, 5-8, 12-16, 19-23, 26-30; July 3-8, 10-14, 17-21, 24-28; 9am-4pm

EXTREME ADVENTURE CAMP June 12-16; July 17-21; July 31-August 4; 7:30am6pm

Kids ages 6 through 12 will experience a variety of athletic activities, plus field trips and movies, at this camp hosted by Too Your Health Spa. (352) 861-9474

FISH CAMP June 5-9; July 10-14; 8am-5pm

Children ages 11 through 14 will explore a variety of themes, including “Are You Afraid of the Woods?” “Weird Florida,” “Game of Life” and “What’s the Buzz with Bugs.” The camp takes place at the Discovery Center. ocalafl.org/recpark or (352) 629-2489

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

XTREME KIDS SUMMER CAMP May 29-August 4; 6:30am-6pm

OCALA POLICE DEPARTMENT’S P.A.C.C. CAMP June 12-July 21, no camp July 4; 7:30am-5:30pm

Kids ages 6 through 12 can join the Ocala Police Department to learn about safety, D.A.R.E and more.

Frequent field trips are included. The camp is also looking for teens ages 15 and up to assist with the program. ocalapd.com or (352) 369-7133

PERRY’S SWIM SCHOOL Throughout summer; dates and times vary

Perry’s Swim School will teach anyone over the age of 6 months how to swim. Lessons take place in a heated pool. perryswimschool.com or (352) 732-5540

SWIMAMERICA Throughout summer

SwimAmerica will offer swim lessons on the College of Central Florida campus in Ocala. Morning and evening classes available for children and adults. ocalaaquatics.com/swim_america.asp or (352) 804-5438

HAMPTON & JERVEY GANTT AQUATIC FUN CENTER SWIM LESSONS Throughout summer; call for dates and times

Children ages 3 and older can learn to swim by certified swim instructors. ocalafl.org/recpark or (352) 629-2489

JUNIOR LIFEGUARD CAMP June 26-30; July 10-14; 8am-12pm

Kids 11 through 15 years old can learn the basics of being a junior lifeguard. The first session is held at the Jervey Gantt Aquatic FUN Center and the second at the Hampton Aquatic FUN Center. ocalafl.org/recpark or (352) 629-2489

City of Ocala Recreation and Parks

2017

SUMMER CAMPS DISCOVERY CENTER CAMPS Mondays-Fridays | 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. $115/week/member or $125/week/non-member. Registration opens April 15. Extended day available.

CITY KIDS SUMMER CAMP AGES 5-12 (must have completed kindergarten) E.D. Croskey Recreation Center Mondays-Fridays May 30-July 28 | 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

Play.Learn.Create.Discover. Activities, adventures, interactive games, sports, arts, crafts, swimming, field trips and more! $75/ week/camper which includes field trips.

MRS. BRYANT’S SIZZLIN SUMMER CAMP AGES 6-12 (must be entering 7th grade) Lillian F. Bryant Community Center Monday-Fridays May 30-July 28 | 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Play.Learn.Create.Discover. Activities, adventures, interactive games, sports, arts, crafts, swimming, Lily’s Splash Pad, field trips and more! $55/week/child.

ADVENTURE CAMP AGES 8-12 May 30-June 2 | CODE BREAKERS. Decode bar codes, construct a telegraph, make a cipher, read ancient Hieroglyphics and take an adventure through Silver Springs Park.

June 5-8 | SHARK TANK. Polish your skills, create a product, pitch your idea and try to outsell your neighbor.

June 12-16 | POCKET MONSTERS. Let’s use these magical make-believe creatures to inspire a look at taxonomy, evolution, ecosystems and games in our universe. What part and piece of our real world inspired the monsters of Pokemon? To solve the mystery is your cause!

June 19-23 | BACTERIA, BLOOD PRESSURE, BANDAGES AND BIOLOGY. Learn the basics of health care and medicine and run a make-believe emergency room.

June 26-30 | FABULOUS FRACTALS AND AWESOME ART. Explore the world of fractals and play with the repeating nature of patterns in art.

July 3-8 | CSI. Learn the science behind the telltale clues, observation, blood, fingerprints, handwriting, fibers, DNA and more! No class on July 4th, will be prorated.

July 10-14 | SWEET AND SAVORY. Where does chocolate come? What is the buzz on bees?

July 17-21 | SET SAIL WITH THE VIKINGS. Learn about fascinating finds in the desert, the power of water, unique items in faroff lands and play the Viking game: hnfetafl.

July 24-28 | Magical Critters. Learn about hidden pockets of magic in the Muggle World and play some Quidditch too!

OUTDOOR CAMP AGES 11-14 June 5-9 | GAME OF LIFE. Build life skills with finances, relationships with family, friends and yourself.

June 12-16 | WHAT’S THE BUZZ WITH THE BUGS? Step into an entomologist’s shoes and learn about bugs that amaze, scare and help us.

June 19-23 | PET HOSPITAL. Learn what makes the largest horses to the smallest bugs tick and what to do when a pet is bitten by one!

June 26-30 | ARE YOU AFRAID OF THE WOODS? Learn how to build shelter, make a fire and find edible plants.

July 3-7 | ENDLESS WATERS, RIVERS OF TIME. Water shapes and molds Florida’s environment, creating the world’s most unique habitats and creatures.

July 10-14 | WEIRD FLORIDA. Dive into the world of Floridian myths and legends, and use science to explain or debunk them.

CAMP WILDLANDS AGES 14-17 Mondays-Fridays June 12-16 | CRYSTAL RIVER CAMP July 10-14 | ST. AUGUSTINE CAMP July 31-Aug. 4 | PIONEER CAMP Camp Wildlands aims to bridge nature and history creating a greater awareness of the state of Florida and one’s place within it.

Each camp will touch on history, ecology and adventure. Campers will spend two days at Fort King National Historic Landmark in Ocala and the rest of the week off-site adventuring, exploring and camping overnight. Fee is $175/week/camper and includes two nights camping with meals.

All camps, excluding Camp Wildlands, require a one-time registration fee of $25/person.

Register NOW at www.ocalafl.org/recpark

OCALA AQUATICS ADVENTURE SPLASH CAMP June 5-9, 12-16, 19-23, 26-30; July 3-7, 10-14, 1721, 24-28, 31-August 4; 9am-3:30pm

This swim camp for ages 6 through 12 will provide instruction in a number of water activities and water games. ocalaaquatics.com or (352) 873-5811

THE CORNERSTONE SCHOOL STEM DAY CAMP June 5-9, 12-16, 19-23, 26-30; July 10-14, 17-21; 9am-4pm

For children entering kindergarten through fifth grade, this year’s camp brings a different STEM theme each week. Week themes include Robots and Rockets, Creative Chemistry, Construction Junction, Hit the Trail, Funky Food and Body Wars. Water Day Wednesdays will keep campers cool all summer long. thecornerstoneschool.org or (352) 351-8840

IMAGINATION STATION June 5-July 31; 8am-5pm

Campers in kindergarten through second grade will look forward to a variety of fun activities, from reading workshops and puppet shows to movies and water days. imaginationstationocala.com or (352) 622-1206

KINDEROO CHILDREN’S ACADEMY June 1-August 11

MORE SUMMER FUN

ALPHABET LAND LEARNING CENTER June 1-August 11; 6am-6pm

OCALA BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU May 30-August 9; 7am-6pm

BUILDING BLOCKS OF OCALA May 30-August 11; 6am-6pm

MARTIAL ARTS WORLD Starts May 31, 7am-6:30pm

A CHILD’S DELIGHT LEARNING CENTER AT SKATE MANIA Dates throughout summer; 6:30am-6pm

Kids ages 5 through 13 will learn about martial arts, do arts and crafts and experience daily field trips.

There will also be pizza parties. ocalabjj.com or (352) 622-6562

In addition to daily martial arts training, this summer camp includes fun, educational field trips, swimming and trips to the movies. amsmasites.com/AMSWeb/mawofocala/default.htm or (352) 307-0017

FRANK DELUCA YMCA SUMMER CAMPS May 30-August 11; 6:45am-6pm Each week offers a different theme as campers ages 5 through 15 enjoy games, science projects, field trips, singing songs and fitness fun. ymcacentralflorida.com or (352) 368-9622

GRACEWAY ACADEMY CAMP Mid-June through late-July; 8:45am-12:45pm

Kids ages 3 through second grade will love this fun summer camp! Options include one- through four-day sessions. gracewayacademy.org or (352) 629-4523

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This course teaches the rules of the road and safe driving techniques on the street and in the classroom. stjohnocala.org or (352) 622-7275

SONSHINE SUMMER CAMP May 30-June 2, 5-9, 12-16, 19-23, 26-30; July 5-7, 10-14, 17-21, 24-28; 8am-5:30pm Campers ages 5 through 11 will enjoy a week of field trips to the movies theater, museums, zoos, the bowling alley and much more. stjohnocala.org or (352) 622-7275

CITY KIDS SUMMER CAMP May 30-July 28, weekdays only; 7:30am-6pm

Kids ages 5 to 12 (must have completed pre-K) will explore local government in a fun, interactive way at the E.D. Croskey Recreation Center, including games, sports, arts and crafts, swimming and field trips. ocalafl.org/recpark or (352) 629-2489

Kids ages 4 through 9 will learn, play and create through a variety of fun activities. facebook.com/kinderoochildrensacademy or (352) 854-3800

OCALA KARATE DOJO SUMMER CAMP June 5-August 11, weekdays only; 6:45am-6pm Kids ages 5 through 12 can train with national and state champions, take an anti-bully class, go on exciting field trips and visit area parks. ocalakarate.com or (352) 237-9076

DRIVER’S EDUCATION TRAINING June 5-9, 12-16, 19-23, 26-30, July 10-14; 8am2:30pm

Children ages 1 through 12 can join Alphabet Land in having fun with new weekly themes with water days and twice-weekly field trips. alphabetlandlearningcenter.com or (352) 307-2067

This summer program for children in kindergarten through age 12 is chock-full of field trips, martial arts, cheerleading, cooking projects and art. bbopreschool.net or (352) 694-7440 ext. 3501

From skating to swimming, A Child’s Delight Learning Center has summer under control with a plethora of activities. (352) 624-2223

CAMP INVENTION June 12-16; 8:30am-3pm

Held at Grace Christian School, this camp will inspire girls and boys in kindergarten through sixth grade through science and technology. campinvention.org or (800) 968-4332

PLAY ACADEMY Dates throughout summer; 7am-7pm

Join Play Academy for weekly themes, unending fun, games and surprises. Sibling discounts are available. faceboook.com/ocalaplayacademy or (352) 694-1984

FIRST RESPONDER CAMP July 5-7; 8am-5pm

Kids ages 8 through 16 will spend the week learning what it takes to be a firefighter, police officer and EMT. This fun week of interacting with different agencies will give kids an inside look at the training and skills needed to become one of these highly skilled professionals. marionparksrec.org or (352) 671-8560

SUMMER MINI CAMP June 6-July 28, Tuesday-Friday only; 8:30am2:30pm

Campers ages 6 through 12 will enjoy a summer filled with weekly themes, indoor and outdoor games, arts and crafts, library time and water days at this camp located at the Forest Community Center. marionparks.org or (352) 671-8560 or (352) 438-2840

FARM!

Come Visit A Real

'S #1 V Y CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE FOR UPCOMING PROGRAMS & EVENTS:

OPU required club season documents and other general information can all be found on our website at: WWW.OCALAPOWERUNITED.COM.

Parade/Reptile Program

• Summer Day Camp On Thursdays Starting July 6 Through August 3

UNCLE DONALD’S FARM 352-753-2882 • 2713 GrifďŹ n Ave. Lady Lake

www.UncleDonaldsFarm.com

the NEW LOCATION Monke� Ca�e

Family Fun at Family Prices! Call for admission prices and hours.

DOWNTOWN

Spring and Summer amps and linics rivate essons vailable Summer pen ym all ini lub lub Season Tryouts

SUMMER FUN! July 4th Patriotic Animal

Kid’s Boutique & Consignment

514 352-433-2833

352-351-4837 www.ocalapowerunited.com 1433 SW 15th Ave., Ocala, FL 34471

South Magnolia Avenue

SUMMER CAMP FUN AT ST. JOHN LUTHERAN May 30 - June 2

MOVIE MAKING MADNESS entering 3rd-8th graders; 9am-12pm

June 5-9 SAINTS BASKETBALL CAMP

July 17-21

SAINTS BEACH VOLLEYBALL CAMP ages 8-14, entering 3rd-9th graders; 9am-12pm

ages 8-14, entering 3rd-9th graders; 8am-12pm

August 2-4

June 12-16

entering K5-5th graders; 12-3pm

MINI CHEER CLINIC

SAINTS VOLLEYBALL CAMP ages 8-14, entering 3rd-9th graders; 4pm-7pm

DRIVERS EDUCATION CLASSES during June and July

Seating is limited. Please see the registration form online and deliver to the front school office.

Applications for all camps available at the school office or on the website under heading Summer Camps at www.stjohnocala.org

St. John Lutheran School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin.

All registration forms can be found at www.stjohnocala.org under Summer Camps or stop by the school to register. Questions? 352-622-7275 MAY ’17 ›

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UF/IFAS EXTENSION MARION COUNTY 4H SUMMER PROGRAMS

Marion County 4-H offers day camps for different ages with different adventures throughout the summer. kimberly.condurso@marioncountyfl.org or (352) 671-8404

Tech Wizard Camp June 5-9; Monday-Thursday, 8:30am4:30pm; Friday, 8:30am-12pm

Kids will take part in hands-on activities to learn about science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

4-H20 Camp June 12-16; Monday-Thursday, 8:30am4:30pm; Friday, 8:30am-12pm

Kids ages 8 through 18 will learn about marine science, water quality and protecting our natural resources, all while enjoying outdoor activities.

Agriscience Sampler July 19-23; 9am-4pm; Monday-Thursday 8:30am-4:30pm, Friday 8:30am-12pm

Campers will dive into subjects such as cooking, food production, veterinary science, equine science, gardening, agricultural technology, biotechnology and careers in agriculture. Field trips are included.

This week is full of learning and other fun activities such as snorkeling, swimming, recreational games, campfires, camp dance, evening activities and more. Sport-fishing sessions will help youth between the ages of 8 and 13 learn about local fish and how to catch them. Marine education activities will be led by specialists from the University of Florida’s Sea Grant Program and State 4-H Staff.

This camp for kids ages 8 to 13 is full of fun and educational activities such as canoeing, swimming, recreational games, campfires, fishing, a dance and more.

CAMP WILDLANDS June 12-16; July 10-14; July 31-August 4

This co-ed camp, run by the City of Ocala’s Recreation & Parks Department, takes campers ages 14 through 16 on different overnight expeditions each week. Campers will explore Crystal River, Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, Juniper Springs, Silver River State Park, St. Augustine and Anastasia State Park. ocalafl.org/recpark or (352) 629-2489

CAMP KIWANIS June 5-30, weekdays only

CAMP LA-NO-CHE June 4-July 9, weekdays only

Whether with a troop or on your own, boys can take part in this traditional scout camp located in Paisley, south of Ocala. camplanoche.com or (352) 669-8558

CAMP SHALOM June 11-July 7, 9-28

UF/IFAS EXTENSION MARION COUNTY 4-H

Marion County 4-H offers camps for different ages with different adventures throughout the summer. kimberly.condurso@marioncountyfl.org or (352) 671-8404

Marine Camp July 17-21

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Girls in grades first through 12th are welcome to attend full- or half-week camps at Camp Wildwood, a Girl Scouts-run overnight camp, offering swimming, nature activities, barn dances and horseback riding. gswcf.org/summercamp or (813) 281-4475

Gator Adventures July 24-28

Children ages 7 through 13 are invited to this traditional co-ed sleepover camp, full of safe and fun activities, such as swimming, canoeing, games, arts and crafts, and an end-of-camp dance. Camp runs Monday through Friday. campkiwanisocala.com or (352) 236-5401

OVERNIGHT LIFE

CAMP WILDWOOD June 4-July 29

Located in Orange Springs on the edge of the Ocala National Forest, Camp Shalom is a Jewish co-ed overnight camp for kids and teens featuring traditional camp activities such as sports and outdoor recreation. campshalom.net or (352) 546-2223

CAMP KATERI June 4-July 28

Open to all girls in first through 12th grades, each camp session features a different theme, from crafting to celebrations. girlscouts-gateway.org or (877) 764-5237

FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CAMP June 11-16, 18-23, 25-30; July 9-14, 16-21, 23-28

Florida Fish and Wildlife offers a variety of camps throughout the summer for children ages 9 through 14 featuring different adventures, including fishing, archery, hunting and outdoor awareness. myfwc.com or (352) 625-2804

WATER FOWL CAMP July 30-August 4

This camp is best suited for campers ages 15 to 17. The program focuses on waterfowl ecology and management and is for students with a passion for nature, outdoors and hunting. ocalaadventurecamp.com or (352) 625-4475

Editor’s Note: This is not a comprehensive list of summer camps.

We made every attempt to research and contact as many camps as possible and to ensure accurate information was included.

Dates, times, locations and details are subject to change at the camps’ discretion. Please contact the camp directly for up-to-date information.

Montessori P R E PA R ATO R Y S C H O O L O F O C A L A

INSPIRING FUTURE INNOVATORS

INFANT • TODDLER • PRESCHOOL • KINDERGARTEN • ELEMENTARY

For children entering K-6th grade — Led by experienced local educators • Hands-on Fun • Teamwork

• STEM Concepts • Problem Solving

• Design & Build Prototypes

A cceptin g R eg ist rat8ion fo r 2 017- 2 01

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: SPANISH, MUSIC, PIANO, ART, SOCCER

Grace Christian School | June 12 - 16 campinvention.org | 800.968.4332 In partnership with the United States Patent and Trademark Office

352-351-3140

2967 N E S I LV ER S P RI N G S B LV D | O CAL A, F L 3 4 4 7 0 STEP UP SCHOLARSHIP FOR KINDERGARTEN THROUGH 5TH GRADE

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! Ocala BJJ’s 11th Annual Summer Camp registrations are underway. Please don’t delay — spaces are limited. Weekly tuition includes jiu jitsu instruction, daily field trip cost, arts and crafts, afternoon snacks and Friday pizza parties.

Camp runs 5/30 thru 8/9 (all summer) from 7am to 6pm.

We are located 1/3 of a mile east of West Port High School.

Last year’s field trips included: swimming, bowling, movies, as well as touring Golden Flake and the Lubee Bat Conservancy, Sky Zone, UF Museum of Natural History, Wild Waters, ziplining and blackberry picking.

Our daily field trips are legendary and included in the weekly tuition!!!

7365 SW 38th St., #203 Ocala, Fl 34474

352-622-6562 | www.ocalabjj.com MAY ’17 ›

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LIVING TINY Life might just get bigger when your lifestyle becomes smaller.

By Cealia Athanason Photography by John Jernigan

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etting back to simple living and prioritizing experiences over possessions is certainly a growing trend. It’s not just motivated by minimizing one’s belongings, though. For many tiny house owners, it’s about the environment, freedom from debt, self-sufficiency, a simple and more stress-free lifestyle and the ability to travel. The tiny house movement has begun sweeping the nation.

There are tiny house communities and vacation spots, tiny house builders and tiny house festivals.

Whether burdened by repairs or home mortgages, some people consider living in a tiny home to be the way out of a vicious debt cycle. One local couple began a journey toward this simpler way of life by building their own tiny house. Turns out living tiny might just be the ticket to living large.

FINDING FREEDOM

For Robert and Rebekah Sofia, building a tiny house of their own means freedom—freedom from a mortgage, freedom to travel, freedom from stuff.

“We wanted to simplify,” Rebekah says.

There wasn’t one defining moment when they made the decision to build their new mini living quarters. It was more of a natural progression for them. Robert grew up building with his dad, and he and Rebekah have always worked well together—beginning with the remodeling of their first home. With Rebekah’s background in interior and architectural design, Robert’s background in building and remodeling plus their combined artistic talent, the Sofia’s were well-equipped to build the tiny home of their dreams.

“It comes naturally,” Robert says. “Anyone can do it, but a building background helps.”

The Sofias were able to build their tiny home and avoid a house payment. It’s not uncommon for tiny homes to cost well over $40,000, but they were able to complete their whole home for approximately $15,000. The 26-foot-long home is mounted on wheels. The ceiling reaches 13 feet and 3 inches in height, and the home’s width stretches to a mere 8.5 feet. The home has an eclectic European style with splashes of Bohemian elements. And within that small square footage, they’ve managed to create space for everything they need.

Rebekah flips open a notebook full of her watercolor designs for the tiny house. She designed the home, and Robert worked out the structural and building elements. He turned a square window into a round one, built custom furniture and fixtures to fit into small spaces and took on the overall task of building the home’s structure. He even customized a wood-burning oven that contains most of the heat by layering ceramic cloth on the outside of it as an insulator. The outside of the oven is now cool to the touch even when their favorite pizza is cooking.

The Sofias began building their tiny home in October 2015. These two have done everything themselves—salvaging wood and other materials, expanding the trailer base, customizing the layout and more—except for the insulation. They hired someone to come and insulate their home with spray foam. Some of their favorite materials are corrugated

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metal and cypress, and the exterior of the home shows off the metal and cypress combination, accented by buckets of cheerful flowers secured to the front wall.

The large living room windows were salvaged, along with their one-of-a-kind front door. These fixtures allow sunlight to flood the tiny home. That, along with the tall ceiling and light-colored walls, gives the illusion of a much larger space. The Sofias built a loft large enough to fit a queen-size mattress with a few feet of extra space on the side. Rebekah worked it out so they could add shelving to the walls

for extra storage. The staircase leading up to the loft travels along the home’s front inside wall next to the front door.

The actual tiny home needed only a few adjustments to Rebekah’s original designs. When Rebekah was growing up, her dad worked at a paint and wallpaper store, and he would always bring her wallpaper samples. She designed, built and decorated her doll houses using those samples.

Looking back, she admits that even then she’d had a knack for interior design.

The 26-foot-long home is mounted on wheels.

The ceiling reaches 13 feet and 3 inches in height, and the home’s width stretches to a mere 8.5 feet.

Since the beginning of their tiny house project, they’ve put in as much work as their schedule will allow, averaging one to two days per week. With a closer look at the details and custom-built features within their tiny home, it’s obvious they’ve used their time wisely. The curved beams stretching horizontally across the ceiling have gorgeous carvings that were etched in by Rebekah; drawers below the stairwell show off adorable knobs and patterns; the sliding closet doors were made by stretching painted canvas over wooden frames; the mini walk-in shower displays a unique piece of art that the Sofias found; the bathroom floor was made by dropping a box of rocks into wet cement; and the dining room table, bench and living room couch were all built and customized for the space.

It’s truly a work of art and something that Robert and Rebekah have put their hearts and souls into.

When they told their four grown children they were building a tiny house, they were all for it—one of them hoping to also build a tiny house one day. The next step for the Sofias will be tackling their current belongings. They haven’t gotten rid of much yet.

Instead they’re planning to have a huge yard sale.

Rebekah feels they’ll be able to be more creative with fewer belongings—everything will have its own place and purpose.

“I feel free and excited about it,” Rebekah says. “I look forward to decluttering.”

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She and Robert have those small drawers under the stairs, a small pantry, an under-sink area and even one big drawer below the wood-burning oven to store pots, pans and other kitchen items. Rebekah says she won’t have a hard time getting rid of kitchen appliances and cookware to fit in her new kitchen space.

“After cooking for four kids for so many years, I know what I use and don’t use,” she says.

What about photos and sentimental items?

Rebekah plans to save photos digitally and narrow down anything with sentimental value to one box.

Although that may sound like it’s easier said than done, Rebekah is confident that those items won’t be an issue. She says they’ll likely have a more difficult time sifting through all the artwork that both of them have created over the years.

When they move into their tiny home and hit the road, the Sofias will be self-sufficient with a generator, split-unit air conditioner, dual washing machine and dryer and utilities. They also plan to have internet access. They won’t be without a way to support themselves, either. Robert has his own window washing business, and he can continue that anywhere he goes. If needed, Rebekah can work alongside him or work as a design consultant.

When they move, they plan to tow their home and park in RV parks or other designated tiny home communities. One day, Robert would love to live in or even start his own tiny house community.

Rebekah plans to save photos digitally and narrow down anything with sentimental value to one box.

LEARN MORE › Follow Rebekah and Robert on their journey by visiting their website, gypsy-mermaid.com.

Living tiny sounds refreshing, doesn’t it? If you’re ready to take the next step toward building your dream tiny home, look no further than The Trailer Doctor and Design Source International, both located here in Ocala. Rich Missall, owner of The Trailer Doctor, sets up at the Ocala Downtown Market on Saturdays and specializes in metal work, fabrication, welding and all things trailer.

He recently partnered with professional architect Paul James of Design Source International, and they have drawn up plans for their first tiny home. With their combined expertise in design, fabrication and metal work, they plan to build custom tiny homes according to each client’s budget.

Rich and Paul just finished working together on a vintage-style, custom teardrop trailer called the Rum Runner that they had on display at the Ocala Downtown Market. After just a couple of Saturdays there, they already had several people interested in custom projects. Rich is excited about his partnership with Paul and has high expectations for the projects they plan to complete together.

“This one’s going to be special because of the experience,” Rich says about their first tiny house project.

Paul has been designing small homes for years now.

He met Rich through a friend, and they partnered because it just made sense: Paul has the architectural design experience, and Rich has experience in the world of trailers.

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Photo courtesy of Rich Missall

IN OUR OWN BACKYARD

Park Here

Photos on this page courtesy of Rich Missall

Like the Sofias, you may prefer your tiny house to be on wheels. You’ll be free to move around and travel, but you’ll need a place to park at the end of the day. Tiny house communities are sprouting up all over the country, and most RV parks welcome tiny homes, too. Find your next parking spot here:

Years ago, Paul built small homes to help with the housing crisis in Jamaica. He had a factory in Pennsylvania at the time and built twopiece homes they could ship. He spent several years working in Bermuda and previously worked in Florida as well.

“People need their freedom,” he says. “The tinier their home, the tinier their expense.”

Paul understands that often the biggest financial burden of a household is the home itself. He used to design smaller homes to help homeowners avoid the debt cycle that can all too often come with owning a home. He mentions that the average size of a home is approximately 3,000 square feet and usually just holds stuff that isn’t used.

“Think about what space you really need,” Paul says.

Paul has always been interested in Japanese architecture. The minimalist style calls for one space to serve different functions, enabling residents to do more with less. When it comes to tiny homes, Paul explains that the trick to making that small space functional has to do with compressing the most expensive parts to fit the space. This leads to a pricier square footage, but the result is a tiny home that has everything you need.

“I was designing ‘tiny’ before it was cool to,” he says. “It takes a more concerted effort to make small spaces work well.”

Now that the tiny house lifestyle is becoming more popular, Rich and Paul’s tiny house project will likely be the first of many to come.

Orlando Lakefront RV and Tiny Home Community: You can park here for any length of time and even make this community home. It is conveniently located near downtown Orlando and area attractions, and it’s pet friendly. orlandolakefrontth.com

Test Run Before you fully commit to this new way of life, it’s a good idea to try it out first. You can book your next vacation in a stand-alone tiny house or at a tiny house resort. Whether you have a tiny home already or you’ve just started considering one, map out your next adventure with these resources: Tiny House Vacations: Know where you’re vacationing next? Search for a tiny house to rent for your stay. There’s a map of them, too. Your next big road trip could be full of tiny house stops, or, if you don’t want to travel too far, book the Oceanfront Tiny Hammock Cottage in Flagler Beach. tinyhousevacations.com Airbnb: If you’ve used Airbnb, you know it’s the place to go for convenient lodging within your budget. Customize

your preferences in the search bar to find available tiny houses near your next vacation spot. airbnb.com Getaway: There are several tiny house resorts to consider if you’re traveling out of state, but this is one of our favorites.

Getaway has a tiny house resort in both Boston and New York. Pick your tiny house, book it and hit the road. Just be sure to book your stay well in advance, as this resort fills up fast! getaway.house

A Tiny House Of Your Own Build your own tiny house, order one as a template or have one customized just for you.

There are several websites and resources for purchasing a tiny home and having it built to your specifications. We recommend starting your research here: Wheelhaus: Choose a template, add any customizations and work with the Wheelhaus team to perfect your tiny home. They’ll build it and ship it to you within three to four months. wheelhaus.com

Tiny Home Builders: This family-owned company is located nearby in DeLand. They design and build tiny homes on trailers.

They also offer planning and consulting services plus workshops for DIY-ers. tinyhomebuilders.com

Tumbleweed Tiny House Company: Design your dream tiny house right on their website, and receive a free quote.

They can build it for you, or you can use the resources they offer to build it yourself. tumbleweedhouses.com

The Trailer Doctor and Design Source International: Contact locals Rich Missall and Paul James to talk about your tiny home plans. thetrailerdoc.com, designsourcei.com

Gracious Tiny House Park: Located in Okeechobee, you’ll find both waterfront and interior spots available to park your tiny house. This community has a pool, clubhouse, game tables and more available for residents. gracioustinyhousepark.com Tiny House Talk: Search this website for tiny house communities no matter where you live or where you’re planning to go. There are communities all across the country, and Tiny House Talk lists them by state. tinyhousetalk.com/ communities

Tiny Homes, Big Fun You don’t have to be shopping for a tiny house to enjoy a festival full of them. Think: HGTV-like tinies that you get to see in real life. Here’s what’s coming up: 2017 New Jersey Tiny House Festival in Augusta, New Jersey, from June 16 to 18: unitedtinyhouse.com The National Tiny House Jamboree in Colorado Springs, Colorado, from August 4 to 7: tinyhousejamboree.com 2017 Florida Tiny House Festival in Elkton, Florida, from November 17 to 19: floridahistoriccoast.com

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The women on the following pages are the definition of style. Talented, multitasking and thriving in the workplace, they are women you see every day juggling jobs that take diligence, dexterity and business acumen. Whether in stilettos or scrubs, they are masters at what they do.

Ocala Style is proud to give these local women the recognition they deserve.

Here, they share their expertise and offer insight related to their profession.

Let us introduce you to these extraordinary women…

Patricia & Katherine Sokol

Sokol Vineyards Tasting Room — Managing Partners ›

101 E Silver Springs Blvd, Suite 102, Ocala › (352) 528-CORK › sokolvineyards.com

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heir passion for sharing good wine with the community inspired Patricia and Katherine Sokol to create the Sokol Vineyards Tasting Room. This mother-daughter team runs the Tasting Room and Winery, while husband and father, David Sokol, earns the master winemaker title.

Patricia and Katherine maintain an incredible relationship, relying on and complementing each other in their vision for the Tasting Room.

“The Tasting Room is a place for the Ocala community to come together,” Katherine says. “Come relax, unwind, socialize, gather and celebrate.”

Wine: All wine!

Sokol Vineyards’ wine is handcrafted locally from Hobby: Running, camping start to finish, down to placing the labels on the bottles. and traveling Wine-blending techniques also set Sokol Vineyards apart Style: with multiple fermentations of wine in all four blends to be Simple, classic and offered. This is wine Ocala can call its own. mismatched socks

Katherine’s FunFaves

Movie: Sleepless in Seattle 050

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Katherine P.

Glynn

, Esq.

Piccin & Glynn — Attorney

320 NW 3rd Ave., Ocala › (352) 351-5446 › katie@piccinandglynn.com › piccinandglynn.com

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xperience matters. And this couldn’t be truer than when you’re looking for an attorney.

Katie Glynn, who recently rejoined her father, John Piccin, in the practice of law at Piccin & Glynn, has 22 years of experience litigating criminal and civil matters. This father-daughter duo handles personal injury cases, wrongful death, medical malpractice and other cases involving insurance disputes.

Working with a family law firm affords clients a level of personal service and attention that often isn’t possible at large firms that handle thousands of cases all over Florida.

“Our clients know they can call and speak to my father or me at any time,” says Katie.

But Katie most enjoys providing her clients with guidance and stability after a traumatic experience.

“Although settlements and jury verdicts, even the $51.8 million verdict obtained recently for our clients, can’t make injuries disappear or bring back loved ones, these awards are the only way, in our society, to provide compensation and a return of some dignity to those permanently injured through the negligence of others.”

A tip to share with readers?

“Protect yourself by making sure your own automobile insurance policy includes as much stackable uninsured motorist coverage as you can afford. Add this coverage now, before you need it.”

FunFaves Movie: Jason Bourne series Way to relax: Horseback Riding Music artist: Jimmy Buffet Ocala restaurant: Latinos y Mas Season: Spring

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Joan Pletcher Joan Pletcher Real Estate Network

352.347.1777 › Cell: 352.266.9100 › 352.804.8989 › joan@joanpletcher.com

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hey say you’ll never work a day in your life if you love what you do. Real estate expert Joan Pletcher is proof of that. She starts every day before dawn and is on the go seven days a week, but you’ll never hear her complain. Instead she appreciates what life has given her.

“I truly enjoy what I do,” she says. “The best thing about my career is the camaraderie. I build relationships with my clients. It’s my goal to help them achieve their dreams.”

And Joan puts her customers’ needs first.

“It’s all about ‘What can I do for you’,” she says.

“Whether a client is looking for a home, land or a farm, it’s about their families’ needs. What do their children need? What do their horses need? Once we determine the needs, we go to work.”

When Joan moved to Ocala in 1985, she was charmed by the rolling acres of horse country and friendly residents. As an equestrian properties specialist, Joan welcomes visitors to “The Horse Capital of the World” and offers some of the most luxurious and gorgeous properties for current and future residents.

Joan loves the challenge of finding the right property for her buyers and the right buyer for her sellers.

“I do all I can to advertise a client’s home and get the word out there,” she says. “God has a hand in it all, though, too. Sometimes it may take a little bit longer than others, but in the end, we see success.” Joan’s track record is proof of that.

As a horseman’s paradise, Ocala offers an endless assortment of magnificent neighborhoods, horse farms, small serene ranches and equestrian estates and is enhanced by Marion County’s rolling hills and tropical climate.

“But horses aren’t the only draw to Ocala,” Joan says. “Residents can also enjoy all the benefits of hiking, biking or riding on the Florida Greenways and Trails and at the Florida Horse Park. Beautiful estate homes on acreage, gated golf and tennis communities, and neighborhoods with granddaddy oak trees are perfect for someone wanting a relaxed atmosphere for their family to call home.”

And Joan is confident her team can offer you a generous selection of premier options.

“My colleagues and my husband are very supportive,” she says.

“They are with me every step of the way.” And their attention to detail rivals that of Joan’s.

“We are dedicated to actualizing your real estate needs with unparalleled attention and service, whether it’s an equestrian property or a residence for you and your family,” Joan says.

Whether you are already established in Ocala or are interested in making the city your new home, Joan is excited about all that the Ocala/ Marion County area has to offer.

FunFaves Book: Journey to a Better You Vacation destination: Classic Horse Racing Sites TV channel: The Hallmark Channel Dessert: Betty Cakes Sports: Equine Sports, Golf and Fishing MAY ’17 ›

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Dr. Ashley

Cauthen Midstate Skin Institute — Dermatologist

1630 SE 18th St., Ocala, › (352) 512-0092 7550 SW 61st Ave., Suite 1, Ocala, › (352) 732-7337 › midstateskin.com

FunFaves Skincare tip: Sunscreen… daily!

Hobby: Working out Number of kids: Two Dream vacation spot: Too hard!

Left to right: Stacey Klingbeil PA-C, Katie Keel ARNP-C, Ashley Cauthen MD, Melissa Singleton PA-C, Chrissy Mitchell MD

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r. Ashley Cauthen was first drawn to dermatology because of the ability to see what she is treating.

“Patients with dermatologic problems literally wear their illness,” says Cauthen. “Because of this, when I am able to treat or cure a patient’s skin ailment, it makes a dramatic difference not only on their health but also their self-esteem.”

Owning her own practice has its demands, but Cauthen is able to care for her patients the way she wants to—and that’s what makes it all worth it.

She sets up her schedule in a way that allows her to spend quality time with each patient without having to rush.

Just last year, Cauthen expanded with a second location in Jasmine Park.

Because of its exponential growth, she has welcomed a new provider to her team. Dr. Daven Doshi is a dermatologic surgeon who will perform Mohs surgery at the Jasmine Park location.

“This is a great benefit to our patients because they will no longer have to be inconvenienced by being referred out to another physician,” says Cauthen.

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Nancy Porter Lady Jeweler Inc. — Owner

› 315 East Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala › (352) 401-0044 › ladyjeweler.com

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ady Jeweler Nancy Porter uses the latest technology, including custom design software and 3-D printing, to make one-of-a-kind pieces for her clients.

“The benefit to the client is being involved in the design process from start to finish,” she says. And why choose custom? “Custom does not mean more expensive,” explains Nancy. “It just takes a little more time.”

Nancy, a graduate gemologist and master jeweler, opened her fine jewelry boutique in the fall of 1990, and her reputation as a passionate designer continues to grow. Her newly expanded bridal department features hundreds of stunning designs, and she and her staff remain on top of Movie: the latest jewelry trends and attend the best bridal show in Pretty Woman Ocala each year put on by Ocala Style Magazine.

Pet: Stop by today to see why The Lady Jeweler is the hottest Super Cooper, a spot in town to have your jewelry designed or restyled. white labrador

FunFaves

Hobbies: Boating and jet skiing

Waica Micheletti & Evelyn Nussel

The Ivy House — Owners

› 917 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala › (352) 622-5550 › 106 NW Main St., Williston › (352) 528-5410 › ivyhousefl.com

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he Ivy House Restaurants are unique destination establishments, all housed in turn-of-the-century homes. They serve Southern cuisine with an upscale flair—good, wholesome, homemade dishes that have deep roots and are prepared with a lot of love.

“The Ivy House has been family owned and operated for over 24 years,” says Waica Micheletti. “We are blessed to have four generations working. The time spent together gives us a full heart. And we’re happy to announce the Ivy House’s third location as an event venue, now open in Alachua,” says Waica.

Evelyn’s favorite hobby: The ladies of The Ivy House are also proud to give back Shopping to the community through their personal support and with Waica’s favorite hobby: the support of their business. Some of the local charitable Hunting and fishing organizations they support include the Interfaith tea party Evelyn’s favorite movie: event, the Hospice Vintage Gals, Meals on Wheels, Stick a Fork Pretty Woman In Cancer and Kimberly’s Center, among others.

Waica’s favorite movie:

FunFaves

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Dr. Faith Hughes Dr. Carol Clark

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Peterson & Smith Equine Hospital — Veterinarians › 4747 Southwest 60th Avenue, Ocala › (352) 237-6151 › petersonsmith.com

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r. Faith Hughes and Dr. Carol Clark work together to care for the horses in this community. Hughes originally came to Peterson & Smith Equine Hospital because of Ocala’s high concentration of horses with owners who sincerely care about them. At the equine hospital, Hughes performs all types of surgeries but primarily takes on soft tissue surgeries. She is most passionate about treating colic cases whether they require surgery or not.

Most of the year, Hughes will have a small wild animal on her farm that she’s rescued to nurse back to health. She calls her farm Sacred Silence Farm, and both she and Clark have farms of their own.

“I raise show sheep and cattle but also have a collection of old horses, dogs and cats and the occasional orphaned squirrel, rabbit or bird that has special needs,” Hughes says. “All of my horses are rescues.

They are part of my daily existence.”

Between the animals she cares for and the people associated with them, she feels peaceful and confident in her life’s purpose.

Faith’s FunFaves Hobby: Raising sheep Morning person: Definitely!

Favorite music genre: Classic rock Favorite movie: Hidalgo or Happy Feet

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Left to right: Dr. Clark and Dr. Hughes

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Valerie

Dailey Showcase Properties of Central Florida — Owner/Broker

5780 SW 20th St., Ocala › (352) 351-4718 › showcaseocala.com

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alerie Dailey specializes in equine, residential and vacant land properties.

A REALTOR® since 2005, she is now the 2017 President of the Ocala/Marion County Association of REALTORS® and is on the boards of both the Florida 4-H Foundation and the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Alumni.

“Since entering the Thoroughbred breeding industry in 1985, I have bred multiple stakes winners,” Valerie says.

“I have belonged to the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners Association for 13 years and am a current board member. I am also a proud sponsor of many local charities and events, including the Marion Cultural Alliance and the Ocala Culinary Festival.”

Valerie’s deep love of the Marion County area and its unique equine and agricultural industries is the driving force behind her passion for real estate.

“I love helping the community grow by finding the perfect fit for my clients,” she says. “I consider all my clients potential neighbors and friends.”

Not only a sharp real estate agent, Valerie is also an adept businesswoman: She co-owns the world-class boating company Crevalle Boats and has extensive banking experience due to her husband’s position as president of Community Bank and Trust of Florida.

“In my spare time, I especially love fishing, lobstering and traveling. In everything I do, I deeply value the benefits of working and playing hard.”

FunFaves Favorite season: Spring Favorite Ocala restaurant: The Ivy House Dogs or cats: Dogs and horses, of course!

Favorite hobby: Shopping Dream vacation: Swimming with whale sharks MAY ’17 ›

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Mary

en Woofm

Durr Cindy

Wojciechowski Carol

Krokel Showcase Properties of Central Florida— REALTORS®

5780 SW 20th St., Ocala › (352) 351-4718 › showcaseocala.com

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› Ocalastyle .com

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ary Durr, a military veteran, is a REALTOR® passionate about helping everyone, especially veterans, buy or sell at the best price. She has lived in Marion County since 2004, been a REALTOR® for over 17 years and has been in the Thoroughbred business with her husband for two decades.

“My approach to my customers is simple yet intentional: I treat everyone like a member of my own family,” Mary says.

Cindy Wojciechowski is a true entrepreneur, with 30 years in the Thoroughbred industry under her belt. She takes pride in building her business from scratch, which is evident by ranking in the top 1 percent of Ocala/Marion County REALTORS®, even after only having her license for three years.

“I enjoy the opportunities real estate affords to meet new people and make a positive impact on their lives,” Cindy says.

Carol Krokel has 30 years’ experience in the equine industry and loves helping her clients uncover the beauty of horse country, which has been her home for 20 years.

“For me, real estate is all about helping people achieve their dreams and guiding them through one of life’s biggest decisions: finding the perfect home,” Mary’s favorite type of food: Carol says. “Warm and personalized Southern comfort food service is the hallmark of my career as Cindy’s favorite go-to a REALTOR®.”

FunFaves

beverage: Dr. Pepper Carol’s favorite Ocala park: Ocala Horse Park

Mary

O’Neal Jody

Micilcavage Kathy

Prater Showcase Properties of Central Florida— REALTORS®

5780 SW 20th St., Ocala › (352) 351-4718 › showcaseocala.com

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ary O’Neal has been involved in the Ocala equine industry for 18 years and has been a REALTOR® for nearly 15 years. Her passion for real estate lies in meeting the challenge of finding her clients the perfect place to call home. Mary also embraces an active lifestyle.

“I have been active in the Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred industries and have studied ballet in Boston and New York City,” Mary says. “Today, I enjoy sponsoring and participating in charity cycling events.”

Jody Micilcavage fell in love with Ocala when she moved from upstate New York in 1996; she helped found Showcase Properties in 2000 and specializes in golf course and country club properties.

“My real estate business ethos is to never be satisfied until my customers are,” Jody says. “I have served my community in many ways, including on the board of The Ocala Royal Dames for Cancer Research.”

Kathy Prater is a real estate industry pro with over 30 years of experience and believes that honesty and integrity, with a touch of humor, can go a long way in turning a valued client into a friend.

Mary’s favorite hobby: “In addition to helping my clients Cycling.

I try to ride every day! discover Ocala,” Kathy says, “I have served Jody’s favorite Ocala feature: my community as the president of the The beautiful rolling hills Florida Thoroughbred Fillies.”

FunFaves

Kathy’s favorite vacation: St. Augustine

MAY ’17 ›

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Lois J.

Johnson Philanthropist

W

hen Lois was young, her life revolved around family and church. She spent her summers at one of her family seaside homes or on their power boats, while doing charity and cultural activities. Lois, a Boston-born Mayflower descendent, was a professional educator who taught at Tufts, Framingham State and Monmouth University plus in public schools while pursuing a Ph.D. Lois was “State Teacher of the Year” and listed in the Outstanding Elementary Teachers of America.

Her long list of community endeavors include as a member officer and/or director in the Marion County Humane Society, Ocala Symphony, Ocala Royal Dames, Children’s Advocacy Center, American Cancer Society, Women of Worth, Ocala Arts Commission and Ocala Women’s Network. Also, she served as Chair of the Munroe Foundation Board for three years and on the board for six years. Lois was the Founder of Women in Philanthropy, Chair of the Barkitecture Auction, a CF Fellowship Interviewer, committee member of the March of Dimes and a board member of the Community Foundation and of the CF Foundation. She recently received recognition for her support of the Master Choir.

Lois and her husband, Ed, were also the 2013 March of Dimes Couple of the Year. Lois’s professional affiliations include: Mayflower Society, John Aldan Society, Daughters of the American Revolution and PEO. She received special recognition by receiving the “Woman of Distinction” Award from Ocala Women’s Network, “Service Above Self” Award along with her husband from the Rotary Club of Ocala, among others.

FunFaves Favorite hobby: Date night with my husband, Retired Lt. Col. Ed Johnson.

Favorite book: The Power of Positive Thinking

By Norman Vincent Peale Pets: Two beautiful cats Dream vacation: Aruba and Quebec City 060

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FunFaves

Fanny Cruz Tax Pro’s Group — Founder

› 1023 NE 14th St., Ocala › (352) 433-2121 › Facebook.com/TaxProsGroup

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anny Cruz has an opinion about your taxes: Don’t do them on your own.

Fanny, who opened Tax Pro’s Group in 2009, feels everyone should get the help of a professional when they file their taxes, whether you’re the owner of a business or a married couple filing a joint return.

“It’s important to see a tax professional because there are so many deductions that people don’t know about. There are new credits and other considerations every year,” she says.

And although taxes aren’t on anyone’s fun list, Fanny has a knack for making tax preparation a breeze.

“I deal with my clients personally. We’re a family business, so my clients feel comfortable coming to our office, knowing they’re going to get one-on-one attention in a professional ambiance.”

en Woofm

Movie: Frida Ocala restaurant: Bonefish Vacation: Dubai Movie star: Angelina Jolie Coffee or water: Coffee Food: Pizza

Mary Beth Elliott

Roberts Real Estate, Inc. — Broker Associate/REALTOR® › 115 NE 8th Avenue, Ocala › (352) 895-1312 › marybethelliott1@gmail.com

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ary Beth Elliott is an accomplished real estate professional, who has spent the last 13 years developing her multi-million dollar business. She is consistently included in the list of top producers for our area.

“My attention to detail, willingness to accommodate other people’s schedules and care for my clients’ needs are values my customers appreciate in me,” she says.

Mary Beth is highly knowledgeable about the local real estate market and stays up to date on the latest technology to keep her business flowing efficiently.

“Every day being a REALTOR® is a new adventure, and I love sharing our community with those that are new to our area,” she says. “From the lakes and hiking and biking trails to our friendly Food: Sushi and welcoming people, there is something for everyone.”

Hometown: Mary Beth feels blessed to have a career she loves and is Pittsburgh, PA honored to serve her customers.

Sports team: Pittsburgh “At the end of the day, the most important thing is that Steelers, of course! my customers are satisfied and that I have exceeded their Movie: The Wizard of Oz expectations,” she says.

Place in Ocala:

FunFaves

Peacefully kayaking down the Silver River MAY ’17 ›

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Stacy Cruz Magnolia Family Urgent Care Family Nurse Practitioner

› 1490 SE Magnolia Extension, Ocala › (352) 512-9703 › magnoliafamilyurgentcare.com

A

s a board-certified family nurse practitioner, Stacy Cruz enjoys forming relationships with her patients. She and the rest of her staff genuinely care about others.

“I enjoy helping people. That may not always be medically or scientifically,” she says. “Sometimes it’s just lending a listening ear.”

At Magnolia Family Urgent Care, Stacy and her husband, Miguel, an emergency medicine physician, provide an Currently reading: abundance of services, including X-ray and CT scans, fracture A Prayer for Owen Meaney care, IVs, simple surgical procedures and more, not to mention Dream vacation: all of your well and sick visit needs for adults and kids.

Amalfi Coast, Italy “I enjoy meeting new people and their families,” she says.

TV show: “I see patients of all ages and enjoy helping each one feel Game of Thrones better and receive the care they need, regardless of what Place in Ocala: La Cuisine their need may be.”

FunFaves

Hobby: Running Pets: Beagle named Clementine

Monique CarrerasEsq. Monique Carreras Immigration Law Studio — Attorney › 2304 E Robinson Street, Orlando › (407) 413-9814 › Fax (407) 374-1744

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onique Carreras became a lawyer because of her ability to problemsolve for others. She became an immigration lawyer, however, by accident. An early opportunity in law landed her at an immigration law firm where she worked countless hours learning as much as possible. In 2012, she ventured out on her own and hasn’t looked back since.

“I love every part of it,” she says. “I feel passionate about helping others achieve their American dream.”

From those seeking a legal path to citizenship to Pets: companies with a need for foreign employees, Monique’s No pets, two babies that client base is broad. Either way, she gets the job done. keep me busy “My clients feel at ease with me because I am brutally Last book read: honest,” she says. “I don’t tell them what they want to hear; a photography book I tell them what they need to know.”

Hobby:

FunFaves

Photography lessons Movie: Indochine 062

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Jeanne

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Ritt

Southern Charm Realty — Broker/Owner › 1008 NE 2nd Street › (352) 653-3330 › southerncharmocala.com

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t Southern Charm Realty they believe in the quality of the experience for not only their customers but their peers as well.

“This is the No. 1 reason our agents are in the top 1 percentile of income earners in our industry,” says Broker/Owner Jeanne Ritt.

And Southern Charm’s agents are definitely experts in their fields, too. Tasha Osbourne, Ashley Yates and Holly Schmidt are phenomenal with first-time homebuyers, residential and adult-living customers. Pam Allen is Food: Sushi superb in matching the equestrian customer with the Morning or night person: Night perfect farm, and Barbara Obenour-Scully is not only Hobby: Horse showing, golf, a Realtor but a general contractor as well and can help motorcross, shopping, ranch customers design and build their dream home. sorting, crafting, fishing “We contribute our success to our company’s “team Pets: Dogs, horses, chickens approach” that includes a mentoring program to Place in Ocala: Hardrock jumpstart our agents’ careers and an innovative exclusive Motorcross, horse trails, TJ Maxx marketing approach,” says Jeanne. “Call or come by to see Book: What Drives Winning, why our boutique-style agency has risen to the top.

Davinci Code

FunFaves

Left to right: Ashley Yates, Barbara Obenour-Scully, Jeanne M. Ritt, Pam Allen, Tasha Osbourne, Holly Schmidt

MAY ’17 ›

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Betty Lemieux Braised Onion — Owner

› 754 NE 25th Ave., Ocala › (352) 620-9255 › braisedonion.net

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or Betty Lemieux, it’s all about relationships.

Running Braised Onion keeps her busy, but she loves getting to know her patrons as much as she enjoys working with her skilled staff.

Betty and the restaurant team are close, and her daughter, Nicole Lassiter, works right alongside her. This mother-daughter duo has their hands full, although you’ll find them working in a bit of fun whenever they can.

Betty and Nicole are dedicated to offering only the best at Braised Onion, and, with delicious cuisine, a beautiful atmosphere and excellent service, they continue to give that to the community.

FunFaves Food: Steak Vacation: Cruise Children: Four Morning person or night owl: Night owl Artist: Shania Twain Beverage: Coffee or wine

Ometa James Canterfield of Ocala — Wellness Nurse

› 9589 SW Hwy 200, Ocala › (352) 877-7100 › canterfieldofocala.com

F

or Ometa James, tending to and managing the well-being of residents at Canterfield of Ocala, a senior community offering assisted living units and independent living villas, is not only a job, it’s her passion. And when you’re selecting a new home for yourself or a senior loved one, Ometa suggests you focus on the people.

“Look at the staff,” she suggests. “Do they seem warm and inviting? Are the residents happy and interacting with each other? Is the facility clean, secure and well monitored?”

To Ometa, the seniors at Canterfield are so much more than just residents—they’re family.

“I love the fact that I’m given the opportunity to help people every day,” she says. “It’s so rewarding to make a difference in someone’s life.”

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FunFaves Food: Caribbean Hobby: Spending time with family Place to vacation: Ft. Lauderdale Beach

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Diana

Williams Principal Financial Group — Financial Services Representative, Principal Securities Registered Representative, Financial Advisor 50 SE 16th Ave., Ocala › (352) 629-6556

A

s a long-time Ocalan, Diana Williams, financial professional with Principal Financial Group, knows the value of living and working in Marion County.

“My husband’s family enjoys several generations here,” Diana says. “My parents chose Ocala in the ‘70s, so it is no wonder our children feel such a strong foundation and commitment to Ocala. We want what’s best for the families that live and breathe life into this community.”

To make the most out of life, Diana advocates the importance of community service.

“Community service enhances one’s life in many ways,” she says. “There are so many great organizations here—it’s just a matter of awareness and reaching out.

I’ve been a member of the Kiwanis Club for 26 years and am currently involved in the United Way and the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Whatever your skill set, there is an organization that can benefit from your talents.”

Diana also enjoys her career in Ocala.

“Strategies and solutions. That’s what I like most about my career. Whether helping a young family fund their child’s college education, insuring for an unexpected accident or disability, or retiring — financial planning strategies and solutions can help you live your best life.”

Insurance products issued by Principal National Life Insurance Co. (except in NY) and Principal Life Insurance Co. Securities and advisory products offered through Principal Securities, Inc., 800/247-1737, member SIPC. Principal National, Principal Life, and Principal Securities, Inc. are members of the Principal Financial Group®, Des Moines, IA 50392.

Ocala Style is not an affiliate of any company of the Principal Financial Group®. t17041908a6

FunFaves Charity: Ones in defense of the defenseless Food: Fruit Place to shop: Estate sales Animal: Cows and horses Coffee or water: Chai latte

MAY ’17 ›

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Elisha

Lopez Ocala Realty World — Broker/Owner › 2709 SW 27th Ave, Suite 103, Ocala › (352) 789-6746 › email: ocalarealtyworld@gmail.com › ocalarealtyworld.com

E

lisha Lopez says it’s her job to provide her agents with the tools and resources needed to do the best possible job for the buyers and sellers in our marketplace.

“I am so proud to be the broker of my amazing Ocala Realty World agents,” she says. “The opportunity myself and my husband, Luis Lopez, have to teach, train, encourage and support our agents is so rewarding.”

And the duo has reason to be proud. Ocala Realty World had the most Rookies of the Year for the Ocala Marion County Board of Realtors, beating out all other local offices for 2016.

“There is a world of diversity amongst our ORW Team that really unites us together in a love for great results and huge success for our clients and customers in Marion County,” says Elisha.

For agents looking for an opportunity to grow their business, Elisha says Realty World can help.

“Where you hang your license is a difference maker,” she says. “It’s the difference between hoping and waiting for things to happen or actually having the career you always wanted. Our brand is one of high character and professionalism.” Their office utilizes the most trending technology for agents and their customers to encourage a smooth transaction.

“If you’re looking for a positive experience, look no further,” Elisha adds. “Our team supports and encourages one another.”

And if you’re someone who is considering a career in real estate, Elisha is a licensed real Fact: estate instructor.

She’s a Disney fanatic Her next class starts Movie: June 12, and there’s The Notebook no time like the Vacation spot: Disney or present to make a California, the beaches are so positive change in beautiful your life.

FunFaves

Food: Wine and cheese can never go wrong Hobby: Disney, too!

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BENEFICIAL HEARING DID YOU KNOW THAT IT’S NATIONAL BETTER HEARING AND SPEECH MONTH? THIS MAY, BENEFICIAL HEARING AID CENTER IS FOCUSING THEIR EFFORTS ON ENCOURAGING PEOPLE TO GET THEIR HEARING CHECKED EARLY SO THEY CAN BETTER MANAGE THE QUALITY OF LIFE ISSUES THAT OFTEN RESULT FROM UNADDRESSED HEARING LOSS. WHAT HABITS DO YOU ENCOUR AGE FOR PROPER HEARING HEALTH?

It is important to practice good hearing hygiene and use proper hearing protection when exposed to loud levels. Skip the cotton swabs because they may end up pushing wax deeper into the canal, which leads to a wax impaction causing hearing loss, tinnitus and/or pain.

Instead, have a properly trained certified audiologist provide safe, sterilized wax removal to keep your ear canals clear and healthy. You should have an initial comprehensive diagnostic audiological evaluation by a certified audiologist and annual screenings to ensure that you are always hearing your best!

WHO IS AT RISK FOR HEARING LOSS? Many people associate hearing

loss with advanced age but it is also associated with ear infections, childhood diseases, genetics, exposure to loud noise, accidents, head trauma, stroke, even medications to name a few. Two out of

three people with hearing loss are below retirement age.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF HEARING LOSS?

The symptoms of hearing loss include you hear but don’t always understand, people seem to mumble, you frequently ask your spouse or friends to repeat and you have difficulty hearing in a crowd or restaurant. If you see yourself in these statements, you should have a hearing test by a certified audiologist.

WHAT CAN YOU SAY TO ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO SEEK TREATMENT?

Too many people cling to the old, stubborn belief that wearing a hearing aid won’t help fix their hearing problem.

The good news is that hearing loss can be easily diagnosed, and for most people, there are solutions in the form of digitally programmable hearing instruments, many of which are so small and discreet they are invisible. I hope people understand that hearing instruments work better than ever due to continuing advancements in technology and can dramatically improve the quality of their lives.

HOW IS BENEFICIAL HEARING AID CENTER PARTICIPATING IN NATIONAL BETTER HEARING AND SPEECH MONTH?

We are offering a free hearing screening, consultation and demonstration during the month of May. We welcome the opportunity to show you the “beneficial difference” through better hearing.

LEIGH ANN WATTS / DOCTOR OF AUDIOLOGY

352.629.4418 / 1847 SW 1ST AVE., OCALA / BENEFICIALHEARING.COM

Taste The Of

Summer Tip your hat to Florida’s watermelon growers, and enjoy a sweet summertime staple.

BY CYNTHIA MCFARLAND PHOTOS COURTESY OF PHILIP PIETRI, PIETRI PHOTOGRAPHY

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I

n the United States, watermelon is synonymous with summer. What would lazy, hot afternoons spent by the pool be without this popular fruit?

Or wait, is it a vegetable?

Botanists label watermelon a fruit because it is grown from seed, has entirely edible flesh, no core and is the result of fertilization. On the other hand, many people call watermelon a vegetable based on planting and harvesting techniques.

One thing is certain, whatever you call it, watermelon is the country’s most popular melon, with the average American eating 14 to 15 pounds per year. Incredibly hydrating, low in fat and rich in nutritional benefits, watermelons accounted for $2 billion in retail sales in 2016.

Across the Sunshine State, approximately 21,000 acres are used to grow watermelons. Florida is consistently among the country’s top four producers, along with Georgia, Texas and California.

But if you think watermelons are all the same, think again. There are hundreds of varieties.

“About two dozen of those are the most popular commercial types.

Most have been bred from the older heirloom varieties. Today’s watermelons are all hybridized, meaning the varieties are cross-bred to make them hardier,” says Lee Wroten, a third-generation watermelon grower, whose Moorehaven Melons is located in Moorehaven, Florida.

Those varieties have names; some are even named after Kentucky Derbywinning horses, like Secretariat and Charismatic. Here in Florida, types such as Exclamation, Embassy and Super Seedless are popular.

Speaking of seedless watermelons, they accounted for roughly 92 percent of all retail watermelon sales in 2016. Developed in the 1980s, they didn’t start taking off with consumers

until the late 1990s and now make up the bulk of watermelon sales.

“In order to have a seedless watermelon, you have to pollinate that plant with a seeded watermelon,” says Wroten, who compares it to crossing a donkey with a horse to get a mule, which is a sterile hybrid and not able to reproduce itself. It’s the same with seedless watermelons.

In addition to seedless and classic seeded watermelons, there are also mini or “personal” melons that only weigh a few pounds each.

Watermelons with yellow and orange flesh are also gaining in popularity. Typically sweeter than red-fleshed melons, the yellow- and orange-fleshed varieties allow for greater variations in recipes.

Although many watermelon varieties have a similar outer appearance, there are noticeable differences in color (lighter and darker skins), and some are rounder, while others are oblong in shape.

“As a grower and shipper, my personal preference is the more oblong shape,” says Wroten. “They fit better in the bins and seem to hold up better and not bruise as easily as round varieties.

“Our goal is to ship about 4,000 loads each year; a semitruck is one load, and each load holds 56 of those big cardboard watermelon bins you see in the grocery store,” says Wroten, whose Moorehaven Melons farms some 850 acres and, as a broker, also contracts with other growers in Florida and Georgia, for a total of about 3,000 acres in watermelon

production. This extensive acreage is necessary to meet the demands of their retail customers, which include Wal-Mart, Costco, Sam’s Club and others.

Let’s Get Growing

In Florida, the average time from planting to harvest is 90 days, although this varies depending on weather, daylight hours and soil fertility.

Seeds get a protected start in greenhouses in December and are then transplanted into the fields when they are about 2 to 3 inches tall, which is about mid-January in South Florida and early February in Central Florida.

Those tiny seedlings are planted in holes poked into biodegradable black plastic that covers the raised beds, which are approximately eight inches tall and 30 to 36 inches wide. Rows are about 12 feet apart. Eventually, the vines spread out and cover the beds.

“The plastic heats the soil around the plant’s roots to help it grow and keeps the weeds down. It also helps retain moisture, as well as repel moisture from big rains,” notes Wroten.

Growers often plant in fields that are laser leveled with a slight drop every 100 feet so rainwater doesn’t stand in the field.

Given that a watermelon is about 90 percent water, you’d think they love soggy soil, but that’s hardly the case. Wroten notes that watermelons thrive in light, sandy soil.

“Watermelons are really a desert fruit descended from wild melons that grew in the Sahara Desert,” he explains. “Watermelons don’t like ‘wet feet.’ They need a certain amount of water, but too much is detrimental. Watermelon vines have a main tap root and feeder roots. If those get damaged, the plant can’t feed itself properly. Too much water and the melons can soak it up and decay quickly.”

That said, most growers have some form of irrigation so they aren’t wholly dependent upon rainfall. In South Florida, seep irrigation is common, using a system of canals that channel water from Lake Okeechobee into the fields. Farther north in the state, growers use drip or pivot irrigation.

Time For Harvest

When weather patterns are normal, harvest in Florida begins in April (South Florida) and May (Central Florida) and lasts about four weeks. Given this year’s mild winter, Wroten says harvest is a little earlier than normal.

In a world where technology runs so much of our lives, watermelon harvesting has been done the same way for centuries: manually—as in, by hand.

Old, repurposed school buses are commonly used to take the watermelons from the field to the packing facility, although in a few areas, tractors and wagons are still utilized.

One part of the harvesting crew goes ahead in the field, walking the rows and cutting the vines off the ripe melons, then flipping them over “belly up” to indicate they are ready. The “belly” is the pale spot on the underside of the melon where it rested on the ground while growing. When the watermelon is ripe, this spot will be creamy white or pale yellow and the melon has a full, rounded appearance.

The pickers then walk along, forming a human chain, as they pick up the ripe melons and toss them up to handlers in the buses that are driven slowly between the rows.

Once full, the buses head for the packing facility, where melons are off-loaded onto a series of conveyor belts. Dirt is brushed off, and, if necessary, the melons are washed and then graded for quality MAY ’17 ›

069

(and Healthy)

Treat

› Rich in lycopene

(important for cardiovascular and bone health and shown to reduce cancer risk) › Helps reduce

accumulation of fat in the body’s fat cells › Provides anti-

inflammatory and antioxidant support and size. A price-look-up (PLU) sticker is applied to each melon before being placed in a bin for shipping.

The bins are also labeled.

“We have a full traceability program; we can follow every melon through the supply chain. Most larger shippers have this because retailers demand it,” says Wroten. “I can look at the PLU sticker and tell you what day that melon was packed, the lot number it came from and what crew picked it. The label on each bin will tell me what day it was packed, the lot number and what crew packed it.”

Although you might think of them as a Southern crop, watermelons are grown in many states, ranging as far north as Michigan. U.S.-grown watermelons are available May through September, but because you can buy watermelon in the grocery store year-round, other countries must step in to meet the demand.

“In the fall and winter, the melons you see in the grocery stores likely come from Mexico and Central America, primarily Guatemala and Honduras,” says Wroten.

Buying Watermelon

› Functions as a natural

Now that you’re craving sweet, juicy watermelon, it’s time to go shopping. Whether you’re at the grocery store or farmers market, look for a firm watermelon free of bruising, dents or damage. It should feel heavy for its size and have a creamcolored “belly” on the underside.

Don’t rush that melon to the fridge. Whole melons keep best at room temperature for up to 10 days. Of course, once you cut into the watermelon, you should store any leftover fruit in the refrigerator, where it will keep for three to four days.

The average watermelon weighs 20 pounds and about 70 percent of that is edible fruit. (But don’t ignore the rind; you can use it for a “bowl,” pickle it or compost it.)

Always wash the watermelon thoroughly with mild soap and water, and dry it before cutting into it to prevent the knife from contaminating the flesh with bacteria from the outer skin.

Now, dig in and enjoy!

diuretic and helps support kidneys › Rich in potassium

(helps support muscle and nerve function and helps release tension in blood vessels and arteries) › Rich in beta-carotene

(converts to vitamin A and protects against age-related macular degeneration) › Has an alkaline-forming

effect in the body (helps reduce risk of disease) › High in vitamin C

(improves the immune system and aids in healing of wounds)

Watermelon By The Numbers

3,775,910,000:

Total pounds of U.S watermelons produced in 2016

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No. 2:

Where Florida ranked in 2016 U.S. production by pounds

669,890,000:

Pounds of watermelons grown in Florida in 2016

No. 1:

Where Mexico ranks for watermelons imported to United States

1,502,030,000:

Pounds of watermelons grown in Mexico in 2016

Source: watermelon.org

A Sweet

Watermelon 4 Ways Greek Pita Flatbread 4 1 1 2 1⁄4 2 1⁄4 4

wedges seedless watermelon (bite size pieces) cup diced cooked chicken tablespoon chopped cilantro tablespoons Greek yogurt teaspoon garlic salt dash cayenne pepper whole pita breads, halved or whole grain flatbreads cup prepared spreadable herb cheese large lettuce leaves

Place sliced watermelon on paper towels to remove excess liquid. › Mix chicken, cilantro, yogurt, garlic salt and cayenne. › Spread inside surfaces of pita bread halves with herbed cheese, and fill each with about 1/4 cup chicken mixture. › Arrange watermelon and lettuce in pita bread.

Shrimp Pico de Gallo 2 1 3 1 1 1 3 2 2 1⁄4 1

tablespoons canola or vegetable oil tablespoon minced seeded jalapeno tablespoons minced fresh shallots tablespoon minced fresh garlic teaspoon soy sauce teaspoon ground cumin limes (juice squeezed from the limes) cups minced watermelon cups chopped, cooked, cooled, and peeled and deveined shrimp cup chopped fresh parsley cup diced roasted red pepper dash ground black pepper to taste

Heat oil in a heavy non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. › Sauté the jalapeno, shallots and garlic until golden and toasted around the edges. › Remove from heat, and add soy sauce and cumin. › Cool. › Scrape the cooled ingredients into a bowl, and toss with lime juice, watermelon, shrimp, parsley and roasted pepper. › Season with pepper to taste. › Serve with chips and margaritas, fish tacos or atop grilled salmon.

Watermelon Cheesecake Milkshakes 1 1⁄2 cups seedless watermelon, chopped 4 large scoops vanilla ice cream* 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature 3 tablespoons Watermelon Jolly Rancher gelatin granules (Jell-O) 3 teaspoons graham cracker crumbs In a blender, add the watermelon first and then ice cream, cream cheese and gelatin granules; blend. › Pour into glasses, and sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs or add to rim. *For a thicker milkshake, add more ice cream.

Chicken Salad with Watermelon and Peaches 3 1 1⁄2 1

2 2

cups cooked chicken, chopped cup plain yogurt cup mayonnaise teaspoon dried dill leaf or 1 tablespoon fresh-snipped dill fresh-squeezed juice from a lemon (to taste) dash of salt and pepper (to taste) peaches, seeded and chopped cups chopped seeded watermelon

Mix together the chicken, yogurt, mayonnaise, dill, lemon juice, salt and pepper. › Fold in chopped peaches and watermelon, and serve on rolls as sandwiches or as a salad.

Recipes and images courtesy of watermelon.org, where you can find many more recipes and uses for watermelon.

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VEIN FREE SCREENING

Dr. Jay Panchal, MD Sherri Morrison, RN BSN

MEDICALLY SUPERVISED

One-On-One Weekly Counseling

Before During

Now

JERRY MARTIN

90lbs lost & still losing

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2654 SW 32nd Place, Suite 100, Ocala | 352.387.0090

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Ocala Style Magazine and our sister publication, Healthy Living Magazine, are excited to welcome Robin Fannon to our team as our new food and lifestyle contributor. New York City culinary school trained, Robin has more than two decades of experience crafting one-of-a-kind recipes and creating beautifully detailed tablescapes for events big and small. With a specialty in weddings, Robin has planned more than 300 ceremonies and receptions. In the coming issues of Ocala Style and Healthy Living, we will feature Robin’s delicious recipes, table setting ideas and party planning concepts. In the meantime, check out her blog at rsvprobin.com for useful tips, food trends and her recipes, featuring farm-to-table fare, unprocessed whole foods and non-GMO ingredients.

Photo & tablescape by Robin Fannon

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX THE TIMELESSNESS OF TEA W I N E & F I N E FO O D AT F E TA

OU R B E ST R E C I PE S , R E STAU R ANT N E WS AN D CU LI NARY QU I C K B ITE S

Our Favorite Foodie

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Mason Jar Meals Your nana would be proud.

Actually, she’d be over the moon knowing that her adored Mason jars for canning preserves have undergone a striking makeover.

With today’s grab-and-go eating, the Mason jar provides the ideal portable capsule for encouraging healthy, yummy concoctions; conveniently packing and storing several meals at a time; controlling portions; renewing leftovers; tantalizing see-through presentation; and, best of all, saving serious dough.

Instead of “brown bagging it,” try swiveling toward “Mason mastery,” and creatively prep a week’s worth of handy delights. Perfect for work lunches and picnics!

Bacon and Eggs Recipe and photo courtesy of Kelli Battacharjee of Mason Jar Breakfast & More, masonjarbreakfast.com

2 1⁄2 1 1⁄4 1

eggs cup fresh spinach dash, salt and pepper cup shredded cheese slice cooked bacon, crumbled

Mix eggs, salt, pepper, spinach and cheese in a bowl. Pour mixture into a Mason jar. › Cook in microwave from 1:30-2 minutes (checking often). › The egg mixture will puff up during cooking but deflate when removed from the microwave, so don’t be alarmed if you see it rise taller than the jar. › Top with additional cheese and bacon crumbles.

Pina Colada Breakfast Parfait Recipe and photo courtesy of Molly Kumar of Easy Cooking With Molly, easycookingwithmolly.com

1 2 1⁄4 1⁄2 2 4

cup pineapple chunks cups yogurt (plain, flavored or Greek) cup coconut milk, or coconut cream cup granola tablespoons coconut flakes tablespoons chia seeds, optional

In a bowl, whisk coconut milk and chia seeds together. › Allow 30 minutes for chia seeds to soak up coconut milk and expand. › Whisk yogurt. › In a Mason jar, layer as follows: 2 tablespoons soaked chia seeds, 2 tablespoons yogurt, 1 tablespoon pineapple chunks, 1 tablespoon yogurt, 1 tablespoon granola and 1 tablespoon yogurt. › Top with pineapple, granola and coconut flakes.

Strawberry Spinach Chicken Salad

Recipe and photo courtesy of Brittany Mullins of Eating Bird Food, eatingbirdfood.com

6

tablespoons citrus poppy seed dressing 1⁄4 cup red onion slices 1⁄2 cup cucumber slices 4 large strawberries, chopped 1⁄2 cup roasted asparagus, chopped 1⁄4 avocado, chopped 6-8 ounces grilled or baked skinless chicken breast 1 5-ounce bag of spinach 2 tablespoons sliced almonds, toasted

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Citrus Poppy Seed Dressing 1⁄2 1 1⁄2 1⁄4 1 1 1 1 1⁄2

cup fresh grapefruit juice tablespoon maple syrup teaspoon sea salt teaspoon ground pepper teaspoon Dijon mustard clove garlic, minced teaspoon poppy seeds tablespoons olive oil

Make dressing by whisking together all ingredients. (Recipe yields slightly less than 3/4 cup.) › Using two wide-mouth, 32-ounce Mason jars, layer salad ingredients. Start with 3 tablespoons of dressing in each jar, divide remaining salad ingredients in half and layer as follows: onions, cucumbers, strawberries, asparagus, chicken, avocado, spinach and almonds. › When ready to eat, shake jars to distribute dressing.

Cherry Chocolate Chunk Overnight Oatmeal Recipe and photo courtesy of Monica Matheny of The Yummy Life, theyummylife.com

1⁄4 1⁄3 1⁄4 1 1⁄2 1 1⁄2 1 1⁄4

cup uncooked rolled oats cup skim milk cup low-fat Greek yogurt teaspoons dried chia seeds teaspoon honey or preferred sweetener, optional teaspoon vanilla extract tablespoon finely chopped dark chocolate cup chopped cherries, fresh or frozen

In a half-pint (or 1-cup) Mason jar, add oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds, honey and vanilla. › Secure lid onto jar, and shake until mixed thoroughly. › Remove lid, add chopped chocolate and cherries, and stir well. › Fasten lid, and refrigerate overnight or up to three days.

BLUEBERRY COBBLER Recipe and photo courtesy of Chris Ann Brekhus and Kristin Potler of LoveFeast Table, lovefeasttable.com

Filling 1 1⁄2 1⁄2 3 1⁄2 1 2 1⁄2

TASTY TRIVIA: PACKING LUNCHES CAN SAVE UP TO $4,000 ANNUALLY. – INC.COM Mini Jell-O Aquariums

Recipe and photo courtesy of Ashley Swift of Maryland Momma’s Rambles, mommarambles.com

1 2-liter bottle lemonlime soda, flat 4 ounces clear unflavored or fruit juice flavor gelatin 1 bottle blue food coloring 1 bag Life Savers Gummies 1 bag Swedish Fish Pour 1 cup of flat soda into a large bowl. › Sprinkle gelatin evenly over soda, and let

quart and 1 cup fresh blueberries cup sugar cup light brown sugar tablespoons corn starch teaspoon cinnamon teaspoon cardamom tablespoons blackberry sauce lemon, juiced

Topping 1 1⁄2 cups quick cooking oats 1 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup light brown sugar 1 cup chopped pecans 6 tablespoons butter cut into small pieces 6 tablespoons melted butter soften for five minutes. › Prep aquarium “pebbles” by slicing each Life Savers Gummies candy piece into four quarters, and line them at the bottom of each Mason jar. › Pour 2 cups of soda into a small pan over medium heat. › Right before it boils, stir in the softened gelatin for two minutes until completely dissolved. › Remove the pan from heat, add remaining soda and stir in 2 drops of blue food coloring. › Pour gelatin liquid into Mason jars, and chill for several hours or overnight to firmly set. › Cut slits in the gelatin with a knife, and randomly push in gummy fish. › Serve within 6 hours.

Preheat oven to 375°F. › Toss together all filling ingredients in a large bowl. › Place in pint-size Mason jars. › In a separate bowl, blend oats, flour, sugar and pecans. › Add 6 tablespoons of cut butter to mixture, and “cut in” using a pastry cutter. › Pour in melted butter, and toss with a fork. › Divide mixture evenly among Mason jars, placing on top of blueberries. › Bake for 20 minutes in a convection oven or 30 minutes in regular oven. › Top with homemade whipped cream. *Receive 15 percent discount at lovefeastshop.com using promo code: OCALA15.

Mason Management Tips • SALADS: Line bottom of jar with dressing, and leave clearance at top to allow for shaking and mixing. To prevent food wilting, layer the heaviest, densest items next and lightest, most fragile at top.

• MICROWAVE: Monitor progress as the jar heats, and carefully remove from microwave using a protective mitt.

• BAKE: For safety, bloggers

begin heating at a lower oven temperature and gradually increase.

• STORE: Replace with new lids frequently to ensure secure, safe storage. Most items can stay fresh in the refrigerator for five days.

• DRINKS TO GO: Your own portable happy hour can include cocktails, punches, smoothies, iced coffees and infused waters.

suggest placing jars in a pan filled with water, MAY ’17 ›

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Tea Time For centuries, people have been using plants and herbs in the form of teas to treat everything from mild colds and headaches to more complex conditions.

Check out some popular brews and what they’re good for—besides quenching your thirst.

PASSIONFLOWER TEA: This tea boasts antianxiety properties because of the flavone chrysin. If you’re dealing with obsessive thoughts, this tea may help. Enjoy a cup of passionflower tea an hour or so before bed to reap the best benefits. If you’re not a fan, chamomile tea has similar properties that promote relaxation.

WHITE TEA: This less processed tea contains ECGC, an antioxidant that’s been known to fight signs of aging, including wrinkles. Perhaps more important, though, because it’s less processed, some research indicates that white tea has the most potent anti-cancer properties when it comes to tea, including fighting colon and other types of cancer.

GREEN TEA: Perhaps the most researched tea, green tea offers plenty of health benefits. The antioxidants may inhibit the growth of stomach, colorectal, pancreatic, breast, lung and bladder cancer. It also helps to keep arteries open, burns fat, reduces the risk of neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, improves overall cholesterol numbers, reduces the risk of stroke and more. Whew!

Have you added it to your grocery list yet? We have.

BLACK TEA: Got bad breath? Get black tea! Black tea’s polyphenols can actually prevent plaque from adhering to your teeth, and everyone knows plaque can lead to less than stellar breath. Black tea also prohibits bacterial growth in the mouth, another leading cause of stinky breath. And if that’s not enough, black tea may also reduce the risk of stroke and protect the lungs from exposure to cigarette smoke.

NETTLE TEA: Hard to believe that nasty little weed in your yard that inflicts so much pain if accidentally stepped on has medicinal benefits.

Apparently, though, nettle has antihistamine properties and can reduce the symptoms of allergies like itchy eyes, sneezing and nasal stuffiness. Research how to properly brew the tea, and add lime or lemon to make it taste refreshing and light.

PEPPERMINT TEA: It’s pretty well known that peppermint can help alleviate various stomach ailments. Peppermint tea is no different. Upset tummy or feeling constipated? Try some yummy peppermint tea to get everything back on track.

OOLONG TEA: Looking to supplement your workout routine? Oolong tea contains the antioxidant catechin, which when combined with caffeine (in the tea) increases your metabolism and boosts fat burning. Oolong tea also contains polyphenols that are capable of blocking fat-building enzymes.

We say it’s worth a shot! Just go easy on the sugar or you’ll negate any fatburning benefits.

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When stone-fired pizza rises from the oven, that’s amore. Piesanos celebrated its grand opening in April. This locally owned restaurant, however, is not new to the scene. With three competing locations in Gainesville since 2009, they have perfected their style. Their gourmet, specialty dough is made fresh daily and baked in a unique granite stone-fired oven. Try the Palmero Special, a pizza with sausage, onions, spicy Calabrese peppers and fresh garlic. If pizza isn’t your preference, the scampi ravioli with cheese-stuffed ravioli sautéed with shrimp, sundried tomatoes and basil tossed in a lemon garlic butter sauce aims to impress. Open SaturdayThursday 11am-10pm and Friday 11am11pm. › 2575 SW 42nd Street, Ocala in the Grand Oaks Town Center › (352) 351-6000 › piesanostogo.com

Smoothie King › Ready, set, sip!

Smoothie King recently launched a new menu item geared toward gym junkies looking for a post-workout smoothie to help repair and promote lean muscle.

“The Activator” smoothie contains the protein you need to tone and strengthen muscle with its naturally hydrating fruits and coconut water. The tasty treat is available for order in four different flavors: strawberry banana, blueberry strawberry, pineapple and chocolate. Grab those weights—you have a new smoothie to try! Open Monday-Thursday 7am-9pm, FridaySaturday 7a-10p and Sun 9a-8p › 2708 SW College Road, Ocala › (352) 624-4001 › smoothieking.com

Craft Cuisine › New from the

founders of Ocala’s Latinos Y Mas and Ipanema comes Craft Cuisine, a fusion restaurant offering handcrafted food and cocktails. The establishment opened in December 2016 and has quickly won over the palates of local foodies. At Craft Cuisine, there’s a selection of great salads, soups, sandwiches and light dishes for lunch. A variety of dinner entrées and homemade desserts are also available. Don’t leave without trying Continued on p.78

› DINING GUIDE

Book your party at Tony’s today.

Gift cards available.

Tony’s Sushi & Steakhouse

3405 SW College Road, Ocala › (352) 237-3151 › tonysushi.com Mon-Thu 11a-10p › Fri & Sat 11a-11p › Sun Noon-10p With abundant menu choices and over 100 off-menu rolls, you certainly won’t run out of options at Tony’s Sushi. If you can’t decide, the waitstaff is excellent at suggesting items you’re sure to enjoy. Every roll and sushi dish is made to order from the freshest ingredients. In the steakhouse area, highly trained chefs prepare a memorable meal as they cook on the tableside grills, preparing chicken, steak or seafood just the way you like it. Entrées include soup or salad and rice. Family-friendly, casual atmosphere, along with a full bar, including imported Japanese sake and beer selections.

Dine with us in the most elegant and elaborate dining room in Ocala—perfect for a romantic dinner experience to remember. Taste Brazil!

Happy Hour Tue-Fri 5-7p

Come share your Mother’s Day with us on May 14th. Our special mother, “Mimi,” would like to invite you to treat your special mother to a lovely dining experience at the Ivy House.

Reservations only.

For information on catering, contact Waica or Evelyn at wmhivyhouse@yahoo.com.

Ipanema Brazilian Steak House

2023 South Pine Avenue, Ocala › (352) 622-1741 › ipanemaocala.com Dinner Tue-Thu 5-9p, Fri & Sat 5-10p, Sun 4-9p › Lunch Fri 11a-2:30p Brunch Sun 12-3p › 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 12 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 Ortencia DeAlmeida invites you to embrace the flavors of her homeland and experience the magnetism of Ipanema for yourself. Become a fan of Ipanema on Facebook at facebook.com/ipanemasteakhouse. Great discounts online!

The Ivy House Restaurant

917 E. Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala › (352) 622-5550 Sun & Tue 11a-2p › Wed & Thu 11a-8p › Fri & Sat 11a-8:30p › Closed Mon 106 NW Main St, Williston › (352) 528-5410 Sun-Wed 11a-2p › Thu-Sat 11a-8p › ivyhousefl.com “Come on home, it’s supper time!” is our motto. We want you to feel you have come to our house to eat. The family-owned Ivy House Restaurant now has two locations, Williston and Ocala. The downtown Ocala location has added several specialty items, and the restaurant has been named by Florida Trend as one of the “Top 500 Best Places to Eat in the State” for several years. Specials include Southern Fried Lobster, delicious Hand-Cut Steaks and our famous Baked Krispy Chicken. Trying our delicious homemade desserts like the Key Lime Pie or Chocolate Midnight Cake is a must when dining here.

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the coconut flan infused with Malibu Coconut Rum and shredded coconut.

Open Monday-Thursday 11am-9pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-10pm and closed Sunday. › 2237 SW 19th Avenue Road, Suite 102, Ocala › (352) 237-7300 › craftcuisineocala.com

Walmart › Touted as the “largest

An International Taste

At Feta, ancient wines meet local cuisine. › By Sean Trapani

F

or wine lovers, few things are more satisfying than discovering a world-class wine in an unexpected place. Thus, it may bring a smile to many faces to learn that some extraordinary old-world wines can now be found at the popular downtown eatery Feta Mediterranean Cuisine.

Among the many wine-list gems is Thalassitus, a dry, spell-binding blend of honey, nuts, wet stone and citrus. The wine is a favorite of Master Sommelier Yoon Ha (who rated it 91 points on Delectable), and it pairs wonderfully with many dishes on the Feta menu, especially seafood dishes, such as mussels.

Another sublime pairing for dry white wine enthusiasts is the Gaia Wild Ferment paired with the Gulf Yellow Tail and Cedar Key clams (a dish swimming in a savory broth of dill and saffron). This wine features a tricky-to-pronounce, but ancient grape, Assyrtiko (a-SEER-tee-ko) that tastes of lemon and quince with an assertive, oak-forward attack.

Curating the wine list is Feta owner and chef Dimitri Pomakis. For Dimitri, sharing the wines of his native

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Dimitri Pomakis

Greece with the Ocala community is a growing passion, even if the names are unfamiliar.

“The wine names can be tricky,” Dimitri admits. “But there are many common flavor threads with the food and wines people already love.”

For red wine fans, there is the Thema, a dark, tantalizing blend of Syrah and Agiorgitiko (a-your-HEE-tee-ko). This dry, plummy, cherried wine offers an ideal balance of fruit and tannins that refresh the palate after each rich morsel of savory lamb.

Cabernet Sauvignon lover? Try the Semeli Red from Peloponnese, Greece, a wine bursting with fresh red fruits, spice and oak-borne vanilla.

Beyond the Greek shores, one can enjoy a bold, super-premium Napa cab, an elegant Chateauneuf du Pape or an expressive Rioja, to mention a few. For the budget diner, there are several everyday table wine options, including easy-to-quaff Italian house wines, a semi-sweet Riesling and an approachable Argentinian Cab Sav. But when in Rome (or Greece), chefs and sommeliers implore us to embrace the culture and experience regional food

with their local wines. Dimitri put wines from around the world on his list. But his unique gift to our community is sharing how Greek cooking can be elevated to the sublime with the right Greek wine.

One note of playful caution, though: While the Greek wine Retsina (retSEEN-a) may be the most popular wine on the Feta menu, it is a unique experience to the uninitiated. This dry, crisp white wine presents the unmistakable flavor of lavender and pine needles. Some love it. Some run from it. This said, if you think Retsina is the only Greek wine in the world, you should stop in your tracks and run back to Feta.

“You can expect more premium wines coming soon,” said Dimitri. “We are very excited about our new menu, especially our wines.”

Learn more › For reservations or to reserve the lovely upstairs dining area for special events, call (352) 433-4328 or visit facebook.com/fetacuisine.

grocer in the United States,” Walmart has announced the launch of its online grocery pick-up service at three Ocalaarea stores.

Choose from a variety of over 30,000 items, including fresh produce, meats and organic groceries. Visit walmart.com/grocery or the Walmart Grocery mobile app and enter your ZIP code. Once you’ve created a shopping list, a highly trained personal shopper will carefully gather your requested items and promptly deliver them to your car at a time convenient for you. The reserved parking area ensures fast service to get you in and then out! Locations include › Walmart Neighborhood Market, 7855 SW Highway 200, Ocala › Walmart Supercenter, 34 Bahia Avenue, Ocala › Walmart Supercenter, 17961 S U.S. Highway 441, Summerfield

Fox Den Tavern › Located in the

heart of historic downtown Ocala is the Fox Den Tavern. Just like the name would indicate, this restaurant and wine bar is both cozy and welcoming.

Their cuisine is international, offering American, Polish, Asian, Italian and Korean menu items. From handmade pierogis to New Orleans-style chicken and seafood paella with a Korean flair, owners Robert and Yong Madys have been cooking for decades. Originally from Poland and South Korea, the Madys are bringing their favorite flavors to us here in Ocala. Open TuesdaySaturday 5-11pm and closed Sunday and Monday. › 128 SW Broadway Street, Ocala › (352) 622-1919 › Find them on Facebook

› DINING GUIDE

Come enjoy our brand-new tapas menu available exclusively at the bar. Monday through Saturday, 3-7pm for $7.

Full-service catering also available.

Additional parking in rear.

Mesa de Notte

2436 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala › (352) 732-4737 › mesaocala.com Mon-Thu 11a-9p › Fri & Sat 11a-10p › Closed Sun Ready to celebrate the women in your life?

Mesa de Notte is serving a Mother’s Day buffet Sunday, May 14 from 11am-8pm. Entrées include: chicken marsala, champagne salmon, seafood ravioli, lasagna, eggplant rollatini, prime rib and rosemary and garlic leg of lamb, as well as antipasto, salads and desserts.

Don’t forget to make your reservations today!

Need a boost? The coffee, tea, cold drinks and eats at Chelsea Coffee Company will do the trick.

Chelsea Coffee Company 3217 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala (352) 351-5282 › chelseacoffeecompany.com Mon-Fri 6a-7p › Sat 7a-7p › Sun 8a-6p

Start every day off right with the high energy, super greens and whey protein smoothies at Chelsea Coffee Company. Brewed coffee, espressos, lattes and cappuccinos are on the menu for coffee lovers, and this company promises to pour only the finest coffee into your cup. Their signature morning blend of coffee is a fairly traded one from Sweetwater Organic Coffee Roasters. Loose leaf and bagged teas are also on the list of must-haves. There are six different types of bagged teas and eight loose leaf teas to choose from. Enjoy the cozy and friendly atmosphere, and grab a bite to eat from their breakfast, lunch or bakery offerings. Cold beverages––including iced coffees, French and Italian sodas, iced teas and chillers––are served, as well.

Happy hour 3-6p every day We also offer outside dining Call-ahead seating available Reservations accepted for parties of nine or more.

Check our website for a full menu and daily specials, or look us up on Facebook.

Lighthouse Point Bar & Grille 925 Lake Shore Dr., The Villages, FL (352) 753-7800 › lighthousepointbarandgrille.com Sun-Thu 11a-9p › Fri-Sat 11a-Midnight

Lighthouse Point Bar & Grille is the place to be this month. We’re in the center of The Villages in Lake Sumter Landing off the boardwalk, and we’re ready to show you a great time! Come on out May 5 to help us celebrate Cinco De Mayo. Enjoy specials like Coronaritas, Loaded Taco Salad and Lobster Tacos. Fiesta! Don’t forget to bring your mothers in on May 14 to celebrate Mother’s Day with Passion Fruit Bellini and Mahi Mahi. On May 29, join us for a memorable Memorial Day. We will be serving hotdogs, hamburger sliders and fried fish— all served with potato salad and fresh watermelon for only $5.99.

This is in addition to happy hour all day! So mark your calendars and join Lighthouse Point Bar & Grille for lots of great food and fun.

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Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille

24 SE 1st Avenue, Ocala › (352) 840-0900 › hookedonharrys.com Mon-Thu 11a-10p › Fri & Sat 11a-11p › Sun 11a-9p Located in the heart of downtown Ocala, Harry’s offers traditional Louisiana favorites like Shrimp and Scallop Orleans, Crawfish Etouffée, Jambalaya, Shrimp Creole, Blackened Red Fish, Louisiana Shrimp and Southern Grouper Fingers (as pictured). Other favorites, like Harry’s Signature Crab Cakes and Bourbon Street Salmon, are complemented with grilled steaks, chicken, burgers, po’ boy sandwiches and salads. Their full bar features Harry’s Signature Cocktails, such as the Harry’s Hurricane, Bayou Bloody Mary or the new Southern Mule. They also feature wines by the glass and a wide selection of imported, domestic and craft beer.

Harry’s menu is sure to have something for everyone!

West 82º Bar & Grill

9301 W Fort Island Trail, Crystal River › (352) 795-4211 ext. 311 › plantationoncrystalriver.com/restaurant-and-bars.htm Breakfast: daily 6-10:30a › Lunch: Mon-Sat 11:30a-2p Dinner: daily 5-9p › Sunday Brunch: 11:30a-2pm Experience authentic Florida cuisine at the Plantation on Crystal River. Just off our lobby is the West 82º Bar & Grill, where you’ll find top-notch recipes in a relaxing setting along Kings Bay. Holding true to our reputation of genuine Southern hospitality and attention to detail, all our entrées are prepared with the finest natural—and, whenever possible, local—ingredients. Join us Sundays for our delicious brunch, featuring traditional breakfast favorites. Overlooking Kings Bay and Crystal River, the West 82º Bar & Grill provides a special place to enjoy dining with your friends and family.

Jersey Mike’s Subs

2602 SE 19th Ave Rd, Ocala › (352) 236-6809 8075 SW SR 200 Suite 121 (Publix Plaza), Ocala › (352) 304-8781 Sun-Sat 10a-9p › jerseymikes.com At Jersey Mike’s we offer a sub above. We carefully consider every aspect of what we do—every slice, every sandwich, every store. We provide our customers with sustenance and substance, too. We start with a strong foundation: the kind of high-grade ingredients you’d use yourself—premium meats sliced on the spot, the freshest vegetables, a hot grill always ready and delectable bread baked throughout the day.

Jersey Mike’s is a brand that believes: in the value of ingredients, in the virtue of intention and in the idea that making a sub sandwich and making a difference can be one and the same.

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Happy Hour Specials: 2-7p every day, $3 Draft Beer $4 House Wine & Premium Cocktails $5 Super Premium & Signature Cocktails Every Tuesday is Fat Tuesday at Harry’s.

Happy Hour all day long!

At our Sunday brunch, enjoy our chef’s specialty dinner selections, including an impressive assortment of fresh salads, peel and eat shrimp, and the chefattended carving station... not to mention the best part... dessert!

Find us on Facebook for up-to-date info on special events.

Avoid the line! View our menu and order online at jerseymikes.com.

Sign up online for our Shore Points Rewards to earn free subs and get great offers.

› DINING GUIDE

Looking to make your next event extra special? Brooklyn’s caters—holidays, weddings, parties, office lunches—we got you covered! Live music on Fridays!

Family owned & operated.

Brooklyn’s Backyard—Good beer, better food!

Early Bird daily 4:30-7pm Check out our sushi bar.

Serving Ocala since 1986!

Ask about our lunch specials!

Brooklyn’s Backyard

2019 E Silver Springs Boulevard, Suite #102, Ocala › (352) 304-6292 brooklynsbackyard.com Sun 11a-8p › Mon-Wed 11a-9p › Thu-Sat 11a-whenever Head down to the “Yard” for fresh food and fun in a relaxed, backyard atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for finger foods or something exotic, they’ve got it, and it’s delicious! Try one of their unique burger creations or their award-winning wings. Want pizza? They’ve got it, NY style, plus a full range of fresh salads, sandwiches and entrées sure to suit everyone! There’s beer, wine and a full liquor bar in the “Yard,” too—over 40 craft beers, craft cocktails and a great selection of wines, all sure to perfectly complement your meal! Come join us for Sunday brunch from 11a-2p with $10 bottomless Mimosas and $5 Bloody Marys.

Kotobuki Japanese Restaurant

2463 SW 27th Avenue, Ocala › (352) 237-3900 › kotobukiocala.com Lunch: Tue-Fri 11:30a-2p Dinner: Tue-Thu 4:30-9:30p › Fri & Sat 4:30-10:30p › Mon & Sun 4:30-9:30p For an authentic Japanese meal in an award-winning restaurant that has been serving Ocala since 1986, try Kotobuki. Enjoy traditional Japanese favorites like tempura, teriyaki and broiled seafood and vegetables. For a memorable experience, gather around the hot grill and watch as your chef prepares steak, chicken and seafood favorites right before your eyes.

Get the VIP treatment. Check out our specials!

Be sure to visit us at the Canopy Oaks Center.

Pavarotti’s also caters.

All-You-Can-Eat Mon: Spaghetti and Meatballs $6.99 Tue: 16” Cheese Pizza $7.99 Wed: 10 Chicken Wings $5.

Happy Mother’s Day!

PAVAROTTI’S

Pavarotti’s Pizza & Restaurant

8075 SW HWY 200, Canopy Oaks Center, Ocala › (352) 291-9424 Mon-Thu 11a-9p › Fri-Sat 11a-10p › Sun 11a-8p

Pavarotti’s Pizza and Restaurant in Ocala is known for its famous, old-fashioned pizzas, hand-tossed and baked on a stone deck oven. Try the array of classic Italian entrées, fresh salads and subs, and hearty pasta dinners. Veal or chicken is served Parmigiana, Marsala or picatta style, and the seafood dishes are served fresh over linguini. Pizza lovers can’t get enough of the homemade pies, and don’t forget about the subs, stromboli and calzones!

Pizza & Restaurant

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› DINING GUIDE

Fish Hawk Spirits

21 SW 2nd St., Gainesville › (352) 792-6699 › fishhawkspirits.com › Mon & Tues Private Tastings › Wed-Fri 4p-10p › Sat 1p-10p › Sun 4p-10p Craft spirits—what does that mean? At Fish Hawk Spirits, the philosophy is about doing business with their neighbors while pursuing quality in their finished spirits. Their spirits are made from locally sourced, all-natural raw materials. They consider themselves makers of fine, handcrafted spirits. They distill every drop, capturing the essence of Florida from the ingredients grown here. They source materials first from Marion County and then from Florida and, if necessary, from other U.S. producers. Every drop of their tangerine brandy, Marion Black 106, began as a blossom on a tangerine tree in a Florida grove—just like their blueberry products are made from the blueberries grown at Island Grove Winery and their whiskey from corn and oats grown in Florida.

Eaton’s Beach Sandbar & Steam Shack 15790 SE 134th Avenue, Weirsdale (352) 259-2444 › eatonsbeach.com Mon-Sat 12-8pm, Sunday 12-7pm

The Steam Shack at Eaton’s Beach is all about casual dining, a beachside atmosphere and fresh, delicious food. Sure, they have tasty sandwiches and appetizers, but the main focus is on the steamed shrimp, crab legs, crawfish and other seafood offerings.

After spending a hot day on the beach or in the water at Lake Weir, guests can feel comfortable ordering in flip flops and a bathing suit.

Or are you headed to Eaton’s Beach for an evening out with friends after work? Stop at the Steam Shack first for a drink and appetizer while waiting for your table.

Chefs of Napoli Ristorante Italiano

5400 SW College Rd, Ocala › (352) 857-8111 Mon-Thu 11a-9p › Fri 11a-10p › Sat 12-10p › Sun 12-9pm thechefsofnapoli.com

Chefs of Napoli is proud to bring an authentic Italian dining experience to Ocala, featuring the restaurant’s fresh, delicious made-to-order cuisine. From the walls to the ceilings, the atmosphere is designed to transport you to the sunny hills of Tuscany, where you can satisfy your taste buds with a Neapolitanstyle pizza pie or a chicken or veal entrée, such as the Pollo all Parmigiana or the Vitello all a Picatta. A vast selection of imported wines will complement your entrées perfectly. In the mood for seafood? The fresh seafood options at Chefs of Napoli, such as the Pescatore and Gamberi in Bianco. Come out and enjoy the ultimate Italian dining experience at Chefs of Napoli!

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We make the Spirits of Florida!

Fish Hawk Spirits @Fishhawkspirits @Fishhawkdistill

Beer and wine are available, and the Sandbar is just steps away for specialty drink orders.

Buy $100 in gift cards and receive a $25 bonus card for yourself, while supplies last.

The newest Chefs of Napoli location that is now open in Ocala! Traveling around Central Florida? Check out the locations in Spring Hill and The Villages, too! Catering is always available at all locations.

Happy Mother’s Day!

› DINING GUIDE

Come join us for our Mother’s Day Brunch on Sunday May 14. Reservations available from 11:30am to 5:30pm.

Highly recommended!

Celebrate the BIG party with us on CINCO DE MAYO. Trivia Night every Thursday, 7-9pm (Silver Springs Blvd. location) Mariachi band every Thursday at the 200 location, 6-9pm Wishing all mom a Happy Mother’s Day!

Braised Onion Restaurant

754 NE 25th Ave, Ocala › (352) 620-9255 Tue-Thu 11a-9p › Fri & Sat 11a-10p › Sun 11a-8p › Closed Mon Braised Onion Restaurant, where you’ll experience “Comfort Food With Attitude” in a fun, warm and colorful but casual atmosphere, is open for lunch and dinner. Winner of Culinary Combat and four-time winner of Taste of Ocala, including 2017 winner of ‘Best Dessert’. From country-fried tenderloin and Kentucky hot brown melt to the eggplant parmigiana or the frenched pork chop, the menu options are plentiful and guaranteed to make your taste buds explode with happiness. Don’t forget dessert! Including the prize-winning bread pudding or coconut cream pie. YUM! Visit our website at braisedonion.com.

El Toreo

3790 E Silver Springs Boulevard, Ocala › (352) 694-1401 › 7 Days 11a-10p SR 200, Ocala › (352) 291-2121 › 7 Days 11a-11p New lunch specials include Taco Salad on Mondays, $4.45; Speedy Gonzalez on Tuesdays, $4.95; Quesadillas on Wednesdays, $6.45; Chimichangas on Thursdays, $5.95; and Burrito Supreme on Fridays, $4.95. New dinner options include Fajita Mondays, $8.95; Chimichanga Tuesdays, $7.95; Alambre Wednesdays, $7.95; and Tacos de Bistec Thursdays, $7.95. Plus $1.95 margaritas on Mondays. On Sunday, kids 12 and under can enjoy 99¢ children’s meals (takeout not included). Wednesday is Special Margarita Day, 99¢ all day. Saturday is 2-for-1 margaritas all day. Happy Hour daily, 3-7pm. Everything is 2-4-1 (exceptions may apply).

THE BEST MEXICAN FOOD

Check out Wings & Trivia on Monday nights and Kids’ Night on Wednesdays.

Check mojogrillandcatering.com for other deals and special events.

The Mojo Grill & Catering Co. 2015 SW 17th Street, Ocala › (352) 369-6656 4620 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala › (352) 291-6656 4496 SE 100th Place, Belleview › (352) 307-6656 Sun - Thu 11a-10p › Fri & Sat 11a-11p › mojogrillandcatering.com

When you walk through the doors at The Mojo Grill, you’re in for a treat. You’ll want to return time and time again for all that good food cooking on the grill! The hometown favorites, like the Mojo Fish Tacos or Rondo’s Famous Cuban Pork Dinner, are to die for!

They also offer a large gluten-free menu, not to mention plenty of vegetarian and lighter offerings. The friendly, fun atmosphere is just a plus! And don’t forget Mojo’s for your next catered event— they promise to make it both tasty and memorable.

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MAGICAL at THe NIGHT Museum 2017

Saturday, May 6, 6 9 p.m.

Unicorn Carriage Rides

Magician

Art Making

Refreshments

And More!

For more information, visit AppletonMuseum.org.

-an equal opportunity college-

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Scene YOU R GU I D E TO W HAT’ S HAPPE N I N G I N & AROU N D O C AL A

PG.

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Flashback:

Miranda MADison

Singing at Tavern on the Square Check out facebook.com/MirandaMADisonMusic for upcoming shows and information.

Photo by Ralph Demilio

BRINGING ART TO LIFE

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CONCERTS FOR THE COMMUNITY

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LIVE O N STAG E !

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Downtown To-Dos MAY 5: Motown Downtown, Citizens’ Circle, 5pm MAY 5: First Friday Art Walk, downtown Ocala, 6pm

Magic at the Museum

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Ever wonder what goes on at the Appleton Museum once the lights are turned off for the night? Now is your chance to see some of the museum’s most iconic pieces spring to life during a Magical Night at the Museum.

From 6-9pm guests can embark upon an enchanted adventure around the Appleton that includes unicorn carriage rides, artwork that springs to life, a magician, mermaids and a photo opportunity to step inside a larger-than-life version of a painting from the museum’s collection. Tickets are $10 for members and $15 for nonmembers with family packages available. Funds raised from the event support the museum’s education department and scholarship fund. appletonmuseum.org or (352) 291-4455.

All That

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The annual Jazz on the Green Festival is bigger and better than ever! The festival takes place in both Ocala and Gainesville, with the Ocala portion moving to its new location at the Ocala Golf Club this year.

The festival boasts an impressive lineup of jazz artists. Headliners such as Miranda MADison, Julian Vaughn and Jessy J will be belting out the smooth sounds and soul of jazz during this two-day festival. The action kicks off on Friday in Gainesville and then heads to Ocala on Saturday for celebrity golf tournament from 7:30am-12:30pm, followed by seven hours of nonstop performances from 3-10pm. Stick around for an after party with live music by The Katz Downstairz. This world-class music experience will feature art and food vendors as well as national and local recording artists. jazzonthegreentour.com or (352) 208-0182.

The Hottest Spot North Of Havana

Guests will have the opportunity to visit the legendary Copa Cabana on the evening of May 12 at A Night at the Copa, An Evening With Frank, Dean and Bobby. Presented by The Reilly Arts Center and The Ocala Symphony Orchestra, this spring gala will be held at the Golden Ocala Golf and Equestrian Club and features the sultry vocals of Miranda MADison, along with lively toe-tapping performances by The Kings Of Swing during dinner. A silent auction will benefit both the Reilly Arts Center and The Ocala Symphony Orchestra. The festivities begin at 6pm with complimentary valet parking service available. Dinner will be served at 7:30pm. reillyartscenter.com or (352) 351-1606.

A Quick Q & A

MAY

With Janie Pope

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Interview by Bonnie Kretchik

Put A Stamp On It

The nation’s largest one-day food drive is scheduled to take place this month. For 25 years, the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) National Food Drive has helped “Stamp Out Hunger.” The result has been half a billion pounds of food making its way to the people who need it the most. Thanks to our community’s participation, the Ocala Post Office is continuously ranked among the top in the nation in their union member category. This year’s food drive will take place May 13. All items can be left in mailboxes, and collection barrels will be available at all post office branches. (352) 572-5634.

Culture and Concerts

The cultural landscape of Ocala is growing each year. Recently, the city was awarded a grant through the Mortimer & Mimi Levitt Foundation, the Levitt AMP. Fifteen cities were selected across the country to receive matching funds of $25,000 to present a music series with the goal of amplifying community pride, enriching lives through music and illustrating the importance of vibrant public places. Janie Pope, the manager of marketing and communications for the City of Ocala, took some time to tell us more about this exciting new concert series.

How was the City of Ocala nominated?

Jennifer Normoyle, the city’s marketing and outreach coordinator, found the grant opportunity. She did most of the research with help from staff, and together we prepared the grant application. The city then partnered with the Marion Cultural Alliance to submit the proposal.

Art In The Park

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Eager local artists will be displaying their creations at Sholom Park’s Fun at the Park event. A variety of styles and mediums will be displayed and artists will be present to interact with attendees. Stroll through the grounds, and enjoy live chamber music to complement the afternoon’s experience. Park entrance is free for all attendees, and food will be available for purchase. The event runs from 4-7pm and includes musical entertainment.

(352) 873-0848, ext. 7371.

Where and when will the concert series be held?

The Levitt AMP Ocala Music Series will take place every Friday night from 8-10pm beginning May 19 and running through July 21. That’s 10 straight weeks of free live music every Friday. We will hold each show at Webb Field at the Martin Luther King Jr. Recreational Complex.

How will you decide on performers?

The grant requires that we have professional artists as headliners. The artists do not have to be nationally recognized, but each must have an online presence, videos and original music for sale. Grant recipients are also required to make sure the majority of the lineup represents a variety of genres. We have to make sure that at least seven of the 10 are different. We’ve got a fantastic variety on the roster—everything from ska to Latin pop with some jazz and blues in between.

How will this series help revitalize Ocala?

The best way I know to answer this one is to reference proof in action. Think back to downtown Ocala prior to 2013—prior to the creation of Citizens’ Circle, Feel Downtown LIVE, the First Friday Art Walk, the Reilly Arts Center, etc., and think of it now. Music and the arts are the pulse of revitalization. We want to change the perception of Webb Field. It is a beautiful, historic landmark that is underutilized. We’re going to showcase West Ocala’s history and its progress through free live music.

Will the series continue next year?

It is our intention to apply again next year. Some cities have even won three years in a row.

Will there be an admission fee to the concerts?

The concerts are completely free and family friendly.

We encourage folks to bring their lawn chairs and blankets. We’ll have food vendors and activities for the kids as well.

FIND OUT MORE › Levitt AMP Ocala Music Series › The full concert lineup and schedule can be found at mcaocala.com as well as on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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Ongoing Events

Performing Arts

Free ESL Classes › Wednesdays at First Baptist Church of Ocala at

6pm, (352) 629-5683

Free ESL Classes › Wednesdays at College Road Baptist Church at 6pm, (352) 854-6981

Blue Man Group

Blue Man Group Theatre at Universal CityWalk, Orlando

Ongoing

Cirque du Soleil: La Nouba

Disney Springs, Orlando

Ongoing

Hamlet

The Hippodrome State Theatre, Gainesville

Apr. 14May 7

The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center, The Villages

May 4

Reilly Arts Center, Ocala

May 5

The Villages Charter School Spring Choir Concert The Vagina Monologues: Benefitting PACE Center for Girls Orlando Ballet: A Cinderella Story Matilda: The Musical The Villages Charter School Spring Band Concert Julianne and Derek Hough: Move Beyond Live on Tour Shrek: The Musical Forever Plaid Finding Neverland

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando

May 9-14

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando

May 16

Ocala Civic Theatre

May 18June 11

Reilly Arts Center

PAW Patrol Live!

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando

Yoga for Trauma Survivors › Sunday at Blissful Life Corporation at 9am, (352) 694-YOGA

Survivors Support Group › Last Tuesday of the month at

1pm in the chapel at Ocala West United Methodist Church (room 235), (352) 291-6904

MAY

May 11

WIND FM presents: “Let it Be” Beatles Tribute

(352) 694-YOGA

May 5-7

The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center, The Villages

The Hippodrome State Theatre, Gainesville Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando

Chair Yoga › Wednesdays at Blissful Life Corporation at 10:30am,

4

Upcoming Exhibits At The Appleton › Hallowed

Absurdities: Work By Theodore Waddell raises the issue of the use of guns in our society. The exhibit runs through May 7. Diversity in Cultures Through African Insights by artist Annelies Dykgraaf consists of woodblock and linocut prints using textile pattern designs and themes of West African folk tales and myths. The exhibit runs through June 11. appletonmuseum.org or (352) 291-4455.

Trips ’N’ Tours (May 3, 11, 24) › This program will take guests

June 2-25

through private tours of Ocala’s leading horse farms on May 3 and 11. On May 24, the group will head to Kanapaha Botanical Gardens in Gainesville for guided tours of the gardens followed by a visit to the Harn Museum of Art. appletonmuseum.org or (352) 291-4455.

June 6-11 June 9 June 24-25

Arts, Crafts and Culture

JUN

24-25

Motown Downtown (May 5) › The City of Ocala Recreation and

Parks Department will host this event from 5-9pm at Citizens’ Circle.

Guests can relive the great Motown songs of the 1960s and 1970s with live entertainment. This family-friendly event is free and open to the public. Food and adult beverages will be available for purchase. ocalafl.org/recpark or (352) 368-5517.

Symphony Under the Stars (May 14) › The annual concert

performed by the Ocala Symphony Orchestra will take place at the Ocala Golf Club. Tickets are $20 for adults and $5 for children ages 6-17. VIP tickets are available. Gates open at 5:30pm; concert begins at 7pm. fafo.org or (352) 867-0355.

Ogres On Stage! (May 18-June 11) ›

Everyone’s favorite ogre (and donkey, too!) comes to life live on stage at the Ocala Civic Theatre. The Tony Award-winning musical features the grumpy ogre, Shrek, and his wisecracking donkey, along with an array of storybook characters as they battle the evil Lord Farquaad. The performances will be held through June 11 with evening and matinée showings offered. ocalacivictheatre.com or (352) 236-2274.

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Marion Civic Chorale Concert (May 14) › The Marion Civic Chorale will present To Mother-With Love, at the Countryside Presbyterian Church. The concert will begin at 3pm, and admission is free, but donations are accepted. (262) 227-6495.

Gourd Workshop (May 20) › The Marion County Gourd Artist

Association will host a gourd art workshop at All About Art in Belleview at 9:30am. Dues are $16 per person for the year and $25 for a family. marioncountygourdartists.com or (352) 871-3786.

Continued on p.90

OCALA FAMILY MEDICAL CENTER 2230 SW 19th Ave Rd Ocala, FL 34471

Monday - Friday 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

“Where Our Family Looks After the Well-Being of Your Family.”

352-237-4133 Carlos Rodriguez, MD

Robert Panzer, DO

Mark Monical, DO

James London, MD

Robert Williams, MD

Douglas Rogers, DO

Brian Pecoraro, DO

Mimi Balch, MD

Todd Panzer, ARNP-C

Anne Moyer, PA-C

Laurel Bryant, ARNP-C Karen Larsen, ARNP-C Brittani Losapio, ARNP-C Tyler Lindsey, PA-C

Salesia Alvarado, MD

Adam Alpers, DO

Stacey Graham, ARNP-C Linda Bellows, ARNP-C

Corey West, ARNP-C

Amber Starling, ARNP-C

Family Practice Internal Medicine Cardiology Preventive Medicine Geriatrics Full Service Lab Digital X-Ray Ultrasound 64 Slice CT 1.5 Open Bore MRI

Auto Accidents Stress Testing

www.ocalafmc.com OFMC Wellness Center 2131 SW 20th Place Ocala, FL 34471

• Physiatry/Physical Medicine • Interventional Spine • Sports Medicine Eduardo Cruz, MD

(outside referrals accepted)

• Physical Therapy • Balance & Gait Training • Vertigo & Incontinence

Nick Machupa, PT, OCS Deborah Main, DPT

Joseph Javier, DPT

(outside referrals accepted)

OFMC Dermatology, Aesthetics & Women’s Health Center 2121 SW 22nd Place Ocala, FL 34471

• Dermatology

(outside referrals accepted)

• Mohs’ Skin Cancer Surgery Kenneth A. Wallace, MD

• Aesthetics & Laser • Facials, IPL Laser, Botox & Fillers • Pharmaceutical Grade Products Deb Scott, LPN, LE

FREE CONSULTATIONS! Call 352-368-1333 for our MAY SPECIAL!

• Women’s Health • Well Woman Exams & Pap Smears • IUD Insertion & Removal Barbara Ellis, ARNP

*Ocala Family Medical Center, Inc. complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.*

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Concerts

Ticketmaster › (800) 745-3000 › ticketmaster.com

Outdoor & Athletic Endeavors

All dates are subject to change without notice. Please call ahead to confirm venue listings.

Weezer Eric Church Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers Bastille The Weeknd The Beach Boys Jimmy Buffett Second Slice Dance Party John Legend Idina Menzel Train Paul Simon Chance the Rapper Enrique Iglesias with Pitbull Diana Ross

St. Augustine Amphitheatre Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena

May 4

Amalie Arena, Tampa

May 6

St. Augustine Amphitheatre Amalie Arena, Tampa The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center, The Villages Amway Center, Orlando Circle Square Cultural Center, Ocala St. Augustine Amphitheatre St. Augustine Amphitheatre MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre At The Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa St. Augustine Amphitheatre Amalie Arena, Tampa

May 7 May 12

Amalie Arena, Tampa

June 22

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando

June 27

Group Bike Rides (Ongoing) › Brick City Bicycles offers group bike rides throughout the week and weekend. brickcitybicycles.com or (352) 369-9400.

May 5

May 12

Kayak Outings (Ongoing) › The Marion County Parks and Recreation Department will host several kayak outings for children and adults. marioncountyfl.org or (352) 671-8560.

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PACE 5K/10K Run (May 6) › Pace Center for Girls of Marion County will host a 5K/10K run at the Florida Horse Park. The event will also feature a Derby Hat Contest, a 1K kids’ run and more. Registration is $35 for the 10K and $25 for the 5K and begins at 7:30am. pacecenter.org or (352) 369-0571, ext. 3017.

May 13 May 13 May 14 May 26

Yoga (May 6) › A yoga class will take place at 9am at Sholom Park. The class is free and open to the public. (352) 854-7950.

May 26 June 1 June 14

Florida Safari (May 7) › A tram tour of the longleaf pine forest will take place at Silver Springs State Park on the first Sunday of every month. Along the way, participants will enjoy a short guided walk on the swamp trail. A park ranger will lead visitors down the boardwalk to the Silver River. After the hike the tram will return to the main entrance. The safari begins at 10am. silversprings.com or (352) 236-7148.

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Sports

Full Moon Kayak Tour (May 10) › Silver Springs State Park will host a kayak tour around Raccoon Island. The event will include glowsticks, s’mores, a campfire, music and more. Registration is $2 per person for park entrance fee. For specific launch times visit silversprings.com or (352)261-5840.

Don’t miss a single dunk or slide into home base.

Here are the home schedules:

NCAA Baseball

University of Florida Florida A&M May 2 6:30p Jacksonville May 3 6:30p Mississippi May 5 6:30p Mississippi May 6 6:30p Mississippi May 7 2:00p South Florida May 9 6:30p Kentucky May 18 6:30p Kentucky May 19 6:30p Kentucky May 20 1:00p University of Central Florida South Florida May 18 South Florida May 19 South Florida May 20

6:30p 6:30p 1:00p

Florida State University Pacific May 5 6:00p Pacific May 6 6:00p Pacific May 7 12:00p Jacksonville May 9 6:00p Wake Forest May 12 6:00p Wake Forest May 13 6:00p Wake Forest May 14 6:00p

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MLB

Miami Marlins Tampa Bay May 1 Tampa Bay May 2 St. Louis May 8 St. Louis May 9 St. Louis May 10 Atlanta May 12 Atlanta May 13 Atlanta May 14 Houston May 15 Houston May 16 Houston May 17 LA Angels May 26 LA Angels May 27 LA Angels May 28 Philadelphia May 29 Philadelphia May 30 Philadelphia May 31

7:10p 7:10p 7:10p 7:10p 7:10p 7:10p 7:10p 1:10p 7:10p 7:10p 12:10p 7:10p 1:10p 1:10p 7:10p 7:10p 1:10p

Tampa Bay Rays Miami May 3 Miami May 4 Toronto May 5 Toronto May 6 Toronto May 7 Kansas City May 8 Kansas City May 9

7:10p 7:10p 7:10p 4:10p 1:10p 7:10p 7:10p

Kansas City Kansas City NY Yankees NY Yankees NY Yankees LA Angels LA Angels LA Angels LA Angels

May 10 May 11 May 19 May 20 May 21 May 22 May 23 May 24 May 25

Atlanta Braves NY Mets May 1 NY Mets May 2 NY Mets May 3 NY Mets May 4 St. Louis May 5 St. Louis May 6 St. Louis May 7 Toronto May 17 Toronto May 18 Washington May 19 Washington May 20 Washington May 21 Pittsburgh May 22 Pittsburgh May 23 Pittsburgh May 24 Pittsburgh May 25

7:10p 1:10p 7:10p 4:10p 1:10p 7:10p 7:10p 7:10p 1:10p

7:35p 7:35p 7:35p 7:35p 7:35p 7:10p 1:35p 7:35p 7:35p 7:35p 4:10p 1:35p 7:35p 7:35p 7:35p 12:10p

Yoga in the Park (May 14) › A free one-hour yoga class will be held at Tuscawilla Park at 12pm. The group will meet at the oak tree between the Reilly Arts Center and the playground. The class will be conducted by instructors from Power Yoga Ocala. ocalafl.org or (352) 368-5535.

M.O.M.S. Day 5K (May 14) › Memories of Missing Smiles will host a 5K run/walk at Jervey Gantt Park. The event will run 7:3010:30am. memoriesofmissingsmiles.org or (352) 454-4993.

Golf Tournament (May 19) › A golf tournament to benefit the Ocala Civic Theatre will be held at the Ocala Golf Club. This 26th annual event will feature a deli lunch, free on-course soda and water, range balls, greens fees, cart, goodie bag and a $5,000 putting contest with over 50 on-course and door prizes. The tournament is open to amateurs only and registration is $85. ocalacivictheature.com or (352) 236-2851, ext. 104.

Lily’s Splash Pad Grand Opening (May 20) › The grand opening of Lily’s Splash Pad at Lillian F. Bryant Park will take place from 11am-2pm. The event will feature food, games and entertainment for all ages. ocalafl.org or (352) 629-8389.

Junior Tennis Clinic (May 5, 19) › The City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Department will host junior tennis clinics at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Complex from 4-5pm. Clinics are free and open to children ages 7 to 15. Tennis rackets and balls will be provided and registration is not required. ocalafl.org or (352) 368-5517.

Other Fun Stuff!

Casino Royale (May 5) › This fundraising event presented

by Kids Central, Inc., is a vintage Vegas-themed affair and will take place at the Hilton Ocala. The evening will feature classic casino games, slots, drinks, food and more. Tickets are $75 and include $250 in gaming tokens, photo booth fun, food, two signature drinks courtesy of Tito’s Vodka from 7-8pm and non-alcoholic beverages. Doors open at 7pm. kidscentralinc.org or (352) 387-3474.

Ocala Pet Expo (May 6) › A pet expo featuring K-9 demonstrations, vendors and food trucks will take place at Lillian F. Bryant Park from 10am-1:30pm. Admission is free, but a donation of pet food or supplies is requested. ocalafl.org or (352) 622-5600.

National Public Gardens Day Presentation

(May 12) › Sholom Park will host Chappie McChesney of the

Marion County Beekeepers Club for a presentation on the importance of honey bees in our environment. The presentation will run from 1-3pm, and admission is free. sholompark.org or (352) 873-0848, ext. 7371.

Food Packing Pep Rally (May 13) › Hunger Fight and Feed the Need are teaming up to make sure every Marion County high school student in need will have meals for an entire year, with a goal to pack and provide 100,000 meals. The event is looking for local organizations and businesses to sponsor tables. Prizes will be given away for best costume, most spirit, fastest table and more. The event takes place at Trinity Catholic High School from 9:30am-12pm. Contact Becky Johns at (352) 547-5059 or beckyj@mojogrillandcatering.com for more info.

Brick City Blues Festival (June 2) › The 2017 Brick City Blues Festival will take place at the Reilly Arts Center, featuring Willie Green, J.W. Gilmore, Rondo & the Mojo Downs Band and more. General admission tickets are $25, with VIP packages available. Funds benefit Feed The Need. VIP admission begins at 6pm, and doors open for general admission at 6:30pm; show starts at 7:30pm. facebook.com/BrickCityBluesFest or (352) 547-5059.

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 calendar@ocalastyle.com, fax us at (352) 732-0226 or by mail: Ocala Style Magazine, The Scene, 1007 E. Fort King St., Ocala, FL 34471

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VIEW MORE SOCIAL SCENE PHOTOS AND PURCHASE PRINTS OF YOUR FAVORITES AT OCALASTYLE.COM

Live Oak International: A Family Affair › Written And Photographed By Ronald W. Wetherington

B

reeches and boots were the order of the day as 52 riders and 85 drivers from more than 20 countries converged in Ocala for the Live Oak International competition. Charlotte L. Weber’s picturesque 5,000-acre Live Oak Plantation was the scene as over 10,000 spectators got a rare chance to visit the normally private Live Oak Plantation known for its outstanding racehorse breeding operation as well as its commercial operation of 1,000 head of beef cattle.

Now in its 26th year, the event counts among its competitors some of the world’s leading drivers, riders, trainers, coaches and owners.

Started in 1992 by Charlotte Weber’s son, Chester Weber, at age 18, the reputation of Live Oak International has grown each year. Now run by Co-Presidents Chester Weber and his sister, Juliet W. Reid, the show is a world-class equestrian event and is the only show in the United States that features both combined driving and show jumping. The show is home to five USEF National Driving Championships and was the final leg of the 2017 Longines FEI World Cup Jumping North American League. Live Oak Plantation is also home to Chester Weber’s training program.

Fresh from a technical marathon run and elegant

dressage test, Chester Weber and his team secured the USEF FourIn-Hand National Championship for a record 14th time.

Weber remarked, “Aiming for the national championship each year is a goal both personally and for my team. You can’t take anything for granted, and you love to work at each part consistently.” As co-president of Live Oak International, Chester Weber’s sister, Juliet W. Reid, was on hand to cheer for not only her brother but also her daughter, Chloe Reid, who competed in show jumping and is a third-generation horse enthusiast. Chloe is a student at the University of Miami and juggles classes along with competitive show jumping, of which she is a rising star on the international circuit.

Susan Gilliland presented the awards this year, as she has done every year since its inception. What has evolved into Live Oak International was the original brainchild of Susan. Active in the American Driving Society, Susan organized clinics to teach others and met the Webers at one such clinic. Susan shared her desire to start a driving event with the Webers, and they stepped in enthusiastically and offered the use of Live Oak Plantation.

For a quarter of a century, Susan was one of the show’s organizers and stated, “Twenty-five years to be involved is a long time. I’m very proud of the way the event has evolved and happy that I was able to be part of it. The Weber family and the staff at the farm go out of their way to make it a first-class event.”

Non-horse fanciers at Live Oak International shopped vendors, test drove a new Porsche or had Joan Pletcher show them the hottest real estate available in Ocala. Ticket proceeds benefited the Marion Therapeutic Riding Association. VIP Ocala residents, sponsors and driving and jumping competitors were thrilled at the Saturday night circus-themed party as Chester Weber made a grand entrance as circus ringmaster riding into the huge tent atop a camel.

Show girls, trapeze artists, snake handlers and clowns, in addition to a sumptuous buffet dinner, made this Ocala’s premier party of the year.

Next year, the by-invitation-only party will take place on St. Patrick’s Day, and plans are already underway for an appropriately fitting theme.

Arlene and Bernd Stanglmeier and Susan Gilliland

Matt and Kari Harmon

Steven Graves, Katie Whaley and Colter Parker

Ronald W. Wetherington SOCIAL SCENE EDITOR

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Rick and Krista Garside, Joan Pletcher and JJ Garside

Mike Krol, Matt Hplrich and Bryan Waldron

Sean Hurley, Ainsley Hayes and Lucas Tanner

Chester Weber and Susan Gilliland

Harrison Morris and Sandra Nefzger

My and Chester Weber

Steve Wilson

Richard and Jacque Juntilla

Connie Sitter, Kristi Garside, Joan Pletcher and Connie Wise

David and Connie Widden, Joan Pletcher and JJ Garside

Ellie Meinert, Carina Crawford and Erica Whalen

Brian and Tina Roberts

JJ Garside, Joan Pletcher, Connie and John Wise

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Golden Apple Gala

Photos by Ralph Demilio @ Circle Square Cultural Center

For the 27th time, the Public Education Foundation of Marion County recently presented the Golden Apple Gala, a black-tie event celebrating Marion County’s Golden Apple recipients and Teacher of the Year. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres were followed by an awards program.

Andy and Georgianna Slagel

Charlie and Michelle Stone

David and Loida Moore, Mariacon Roman, Dr. Heidi Maier and Susie McGuire

Annie Avery Shepherd, Doug Avery, D’ann Avery and Robyn Avery Locker

Dani and Diego Fuentes

Cacee Ford and Jordan Hilliard

Kevin and Cathy Durrance

Larry and Jennifer Thomas

Diego Fuentes (center), winner of the Golden Apple Teacher of the Year

Rebecca Cherry, Samantha Sofia, Meghan Magamoll and Madeleine Alejandrino

Annie Avery Shephard and Buddy Shephard

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Robyn Avery and Joe Locker

Haddie Peebles and Tim Jones

Jessica and Judge Jim McCune

Dawana Gary, Annie Avery Shepherd, Robyn Avery Locker and Ashley Kemp

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The Villages Mardi Gras Party

Photos by Cealia Athanason @ the Savannah Center

For the fifth year, the Louisiana Club in The Villages threw a Mardi Gras party, and this year’s theme was the Era of Rock ‘N’ Roll. Villagers were dressed in ‘50s- and ‘60s-style attire with strands of multicolored beads draped around their necks. Live music, a buffet dinner, entertainment and dancing kept the good times rolling all night long.

Tona Torrans and Gingie Glover

Lyons and Joan Wilder, Maureen and Bob Parr

Art and Sandy Owens

Irene and Mel Harrison, Charlotte and John Grove

Pat and Bill Jankovsky, Sheldon and Dolores Cassano

The Sweet Potato Queens and Duke of Romance

Pat Burnette, Brenda Harris and Rose Marie Peppe

David Bradley and Caro Ramey

Sheldon and Dolores Cassano

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Photographed on location at Lake Sumter Landing Market Square™ in The Villages Community®

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