Ocala Style Magazine Feb'16

FEB’16

Ocala

INCLUDING: OUR EDUCATION, SCHOOL & DAY CARE GUIDE page 46

Quirky Clubs “Ag”chievements At The SEYF Pin-Worthy Projects Sweet, Sweet Strawberries CITRUS CARDIOLOGY CAN HELP YOU GIVE THE GIFT OF A LIFETIME!

Considering Ocala?

REGAL MERRITT BARAQUE – 26+ Acre State-of-the-Art Equestrian Facility Located in the Northwest – $2,300,000

DIXIELAND FARM — 55+ Acres of Beautiful Rolling Paddocks Located in the Northwest – $1,595,000

GATED EQUESTRIAN PARADISE – 17.6 Acres. Stunning Home, Stable, Arena and Exercise Track in the Northwest – $1,595,000

CARPE DIEM – 37 Acres, Stable with Apartment, Olympic Arena, Tennis Court plus Riding Trail – $1,975,000

GATED COMMUNITY – 20 to 62 Acres - Main House, Guest House, Stables and Jump fields – $2,400,000 to $3,299,000

EQUINE ESTATES

10 Acres - 6-Stall Stable - Bridle Trails – $1,500,000

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

Due to the privacy and at the discretion of my clients, there are additional training centers, estates, and land available which are not advertised.

Joan Pletcher REA LTOR ®

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

HITS RENTAL! OPTIONS!

Paddocks & Stalls For Lease NW Location

You Will Love Your New Smile!

Chandra Smile Designs is a oneof-a-kind haven for your smile transformation. Your smile and oral health are very important.

If you are thinking of enhancing your smile, you owe it to yourself to seek out the best. Beautiful results take an expertly trained dentist/artist. Dr. Chandra is uniquely qualified and has earned the highest level of achievement from the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. Let

her change your life by transforming your smile.

TINA CHANDRA, D.D.S. Cosmetic, Neuromuscular and Sleep Dentist, LVI Fellow

Millie Blonder– Instructor at Zuhela Dance Studio Smile by Dr. Tina Chandra

BEFORE

AFTER

a beautiful smile begins here cosmetic veneers smile makeovers zoom! bleaching TMJ disorder

bite problems sleep apnea sedation dentistry botox + juvederm

(352) 861-1500 chandrasmiles.com

INVISIBLE HEARING AIDS THAT WORK! YOUR Heart is in the RIGHT PLACE with BETTER HEARING Monthly Payment Plan

Our Most Popular INVISIBLE SoundLens is Still Available...

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Trade In Those Old Hearing Aids for $500!* Medicare Provider - All Insurances Accepted

DOCTOR

Owned & Operated You will be seen and cared for by Dr. Shon Murray, Au.D. — Doctor of

352.732.EARS (3277)

Audiology Over 15 Years Experience

*on any z-series hearing aids

Laurel Run Professional Center 2100 SE 17th St., Suite 202, Ocala

See our website for SPECIALS & video testimonials www.HearingBalance.net

Locate Your Business in a Lucrative Villages Market

Now Leasing SE Highway 42

• The Villages is the fastest growing market in the nation.

• The average median income of a Villages home buyer is $93,800.

Spruce Creek Properties

y4 41

• 3 major access points and ample parking.

Walmart Supercenter

Hw

• Retail, medical, and professional space available at one of the highest traffic count intersections in the area—across from the Summerfield Super Walmart.

Stonecrest Golf Club

El Camino Real The Villages Regional Hospital Morse Blvd.

Contact Heather Reyes for more information on the Spruce Creek Properties today!

Heather Reyes

First American International, Inc. Licensed Real Estate Broker

352.245.5090 HeatherReyes5@hotmail.com

Results are typical and do vary.

NEW! YOU’RE FACIAL BEAUTY MASTER CLASS

INVITED!

LIMITED QUANTITIES AVAILABLE

Free ImageLift seminars are being held at the following locations in February and March. Meet the doctors and enjoy free food, free books, drawings and door prizes.

CALL NOW TO RSVP - LIMITED SEATING

FREE IMAGELIFT BOOK for first 20 callers!

(Retail $14.95)

PROMO CODE “STYLE”

at the Waterfront Inn, The Villages June 2nd2ndSeminar February Waterfront Inn, The Villages Luncheon at The Villages ImageLift office June 16th18thFiller February Citrus Hills Country Club, Hernando at the Waterfront Inn, The Villages June 23rd23rdSeminar February Waterfront Inn, The Villages Filler Luncheon at The Villages July 7th March 1st ImageLift Office, The Villages ImageLift office at the Waterfront Inn, The Villages July 14th March 22ndSeminar Waterfront Inn, The Villages

Dr. Castellano

THE VILLAGES // 8630 East County Road 466 877.346.2435 // www.IMAGELIFT.com

Shawnna’s tiny scar is a big reminder that she’s alive.

We see it as proof that she’s like no one else.

No two alike. That’s the truth about scars — and the individuals who wear them. It’s also how we believe in practicing medicine at UF Health.

Shawnna Curtis was a trauma nurse when a heart attack left her needing life-saving care. Her doctors made a plan to fit her, treating her heart through her wrist using a tiny catheter. Now Shawnna’s back to work, with a tiny symbol of just how tough she is.

Seeing no two stories alike is how we move medicine forward.

Watch them for yourself at NoTwoAlike.org.

GAINESVILLE

AC CK K SS O ON V I L L E JJ A

S T A E B Y D !

S E C NOBO I R P R U O

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“ THE NISSAN ROGUE’S TRUE ADVANTAGE LIES IN ITS SMOOTH RIDE AND UPSCALE INTERIOR, PLUS ITS LENGHTLY LIST OF HIGH TECH INFOTAINMENT, SAFETY FEATURES AND IMPRESSIVE 33 MPH.” —KELLY BLUE BOOK REVIEWS

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Sales Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-8pm, Sun 12pm-6pm | Service Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30am-6pm, Sat 8am-5pm 2060 SW College Rd Ocala, FL 34471 | 352-622-4111 or Toll Free 800-342-3008

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Affordable Elegance

B U I L D I N G

L U X U R Y

H O M E S

S I N C E

MARION ’S MOST COUNTY IZED RECOGN NAME IN E HOM CUSTOM G BUILDIN

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|

F A M I L Y

O W N E D

BUILDING IN BELLECHASE, THE COUNTRY CLUB OF OCALA, THE VININGS, THE ARBORS AND ON YOUR HOMESITE UTILIZING YOUR PLANS OR OURS. C A L L T O D AY F O R A N E W- B U I L D C O N S U LTAT I O N

352.694.5022 3251 SE 31st St, OCALA C E N T E R S TAT E C O N S T R U C T I O N . C O M LIKE LIC # CGC 1511237

US

ON

FACEBOOK

Contents

In Every Issue

FEBRUARY ’16

015 T H E

BUZZ

By JoAnn Guidry & Katie McPherson

016 018 020 022 024 026

ONE ON ONE AROUND TOWN HORSIN’ AROUND HORSIN’ AROUND GOING PLACES CLASS ACTS

033 T H E

HIVE

By Cealia Athanason, Grace Cali & Katie McPherson

034 036 038 040

PA R E N T I N G P O I N T E R S CHIT CHAT SNAPSHOTS KIDS’ KORNER

065 T H E

DISH

By Cealia Athanason, Grace Cali, Cynthia McFarland & Katie McPherson

069 D I N I N G G U I D E

077 T H E

SCENE

By Bonnie Kretchik & Katie McPherson

078 S O I N L O V E W I T H STRAWBERRIES! 080 D A Y T O N A B O U N D ?

084 A Q U I C K Q & A 090 T H E S O C I A L S C E N E

042 Ag Achievements What

FEB’16

On the cover Check for the special insert within this issue!

Ocala

INCLUDING: OUR EDUCATION, SCHOOL & DAY CARE GUIDE page 46

Quirky Clubs “Ag”chievements At The SEYF Pin-Worthy Projects Sweet, Sweet Strawberries CITRUS CARDIOLOGY CAN HELP YOU GIVE THE GIFT OF A LIFETIME!

In This Issue

Give Those You Love A Healthy Heart Citrus Cardiology

offers patients comprehensive heart care in a state-of-the-art, full-service cardiac care center.

began as a simple steer show in 1941 has become one of the largest annual events in Marion County. › By Katie McPherson

046 2016 Education, School & Day Care Guide

To make the process of choosing an educational path for your child a little easier, we’ve compiled a list of Ocala and Marion County’s education options to help guide your way. › By Ocala Style Staff

054 Wanna Go Clubbin’? Our local

schools are home to some of the more interesting clubs around. › By Jim Gibson

060 7 (P)interesting How-Tos For Crafters With Pinterest, Etsy and lots of DIY blogs out there, there’s no shortage of do-it-yourself project ideas.

› By Cealia Athanason

FEB ’16 ›

011

4.9 out of 5

Rated

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Save on 100s of 2014-2016 Cars, Trucks and SUVs Rates from 1.9%

(with approved credit)

Get your best price, payment and trade value online.

AutoMax

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Ocala

Just Relocated – Private Practice Now Open!

All of your dental needs in one place.

• Digital X-Rays • Dentures/Partials • Oral Surgery/ Extractions • Crowns/Bridges

Magazine

• Root Canals • IV Sedation • Implant Placement to Final Restoration • Same Day Appointments

PUBLISHER

Kathy Johnson kathy@ocalastyle.com

OFFICE/PRODUCTION MANAGER

Cynthia Brown

cynthia@ocalastyle.com

Se habla español!

Editorial

Cesar A. Caceres D.M.D.

352-629-1314

www.amazingsmilesdentistry.com

10230 SW 86th Circle, Suite 100, Ocala, FL 34481 (Turn right at 103rd After Steeplechase)

EXECUTIVE EDITOR MANAGING EDITOR

Karin Fabry-Cushenbery Melissa Peterson

karin@ocalastyle.com melissa@ocalastyle.com ASSOCIATE EDITOR EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Katie McPherson Cealia Athanason

Mowing Hedge Trimming Lawn Edging

katie@ocalastyle.com cealia@ocalastyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kevin Christian Jim Gibson Laurel Gillum JoAnn Guidry

Bonnie Kretchik Cynthia McFarland Carlton Reese Judge Steven Rogers

Leaf & General Debris Removal Power Washing Weed Removal Landscape Bed Clean-Outs Mulch Turning & Installs

EDITORIAL INTERN

Grace Cali Art

CREATIVE DIRECTOR ART DIRECTOR

Jason Fugate Jessi Miller Castro

It’s time to schedule your WINTER cleanup!

jason@ocalastyle.com jessi@ocalastyle.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER SOCIAL SCENE EDITOR

Christina Geiger Ronald W. Wetherington ronald@ocalastyle.com

OCALA’S #1 RECOMMENDED COMPLETE LAWN SERVICE 352-502-6869 | BEN@OCALALAWNS.COM | WWW.OCALALAWNS.COM

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Sheila Hartley

sheila@ocalastyle.com

John Jernigan

jernigan@ocalastyle.com

Crys Williams shutterstock.com Sales DIRECTOR OF SALES

Dean Johnson

deanjohnson@ocalastyle.com SALES MANAGER

COME HOME TO

Sharon Morgan

sharon@ocalastyle.com

YOUR LAKEFRONT APARTMENT COMMUNITY

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Lori Tani

lori@ocalastyle.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Liza Fritz

liza@ocalastyle.com

Skip Linderman

skip@ocalastyle.com

Peggy Sue Munday

Come live in Marion county’s premier apartment community.

CARLTON ARMS OF OCALA offers our residents country club style living with outstanding services and value. Visit us today to select your apartment as your next home to live, work and play.

peggysue@healthylivingmagazines.com

Tammy Walters

tammy@healthylivingmagazines.com DISTRIBUTION

Dave Adams

dave@ocalastyle.com

Debra McQueen Rick Shaw

OCALA PUBLICATIONS, INC.

o: 352.732.0073 › f: 352.732.0226 1007 E. Fort King St., Ocala, FL 34731 ocalastyle.com OCALA STYLE MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2016 / VOL. 18, NO. 2

Published monthly by Ocala Publications, Inc. All contents © 2016 by Ocala Publications Inc. All rights reserved.

Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. For back issues or advertising information, call (352) 732-0073. Return postage must accompany all unsolicited manuscripts and artwork if they are to be returned. Manuscripts are welcomed, but no responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited materials. “Promotional” and “Promotional Feature” denote a paid advertising feature. Publisher is not responsible for claims and content of advertisements.

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MOVING FORWARD MOVING FORWARD MOVING FORWARD MOVING FORWARD

• FREE Water Utility • FREE WiFi at 2 Sparkling Pools • FREE Valet Trash Removal • FREE Pest Control • Large Private Patios/Balconies • Rapid Response Maintenance • 2 Private Party Clubhouses • Fitness Center w/ Steam Showers

• Lighted Tennis & Basketball • Fresh Water Fishing • Children’s Playground • Pet Friendly / Dog Park • Car Care Center

5001 SW 20th St. Suite 100 Ocala, FL 33474

866.927.6819 CarltonArmsofOcala.com FEB ’16 ›

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013

THE

Happenings

What’s Up With Us?

We love keeping you up to date on what’s happening in the community, but here’s a peek at what’s going on inside the OS office.

Health Pros, Here’s Our Number

Welcome to The Hive

Are you in the health industry in Marion County?

If you’re looking to reach hundreds of thousands of eyes with your specialties and expertise, Health Pros in our March issue of Marion & Citrus Healthy Living is where you need to be. Make your practice stand out by contacting Dean Johnson at (352) 732-0073 or deanjohnson@ocalastyle.com.

H

ave you browsed The Hive yet?

If not, stop and smell the family-oriented content in our newest section. It’s loaded with health advice, parenting ideas, kid-friendly events around town, must-have products and more. It’s our special spot to talk about all things home and family, and it’s also where we give our readers a chance to be part of our family.

Kids Korner features drawings and short stories from elementary students in Ocala, and Snapshots is our public pin board covered in photos of kiddos having a blast all over town. Readers can submit photos and children’s writing or drawing to melissa@ocalastyle.com.

Dream Home Designers

Imagine your dream home: Is it decorated with elaborate stonework?

Does it have an unconventional layout? Does it have the latest and greatest in green design? Our April issue of Ocala Style will spotlight Home Pros in the area who can turn the home in your head into the one you live in every day. If you’re a Home Pro hoping to showcase your talents, call Dean Johnson at (352) 732-0073 or email deanjohnson@ocalastyle.com.

Share Your Style

Photos by Chris Redd

Our community is home to its fair share of business men and business women. If you’re one of our area’s leaders hoping to reach new clients, consider our Women of Style feature in May and Men of Style issue in June. They’re the perfect opportunities to tell the story of your restaurant, shop or office and tell readers how your services can help them. Sound like a deal? Get in touch with Dean Johnson at (352) 732-0073 or deanjohnson@ocalastyle.com.

MAXed Out

Ocala has a vibrant art scene, but, until recently, something was missing. That something is the Magnolia Art Xchange (MAX), a new hub for local artists to develop professionally and creatively among likeminded people. Ocala Style is thrilled to be the official magazine of the Castro

By Jessi Miller Magnolia Art Xchange, and we can’t wait to see how they make Ocala (and their new home in historic Union Station) more beautiful than ever. Learn more about MAX at maxocalaorg.com and facebook.com/maxocala.

By Alexandria L.

Marcello

CAN’T GET ENOUGH? › We don’t blame you. › Get our newsletter sent straight to your inbox at ocalastyle.com.

014

› Ocala

.com

Ocala

CITRUS CARDIOLOGY CAN HELP YOU GIVE THE GIFT OF A LIFETIME!

Caring for the hearts of Central Florida GISELA TRIGO, MD, FACC

General Cardiology Inverness

LUIS DELFIN, MD, FACC

General Cardiology Inverness

JAVIER M. GONZALEZ, MD, FACC

General Cardiology The Villages • Ocala • Inverness Leesburg

STEPHEN H. STARK, MD, FACC

General and Interventional Cardiology Inverness • Crystal River

SRINIVAS ATTANTI, MD, FACC

General and Interventional Cardiology Inverness • The Villages • Leesburg

VINOD MIRYALA, MD, FACC

General and Invasive Cardiology The Villages • Leesburg

BRIAN SALUCK, DO, FACC, FACOI

General and Interventional Cardiology The Villages • Ocala • Bushnell Leesburg

HARI KANNAM, MD

General and Interventional Cardiology Inverness • Crystal River

ABEL RIVERO, MD

General and Interventional Cardiology The Villages • Ocala • Inverness Leesburg

W

hen looking for comprehensive heart care at a state-of-theart, full-service cardiac care center, look no further than Citrus Cardiology Consultants, PA. With 19 providers, seven locations and a staff of over 125, we are well prepared to meet your every cardiac need. We supply highquality, board-certified cardiac care that is second-to-none.

Citrus Cardiology offers highly trained medical professionals, the latest therapies, emerging technologies and cutting-edge treatments in heart care— such as TAV-R (a procedure where the aortic valve is replaced through a small incision as opposed to the more traditional open-chest method) and wrist access for angioplasty. Among other services we offer are prevention, early detection and treatment of cardiac conditions; diagnostic and interventional procedures for both cardiac and peripheral arteries; ablation for abnormal heart rhythms; pacemaker and biventricular device implantation; nuclear, treadmill, and PET stress testing; cardiac and vascular ultrasounds; venous ablations and sclerotherapy; and anti-coagulation and device clinics in-house.

Our in-office and in-hospital programs allow patients to enjoy a seamless continuum of care—all within the same group. Care doesn’t stop there, however. In addition to the comprehensive array of diagnostic and monitoring tests in the hospitals and offices, our practice also offers

In-Office Services

Citrus Cardiology offers a comprehensive set of diagnostic and monitoring testing to meet all of your cardiac needs. The practice also offers numerous in-office services for patients to enjoy a seamless continuum of care in each office.

•

Preventative and well-care visits: Our physicians provide comprehensive care, both preventative and diagnostic. If there is a potential problem, the best way to mitigate the effects is with early detection and treatment.

•

Non-invasive diagnostic testing: Stress testing (nuclear, PET and treadmill), ultrasounds (cardiac and vascular), EKGs, and more can be done in our offices, preventing extra travel and anxiety at unfamiliar surroundings. Moreover, the results are available as soon as the test is uploaded, allowing the physicians to react faster to any potential situations.

•

Anticoagulation clinic: For patients who have had stents inserted or have undergone open heart surgery, our in-house Coumadin clinic is a quick and easy way to monitor their blood. A simple finger stick provides instant results indicating the potential for dangerous clots to form. More importantly, medication can be adjusted instantly at the time of your visit.

•

Device clinic: Patients with pacemakers or implantable cardiac defibrillators (ICD), our device clinic can optimize the function of these devices by checking battery levels and performance.

•

Electronic medical records: Having access to real–time communication allows the physicians to access our patient charts from the hospitals or other offices, reducing the need for potentially duplicated testing if the patient is hospitalized or traveling from location to location.

•

Some patients have been able to benefit from home-based monitoring of the devices and Coumadin levels. Ask your provider if you are a good candidate for this option.

“What makes us different is the same high level compassion and professionalism from every aspect of the company. We may not all be physicians, but we all care about your treatment. We all want you to have the best outcome possible from each and every visit.”

—Jerry DeLoach, Chief Executive Officer

In-Hospital Services At the core of Citrus Cardiology’s hospital service is a laser-like focus on the heart of each patient. Every patient expects, receives and deserves exceptional medical treatment, delivered with the personal attention of a compassionate team of doctors and technicians—all concentrating on healing the heart of a very special person: you or someone you love.

•

•

Industry leaders and medical experts in the field: Our doctors and technicians are board certified, accredited and even instructors in a variety of fields. Many serve as guest speakers to both professional conferences and private functions, offering their expertise to panels, boards and community groups.

Emerging technologies: Innovative surgical procedures like radial access for angioplasty (using a small incision in the wrist or ankle instead of more traditional groin access) reduces

recovery time, increases healing, and allows for a greater sense of modesty for the patient.

•

Out-patient services: Many catheterizations can be done on an out-patient basis now. Utilizing out-patient procedures can reduce the cost for the patient, as well as any potential exposure to other illnesses.

•

Focused care: While other practices have ventured into treating other pathologies, our success stems from our physicians’ singular focus on matters of the heart.

Coronary Artery Stenting

Before

TAVR

Endoluminal AAA Graft

After

Carotid Artery Stenting Before

After

Out-Patient PV Services PAD, or peripheral arterial disease, is the narrowing of blood vessels outside of the heart and brain. It’s often caused by the accumulation of fatty deposits in the arteries (atherosclerosis). When these arteries become clogged, blood flow to the arms, legs and certain organs is restricted. This can result in limited mobility, increased risk of heart attack or stroke, limb amputations and, in some cases, death.

Citrus Cardiology’s peripheral vascular labs can help.

As an outpatient center, we provide a comfortable, convenient and affordable way for you to address PAD. Here, you can undergo screening, diagnostic tests and treatment for PAD—all in one place.

And not just any place. Our newly designed outpatient centers are home to some of the area’s most highly regarded interventional cardiologists. Here, you’re not just any patient. We’re totally focused on YOU—from your overall health and well-being to your comfort level in our office. The moment you walk through our doors, our goal is to make you feel at home. Our entire team is involved in your treatment at every step of the way.

Renal Artery Stenting Before

After

Q A Q A Q A Q A

Frequently Asked Questions I have a cardiologist up north, so do I need one here, too?

If you have certain conditions that may need regular monitoring, you should have a cardiologist nearby, wherever you live. We can work directly with your home physicians to request your medical records and then submit all test results and records back to them if desired. All you need to do is stop by our office to sign a release and schedule an appointment.

I don’t want to wait weeks for an appointment. How quickly can I be seen?

We have same-day appointments available. If you feel you need to be seen right away, simply call our office and we’ll make it happen. You may not get your first choice of physician, but all of our physicians subscribe to the same highest standards of patient care, and you can be assured that you will receive the best service around.

I’m afraid I may need more treatment or testing than I can afford. What should I do?

We are a full-service cardiology practice and have a billing department on-site. The most important thing is to NOT sacrifice your care out of fear or embarrassment over an inability to “make full payment at the time services are rendered.”

I may need multiple appointments in your office. Can I do that in the same visit?

We have many patients who are able to arrange their different cardiac appointments for the same day. Depending on your particular case, we may be able to schedule your visits to run consecutively, saving you time and gas. When making an appointment, simply let us know the date and time of your other visits, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your busy schedule.

for 35 years, one patient at a time! numerous home-monitoring options to help reduce the need for office visits.

Our team of physicians oversees the home-based monitor reporting and ensures each patient receives exceptional care, even when not in the building.

Citrus Cardiology also utilizes electronic medical records throughout our practices and in conjunction with area hospitals and providers.

Now serving patients in seven area hospitals. Having access to real-time information significantly enhances communication among the practice. It also allows us to effectively communicate with patients’ primary physicians—even ones who are out-of-state.

Citrus Cardiology offers an extensive website where you can discover more about our practice, meet our doctors and staff, and watch videos of select procedures to help alleviate any anxiety you may have. Patients can request prescription refills and even securely pay a bill online. The newest feature is a patient portal where you can access your own records whenever and wherever you want!

Most importantly, all of our services are offered in a warm, comfortable environment and administered by a team of professionals who genuinely care about each patient. That is why Citrus Cardiology is at the heart of compassionate cardiac care. Our focus is, and will continue to be, on offering the best cardiac care possible, one patient at a time.

MOHAMMAD ANSARI, MD, FACC General Cardiology Inverness • Crystal River • Homosassa

SUMAN PASUPULETI, MD, CCDS, FACC

General and Invasive Cardiology (Pacemakers) Inverness • Crystal River • Homosassa

NISHANT K. NERELLA, MD

General Cardiology Inverness • Crystal River • Homosassa

DENNIS J. WALKER, MD General Cardiology Inverness

BOSE S. MANYAM, MD

General Cardiology Inverness • Crystal River • Homosassa

EZE DAVID UCHE, MD, PHARMD, FACC General and Invasive Cardiology The Villages • Leesburg

VISALI KODALI, MD

General Cardiology The Villages • Ocala • Leesburg

SUBBA R. VANGA, MD, MRCP, RVPI General and Interventional Cardiology Ocala

CATHY EAGLE, ARNP The Villages • Leesburg

SHEILA DePAOLO, PA The Villages • Leesburg

Seven Locations to Serve You INVERNESS

308 W. Highland Blvd.

Inverness, FL 34481 Tel: (352) 726-8353 Fax: (352) 726-5038

THE VILLAGES 910 Old Camp Road, Bldg. 210 The Villages, FL 32162 Tel: (352) 751-3356 Fax: (352) 751-3359

CRYSTAL RIVER

5606 W. Norvell Bryant Blvd.

Crystal River, FL 34429 Tel: (352) 795-4165 Fax: (352) 795-4879

LEESBURG

801 E. Dixie Ave. Suite 107 Leesburg, FL 34748 Tel: (352) 315-0627 Fax: (352) 315-1012

BUSHNELL

417 N. Market St. Bushnell, FL 33513 Tel: (352) 444-2699 Fax: (352) 569-4724

OCALA

9311 SW Hwy 200, Ste. 3 Ocala, FL 34481 Tel: (352) 300-3650 Fax: (352) 300-3656

HOMOSASSA

7955 S. Suncoast Pkwy Homosassa, FL 34446 Tel: (352) 382-5001 Fax: (352) 795-3659

We know Florida by heart

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

No-Crash Course

Ocala Health is no stranger to serious injuries resulting from auto accidents.

This month, the professionals at Ocala Health are stepping up to reduce the number of crashes by hosting the Safe Driving Experience, a free injury prevention event for drivers with cars, trucks, motorcycles, bikes and even golf carts in the area. Community organizations like Ocala Fire Rescue, Marion County Sheriff ’s Office and many more will engage guests with simulated events, demos and interactive activities to test their reaction times and improve their driving abilities to keep them safe on the roads. Drivers of all ages are welcome.

FEB

19

WANT TO GO? › Safe Driving Experience › Friday, February 19, 10am-2pm › College of Central Florida › To register, call (800) 530-1188 or visit ocalahealthsystem.com.

B U Z Z page

015

GRILLED GOODNESS

016

ROUND 'EM UP!

018

2 EQUINE EVENTS

020

WHOOPIE PIE WONDERS

024

CLASS ACTS

026

THE

Buzz

› ONE ON ONE

The $10,000 Sandwich

Ocala’s Jose Juarez, aka the BarbaCuban, gains national recognition for his Cuban Missile sandwich. › By JoAnn Guidry

L

ong before he was crowned “America’s New Grill Star” on ABC’s LIVE with Kelly & Michael, Jose Juarez was already known as the BarbaCuban.

“I’ve always enjoyed cooking and usually grill at least five times a week,” says Juarez, owner and president of Ocala-based Victory Solutions, a national Web-based customer follow-up services provider to the powersports industry. “My family and friends started calling me the BarbaCuban, and it stuck.”

It was Juarez’ grilling prowess that prompted his wife, Kelly, to suggest that he enter the “Search for America’s New Grill Star” contest. To do so, he had to come up with a signature grilled dish and submit a 30-second video of him making it. What Juarez created was a Cuban sandwich, featuring a grilled rib-eye steak burger. Juarez also concocted a secret-ingredient special sauce to give the sandwich its distinct flavor. He named it the 455 Sauce, honoring his 1971 Pontiac GTO’s powerful engine.

“Next thing I know I’m being contacted by the show and told I was one of nine finalists,” says Juarez. “Then, in late June, my wife and I were flown to New York. I made the sandwich live on an outdoor grilling set just outside the studio.”

After each of the contestants made their culinary creations, people voted by liking/sharing the videos on Facebook and the LIVE website. Voting for Juarez’ video reached 89,000 likes/shares and sent him to the finals on August 14. This time, Juarez had to make 15 grilled sandwiches for audience members, which counted as one vote. He also had to make sandwiches, now known as the Cuban Missile, for a panel of celebrity chefs. When the votes were in, Juarez prevailed to be named “America’s New Grill Star.” Along with the title, Juarez won $10,000 and a five-Webisode cooking series to air on the LIVE website and AOL. “The whole thing was such a surreal experience,” says Juarez.

“And Kelly (Ripa) and Michael (Strahan) were very gracious.”

Want To Make Your Own Cuban Missile?

› Serves 2 people

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Once back home, Juarez decided to put his newfound notoriety to good use.

“I committed myself to doing as many charitable fundraisers in the community as I could,” he says.

“I figured I have my 15 minutes of fame and I should do something positive with it. I’ve been a celebrity cook, judge and even have been auctioned off a few times. The highest bidder got to have me come to their house to grill for them. It’s been a lot of fun and a great way to give back.”

At this writing, the webisode cooking series was still in the pre-production stages. But Juarez has since trademarked the BarbaCuban name and his 455 Sauce. At this writing, Juarez has began bottling his 455 Sauce and hopes to sell it online and in local stores soon.

1.

Cut Cuban bread lengthwise

2. Put 455 Sauce on both slices

7.

1/4 pound mojo-marinated smoked pulled pork

3. 1 slice of Boar’s Head Swiss cheese

8. Add more 455 Sauce

4. 1/4 pound of grilled rib-eye steak burger

9. 2 more slices of Boar’s Head Swiss cheese

5. 2 slices of garlic pickles

10. Use cylinder press like a panini press

6. 2 slices of Boar’s Head sweet ham

11. Slice sandwich diagonally

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Buzz

› AROUND TOWN

Buckaroos On The Boulevard

Long gone are the days of cowboys and cattle drives—or so we thought. › By Katie McPherson / Photos by Ralph DiMilio

Don’t miss the Cattle Drive!

The 4th Annual Rotary Discovery Fest Cracker Cattle Drive & Cowboy Roundup will send a herd of steers through the streets of Ocala followed by a collection of Ol’ West activities at Tuscawilla Park, and you’ll want to be there.

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William Michael Morgan

FEB

12

WANT TO GO? › Blue Jean Ball › Friday, February 12 › 5:30-9pm › Discovery Center, 701 NE Sanchez Avenue › Tickets are $40, available at mydiscoverycenter.org.

NE 9th St

NE Sanchez Ave

Bleachers

NE Watula Ave

we’re having an educational cocktail hour for adults to learn about what we do for students at the Center,” says Discovery Center Manager Suzanne Shuffitt.

Then comes the main event: the Rotary Discovery Fest Cracker Cattle Drive & Cowboy Roundup kicks off Saturday, February 20 at 10am. The Marion County Cattlemen’s Association drives cattle down SE 1st Avenue onto NE 3rd Street, then NE Watula Avenue onto NE 9th Street and finally ending at Tuscawilla Park where the cowboys and their herd will join the party. Don’t miss the Cowpoke Parade following them along the way!

Rotary Discovery Fest takes place from 10am until 4pm. The park will fill with demonstrators, cracker food vendors, music and dancing, a beer waterin’ hole and plenty of games. Guests can try their hand at roping, make a personalized ear tag keychain for a keepsake and more.

Live music will begin at 4:30pm in Tuscawilla Park as part of the Feel Downtown Concert Series, typically held at Citizens' Circle, to create one can't-miss event.

William Michael Morgan ("I Met A Girl") will play following some beloved local talents.

The Discovery Center is located in Tuscawilla Park at the site of the festival.

It provides science-based, hands-on educational programing to community children. Funds from the Rotary Discovery Fest will be put toward renovations on the 1941 armory building housing the center, specifically the addition of an elevator to make the top floor accessible for traveling exhibits.

“The funds will enable us to fund exhibits and create a learning environment.

We’re already working on a grant to get our first exhibit in the fall of 2016,” says Suzanne, who is excited to soon hear all the noises of construction work around the office. Suzanne would also like to thank Ocala Style Magazine, Ocala Star Banner and 93.7 K Country for their sponsorship of this annual community event.

NE 3rd St

SE 1st Ave

E

ach year the Rotary Clubs of Marion County partner with the Discovery Center and the City of Ocala to host the Rotary Discovery Fest. This year’s event is slated to be the best yet.

On Friday, February 12, the Blue Jean Ball will be rocking from 5:30-9pm. Filled with entertainment, delicious food and a silent auction, the event is put on by the Discovery Center Foundation and funds will benefit the Discovery Center.

And, of course, the dress code is cowboy couture: boots, jeans and button-ups.

“During the ball, one of the things we’re doing this year is from 5:30 to 6:30pm

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SE 5th St

WANT TO GO? ›

Cracker Cattle Drive & Cowboy Roundup and Rotary Discovery Fest › Friday, February 20 › 10am-4pm

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352.387.0090 FEB ’16 ›

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› HORSIN’ AROUND

I Season Of The Horse

HITS Ocala and Live Oak International take center stage, showcasing two world-class equine events. › By JoAnn Guidry / HITS Photos by ESI Photography

f the fall season belongs to the multitude of area festivals, then winter in Ocala belongs to the horses—more specifically to HITS Ocala and Live Oak International. Thousands of equine enthusiasts gallop into Ocala for both internationally recognized, longtime events, adding even more credence to the area’s “Horse Capital of the World” title.

For Tom Struzzieri, founder, president and CEO of Horse Shows In The Sun (HITS), he had his eye on Ocala early on.

“We started out in Gainesville in 1982, but I kept waiting for my chance to move to Ocala,” says Struzzieri.

“That opportunity came in 1987, and we moved to Castro Farms. In 2001, we bought Post Time Farm, which had been a Thoroughbred operation, and relocated there. Ocala has been home to HITS for 29 years, and it’s been a great home.”

At 500 acres, HITS Post Time Farm has allowed the annual event to expand on several fronts. In 2014, the Ocala Horse Properties Stadium for Grand Prix show jumping was built. That led to HITS Ocala hosting its first FEI Nations Cup in 2015. For 2016, HITS introduced the Ocala Holiday Series (December 9-20) and created a new hunter field and six new customized barns.

“The FEI Nations Cup will return during the Ocala Winter Festival week February 16-21. And this year, Germany and Great Britain will also be competing,” says Struzzieri. “The new hunter field, which covers about two and a half acres, will allow us to stage our first $100,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby February 23-28.”

HITS Ocala kicked off 10 weeks of consecutive events on January 19 and will conclude on Sunday, March 27 with the Great American $1 Million Grand Prix. According to a 2014 Sports Management Research Institute economic impact study, HITS Ocala accounts for $63 million in direct expenditures from participants and spectators. That number generates more than $90 million in total economic benefits to the Ocala/Marion County area.

“If you come out on a Sunday, there’s competition going on in 12 rings at a time,” says Struzzieri. “You’ll see everything from Olympic caliber riders and horses to younger riders getting show experience.

It’s a festival atmosphere with food and merchandise vendors set up. And you can stroll all around the beautiful grounds.”

Struzzieri envisions HITS Ocala continuing to thrive.

“Unlike other show facilities on the East Coast, HITS Post Time Farm has plenty of room to grow,” he says. “With space to add more barns, show rings, schooling and riding areas, it won’t be long before the entire East Coast realizes that HITS Ocala is the only place to show in the winter.”

HITS Ocala Show Schedule FEB 2-7: Ocala Premiere III

MAR 1-6: Ocala Tournament VII

FEB 9-14: Ocala Winter Classic

MAR 8-13: Ocala Winter Finals VIII

FEB 16-21: Ocala Winter Festival V/ Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup at 1pm

MAR 15-20: Ocala Winter Celebration IX/ $100,000 Sullivan GMC Truck Grand Prix

FEB 23-28: Ocala Master VI/$100,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby

MAR 22-27: Ocala Championship X MAR 27: Great American $1 Million Grand Prix at 2pm

WANT TO GO? › HITS Post Time Farm › 13710 US Hwy 27, Ocala › (352) 620-2275, hitsshows.com › Showgrounds open 8am-5pm, Wednesdays through Sundays › Admission: No admission charge for daytime performances Wednesday through Saturday › On Sundays, general admission tickets are $5; $10 for the Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup (Friday, February 19) and for the Great American $1 Million Grand Prix (Sunday, March 27); children under 12 free.

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Read about Live Oak on p.22

19 9 1 e c Sin

PIN US ON

Buzz

› HORSIN’ AROUND

Photo by Pics Of You

THE

Live Oak International Celebrates 25th Anniversary

For 25 years, the Live Oak International has been the go-to event for the world’s leading drivers, trainers, coaches and owners from North America and Europe.

W

Photo by Cyndi Chambers Sports

ith the addition of show jumping to the combined driving venue in 2012, Live Oak International has grown and garnered even more international equestrian recognition.

“This year’s event showcases the best quality horses and competitors from around the world in combined driving and show jumping,” says Chester Weber, a multiple combined driving champion and CEO of Live Oak International. “For spectators attending the event, our aim is to promote a fun family day. This year we will have a children’s play area as well as a large vendor village.”

For spectators attending the event, In 2015, 60 our aim is to promote a fun family day. drivers and 53 › Chester Weber riders from more than 20 countries competed in Live Oak International.

More than 5,000 spectators were on hand for the Grand Prix and Driving Marathon competitions. Live Oak

International takes place at 4,500-acre Live Oak Stud, a longtime successful Thoroughbred operation.

“Our largest spectator days are Saturday and Sunday, February 27-28,” says Weber. “On Saturday, we have the Combined Driving Marathon followed by the $35,000 World Ranking Jumping Class. Then on Sunday, it’s the FEI Driving Obstacle Competition and the $100,000 Longines World Cup Qualifier Grand Prix.”

This year’s event will serve as the United States Equestrian Federation Four-In-Hand National Championships. And always a crowd favorite, the Budweiser Clydesdales will be stabled on the grounds. Sans horses, human runners will compete in the Live Oak International 5K, benefiting NAMI Ocala, on Sunday, February 28.

Proceeds from the Live Oak International will benefit the Marion Therapeutic Riding Association, Ocala Symphony Orchestra and Ocala Farm Ministry.

Live Oak International Schedule THU, FEB 25 FEI Driving Dressage: 9am Horse Inspection Jumping: 2pm

FRI, FEB 26 Intermediate Driving Dressage: 8am

SAT, FEB 27 Driving Marathon: 9am

Waldron Wealth Management 1.35M Speed Stake: 1pm

CSI 3* $35,000 World Ranking Jumping Class: 1:30pm

CSI 3* World Ranking Class Qualifier: 3pm

SUN, FEB 28 Live Oak International 5K: 7:30am FEI Driving Obstacle Competition: 8:30am Sleepy P Ranch Leadline Class: 12am CSI 3* $100,000 Longines World Cup Qualifier Grand Prix: 12:30pm Intermediate Cones: 2pm

WANT TO GO? › Live Oak International › 9275 SW 9th Street Road, Ocala › liveoakinternational.com › Admission: $10 adults; $5 seniors; free for children under 12.

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Buzz

› GOING PLACES

Whoopie! For Whoopie Pies

At Sweet Jane’s Candy Store, delectable whoopie pies are confection superstars. › By JoAnn Guidry / Photos by John Jernigan

J

ane Lockhart Waugh, aka Sweet Jane, doesn’t remember a time she wasn’t eating whoopie pies. But she does recall with sweet-treat clarity the first time she made whoopie pies.

“My mother was an excellent baker. Her wonderful whoopie pies were likely one of the first foods I ever ate,” says Jane, who grew up in Maine, where the whoopie pie is the official state treat. “I was 8 when I helped her make a batch. She put one of her aprons on me, and I sat on a stool next to the kitchen counter. I’ve been baking them ever since.”

How many whoopie pies has Jane baked? Well, just since opening her Silver Springs-based Sweet Jane’s Candy Store in 2008, she’s baked and sold more than 116,000 and counting. That’s a whole lot of whoopie pies.

“People who grow up eating them love them their whole lives,” says Jane, 53. “And people who eat one for the first time love them from then on. They’re just an addictive, sweet treat.”

So what the heck is a whoopie pie? They’re two palm-sized, cake-like chocolate cookies with a creamy frosting filling. The lore is People who grow up eating them that in the 1930s, love them their whole lives.

Pennsylvania › Jane Lockhart Waugh Amish women first made them from leftover cake batter. They would put them in their children’s school lunch bags; the kids would shout “Whoopie!” when they found them. The original whoopie pie was chocolate cake with vanilla filling.

Today, whoopie pies can be found in any flavor combination imaginable.

“I make 12 different varieties of whoopie pies,” says Jane. “The original chocolate/vanilla is our best seller, especially if people grew up with it. But other popular fillings include peanut butter, mint chocolate, cherry and strawberry. My favorite is German chocolate frosting.”

The whoopie pie process begins daily at Sweet Jane’s at 6am with the batter and frosting prepared first. Then, Jane starts the actual baking at 8am with batches of whoopie pies ready for customers when the store opens at 10am, seven days a week. This is all the more amazing considering that only a regular kitchen oven, and not a state-of-the-art convection oven, is used.

“I learned to bake with a regular kitchen oven,” says Jane, who has a small staff of two to three. “It worked fine for my mother, and it works fine for me.”

Jane also bakes mini-whoopie pies dipped in chocolate and whoopie cookies. And let’s not forget that Sweet Jane’s is a candy store. More than 100 different candies, including fudge, are made on site. There are also 20 different taffy flavors and 16 different types of chocolate-dipped pretzels. You can wash all this down with one of the old-fashioned sodas in stock.

“When people come in to my store to buy whoopie pies, they say 'I sure hope they taste like those my mom used to make,'” says Jane. “I tell them that they taste like what my mom used to make.”

And now Sweet Jane makes.

GOT A SWEET TOOTH? › Sweet Jane’s Candy Store › (Inside the trading post @ Wilderness RV Park Estates) › 2774 NE 102nd Ave. Rd., Silver Springs › Open Monday-Sunday, 10am-6pm › (352) 625-1048 › sweetjaneswhoopiepies.com 024

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Discover Florida’s Horses

BG Trail Rides 352.207.1882

Ocala RV Show • Feb 4-7

Black Light Bubble Party • Feb 27

The Florida Horse Park is a 501(c)(3) corporation and relies on donations and contributions from the public.

There are many ways you can help support the Park. Please visit our website to see sponsor opportunities, or to purchase our license plate, Discover Florida’s Horses.

Find out more today.

www.FLHorsePark.com

Florida Horse Park

11008 South Highway 475 in Ocala, Florida (352) 307-6699 SPONSOR S

Joan Pletcher R E A LTOR ®

THE

Buzz

› CLASS ACTS

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS AND DISTRICT NEWS THAT SHAPE MARION COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS. › By Kevin Christian, APR, CPRC

Honored For Honor

Thirteen fourth- and fifth-graders at Hammett Bowen Jr. Elementary were inducted into the National Elementary Honor Society recently, increasing the total membership to 17. Mayor Kent Guinn stressed true leadership values to everyone attending.

Each inducted student lit candles for every honor society virtue: scholarship, responsibility, leadership and service. The group also took the honor society oath before celebrating with friends and family.

Abel Garcia

Becky Champagne

Jackie Weeks

And The Winner Is… Five people are finalists for School-Related Employee of the Year in our district.

They include: Abel Garcia (Reddick-Collier Elementary), Becky Champagne (Evergreen Elementary), Jackie Weeks (Hillcrest), Jodi Antonucci (Vanguard High) and Yunia Perez (Horizon Academy at Marion Oaks).

These folks work with kids behind the scenes, in and out of the classroom, making a difference for students.

Jodi Antonucci

Counting COUNTS

North Marion Middle students battled each other to make the school’s annual MathCOUNTS team. This year’s winners—Austin Rogers, Tylin Barnard and Jayden Burgos (with other competitors behind them)—represent the school at the district-wide MathCOUNTS competition later this month. Good luck to everyone!

Yunia Perez

Lap For Lockley

Speaking of North Marion Middle, Dr. Marc Lockley is thrilled to be on the track again at that school. This math teacher discovered a tumor in his foot that never presented pain but turned out to be a rare condition that leached phosphate out of his body. This made his bones brittle to the point where he had 200 fractures at one time. Now, thanks to successful surgery and some physical exercise, he’s “back on track” and healthy—so Principal Philip Leppert and school colleagues recently joined him on the track for his first official lap without a cane.

Osceola Opens Food Chain

Osceola Middle students formed a human supply chain to hand over 1,310 pounds of canned and nonperishable food items from the principal’s office to the parking lot. More than 1,000 items nearly fortified the principal’s office. National Junior Honor Society students led the charge with all donations benefiting Interfaith.

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A

SCULPTURE

AFFAIR

TUSCAWILLA PARK

Thursday | Feb. 11 | 5-7:30 p.m.

Bring your sweetheart to a special unveiling of the 10 new sculptures.

Featuring live music, hors d’oeuvres, adult beverages, Valentine caricatures and docent tours of the sculptures.

Tickets are $15/person or two for $25 and may be purchased by contacting the City’s Cultural Arts office at 352-629-8477 or at amarcello@ocalafl.org.

DISCOVERY CENTER | 701 NE SANCHEZ AVE.

Friday | Feb. 12

Educational Cocktail Hour | 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Silent Auction | Drinks | Appetizers | Live Entertainment 6:30-9 p.m.

Join us for an evening of adult entertainment, great food and drink, a silent auction and contribution opportunities. Tickets are $40/person.

Lounge area sponsorships available for $500 and includes 10 event tickets, 20 drink tickets and reserved seating!

Tickets are available at www.mydiscoverycenter.org or please call 352-401-3900 for details.

ROTARY DISCOVERY FEST CRACKER CATTLE DRIVE & COWBOY ROUND UP DOWNTOWN OCALA TO TUSCAWILLA PARK

Saturday | Feb. 20 | 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m.

Round up the kids, break out your Stetsons and your best John Wayne drawl and join us for the kick off of a real cattle drive. There will be kids’ games, demonstrations of cowboy skills, live music, great entertainment and vittles. See you there!

Please call 352-368-5517 for more information.

Photo by Ralph Demilio

Lifestyle Solutions MedSpa:

CREATE A NEW YOU

F

inally, the holiday haze of stress and overindulgence are in the rearview mirror, while the dawn of a new year is firmly in our sights. It’s time to re-evaluate our lifestyles and carefully determine how we can improve our health and overall appearance.

Here’s the good news. When it comes to redefining ourselves in 2016, the possibilities are endless. Who knows? Change might just come in the form of bright and radiant skin, a slimmer, sexier figure, or freedom from unwanted hair on certain body parts.

Fortunately, Lifestyle Solutions MedSpa can make all these new year dreams come true.

The practice, which has offices serving The Villages and Ocala is operated by Dr. Michael Holloway and his wife, Shannon, and offers medically directed, result-based weight-loss services, as well as medical spa services such as CoolSculpting®,

“We’ve assembled a highly certified and credentialed staff to perform these procedures. Those are the reasons we have such an incredible success rate in everything we do here.”

— MICHAEL M. HOLLOWAY, M.D.

Botox®, Restylane®, Laser Hair Removal and Skin Resurfacing as well as a variety of treatment-based facials including the HydraFacial MD® to name a few.

Think of Lifestyle Solutions MedSpa as a medical practice with a day spa mentality.

None of the procedures are gimmicky or unproven. Dr. Holloway and Shannon pride themselves on offering only evidence-and outcome-based models of care.

“We’ve done our due diligence by carefully researching the technology and procedures we use,” Dr. Holloway said. “More importantly, we’ve assembled a highly certified and credentialed staff to perform these procedures. Those are the reasons we have such an incredible success rate in everything we do here.”

Here’s a detailed look at some of those treatments.

PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE FEB ’16 ›

029

CoolSculpting®

Weight Management There are many reasons to lose weight. Perhaps you want to get your body fine-tuned so you can walk the beach in a bathing suit without being embarrassed. Or, you may wish to minimize health risks, such as heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and other conditions, that can stem from obesity.

Whatever the reason, the physician-directed weight loss program at Lifestyle Solutions MedSpa helps patients achieve desired results— all in a structured, healthy manner without undergoing surgery or a crash diet.

“We tailor the program to the individual needs of our patients,” Dr. Holloway said. “Our program does not focus on a diet; instead, we teach patients how to live a healthier lifestyle in a realistic and sustainable way.”

Starting with the free initial consultation, Dr. Holloway provides medically based

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guidance each step of the way. The program includes individualized nutritional counseling, exercise and behavior modification techniques, prescription appetite suppressants when indicated, comprehensive lab workup and EKG. Patients are also offered Lipotropic and HCG injections as part of the program—both of which help increase fat burning and metabolism.

To say patients enjoy stellar results would be an understatement.

“We have one patient who was overweight and using a wheelchair,” said manager Rosanna Whitehead. “Now, she’s walking with the assistance of a walker, and every time she walks into the office she’s smiling and singing. It has been amazing to see her transformation.”

Of course, Lifestyle Solutions MedSpa also offers other services to complement your weight loss and help you look and feel your best.

You’ve undoubtedly heard the expression “melt the fat away.”

Lifestyle Solutions offers a much “cooler” way to eliminate unwanted fat.

That’s because the practice offers CoolSculpting®, a revolutionary technology that targets fat cells to get rid of those annoying bumps and bulges of unwanted fat. During each hour-long session, the device, which is FDA approved, freezes fat cells without hurting the skin. The noninvasive, no downtime procedure does not involve any incisions, tubes or drains and is very well tolerated with little to no bruising following the procedure.

“It can be used to treat all areas of the body, including the abdomen, the inner and outer thighs as

well as the latest FDA approved applicator that eliminates that undesirable doublechin,” Shannon said. “Patients see a significant reduction of fat in areas that are diet and exercise resistant.

And because we have two CoolSculpting® machines, patients can have two areas treated at once rather than come in for separate appointments.”

Patients can enjoy peace of mind knowing the procedure is performed by highly trained and certified technicians. In addition, the treatment is administered in one of Lifestyle Solution’s spa rooms, where patients can maximize relaxation by gazing skyward at the glimmering fiber optic star dome ceiling and watch a movie or TV series of their choosing, if desired.

Palomar Icon® Laser Another way to improve your appearance without surgery is with the Palomar Icon® Laser. This FDA-approved laser technology is the latest example of how Dr. Holloway and Shannon provide the most advanced, effective and safest aesthetic treatments available.

It’s used for a wide range of aesthetic concerns, including sun spots and pigmented lesions, melasma, rosacea and facial veins, and hair removal from head to toe.

Equally effective is the Palomar Icon® Fractional Laser hand piece, which delivers heat to the deeper layers of the skin, thus promoting new collagen and elastin production. This technology is ideal for eliminating scars (surgical and otherwise), stretch marks and acne scars and smoothing out wrinkled skin via skin resurfacing.

Come See Us

HydraFacial MD® Sometimes, patients need more than a basic facial to treat skin that is wrinkled and dry.

Lifestyle Solutions offers a procedure known as the HydraFacial MD®, an advanced medical-grade skin care treatment that cleanses, exfoliates and hydrates the skin. The treatment,

which is performed by a licensed esthetician, also extracts and cleans out pores making the skin much smoother in its appearance. This noninvasive, agedefying procedure is soothing, moisturizing, non-irritating and immediately effective.

Lifestyle Solutions offers a slew of other treatments, including Botox®, Restylane®, facials, body wraps, massage, body scrubs, peels and microdermabrasion. There are two spa treatment rooms with a butterfly garden out back, which makes for a perfect “spa party” for two that includes lunch or an afternoon snack and beverage. The practice also offers some of the latest skin care product lines, including iS Clinical®, a global leader in cosmeceutical skin care products that repair and rejuvenate aging and acneprone skin.

But despite the vast array of stateof-the-art technologies, patients are equally satisfied by the high level of care and attentiveness provided by the warm, caring staff.

“We’re like a big family here,” said Dairelys Lugo, medical assistant and lifestyle coach. “After finishing an appointment, patients often sit in the lobby and enjoy a cup of coffee because

they like engaging in conversation with us.”

Manager Gina Chancellor echoed those sentiments.

“We’re happy to be here in The Villages, and in only two months, our patient base has doubled.

If you haven’t met us, we encourage you to stop by so we can give you a free tour of the office and explain everything we do.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION

LIFESTYLE SOLUTIONS MEDSPA 8550 NE 138th Lane Lady Lake 2139-B NE 2nd St. Ocala 1-844-LIFESTYLE LSMedSpa.com

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STRONGER

HEARTS, FRANK DELUCA YMCA FAMILY CENTER

HAPPIER LIVES

“I was active my whole life until I developed tumors in my feet 4 years ago and had surgeries to remove them. I also had a very rough pregnancy, battling high blood pressure and gestational diabetes.

I ended up having an emergency C-section, and a few weeks later, my gallbladder was removed. I knew that I needed to ease into a healthy lifestyle, so I joined the Y. I have a blast dancing it up in Zumba class, and the Barre class makes me feel strong and poised. Right now, it’s not about a number on the scale. It’s about how I’m happier, I have more stamina to get through the day, more patience with my toddler and husband, and a better outlook on life overall.” —Meryl Sherwood

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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

From Adolescence To Adulthood

Every parent knows that a child should be taught social skills and how to properly handle their emotions, but a recent study showed those skills may be more valuable than most parents would expect.

The American Journal of Public Health conducted a study evaluating 800 children from the time they were in kindergarten until they reached their mid20s. The study showed that children who were more helpful and better sharers in kindergarten were more likely to graduate from college and have a full-time job by the age of 25. Students who had problems in kindergarten were more likely to not

DAY C AR E D I LE M MA

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TOO MUCH TECH?

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THE PERFECT SHOT

finish high school and have sustenance problems in the future.

The study isn’t meant to scare parents; less than outstanding social skills in kindergarten doesn’t necessarily mean the student is doomed in the future.

It mostly serves as a wake-up call for educators: The social and emotional skills of students are just as important as the actual academic and cognitive skills taught in school. Food for thought!

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KIDS WRITE IN

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› PA R ENTI N G P O I NTERS

Deciding On Day Care

Leaving your child in the hands of someone else at a day care center can be very difficult, especially if it’s for the first time. When looking for a safe and nurturing environment for your little one, remember that it’s most important for you to feel comfortable with the day care you choose. Follow these steps to make the process of finding one simple and thorough.

START EARLY. Start

about six months in advance just in case you have to be put on a waiting list.

PRIORITIZE. Would

you prefer the day care to be located closer to home or to work? How many other children do you feel comfortable having around your child?

RESEARCH. Research

child care policies, procedures and curriculums on different day care centers’ websites, and then call the Child Care Aware hotline for referrals to licensed and home day care centers in your area.

ASK AROUND. Talk to other moms and friends who use or may have heard of the centers.

TOUR AND INTERVIEW. Set up

times to take tours of a few day care centers and meet the caregivers.

Make sure to ask questions.

TAKE YOUR CHILD.

Visit them again, but bring your child this time.

Watch how the caregivers interact with your child and whether your child feels comfortable.

GET ON THE WAITING LIST. If

you’ve found the perfect day care but there’s a waiting list, go ahead and get on it. That way, your child is guaranteed to eventually get a spot.

While you wait, look for another day care center to have as a backup.

Must-Haves

Red Flags

A QUALITY DAY CARE CENTER WILL HAVE EACH OF THESE CHARACTERISTICS.

IF YOU COME ACROSS ANY OF THESE ISSUES AT A DAY CARE CENTER OR JUST FEEL UNEASY ABOUT A PLACE, CROSS IT OFF YOUR LIST. YOU DON’T WANT TO FIND YOURSELF WORRYING ABOUT YOUR CHILD’S CARE AND SAFETY EACH DAY.

A GOOD REPUTATION: You hear great things about it. Word of mouth is everything.

RULES AND SET GUIDELINES: Rules are in place for every aspect of the facility, and guidelines keep all caregivers and parents on the same page.

GOOD CURRICULUM: The schedule of activities varies to stimulate, educate and nurture your child.

QUALIFIED, CARING STAFF: The caregivers are educated and aware of children’s needs, and the center adheres to proper adult-to-child ratios.

HEALTHY FOOD: The provided snacks and lunches consist of healthy foods, not junk food.

› Mediocre reputation

CLEAN, SAFE FACILITIES: The rooms, bathrooms and play areas should be clean and free of hazardous objects.

› Boring curriculum

CURRENT LICENSE: A current license shows that the day care facility meets the state’s standards for health and safety.

› Lax rules › Uneducated,

overworked or irresponsible staff › Dirty or unsafe facilities › An expired license

National Association for the Education of Young Children naeyc.org, (202) 232-8777

National Association for Family Child Care nafcc.org, (801) 886-2322

Child Care Aware childcareaware.org, (800) 424-2246

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Sources: babycenter.com, thebump.com, parents.com

RESOURCES USE THESE HELPFUL RESOURCES TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT CHILD CARE FACILITIES, POLICIES AND EDUCATION.

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FEB ’16 ›

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Hive

› CHIT CH AT

Screen Time Solutions

Does plopping your kids in front of the TV to keep them busy leave you with a sense of guilt? Since 1999, the American Academy of Pediatrics has discouraged any screen time for children under 2 and recommends one to two hours for children and teens. But this year, they’re changing those numbers and telling parents they need not feel bad for giving their little ones access to media.

In the fall of 2016, the AAP will announce new guidelines for screen time, which will account for how children and teens today are much more involved with technology than in 1999 and how students often use computers and apps in class. The new tips will include ways parents can make the most of their kids’ viewing time and help them choose beneficial programs and software.

That said, experts at the AAP still believe limiting screen time is important. Here are some tips for trying it at home:

Create tech-free rooms and times.

Screen light can disturb the body’s melatonin production and circadian rhythm, making it more difficult to fall asleep.

Having the TV on during dinner prevents family interaction.

Say no to phones and televisions while eating and in the hour before heading to bed.

Fill those times with quality experiences.

Now that everyone is seated for dinner without their phones, make sure each person gets to talk about their day and what’s going on with them. Before bed, read a chapter of a book with young kids to set up a ritual they’ll look forward to. If the tech-free times are engaging and leave everyone feeling good, it will be easier to maintain screen rules long term.

Trim screen time slowly.

Consider how much screen time your children get now and your goal amount for them. Lessen the existing amount in

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30-minute increments over time instead of all at once to prevent any cold turkey fits.

Cover screens that aren’t in use.

Close the doors on the entertainment center or throw a blanket over the computer. Out of sight out of mind is true when it comes to screens, too, and the less visible they are, the less likely kids will be to turn them on.

Get them involved.

Are there any activities your child or teen has wanted to get involved in? Encourage them to join sports teams or clubs. When they’re engaged with activities outside of technology, they’ll spend more time on those, and they won’t have excess time to fill with TV or surfing the Internet.

Apps for That Check your phone or tablet for parental controls that don’t require third-party apps. Apple iOS devices let users restrict usage by setting a passcode for specific apps or Safari. Go to Settings > General > Restrictions > Enable Restrictions > Enter Passcode to set up.

If you need more options, try ScreenTime. It comes free, but the $3.99 per month version allows parents to remotely control their children’s devices. Mom and Dad can set daily time limits, add more time and block certain apps during school and bedtime all without taking away the phone or tablet.

Sources: cnn.com, aappublications.org, webmd.com, coolmomtech.com

THE

Our ARTSpace The Daniel M. and Mary B. Kraus ARTSpace is now open daily for children and families to explore. Make a mosaic with magnets, build with LEGOs® or create a work of art on our glass drawing wall there is something for every age and ability!

what will you create today?

ARTSpace Hours & Admission Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sunday, noon-5 p.m.

Use of the ARTSpace is free for museum members; included in admission for nonmembers.

Children 9 and under are always free!

Appleton Museum of Art 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, 34470 AppletonMuseum.org | 352-291-4455

–an equal opportunity college–

How does your child think?

Leading the way in progressive education | 3 years old - eighth grade For admission info, please call (352) 351-8840 x120 |

www.TheCornerstoneSchool.org FEB ’16 ›

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› SNAPSHOTS

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

Abigail, 11, awarded 1st place in the Ocala Marathon 5K in the 10-14 age division

Delaney, 6, at The Cornerstone School science fair

Irelyn, 7, at Anthony Elementary's awards ceremony

Harrison, 5, poses for T-ball picture

Tate representing the MCYFL Pee Wee Rams

Caylee, 8, at the Crayola Experience in Orlando

Kayla, 10, and Matthew, 13, at the Ocala Soap Box Derby

Gateway Bank opens student-run bank at Osceola Middle School

Violet, 4, enjoys craft time at Monkey Madness

Emily dances in The Nutcracker with Marion Ballet Theatre

Cub Scout Pack 448 at a recent campout

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!

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Ethan, 10, at Robopalooza robotics competition at Forest High

EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF LIVE THEATRE! Feb. 11 – Mar. 6 Sponsored By: Ocala Style Magazine

Book, Music and Lyrics by Willy Russell

Separated at birth by their desperate mother, one twin grows up in poverty, while the other is raised in privilege.

Yet they become childhood friends whose fates are eerily intertwined in this gritty British rock musical.

Is Your Student Insured Properly?

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Souls Harbor Ken Ludwig’s

Mar. 24 – Apr. 17 Sponsored By: K-Country

Quail Valley Country Club desperately needs to win this year’s golf tournament. When their top golfer quits, they’re in the rough – until a stroke of genius hits a hole in one in this frantically funny farce!

Highlands Baptist Highlands Baptist

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Learning Center

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Mar. 31 – Apr. 11 At a retirement home for musicians, former opera stars hope to perform at the annual gala concert. But one notorious diva refuses to sing – or resurrect past friendships.

Can harmony be restored in this bittersweet comedy?

By Ronald Harwood

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Pick up at Maplewood & Ward-Highlands Elementary Schools name NOWYour ENROLLING Your title

4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL 34470 In The Appleton Cultural Center

352.236.2274 • OcalaCivicTheatre.com LARGE PRINT

Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Council on Arts & Culture.

Baptist for ourHighlands K-5 Summer Camp &

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FEB ’16 ›

Highlands

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Learnin

THE

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› KIDS' KORNER

We asked area elementary-age kids what they think it means to be a good friend. Here’s what they had to say!

A good friend to me means helping each other when you’re feeling sad or mad. Making each other laugh and being considerate of each other’s feelings and never judging them for their differences. Doing things that the other likes to do even if you may not like the game they want to play, or the TV show, or even movies they like.

Taking the time to stop and listen to each other or help with difficult tasks or hard times they might be having. Always being there for the good and bad, and will have your back when you need them. A good friend is a friend that likes you for you not the things you have, and someone that you can talk to and share things that are important to you. That’s what a good friend means to me. › Anthony DeLuccie

Good Friends Hanging

MARCH QUESTION:

What’s your favorite thing to do on spring break? › Entries due by February 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.

Grace Episcopal Church VPK

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Our FREE VPK program offers each child:

We are shepherding Jesus’ little lambs into a growing faith in HIM.

Developmentally Appropriate Curriculum A Marion County “Golden Apple Teacher” Kindergarten Readiness Activities Literacy and Math Centers Degreed Educators Small Classes Weekly Chapel Time Before and After Care

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All provided in a nurturing, family-like environment where learning is achieved through hands-on fun!

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your 4-year-old in our faith-based VPK program for the 2016-2017 school year NOW.

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SPEECH, LANGUAGE and OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY SERVICES

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CALL US FOR A FREE INITIAL SCREENING | AVAILABLE BY APPOINTMENT

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FEB ’16 ›

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WHAT BEGAN AS A SIMPLE STEER SHOW IN 1941 HAS BECOME ONE OF THE LARGEST ANNUAL EVENTS IN MARION COUNTY. The Southeastern Youth Fair runs February 20 through February 27,

and as the largest all-youth fair event in the state of Florida, it’s one to put on the calendar.

By KATIE

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McPHERSON

xecutive Director Denise Deen is one of only two employees who make the fair possible each year, and 2016 will be her sixth year. She says the fair is undoubtedly a community event—volunteers from the area are the only reason it’s possible.

Local organizations sponsor each show and provide knowledgeable personnel to set up, run and tear down the various exhibitions.

“We have wonderful volunteers that handle each show, and they have expertise in each show. For example, the steer show is run by Marion County Cattlemen,” Denise explains. “Each show has its own coordinator. That person usually gets a committee of more volunteers. No one person could run a show—it takes a village. We set up all the logistics, and they do all the work with the animals, like weigh-ins and setting up pens. They work so hard purely because they enjoy what they’re doing and helping the kids.”

With approximately 1,000 exhibitors this year, all members of Marion County 4-H clubs and FFA chapters, there’s no shortage of sights to see. They’ll be competing in 27 different events in four categories: market animals, animals, home arts and other. Market animals are the staple, and these projects start months in advance at animal weigh-in days.

Steers, goats, lambs and hogs will all be trailered to the fairgrounds to be shown and sold. The swine show is slated to be the largest with 291 hogs weighed in (though not all will make it to show day), which is 90 more than last year.

Lori Albritton has been teaching agriculture for 21 years and recently moved to North Marion High School where she leads 50 students in the school’s FFA chapter. She sees how

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SENIOR DEREK SHARP HAS SHOWN AT EVERY SOUTHEASTERN YOUTH FAIR SINCE 2011. hard her students work each day to prepare their project animals for the fair.

“It goes all the way back to the beginning from feeding and nutrition to exercising. The kids have to keep record books on everything, like feed expenses and building a pen. They’re selling them for meat, so daily exercise builds their muscles,” she explains.

She says the students also practice setting up their animals, which means training them to stand properly in the ring to look their best for buyers.

“Right before the fair, around January, students write buyer letters and visit people to invite them to the fair and are basically marketing their animals,” says Lori.

One of her FFA members, senior Derek Sharp, has shown at every Southeastern Youth Fair since 2011. This year he’s showing one steer, multiple beef heifers and a market lamb, so he’s no stranger to show preparations.

“We get our steer at the beginning of the project anywhere from late spring to end of summer before September when our initial weigh-in is,” says Derek.

“From that point, we work on halter breaking. That involves getting the animal’s trust so it’s used to being around you. Usually these calves come off the ranch, and they’re not used to being touched. You work with them every day, training them to set up and set their legs correctly for how you want them to look in the

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show.” Hair care is important, too, especially for the lambs, of course. But one thing is pivotal for every project animal: food.

“Nutrition is a whole different ball game,” says Derek. “There’s so much involved. If it’s too hot, they won’t want to eat, or if it’s too cold, they may feel hungrier. We always choose a high-quality feed because we believe what you put in is what you’ll get out. If you invest your money, you’ll get a high-quality finished product at the end of the project.”

Record books are a part of livestock projects most fair visitors won’t see, but competitors spend hours making sure their records are thorough and will hold up under the judges’ scrutiny. Inside are inventories for tracking costs per unit of feed and purchase dates, materials for building pens and other

expenses like bedding and brushes. There is also an animal health record for dates it received deworming medication.

Market animal projects are quite an undertaking, but that doesn’t keep younger students from getting involved. Lindy Batten runs the 4-H program at Shady Hill Elementary School. She started the after-school club five years ago with one club pig and a vision of spearheading an ag program at the elementary level.

This year, 35 members are raising 13 animals on campus to show at the Southeastern Youth Fair.

“Students share responsibilities for the care and the maintenance of these market animals. They give oral demonstrations, complete record books and take superior care of the animals so they make weight. This could open many doors for them in the future. That’s my passion, to be a teacher who provides these opportunities in agriculture to students for them to learn by doing,” she explains.

Last year Shady Hill 4-H showed four market animals. Their pig and lamb were crowned grand champions, their steer was reserve class champion and their goat won class champion. Emery Robbins, this year’s club president, says she and her fellow members have all become passionate about livestock and agriculture.

“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to even touch one of these animals, and I’m very grateful for Ms. Batten,” she says. Students take turns showing the animals, but all relish the one-on-one time caring for them and preparing them for their 15 minutes of fame.

While livestock shows are the cornerstone of the fair, there are numerous other exhibitions, too. One of the newer competitions is the Dave Bailey BBQ Contest, sponsored by the Lions Club, which began in 1990.

“We have four categories: chicken, pork, beef and other. There’s a first place in each category, and they

get a cash prize, and it’s really fun,” Denise says. Participants don’t just show up and flip burgers. They have to bring their own grill and equipment, create their own menu and attend a food safety course in advance to be eligible.

“We have tractor driving, which is sponsored by the Florida Farm Bureau.

That’s Monday morning before the barbecue contest. That’s a really fun one. They earn belt buckles and other things, and there are winners in junior, senior and intermediate.” Other events include a speech contest, conservation landscape tray displays, sewing and needlework, and a photography contest that has grown each year.

Aside from the young 4-H’ers and Future Farmers of America showing off their projects, there will be a Country Carnival with rides and attractions to keep the roughly 24,000 expected visitors busy between show times. Other animal shows include horse events with riders in English and Western disciplines and dog shows

all day Saturday with obedience in the morning and agility in the afternoon. No doubt the fair will be a must-see exhibition of Marion County youth’s hard work, passion and progress.

Derek believes involvement in FFA has made him and his siblings more responsible than some of their peers, especially when it comes to money.

“We’re out here every day cleaning pens, washing the animals, fixing fences, whatever has to get done.

I might get invited to go hang out with friends, but if the animals haven’t been fed, that has to happen first. It teaches us a lot of responsibility,” he says.

“Financial literacy is big. Every year, I get a loan to raise my animals, and at the end of the year, I pay it back. My little brother and sister, 14 and 10, take loans out, as well, so even at their age they’re learning how a bank works, interest on the loans, how to pay them back and we learn the value of a dollar. It’s one of the best things I’ve ever been involved in.”

Lori Albritton knows FFA is preparing her students to inherit the agricultural industry successfully.

“There are 22 million people who work in ag-related jobs every day. The industry is so diverse in what you can do.”

For Denise, her time overseeing the fair has always been about the county’s youth learning to love agriculture.

“The life lessons learned at the fair are invaluable and help produce some amazing young people. This is what I love about the fair: the sense of community and a love for the land and agriculture that has endured and been passed on for 76 years!”

WANT TO GO? SOUTHEASTERN YOUTH FAIR Saturday, February 20 through Saturday, February 27 2232 NE Jacksonville Road, Ocala Event schedules available online at seyfair.com.

FEB ’16 ›

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Whether it’s day care and preschool or high school and college, choosing the right educational path for your children is a common anxiety among most parents. So to make the process a little easier, we’ve compiled a list of Ocala and Marion County’s education options to help guide your way.

2016 EDUCATI N, School & Day Care

GU DE

Achieve Learning Center

623 NE 27th Ave., Ocala › (352) 6202555 › achievelearningcenter.org Achieve Learning Center offers day care, a free VPK program and afterschool care to older children. The center is open from 7am until 6pm and offers a structured atmosphere with plenty of circle time, arts and crafts, cooperative learning and dramatic play.

Alphabet Land Learning Center

2147 SW Hwy 484, Ocala › (352) 3072067 › alphabetlandlearningcenter.com Alphabet Land welcomes children ages 6 weeks to 12 years of age, including a free school-year or summer VPK program. Before and after-school care with pickup and drop-off at local schools is also available.

Ambleside School of Ocala

507 SE Broadway St., Ocala › (352) 6941635 › amblesideocala.com Ambleside offers a private, Christian education not committed to any particular denomination to students in kindergarten through eighth grade. Ambleside accepts Step Up For Students scholarships and offers scholarships through its school board.

Angels in Arms

33 SW 16th Pl., Ocala › (352) 622-6167 › angelsinarms.com Open since 1988, Angels in Arms is sponsored by Blessed Trinity Church and offers care for children 4 weeks through 5 years of age. Angels in Arms offers learning centers and group activities, which give children the opportunity to play, experiment and discover.

Belleview Christian Academy

6107 SE Agnew Rd., Belleview › (352) 245-6151 › bcaknights.com Belleview Christian Academy offers a private, Christian education for students in pre-K3 through eighth grade. The school offers a 15:1 studentteacher ratio, chapel services, music, PE and art classes.

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nursing, early childhood education, agribusiness management, health care management and more. The CF Financial Aid Office can help students plan for college expenses.

Community Technical & Adult Education (CTAE)

1014 SW 7th Rd., Ocala › (352) 671-7200 › ctae.edu

enrich Blessed Trinity Catholic School

5 SE 17th St., Ocala › (352) 622-5808 › btschool.org Blessed Trinity offers a Catholic education for students in kindergarten through eighth grade and is associated with the Blessed Trinity Catholic Church. The school educates approximately 700 students, with 97 percent of graduates attending Trinity Catholic High School.

Bright Beginnings Learning Center

14950 S US Hwy 441, Summerfield › (352) 347-6593 › brightbeginningslc.com Bright Beginnings offers care for children ages 1 through 4, including a free VPK program, as well as an after-school program that picks up from Belleview Elementary, Belleview Christian Academy, Harbour View Elementary and Stanton-Weirsdale Elementary. The center also offers Saturday night care and a fun summer program.

Building Blocks of Ocala Preschool

3731 NE 7th St., Ocala › (352) 694-7440 or (352) 694-3501 bbopreschool.net Certified teachers and staff at BBO Preschool offer a nurturing atmosphere for children 2 months through 12 years of age. The school offers a free VPK program, after-school care for school-age students and partand full-time programs as well as fun extracurricular activities.

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Building Blocks West

6158 SW Hwy 200, #100, Ocala › (352) 291-9204 or (352) 291-9205 Providing care for infants through preschoolers, Building Blocks West offers free VPK, before and after care and drop-in care for the hectic days when you can’t find a babysitter. A structured curriculum, computer programs and homework tutoring are also available.

Capstone Child Care Academy

7794 SW 60th Ave., Ocala › (352) 351-3777 › capstonechildcare.com Capstone welcomes children ages 1 through 5 for their preschool education, including a free VPK program. The school also offers an after-school program for school-age children up to 12 years of age and picks up at Hammett Bowen Elementary.

Carousel Early Learning Center

1842 SE 11th Ave., Ocala › (352) 3512369 › carousel-elc.com Carousel offers care for children 6 weeks of age through pre-K, including free VPK classes from 8:30-11:30am. All classrooms have cameras that can be viewed live over the Internet. Wraparound care and after care are also available.

College of Central Florida 3001 SW College Rd., Ocala › (352) 873-5800 3800 S Lecanto Hwy, Lecanto › (352) 746-6721 cf.edu

The College of Central Florida offers a variety of certificates, diplomas and degrees through on-campus and online classes. CF offers bachelor degrees in

CTAE offers adult education in a variety of fields, including commercial culinary, cosmetology, firefighting, massage therapy, medical billing, nursing assistant, phlebotomy and welding. The school also offers continuing education courses as well as GED and ESOL programs and leisure classes in cooking, dance and language.

Counts Early Learning Academy

244 W Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala › (352) 351-4738 › countsacademy.com

12th-grade students who have dyslexia, hyperlexia, auditory processing disorders and dysgraphia. The program accepts McKay Scholarships and uses several LindamoodBell programs.

Dunnellon Christian Academy

20831 Powell Rd., Dunnellon › (352) 489-7716 › dcaeagles.com Affiliated with the First Baptist Church of Dunnellon, this school offers a private, Christian education for infants through 12th-graders. Dunnellon Christian Academy offers scholarships awarded through its school and also accepts the McKay and Step Up For Students scholarships.

Family Ties Child Center

5285 SW 1st Ln., Ocala › (352) 854-3998 › 3230 SE 58th Ave., Ocala › (352) 694-4554 › familytieschildcenter.com

Counts provides child care and education for children ages 12 months through pre-kindergarten, including a free VPK program from 9am to 12pm with after care available. Partor full-time child care is offered for younger kids.

Offering a free VPK program as well as a structured preschool curriculum for children ages 2 through 5, Family Ties takes pride in its staff-to-child ratio and certified and CPR/first aid-trained teaching staff. The center also offers holiday, summer and vacation care for children up to 12 years.

Creative Beginnings Preschool

First Assembly Christian School & Daycare

Creative Beginnings offers care for infants and children through 5 years of age, including a free VPK program for 4 year olds. The 6,000-squarefoot facility offers 10 classrooms, a library, a computer room and three playgrounds. Beyond the classroom, the preschool offers a weekly chapel and music classes.

First Assembly is a Christian educational program for infants and preschoolers as well as schoolage students through 12th grade, including a free VPK program. The school accepts the Step Up For Students scholarship.

5870 SE 85th Ln., Ocala › (352) 470-6711

Creative Kids Preschool

2801 SW 20th St., Ocala › (352) 8619474 › creativekidspresch0.wix.com/ creative-kids Creative Kids offers care for children 6 weeks of age through 12, including a certified VPK program. The preschool program offers a structured weekly curriculum, and lunches and snacks are provided. The school also offers the XTREME Kids after-school program and summer camp.

Crossroads Academy

3681 NE 7th St., Ocala › (352) 694-4466 › crossroadsacademyocala.com Crossroads is a private school that specializes in helping third- through

1827 NE 14th St., Ocala › (352) 351-1913 › facs.ocalafirst.org

First Steps Preschool

2801 SE Maricamp Rd., Ocala › (352) 629-5683 › fbcocala.org First Steps is affiliated with the First Baptist Church of Ocala and offers care to infants and children through age 4.

Chapel and library time is scheduled weekly for children ages 3 and 4, and music time is scheduled for children ages 2 through 4.

Grace Christian School 4410 SE 3rd Ave., Ocala › (352) 387-3090 › gcsocala.com

This private school offers K-3 and K-4 programs as well as an elementary and middle school program. Grace Christian School offers a tuition assistance program and accepts the

Blessed Trinity Catholic School

Serving Students in Grades K-8 Advanced academic curriculum and many extracurricular programs that promote learning Specializing in technology integration and education Strong emphasis on community service Excellent athletic program

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@BTSocala

BOTH CURRENTLY TAKING APPLICATIONS WESCHOOLS ARE CURRENTLY TAKING APPLICATIONS

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building sciences, business and finance, culinary arts, logistics, law, IT and robotics.

school offers a competitive athletic program for middle and high school boys and girls.

Meadowbrook Academy

Ocala First Preschool

Affiliated with Meadowbrook Church, this school offers a Christian education for children in grades kindergarten through 12th grade. The school offers both morning and afternoon care and accepts the Step Up For Students scholarship.

Affiliated with the Ocala First United Methodist Church, this preschool welcomes 2 and 3 year olds and offers free VPK and VPK with extended hours for 4 year olds. Half-day and two- and three-day programs are available for younger children, and early care is available starting at 7:30am.

4741 SW 20th St., Bldg. 1, Ocala › (352) 861-0700 › mbaocala.org

enjoy

Meadowbrook College

4741 SW 20th St., Ocala › (352) 8733767 › mbcschoolofministry.com Step Up For Students scholarship. A weekly Anglican church service is held in the outdoor courtyard.

Highlands Baptist Learning Center

Grace Episcopal Church VPK

Affiliated with Highlands Baptist Church, this center offers care and education to children 8 months through 12 years of age, including a free VPK program. Opened in 1972, the school offers bus transportation from Ward Highlands and Maplewood Elementary for children enrolled in after-school care.

514 SE Broadway St., Ocala › (352) 368-5618 › graceocala.org/earlylearning-vpk Offered through the Grace Episcopal Church of Ocala, this VPK program is free to any child who is 4 years of age by Sept. 1. Early care, extended programs and wraparound care are available until 4pm, five days a week.

GraceWay Academy and Preschool

2255 SE 38th St., Ocala › (352) 629-4523 › gracewayacademy.org Associated with Grace Presbyterian Church, GraceWay offers care for children ages 2 through fifth grade, including a free VPK program. The school accepts Step Up For Students scholarships and offers weekly Bible lessons and chapel as well as afterschool care, gymnastics classes, music and Spanish.

Happy Hearts Preschool

208 SE Tuscawilla Ave., Ocala › (352) 622-7636 › www.happyheartsocala.org Open since 1946, Happy Hearts is a non-denominational preschool offering half-day classes for children beginning at 18 months of age and extending through age 6 for children who wish to delay kindergarten enrollment.

The school also offers a VPK class for children who are 4 by Sept. 1.

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3530 E Fort King St., Ocala › (352) 6942194 › hbclearningcenterocala.org

Kinderoo Children’s Academy

5180 SW 60th Ave., Ocala › (352) 8543800 › preschoolinocalafl.com Kinderoo offers child care and preschool for children beginning at age 1 and a free VPK program for children who are 4 before Sept. 1. Full- and part-time programs are available as well as drop-in care and summer and winter camps.

Liberty Christian Preparatory Academy

850 NE 36th Ter., Ste. F, Ocala › (352) 694-2223 › libertychristianocala.com Liberty Christian is a private school made up of individual home-educating families. The school is accredited by the Florida Council of Private Schools and offers education to students in kindergarten through 12th grade.

Marion Technical Institute

1614 E Fort King St., Ocala › (352) 671-4765 › marionschools.net/mti MTI is a public high school offering technical and classroom education for junior and senior high school students.

Students earn a high school diploma while also receiving practical career experience in automotive technology,

Meadowbrook College offers a four-year Bachelor of Science in Ministerial Leadership program and a two-year Associate of Ministerial Leadership program, both through Southeastern University. Financial aid is available, and students receive hands-on ministry experience through Meadowbrook’s Ministry Tracks.

Montessori House of Ocala, Inc.

9880 SW 84th Ct., Ste. D, Ocala › (352) 237-3281 › montessorihouseofocala.com Montessori House offers education for infants through children in fifth grade.

Computers are present in preschool and elementary classrooms, daily Spanish classes are offered in every classroom and Fridays are dedicated to extracurricular activities, including art, music, Spanish, science and sign language.

Montessori Preparatory School of Ocala

2967 NE Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala › (352) 351-3140 › montessoriacademies.com This school features classrooms for children 3 months through sixth grade.

All classrooms contain beginner, intermediate and advanced levels of learning, and the elementary curriculum is a blend of Montessori and traditional, so students can succeed in middle school.

Ocala Christian Academy 1714 SE 36th Ave., Ocala › (352) 694-4178 › ocacrusaders.org

Ocala Christian Academy offers a private, Christian education to children 3 years of age through 12th grade and accepts the Step Up For Students and McKay scholarships. The

1126 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala › (352) 620-0003 › ocalafirstpreschool.org

Promiseland Academy

3732 NE 7th St., Ocala › (352) 694-1473 › ocalafirstnaz.net Promiseland is a Christian-based preschool affiliated with First Church of the Nazarene offering care to children ages 1 through 4 and a free VPK program. VPK wraparound care and before and after care are also available.

Queen of Peace Children’s House Montessori

6455 SW SR 200, Ocala › (352) 854-2181 › qopchildrenshouse.com Queen of Peace Children’s House, affiliated with the Queen of Peace Catholic Church, is a Montessori school focused on educating children ages 3 to 5. This school offers a free VPK program, as well as after-school and extended care and daily Bible teaching and prayer.

Rasmussen College

4755 SW 46th Ct., Ocala › (352) 629-1941 › rasmussen.edu Rasmussen College offers certificates and associate and bachelor’s degrees in programs such as business, graphic design, early childhood education, health sciences, justice studies, nursing and technology. Financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available.

Redeemer Christian School

155 SW 87th Pl., Ocala › (352) 854-2999 › redeemerlions.com Affiliated with Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church, Redeemer offers a private education to students beginning at 3 years of age through high school. The school accepts the Step Up For Students and McKay scholarships and also offers an inhouse scholarship.

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Summer pen ym 2016 Club Season Tournament Schedules, OPU Required Club Season Documents and other general information can all be found on our website at: WWW.OCALAPOWERUNITED.COM. 352-351-4837 www.ocalapowerunited.com 1433 SW 15th Ave Ocala, FL 34471

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including a private school program. Some insurances are accepted, and private pay options, scholarship programs and finance options are available.

Sylvan Learning of Ocala

3231 SE Maricamp Rd., Ocala › (352) 622-6284 › sylvanlearning.com Sylvan offers extensive tutoring services for students in kindergarten through high school. The facility also offers a variety of other programs, including an accelerated after-school program and Sylvan EDGE, which includes robotics and coding for kids.

learn

Taylor College Riverland Christian Academy

19455 SW 61st St., Dunnellon › (352) 489-6177 › riverlandbaptistchurch. com/Riverland_Christian_Academy Affiliated with Riverland Baptist Church, this school educates students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade and accepts the Step Up For Students and McKay scholarships. The school utilizes the Accelerated Christian Education curriculum and offers volleyball, basketball and cheerleading.

Small Talk Educational Child Care

2125 NE 2nd St., Ocala › (352) 622-6481 › smalltalkocalacom. websitecreatorpropreview2421.com/Home Small Talk offers care to infants through children in middle school, including a free VPK program for children 4 years of age. Transportation to and from select elementary and middle schools is available as well as before and after care for older kids.

Souls Harbor Christian Academy

12650 SE County Hwy 484, Belleview › (352) 245-6252 › shcaonline.com Founded in 1979 by Souls Harbor First Pentecostal Church, Souls Harbor Christian Academy educates students in kindergarten through sixth grade.

Scholarships are available, and students are given the opportunity to participate in drama activities and sports such as flag football and basketball.

St. John Lutheran School 1915 SE Lake Weir Ave., Ocala › (352) 622-7275 › stjohnocala.org

Affiliated with St. John Lutheran Church, this school serves children beginning in pre-K3 through high school. St. John Lutheran offers inhouse financial aid, and the preschool division offers half- and full-day programs. The school also offers a competitive athletic program with a wide range of sports.

Saint Leo University, Ocala Education Center

3001 SW College Rd., Bldg. 20, Ocala › (352) 671-3391 › saintleo.edu At the Ocala Education Center, Saint Leo offers on-campus classes during the evenings and weekends as well as online and distance learning classes. Programs offered include a Bachelor of Arts in accounting, criminal justice, human services, elementary and middle grades education, psychology and business administration; a Bachelor of Science in computer information systems; and a Master of Education.

St. Paul’s Christian School

800 SE 41st Ave., Ocala › (352) 694-4219 › stpaulschristianschool.org Affiliated with St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, St. Paul’s Christian School welcomes children ages 2 through 4 and offers a free VPK program as well as an advanced K-4 program.

Step-by-Step Success, LLC

7558 SW 61st Ave., Ste. 3, Ocala › (352) 671-5335 › stepbystepsuccessllc.com Step-by-Step Success offers a variety of services for children with autism and other developmental disabilities,

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5190 SE 125th St., Belleview, › (352) 245-4119 › taylorcollege.edu The college’s School of Nursing offers LPN to ADN bridge, practical nursing and professional nursing options and is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education.

They also offer a variety of career prep, associate degree and diploma programs.

The Cornerstone School

2313 SE Lake Weir Ave., Ocala › (352) 351-8840 › thecornerstoneschool.org Available programs include a pre-K3 and 4 as well as elementary and middle school. This independent private school also offers a vigorous STEM program and has instituted the Tribes Program since 2006. Before care and after care are available, and the school offers need-based financial aid and accepts the Step Up For Students scholarship.

The Reading Clinic

1333 SE 17th St., Ocala › (352) 867-0027 › thereadingclinicschool.com The Reading Clinic specializes in children with learning differences in the area of written and oral language.

The core curriculum provides instruction in all traditional subjects, including math, science, geography, geometry, writing and literature. The school also offers both a summer and school-year traditional VPK program.

Tiny Tykes Child Care

3111 NE 14th St., Ocala › (352) 629-5838 › Find them on Facebook Tiny Tykes Child Care welcomes infants and children through age 4 and offers a free VPK program. Tiny Tykes recently reported the 2014-2015 VPK class scored 100 percent on their kindergarten-readiness testing.

Trinity Catholic High School 2600 SW 42nd St., Ocala › (352) 622-9025 › trinitycatholichs.org

This ninth- through 12th-grade facility is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

The college-prep program focuses on giving students the resources needed to excel in college. The school also offers a full selection of arts, clubs and athletic programs.

Triumphant Tots Inc

1425 NE 63rd St., Ocala › (352) 351-2470 › Find them on Facebook Triumphant Tots accepts children starting at 4 weeks of age through fifth grade. The center offers a free VPK program and before and after-school care for school-age children with pickup from nearby elementary schools.

Victory Academy

3401 SE Lake Weir Ave., Ocala › (352) 622-4410 › victoryacademyocala.com Victory Academy is a classical Christian college-preparatory school for children ages 3 and 4 through sixth grade (with a grade being added each year through 12th). The school is dedicated to nurturing and challenging the whole person—body, mind and spirit to the glory of God.

Village View Christian Academy

8585 SE 147th Pl., Summerfield › (352) 307-2100 or (352) 693-5941 › villageviewchristianacademy.com The Early Education Center has programs available for children ages 6 weeks through 5 years, including a new VPK curriculum. The school offers grades kindergarten through high school, including a variety of extracurricular and sports programs.

Webster University

4414 SW College Rd., Ste. 942, Ocala › (352) 861-9330 › webster.edu/ocala Webster University offers accredited graduate and undergraduate degrees to students with opportunities to study in Ocala or even earn a master’s degree online. Webster is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offers a full selection of athletic programs and campus life options.

Editor’s Note: This is not a comprehensive list of education options. Every effort was made to attempt to research and include as many schools as possible and to ensure accurate information was included.

Specific details are subject to change at the school’s discretion. Please contact the school directly for the most up-to-date information.

St. John Lutheran School

“A Tradition of Excellence” Celebrating over of Christ-Centered Education College Preparatory, including Advanced Placement & Dual Enrollment • K3-12 Grades

FEBRUARY 11

APRIL 21

Elementary Open House (drop in)

Art Show & Saints on Stage Opening Night 7pm

K3-5th Grade • 4 - 5:30pm

Middle School Preview Night

Entering 6th-8th Graders • Starts at 5:45pm

APRIL 21-23

Saints on Stage Production (Call for Tickets and Times)

“SAINT FOR A DAY”

Come for a day and you'll want to stay! Spend the day with Saints students & teachers! Call to reserve a date for your student.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

www.stjohnocala.org saints@stjohnocala.org (352) 622-7275 x 1 or x 6 1915 S.E. Lake Weir Avenue, Ocala St. John Lutheran School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin.

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

INFANT • TODDLER • PRESCHOOL • KINDERGARTEN • ELEMENTARY

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: SPANISH, BALLET, MUSIC, PIANO, ART, SOCCER 2967 NE SI LVER SPRINGS BLVD OCAL A, FL 3447 0

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STEP UP SCHOLARSHIP FOR KINDERGARTEN THROUGH 5TH GRADE

A cce pti n g R e g ist rati f o r 2 016 - 17

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TEACHES: HEALTHY NUTRITION | GOOD EATING HABITS

A BRIEF HISTORY OF

SALAD

EVERYONE’S HEARD OF CHESS CLUB AND YOUR TYPICAL RUN-OF-THE-MILL SERVICE CLUB, BOTH OF WHICH MOST DEFINITELY STILL HAVE THEIR PLACE IN TODAY’S SCHOOLS. BUT HAVE YOU CONSIDERED THAT TODAY’S STUDENTS MIGHT ALSO HAVE THE CHOICE OF SOME VERY EXTRAORDINARY EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, AS WELL? OUR LOCAL SCHOOLS ARE HOME TO SOME OF THE MORE INTERESTING CLUBS AROUND. THEY ARE GREAT SOURCES OF FUN AND LEARNING AND SOME ARE QUITE UNIQUE, AS WELL. TAKE A LOOK.

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T HORIZON ACADEMY, ESE INSTRUCTOR JAMES O’BRIANT HAS TURNED THE CULINARY ART OF CREATING A SALAD INTO A SCIENCE.

“During my time off in the summer, I love to watch Chopped on the Food Network. I also like to spend time in the kitchen… so when they asked if we had any ideas for clubs for the students, I came up with the idea for the Chopped! The Science of Salad Club,” he says.

O’Briant decided to create a club where students would form multi-member teams to create delicious,

Photo by John Jernigan

IT’S ALL

EEK G TO ME

T beautiful and healthy salads to be judged for taste and presentation.

Then they would compete against one another and the lowest scoring team would be “chopped.” The winners would all move on to the next stage of the competition. The final team left will claim the championship and be treated to a #1 New York Pizza meal, courtesy of O’Briant.

“I thought a salad club would be perfect,” O’Briant says. “It teaches the kids good nutrition and healthy eating habits, and we have a hydroponics club that grows fresh vegetables right here on campus—

it just seemed a great fit.” He wanted to make the club more than just fun, so he searched for every way possible to teach club members something that would help them in the future.

“I’ve learned that vegetables need to be cleaned even when they are purchased from a store,” says sixth-grade student Agness Jandwa.

“The competition has helped me because now I understand proper kitchen safety and how to cut things properly.”

But the club isn’t all about learning, it’s about having fun, too.

“Chopped is very exciting!” says Ryna Pressley.

“It’s fun, but you don’t want it to go to your head, because then it wouldn’t be fun. I am guessing some people take it seriously—but I didn’t. There are three to four kids in each group, and the winner is decided by taste, presentation and creativity. It is really fun!”

What do the other kids think about their friends belonging to a salad club?

“My friends said that it was cool,” says eighthgrader Joshua Negron. “It was fun to compete with other kids because it was a challenge to see if you were meant to do this kind of stuff.”

Photo by Sheila Hartley

HERE WAS A DAY WHEN BEING CALLED A “GEEK” WAS ABOUT AS BAD AS IT COULD GET FOR A HIGH SCHOOL KID. WELL, TIMES HAVE CHANGED, AND AT WEST PORT HIGH—GEEK IS CHIC. AND IF YOU WANT TO FIND A WHOLE ROOM FULL OF SELF-PROCLAIMED-AND-PROUD-OF-IT GEEKS, JUST DROP IN ON A MEETING OF THE JAPANESE ANIME CLUB.

TEACHES: ACCEPTANCE | FEARLESSNESS “Being a geek allows us to be ourselves,” says club member Sarah Kerrick. “There is a freedom to being a geek. We don’t care about what others think, and there is no judgment about our lifestyles from fellow club members. I am totally comfortable with my geekiness, and I wear it proudly.”

According to club leader Brian Moore, anime, which is animated cartoons or films created for both children and adults, has been a part of his life since he was a young boy, and now that it has become “popular,” he is happy to share his love with his students.

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“I started watching Star Blazers and Robotech back in the ‘70s, and then anime began to really be popular in the ‘90s with Akira. Now there are all types of different anime series the kids can watch—and be a part of,” he says.

Moore says club members can participate in cosplay, which is short for costume play. Cosplay is very big in the anime subculture and is a major part of the club activities. It is actually part of the bonding that forms between club members.

“The club is a place where I can share my opinions and be with people who share my interest in anime,” says Alicia Sweat, club vice-president. “It is very comforting being around others who like the things I do. I participate in cosplay and spent approximately three hours sewing my latest costume.”

There are many different genres of anime and there is a little something for everyone involved.

“I’ve been interested in anime for about six years now,” says Stephen Blain, club president. “It started with Samurai Jack on the Cartoon Network and the Yu-Gi-Oh cartoon and card game.

Right now, I am into the horror genre of anime.

An example of this is Future Diary. I like it for the dark themes and dark humor.”

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HOME

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HEN TRINITY CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS KATIE COLITZ AND TAYLOR SCHANEL DECIDED TO START THE SUPPORT OUR TROOPS CLUB, THEY LOOKED TO IPAD COORDINATOR GRACE PRINGLE TO HELP THEM GET ORGANIZED. PRINGLE WAS THE PERFECT CHOICE. HER HUSBAND, RICH, SPENT 16 YEARS ON ACTIVE DUTY, WAS DEPLOYED OVERSEAS AND IS CURRENTLY A FIRST LIEUTENANT IN THE MARINE CORPS RESERVE.

“The club became very popular very quick,” says Pringle.

“It grew to more than 100 members and is now the largest club on campus. Right now, we are in the process of putting together packages we will send to American troops stationed in Afghanistan and Djibouti.”

Photos by John Jernigan

TEACHES: HUMANITY | COMMUNITY

Why start the Support Our Troops Club?

“I decided to form this club after attending the U. S. Naval Academy Summer Seminar this past summer,” says Colitz. “I was inspired by the work ethic of the men and women who serve our country. The club’s mission is to lift the spirits of U.S. troops

stationed around the world with handpacked gifts of candy and reminders of home. We also hand-write letters thanking servicemen and women for their dedication to our country. We know this means a lot to our troops to know that they are appreciated, and we are praying for them and their families.”

Katie and Taylor were amazed and excited by the club’s instant popularity.

“The club’s overwhelming success is something we never expected, and

TEACHES: TEAMWORK | COORDINATION

it has been an amazing experience,” says Schanel. “Many people want to give thanks and support to the men and women who fight for our country and our freedom. Being able to show our troops how much we appreciate them is small compared to what they do for us.”

The club hopes to affect more than just its members and the student body.

“I hope that The Support Our Troops Club will spread outside of Trinity Catholic and reach the outside community,” says Schanel. “We hope to partner with local businesses such as Publix, CVS, Walgreens, etc. to provide more goods for care packages.

Everyone should get involved in a club like this one to show our heroes that we appreciate them.”

JUMPING

FOR JOY

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HEN THE MUSIC GETS LOUD AND THE JUMP ROPES START SLAPPIN’ THE GROUND… THE RHYTHM IS GONNA GET YOU. THE RHYTHM OF THE FT. MCCOY JUMP ROPE TEAM, THAT IS. This team of 31 kids ranging from grades three to eight puts on a performance that can whip a crowd into a frenzy.

“This club is exciting,” says club leader and Ft. McCoy physical education instructor Kathy Hatfield. “Some of these kids are really good, and when the music is playing and the routines are being performed, it is quite a show.”

Hatfield says the club was formed 14 years ago but has really started to grow over the last few years.

“It started with around six kids, and now when the children in the lower grades see the older kids perform, they want to be a part of it,” she says. “It all started with the American Heart Association’s Jump Rope

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TEACHES: FASHION & INDUSTRY TIPS

Photos by John Jernigan

for Heart Program, and we use the excitement of rope jumping routines to promote healthy lifestyles in each of our performances.”

Caitlyn Smith is 10 years old and has been jumping rope for three years.

“My favorite part is during the performances,” she says. “Other kids have the chance to ask us questions, and we get to show them how to do the different jumps. It’s really fun.”

The club offers the kids the chance to be creative and make new friends.

“We get to travel to other schools, and I get to jump with all my friends, and that part is really fun,” says Kailey Mullener. “Mrs. Hatfield helps us learn step by step, but she lets us make up our own routines, and that is what I really like to do.”

Some of the routines can be quite involved and take time to master.

“First we listen to the music, and then we pick who will do the routine,” says club member Samantha Hansen.

“Then we all decide which moves go with the beat, put it all together and we have a routine. Sometimes we will practice a routine for a month or more before we perform.”

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ALL THE

ASHIONABLE F PEOPLE ARE HERE!

D

AHLING, YOU LOOK MAHVELOUS! WHY? BECAUSE YOU’RE A MEMBER OF THE FAD FASHION CLUB AT VANGUARD HIGH SCHOOL. IT IS THE PLACE TO BE FOR ANYONE WHO WANTS TO KNOW THE LATEST ON WHAT’S IN AND WHAT’S NOT.

Club leader Coletta Garraway-Donovan says the club has 16 active members, and the students are very involved in club activities.

“We started the club last year, and it has become quite popular,” she says. “We meet twice each month. We set up video conferences with people in the fashion industry and have guest speakers who talk to the members concerning fashion and the ins and outs of the industry.”

The club recently had a representative from a well-known fashion college speak, and the students were quite impressed.

“I have always been interested in fashion because my parents have worked in retail, and I hope to work in the fashion industry one day,” says club treasurer Catherine Kovach. “We recently had a person

from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, which is located in California, talk to us about different ways to get into the industry in design and merchandising, and now I am interested in possibly attending the college. I would love to one day work in retail, possibly work in fashion photography or design a line of clothing.”

Club president Danielle Tarigha was instrumental in starting the club and plans most of the club activities.

I HEARD THAT!

T

HE SIGN LANGUAGE CLUB AT WEST PORT HIGH SCHOOL HAS BETWEEN 15 AND 20 MEMBERS WHO ARE BECOMING PROFICIENT IN AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE. SOME OF THEM HAVE FAMILY MEMBERS OR FRIENDS WHO ARE HEARING IMPAIRED, AND SOME MAY GO ON TO EARN CERTIFICATION AS A QUALIFIED INTERPRETER THROUGH AGENCIES SUCH AS THE REGISTRY OF INTERPRETERS FOR THE DEAF.

“Becoming proficient in conversational sign language and becoming a certified instructor isn’t easy,” says first-year club leader Madeline Bottenhorn. “I had four years of training in high school and one year at the University of Florida, and if I took the certification testing now, I would find it hard to pass. You have to be very good and have near-fluency.

strives to make its members proficient.

“Once each year, we have a pot-luck Thanksgiving dinner for club members,” says Bottenhorn. “Each member has to introduce and explain their food in sign language, and the dinner is eaten in complete silence; the only ‘talking’ that can be done is in sign language.”

TEACHES: COMPASSION | SIGN LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY

Photo by Sheila Hartley

“I love fashion, and I wanted to start a club that would provide a creative outlet for others who are interested in fashion also,” she says. “I find that fashion allows me to explore ways to express myself through my clothing, and sometimes I just love to take a risk and try something new.

“I also wanted the club to give back to the community, so whenever we have a fundraiser of any kind, we donate a portion to a local charity. We are in the process of donating 10 percent of the proceeds of our first fashion show to Kimberly’s Center for Child Protection and we plan to donate the same portion from our next show to a school in Africa.”

The club plans and stages fashion shows in the high school cafeteria.

“In October we held our first fashion show,” says club member Jayda Gordon.

“We model clothes that we feel are trendy and help others who want to model to coordinate their outfits for color and style. We include anyone who wants to participate and give help to everyone who needs it.”

Remember, this is a true language with idioms, dialects and grammatical structure.”

Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act requires all American businesses to provide a qualified interpreter at no cost to the hearing impaired person or persons when needed to properly complete a transaction. This includes restaurants, hotels, theaters, doctor’s offices, retail stores, day care centers, car dealerships—and the list goes on and on. Sign language has become a very important means of communication throughout the country, and the club at West Port

FEB ’16 ›

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DO-IT-YOURSELF CRAFTING CAN BE A STRESSRELIEVER, MONEY-SAVER OR JUST SOMETHING FUN TO DO. WITH PINTEREST, ETSY AND LOTS OF DIY BLOGS OUT THERE, THERE’S NO SHORTAGE OF PROJECT IDEAS. SO, WHETHER YOU’RE FEELING STRESSED, NEED A FEW GIFT IDEAS OR JUST LOVE TO MAKE THINGS, TRY ONE OF THESE FUN HOW-TO PROJECTS. AND IF YOU HAVEN’T MASTERED MOD PODGE YET, WE HAVE A STEP-BYSTEP GUIDE TO HELP YOU OUT. LOOKS LIKE IT’S TIME TO GET CRAFTY!

BY CEALIA ATHANASON

060

› Ocala

.com

S

ay good-bye to your plain old water bottle or insulated jug.

This mason-jar-turned-sophisticated tumbler will keep you hydrated in style and have all your friends asking where you bought it.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

• LARGE MASON JAR TUMBLER • TAPE • SPRAY PAINT • GLITTER • NEW LID

Clean the surface of the jar, and tape off the area you would like to paint. Spray paint the bottom of the jar and let it dry.

2.

Apply vinyl letters to spell whatever you’d like above the painted section.

3.

Pour enough Mod Podge to cover the spray-painted part of the tumbler onto a plate, and mix the glitter into it. (Or, you can use Extreme Glitter Mod Podge.)

4.

Paint the mixture over the spray paint to seal it, and add glitter.

5.

After it dries, place the lid on the tumbler and pour your first drink!

Photos courtesy of gavandro.com

[P]interesting How-Tos For Crafters

1. Sippin’ Pretty

• VINYL LETTERS • MOD PODGE (DISHWASHER SAFE OR CLASSIC MATTE)

Source: gavandro.com

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

2. File Cabinet

Makeover

B

y its very nature, a file cabinet isn’t that attractive. But, it’s a practical and necessary storage option in almost any home or office. So, here’s a way to makeover your file cabinet using paint and a pretty stencil.

Photos courtesy of twotwentyone.net

7

HOW TO MAKE IT:

1.

• FILE CABINET • LATEX PAINT IN TWO COLORS (ONE COLOR FOR • STENCIL (CHECK OUT THE BASE COAT, AND ONE ROYALDESIGNSTUDIO.COM. COLOR FOR THE STENCIL THEIR ROCKIN’ ROSES COLOR) DAMASK STENCIL WAS USED IN THIS PROJECT.) • FOAM ROLLER • PAINTER’S TAPE • PLASTIC PAINT DISH

HOW TO MAKE IT:

1.

Paint the file cabinet in your base coat color.

2.

Once it’s completely dry, turn the cabinet over on one of its sides and tape your stencil in the middle of the side facing up.

3. Pallet

Bookshelf

I

f you’ve spent even a short amount of time scrolling through DIY projects on Pinterest, you’ve probably come across wood pallets and all the different things you can do with them.

These pallets are often tossed outside grocery and home improvement stores, so you can snag a few for free (just be sure to ask). But, if you’d rather not take on a project that requires some degree of skill in woodworking, these easy pallet bookshelves are just right for you.

Start painting over the stencil, moving the stencil out toward the edges until the whole side is painted.

4.

Turn the file cabinet so it is standing upright, and start painting the top.

5.

Once the first side is dry, lay the cabinet on that side and paint the other side.

6.

Lay the cabinet on its back to paint the front. If you don’t want to paint the handles, cover them with painter’s tape.

7.

Let the cabinet dry, and you’re done!

Source: twotwentyone.net

WOODEN PALLET HANDSAW SAND PAPER OR ELECTRIC SANDER KILZ SPRAY PRIMER OR OTHER PRIMER 2 CANS SPRAY PAINT HARDWARE TO HANG THE SHELVES

HOW TO MAKE IT:

1.

Cut the pallet two slats in on each end.

Cut here

Cut here

Save these boards Cut here

4.

Spray on two to three coats of paint.

5.

Lightly sand the edges for a distressed look.

6.

Hang the shelves using your hardware.

Cut here

2.

Pry off two of the slats between the cuts and nail them to the bottom of each shelf.

3.

Sand down your shelves and apply the primer.

Source: sixsistersstuff.com

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

Photos courtesy of liliesandloafers.com

3.

Photos courtesy of sixsistersstuff.com

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

• • • • • •

4. Tile

Treasures

D

isplay more of your photos by making your own personalized photo coasters. You can use any of your photos, but this tutorial by liliesandloafers.com suggests using your Instagram photos. Basically, you just need to make sure your photos are printed in 4x4-inch squares.

• YOUR INSTAGRAM PHOTOS (THERE ARE SEVERAL WEBSITES YOU CAN USE TO PRINT THEM.) • 4X4-INCH TILES (YOU CAN FIND THESE AT ANY HOME IMPROVEMENT STORE.) • MOD PODGE (CHOOSE THE FINISH YOU PREFER. FOR A SHINY FINISH, USE CLASSIC GLOSSY. FOR A NON-SHINY OR FLAT APPEARANCE, USE CLASSIC MATTE.) • PAINTBRUSH OR FOAM BRUSH • CIRCULAR FELT STICKERS OR FELT STRIPS • HOT GLUE GUN • KRYLON CLEAR FLAT SEALANT (ANY CLEAR WATERPROOF SEALANT SHOULD WORK.)

HOW TO MAKE IT:

1.

Start by priming one of the tiles with a layer of Mod Podge using your paintbrush or foam brush.

2.

Press a photo onto the tile, and let it dry for a few minutes.

3.

Apply a coat of Mod Podge over the photo. Let it dry for about 20 minutes before adding up to five coats (drying between each).

4.

Let the tiles dry for a few days before spraying with waterproof sealer.

5.

Allow the sealed tiles to dry for another day or so.

6.

Cut squares of felt, and use a hot glue gun to adhere them to the bottom of the tiles. Or, apply felt stickers to the corners.

Source: liliesandloafers.com

FEB ’16 ›

061

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

• • • • • •

5. DIY Pouf

1.

3.

Sew two of the sidepieces together at their 15-inch sides.

4.

Place the zipper face down into the new seam while pressing the seam open, and pin each side of the zipper.

5.

Sew the zipper on each side, and sew across the bottom of the zipper to create an ending point if it’s longer than the fabric. Use a seam ripper to expose the zipper on the other side.

6.

Sew the other side pieces of the pouf together, leaving half an inch of space at the seams.

Cut the fabric pieces for the top and bottom of the pouf into 19x19-inch squares.

Photos courtesy of addicted2diy.com

P

Cut four side pieces to 19x15 inches.

HOW TO MAKE IT:

Ottoman

oufs are not just cute; they’re comfy and cozy, too. They can be a little pricey, so we found a fairly simple tutorial to take you step by step through the process of making your own. Though you don’t need to have amazing sewing skills for this project, we’ve listed the URL at the bottom of this how-to for your reference.

1 ½ TO 2 YARDS FABRIC UPHOLSTERY THREAD 5 TO 6 YARDS PIPING TRIM 16-INCH ZIPPER 1 POUND FIBERFILL 3 TO 4 CUBIC FEET POLYSTYRENE BEADS

2.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

• • • • •

WOOD PLANK PRINTED IMAGES ON COPY PAPER FOAM BRUSH OR PAINTBRUSH SAND PAPER KRYLON CLEAR GLAZE SPRAY

• MOD PODGE PHOTO TRANSFER MEDIUM OR MOD PODGE CLASSIC MATTE (The Transfer Medium will give your photo a white background, and the Classic Matte will make the background more transparent.)

HOW TO MAKE IT:

6. Fancy

Photos

F

orget frames and display your favorite photos on wood instead.

Follow this photo transfer tutorial to get your photos onto wood pallets, slabs or planks.

Photos courtesy of blog.consumercrafts.com

1.

› Ocala

.com

Pin the top piece’s sides, with the piping in between, to the pouf.

8.

Pin the side seams slightly below the pointed part of the corners, leaving half an inch of space, and sew the piece to the pouf.

9.

Repeat steps 7 and 8 for the bottom piece (including the piping).

Print your photos reversed or in mirror image so your photos don’t come out backward when you transfer them.

2.

Spread Mod Podge over your image, coating it completely.

3.

Place the image, photo side down, on the wood plank, and press the photo gently from the center outward to remove bubbles.

10. Check your piping, and sew another seam along the piping if it needs to be tightened up. Trim the points off the corners.

4.

Let the image dry. This may take up to 24 hours.

5.

Wet the image, section by section, with a damp cloth.

11. Turn your pouf right side out, and fill with polystyrene beads and fiberfill. If you want a firmer pouf, use the beads only. Add a little bit of fiberfill if you want some fluff.

6.

Rub gently to remove the paper and expose your transferred image.

12. Try to fill the pouf as full as possible. Zip it up, and you’re done!

7.

Lightly sand the edges for a distressed look.

8.

Seal with the clear spray.

If you need more details, visit prettyhandygirl.com/diy-pouf-ottoman-tutorial-and-lessons-learned.

Source: blog.consumercrafts.com

062

7.

Source: addicted2diy.com

D

ecoupage, glue, distress and more with the craft world’s favorite medium: Mod Podge. Though there are different Mod Podge formulas to use for different finishes and surfaces, each one can glue, seal and finish a product.

But, it can be a tricky substance to mess with if you don’t know what you’re doing. According to modpodgerocksblog.com, there are several steps you need to take to get the best results from Mod Podge. So here you go—your go-to guide for using Mod Podge correctly:

1.

Apply a base coat of paint to your item, if necessary. If you’re going to use Mod Podge on unfinished wood, a base coat is a good idea.

2.

Choose which Mod Podge formula you should use. With formulas made for fabric, furniture and even glow-in-thedark projects, there’s one for almost every surface. Find a complete list on modpodgerocksblog.com. For most projects, you should be able to use the Classic formula in either gloss or matte.

3.

Prepare materials. Fabric should be washed, dried, ironed and coated lightly with Fabric Mod Podge before using more Mod Podge to add items to the fabric.

Also, you can spray printed images and thin paper with acrylic spray to help prevent Mod Podge from wrinkling them.

4.

Cut items, and use Mod Podge to adhere them from the bottom layer up. Smooth bubbles from the center outward, and let each layer dry for 15 to 20 minutes.

5.

Apply one to two coats of Mod Podge, sanding in between coats, to finish your project. Spray with acrylic sealer if the surface is sticky or tacky.

Source: modpodgerocksblog.com

Photo by Pink Rae Photography

Mod Podge

Party Like A Crafter

M

eet Jennifer Legge. She’s the owner, founder and designer of Marley Mae Designs, a local business with the slogan “all things creative.”

And along with the owner of the Courtyard on Broadway, she came up with the idea for Pinterest parties. she says. “A friend saw them and immediately asked me to create her wedding invitations and soon invitations for her friends as well. After word got out, I started receiving more and more orders and began creating other crafty things beyond just invitations.”

The fact that she’s a self-taught designer proves Legge’s talent and creative flair.

“I pretty much just played around with programs and techniques until I found out how to do what I needed,” she says.

Because a chunk of her business comes by word of mouth, Legge credits the community for supporting her efforts and helping her start her business. You can find her products at You Got That Wear Boutique in Ocala, but you can also contact her through her Facebook page or website to make a custom order.

“I pride myself on being able to make pretty much any crafty idea that a customer may bring to me!”

Legge throws a Pinterest party every two months on average at the Courtyard but hopes to eventually start doing them more frequently.

In case you’re wondering what a Pinterest party is, Legge explains, “I supply everything needed for three Pinterest projects—all of the supplies, instruction sheets and help if needed! Everyone goes home with three completed crafts—whether they are a Pinterest fail or success is up to them!”

But that’s not the only way to get in on Legge’s craft parties. You can ask her to host a party for you, too.

Each of her parties average between 30 and 35 people.

“It’s a great opportunity to get out of the house and have fun with friends, without the stress of going shopping for everything you need,” she says.

Legge’s passion for creating began as a hobby. After only a few years, news of her designs spread, and she began customizing and selling her products to the community.

“I couldn’t find the invitation I wanted online so I decided to make my own instead,”

MARLEY MAE DESIGNS

YOU GOT THAT WEAR BOUTIQUE 822 E SILVER SPRINGS BLVD/OCALA MARLEYMAEDESIGNS.COM FACEBOOK.COM/MARLEYMAEDESIGNS Photos courtesy of Marley Made Designs

7. Master

FEB ’16 ›

063

★

I M L Y A F H T O A ME E R G ★

! f o o R w e N

PRICE REDUCTION Motivated Seller

• 1,771 sq ft.

• 3 bedroom 2 full baths (baths recently remodeled) • Sunroom • Detached garage w/ 6 parking spaces • 6-ft-high wooden privacy fence • ¾ acre in town • Original wood burning fireplace • Nice landscaping • New roof • Real wood floors

FEB’16

YOUR LOCAL GUIDE TO HOMES, FARMS AND L AND FOR SALE IN MARION COUNT Y

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF

Considering Ocala?

State-of-the-Art Equestrian Center – 38.92 Acres – $1,500,000 00

J

R UST

ED

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TO

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$

Great Mini-Farm – 15 Acres – $995,000

Laurels at Bellechase – $799,000

Location, Location, Location! – $889,000

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

Due to the privacy and at the discretion of my clients, there are additional training centers, estates, and land available which are not advertised.

Joan Pletcher L I CE N SE D RE A L E S TATE BROK ER

352.347.1777 | Cell: 352.266.9100 | 352.804.8989 www.joanpletcher.com joanpletcher@aol.com

THE

President

APR

30

Save The Date!

Through a joint collaboration between the Marion County Building Industry Association (MCBIA), the Chamber and Economic Partnership (CEP) and the Ocala/Marion County Association of Realtors® (OMCAR), the 2016 Home, Garden & Lifestyle Expo returns to the Klein Conference Center in the Ewers Century Center at the College of Central Florida on Saturday, April 30 from 10am to 3pm.

› Dale Barron, President

Ocala/Marion County Association of Realtors

The 2016 expo is a signature event and will be bigger and better than ever before, as three of the area’s leading business and industry organizations have joined together to provide a unique experience. Homeowners and homebuyers—particularly firs -time homebuyers— will be able to find p ofessional advice on housing options and available financing, inn vative products, creative remodeling ideas, DIY advice and great deals from a variety of experts—all under one roof.

The MCBIA, CEP and OMCAR will bring together a diverse and talented group of experts to bring local residents the latest in innovative ideas and practical advice, along with useful information to help even firs -time homebuyers. There will be a full range of on-site exhibits and product demonstrations, featuring these innovative products and services.

More information on this event can be found at mcbia.org. We hope to see you at the 2016 Home, Garden & Lifestyle Expo!

2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU

Carolyn ROBERTS

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

BROKER/REALTOR ®

ckr@robertsflorida.com www.robertsflorida.com | mail@robertsflorida.com

w Ne

EXQUISITE TRADITIONAL HOME • • • •

4 bedrooms 4 full bathrooms 5.99+/- acres Gracious, open living areas • 2 master bedrooms 1 upstairs & 1 downstairs $749,900

• Stunning swimming pool • Detached guest suite • True hardwood floors • Shoenbeck crystal chandelier • Reverse Osmosysis all water system

ice Pr

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TURNING HAWK RANCH

GOLDEN OCALA GOLF & EQUESTRIAN CLUB • 4 bedroom • 3.5 baths • Located in prestigious/desirable gated community • Well designed with custom interior • Cooks kitchen with SS appliances

ML# 431925

ing t s Li

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• • • • •

6 bedrooms 5 full and 3 half baths 4 car garage In –law apartment Breathtaking 4.80 acres • Exercise room, grand study, and theater room.

• Heated salt pool, spa and summer kitchen • Covered patio and screened porch • Whole house generator • Additional amenities available

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ML# 430380

• Amazing pool with slide and outdoor shower • Summer kitchen • Sand volleyball court and a half basketball court with lights.

ML# 435939

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Park-Like Setting on Golf Course 4 Bedroom 4.5 Bath Pool Home on 1.03 Acres 3854 Sq Ft w/Add’l 825 Sq Ft 2.5 Car Garage w/Separate Guest Quarters $1,050,000 ML# 425192

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New Construction With Nice View of #13 Tee 4 Bedroom 3 Bath w/Study on 1 Acre 2770 Sq Ft w/Beautiful Wood Flooring 3 Car Garage $599,000 ML# 432561

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Beautiful Golf Course Views 4 Bedroom 3 Bath on .90 Acres 2730 Sq Ft Freshly Painted w/Some Updates 2 Car Garage $399,000 ML# 425814

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Private and Peaceful Treed Lot 4 Bedroom 3 Bath on 1.00 Acres 3411 Sq Ft w/750 Sq Ft Screened Lanai 2 Car Attached and 2 Car Detached Garage $560,000 ML# 434360

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Beautiful Oaks & Lush Landscaping 4 Bedroom 4.5 Bath Pool Home on 1.07 Acres 3799 Sq Ft w/Screened Lanai 2 Car Garage $599,900 ML# 435231

There are two words for you to know when it comes to real estate right now:

SELLER’S MARKET! NOW is the right time!

Sellers are receiving multiple o˜ ers! Get more money for your home by listing now.

With very few good quality homes on the market, if you were to list today, there would be less competition. This means you will more than likely get the best price possible for your home.

Contact us to find out how much your home could sell for in today’s market!

NEXT GENERATION REALTY

The Camacho Team Specializes In: • First Time Home Buyers • Second Homes • Investments/Vacation Homes • An international network of top agents • Specialized in Farm and Acreage / Blake Hunter

Give us a call today!

352-229-2986 cell • 352-553-0961 o˜ ce

• Se habla español thecamachoteam.com 1720 SE 16th Avenue, Bldg 200, Ocala

Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club is the pinnacle of luxury living. Our exquisite community is home to the Coates Golf Championship, staged on our magnificent 18-hole golf course showcasing eight tribute holes.

Golden Ocala also features one of the area’s top competitive tennis programs; the Equestrian Center includes six miles of picturesque private riding trails and brand new private Equestrian Suites.

8725 NW 31ST LANE ROAD (Near completion)

Floorplan: The Naples Neighborhood: The Masters 2 Price: $1,700,000

• This 4,150 square-foot single-family home has three bedrooms and four baths.

• With a view of the Augusta bridge, this charming estate boasts an eat-in kitchen, a formal dining room, a great room, a media room, a summer kitchen and so much more.

• Rich with amenities and a sprawling floor plan, this is the golfer’s dream come to life. Come, experience, enjoy.

• Championship golf, adult and children tennis programs, spa and fitness center, six miles of riding trails and a grand 77,000-square-foot clubhouse.

Contact our Sales Center for details!

352.369.6969 | GoldenOcala.com/Living

THE

Homefront

Curb Energy Consumption Water heaters are energy intensive appliances. In fact, they are the second largest energy user in the home, and as they age, they become less efficient, requiring even more energy.

WAITING UNTIL A CURRENT WATER HEATER FAILS WILL LIKELY COST MORE IN THE LONG RUN. According to U.S. Department of Energy estimates, the average family spends $400 to $600 each year on water heating costs, and as an older unit ages, its efficiency continues to erode. Rising water heating costs year after year could be a sign that it’s time to replace your unit. By switching to a new energy-efficient water heater or a new energy source, you could save hundreds of dollars each year.

Depending on where you live and how often you use your water heater, a propane-powered, tankless water heater could drastically lower your annual water heating costs compared with electric storage tank models, which are working to heat water even when it’s not needed.

Danny Lipford

However, these standards also mean tank sizes must increase.

Some homes may not have room readily available for an electric storage tank that meets the new standards. Heat pump water heaters require 1,000 cubic feet of space and operate best in spaces where cooling and noise will not be a problem. Propane, tankless models offer greater space fl xibility.

FIGURING THE LONG-TERM VALUE ON YOUR NEXT WATER HEATER IS IMPORTANT. Most water heaters should be replaced every 10-12 years. Both high-efficiency propane storage tank heaters and tankless models deliver lower annual ownership costs than electric or heating oil. At the same time, tankless water heaters also have a much longer life span than storage models.

THE SIZE AND COST OF WATER HEATERS HAVE INCREASED DRAMATICALLY. In April 2015, the

A WATER HEATER UPGRADE IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO DOWNGRADE YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT. U.S.

National Appliance Energy Conservation Act went into effect, increasing minimum energy efficiency standards for water heaters in your home. This means manufacturers are required to make more energy-efficient models, which ultimately saves homeowners money.

Department of Energy data suggests the new manufacturing guidelines will prevent as much as 172.5 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions, about the same as taking 33.8 million vehicles off he road. Upgrading to a newer, more efficient model means you’re helping with that effort.

Find more information on propane-powered water heaters and the new energy conservation standards at KnowYourWaterHeater.com.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images (woman and child in bathroom, and woman and technician with water heater)

If you don’t know the age of your current water heater or think it may be reaching the end of its useful life span, it may be time to make a switch, says home improvement expert Danny Lipford, host of Today’s Homeowner TV and radio show.

Lipford suggests keeping these factors in mind as you evaluate whether it’s time to make an upgrade.

The Genuine. The Original.

Overhead DoorCompany of Ocala

The Carriage House Collection

Dump Water Heating Costs The U.S. Department of Energy offers these tips for cutting costs for water heating at home. › › Moderate your hot water

usage. Curb shower time, and use shorter wash cycles when possible.

“Many garage door companies may say Overhead Door in their name, but unless you see the Overhead Door Company logo, you’re not getting true Overhead Door Company products, installation, services and support.”

Whether you need an attractive, insulated door for your home or a specialty automatic door for your business, we can meet your requirement.

Overhead Door Company of Ocala

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› › Regulate usage further

by using low-flow faucets and showerheads.

› › Buy a more efficient water

heater. Tankless models, for example, are up to 34 times more efficient than other models.

› › Consider an alternate

power source. Propanepowered, tankless water heaters can save more than $300 annually.

› › Manage your hot water

usage for dishwashing and laundry appliances by buying Energy Star models.

› › Turn down your water

heater’s thermostat.

› › Insulate your water

heater tank and pipes according to manufacturer guidelines.

› › Don’t let money trickle

down the drain. Fix leaks to prevent waste.

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Homefront

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

THE

Credit Check

Up to 80 percent of Americans still think owning a home is part of the American dream, according to a recent Harris Poll. With home sales reaching the highest pace in nearly six years, it may be time to finally get packing.

Don’t jump too fast, though.

While new rules have relaxed the credit standards imposed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (two of the biggest government loan guarantors), making it possible for many young, first-time buyers to take the leap into homeownership, there are some important considerations to make long before hiring the movers.

What Is A Credit Score?

Holding down a steady job, paying your bills on time, keeping your credit card balances low and only opening new credit when absolutely needed are all factors that go into your credit score.

“Before applying for any loan, be sure to check the state of your credit,” said Scott Smi h, president of CreditRepair.com. “Owning a home is a big part of the American dream, but home loans can be very complex, and doing all of the proper research from the beginning, including completing any necessary credit repair up front, will make the process that much simpler.”

Resources such as creditrepair.com offer a free online credit score estimator to help check your score.

Tips & Pointers Getting a mortgage can be difficult and frustrating, so Smith suggests taking these steps before making a trip to the bank. › › Get a copy of your credit report. You are

entitled to one free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus each year by law. (In some states, you are entitled to more than one free report a year.)

› › Analyze your credit report. Carefully

scrutinize your report to identify any errors that can help boost your score and request corrections for all erroneous information.

› › Keep all credit card accounts open. Closing

an unused credit card account can actually negatively affect your credit. Fifteen percent of your score is based on credit history.

› › Make all payments on time. Payment

history accounts for a whopping 35 percent of your credit score.

› › Give yourself time. Good things do come

to those who wait. Take the time to repair and build up your credit. It could save you thousands of dollars down the road.

For more tips on managing your money or your credit, visit creditrepair.com.

873-6100 Royal Palms Plaza 854-8787 Oak Run

REAL ESTATE CORP

The Star Realtors of Marion County

8960 SW Hwy 200, Suite 4, Ocala FL 34481

James Petticrew, Licensed RE Broker

873-6100 Royal Palms Plaza 854-8787 Oak Run

REAL ESTATE CORP

The Star Realtors of Marion County

8960 SW Hwy 200, Suite 4, Ocala FL 34481 www.deccarealestate.com

James Petticrew, Licensed RE Broker

ld o S e m o H r You

D E E T N A R * A U G ! t I y u

B l l ’ e Or W

To discuss the sale of your home, call Luis & Elisha Lopez

g in k 0 as 00 , % 0 98 0 1 1 r f$ fo e o ld ic So pr

@ 352-427-0026... and start packing!* I listed my home with The Lopez Team and my home went under contract in 29 days for full asking price. I highly recommend The Lopez Team, their buyers in waiting program got my home sold fast and for top dollar. Call The Lopez Team, they can do the same for you.

—Tuan, VIP Seller

Unbelievavble 42.39 Williston Property

$1,250,000

Derby Farms Gen on 3 Acres with Detached Work Shop $599,000

Completely green Arthur Rutenberg Coquina II Home $469,000

Move up to one of our homes and we’ll buy yours for cash!* *Conditions apply.

APPLY ONLINE: lisamariebrannon.com

R E A LT Y. C O M

LEADING WITH THE BEST IN THE SOUTHWEST

SUMMERGLEN: Lovely gated community away from congestion…This home features 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, extended 2 car garage. Tiled floors, vaulted Ceiling, Large master bedroom with huge walk-in closet. Low HOA fee includes lawn maintenance. Concrete block home in Move-in condition and affordable. Insist on Martha Maclin-Reynolds. $193,900 MLS#436919

SUMMERGLEN: Enjoy the Florida Lifestyle. 2 Br., 2 Ba. Home w/office/ den, large laundry and 2 car garage w/ screen door. Front entrance is Paul Valois also screened. The Foyer leads to the Great Room w/ Living area, din(352) 895-1020 ing room and kitchen which are all part of the open floor plan. Florida room is equipped w/ privacy screens. HOA fees includes mowing, edging, trash pick-up. Amenities include community pool, resident center, grand hall, fitness center and much more. $198,000 MLS#436069

ON TOP OF THE WORLD: Large 2238 total Sq.ft. 2 bed, 2 bath home on a beautiful landscaped lot. With lawn maintenance included. This Mike Bleau home in move-in ready with Natural Gas, a deep 34ft., 2 car garage, and (352) 857-4421 much more. Please check my website at ocala55plus.com. MLS#426199

CANDLER HILLS: Wow! What an exclusive Golf Course Location.

This 3 BR,. 2 BA., 2 car garage AYRESHIRE Model in Desirable Candler Hills has a MBDR Suite 16’x17’ w/his & hers closets. Beautiful Formal Dining, Eat-in Kit. Overlooks the Golf Course. 9’4” ceilings w/ Crown Moldings. Entertain? Ck. out this 16’x24’ Lanai. Too many special touches to mention. A “MUST SEE”. $244,900 MLS#434604

Martha MaclinReynolds

(352) 362-1399

SPRUCE CREEK PRESERVE: Well maintained home with air conditioned Den/Lanai. 2bd., 2 ba., With pull-down staircase in the garage with storage in the attic. Solar powered attic vent, new roof in2014, Lindsay new a/c in 2010. Homeowner offering Home Warranty. Walking disPaolillo (352) 509-1063 tance to the very active community center. $122,500. MLS#435909

Kathy Van

(352) 789-0031

PALMCAY: Beautifully maintained 2 BR, 2BA, 2 car garage. Granite counter tops, all kitchen appliances included. Laminate wood floors, screened Lanai overlooking private backyard. New Roof in 2014, New A/C 2012. Ceiling fans. Most furnishings included. One owner home. $76,499. MLS#420053

The Brooks/ Kampf Team (352) 989-3162 (352) 812-0557

Jim Head

352-615-8234

ROLLING HILLS: Exceptional is an understatement for this home! Upgrades everywhere with plan in this 3/2/2 plus office and bonus room. On beautifully landscaped 1 acre. Air conditioned workshop and boat/RV parking. Don’t miss this outstanding value! Call today! $278,500 MLS#430462

WESTGATE: Custom 4/3/2 nestled on heavily wooded 6.14 acres.

Japanese Zen meditation garden 41x25 labyrinth w/ a river stone enhancement, generator for house. Laminate floors, sunny eat-in kitchen Carol VanWagner w/skid surface counters, double oven full size, freezer, center island.

(352) 572-4259 9’ step ceiling in formal dining room, 14’ ceiling in family room, double sided fireplace, oversized 2 car garage (25x33). $450,000 MLS#429565

SW HWY 200 OFFICE | 8721 SW HWY 200, OCALA FL | (352) 479-0123 OFFICE

4 Locations in Central Florida

Suzanne Alcorn (352) 216-6178 Residential

Pete Bauman (352) 895-3355 Residential

Mike Bleau (352) 857-4421 Residential

Carol Castineira & Bob Bunny Cooney Niedzwiecki (352) 361-8575 (352) 445-4953 Single Family Residential Specialize in Del Webb

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David Rector Linda Roddenberry Nichole Roberts Nicki Schwartz (352) 216-1183 (352) 816-6607 (352) 239-2485 (352) 209-9963 Residential/Investment Residential/Investment Farms/Residential/Land Residential/Relocation

Lindsay Paolillo (352) 237-0252 55+ Communities

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Have Your Ice Cream And Eat It, Too! Everyone loves ice cream, but how many times have you found yourself rushing to eat it before it drips everywhere?

Source: cnn.com

Recently, researchers in Scotland have discovered a naturally occurring protein that can help prevent ice cream from melting so quickly. Scientists say that the protein keeps the ice cream colder for a longer period of time. It binds the fat, air and water in the ice cream and makes the mixture more stable. Because the protein keeps the ice cream cold for a longer period of time, delivery trucks and warehouses wouldn’t be required to keep the ice cream in such a cold freezer, decreasing energy costs and the formation

of ice crystals on the freezers.

With the protein in place, manufacturers would also be able to create ice cream with lower levels of saturated fat, which means less calories (and that’s always a good thing!). More importantly though, the protein doesn’t affect the taste of the ice cream.

We say it’s a win all around!

SWE E T E AT S FOR TH E LOV E OF CHOCOL ATE A CANADIAN CRAVING

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

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Sweet Treats

Blogger’s debut cookbook offers decadent inspiration for home cooks everywhere. › By Cynthia McFarland

T

here’s no doubt Miriam Pascal is doing exactly what she was meant to do. One taste of anything made from her new cookbook confirms it.

A self-professed “non foodie,” Miriam is the first to say her palate is not of the adventurous sort. “I won’t touch an olive under any circumstances. I won’t eat fish—even at gunpoint,” she laughs. “I have a strong dislike of yogurt. And of feta cheese. And honestly, a whole bunch of other stuff. You get the point.”

The 20-something Jewish gal from New York grew up in Rockland County, a suburb of New York City, and now splits her time between there and NYC. Miriam has made a name for herself creating uncomplicated recipes made with approachable ingredients that produce delicious results.

“I grew up in a family of great cooks and have been cooking—or helping my parents cook—since I was a kid.

The new thing for me was actually learning to measure and write down my recipes, which I learned when I started blogging,” says Miriam, who launched her own cooking blog, overtimecook.com, in 2011.

Miriam’s work has been featured

by The Today Show, The Huffington Post, numerous national magazines and other media. She also pens a regular dessert column in Ami Magazine’s Whisk, a prominent kosher publication. Her obvious talents with sweets have earned her the reputation of “the queen of kosher desserts.”

“I enjoy cooking all courses, but dessert always feels like the ‘extra,’” admits Miriam. “It’s not something you

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I always say that picking a favorite recipe is like picking a favorite child.

That being said, some are definitely special to me. › Miriam Pascal

do because you ‘need’ to, as with ‘real’ food, but rather, it’s a luxury and a chance to be creative and fun.”

That’s precisely what this ambitious young culinary whiz has done in her debut cookbook Something Sweet: Desserts, Baked Goods, and Treats for Every Occasion, released in 2015 by ArtScroll Shaar Press / Mesorah Publications, Ltd. A visually stunning hardback, Something Sweet contains over 100 recipes, each accompanied by a beautiful, full-color photograph. (All photography was also done by Miriam, whose skills obviously extend beyond the kitchen.)

Something Sweet is a perfect example of why many people love to read cookbooks. It’s impossible to look at these photos, peruse the recipes and not want to roll up your sleeves and make something. Miriam’s brief observations at the start of each recipe make you feel like you’re in the kitchen with a knowledgeable friend. And those who can’t eat dairy products will appreciate that each recipe indicates whether it’s dairy or nondairy (pareve) or if it can be made either way.

If you’ve ever bought a cookbook but ended up rarely using it because of the unusual ingredients or lengthy, complicated recipes, you’ll find Something Sweet both refreshing and inspiring. Miriam incorporates easy-to-find ingredients to make delectable dishes that don’t take up precious time or require the skills of a professional chef. The results, however, will make you proud to pull off your apron and serve your latest creation Miriam gets her ideas from many sources, but picking a favorite is next to impossible for her.

“I always say that picking a favorite recipe is like picking a favorite child,” she says. “That being said, some are definitely special to me. For example, my lemon marble pound cake ‘looks’ ordinary, but I created the cake based on my memory of a cake that my father loved, and my mom made for him occasionally. I hadn’t had her cake in over 10 years, but I got it right—to the extent that my father still thinks I managed to dig up the original recipe. (I didn’t!)”

Miriam spent the better part of a year creating her cookbook.

“There wasn’t really one part that was more challenging than the others, but because I did so much of it myself—created the recipes, styled the food and photographed it—I had so much work to do. Luckily, I really enjoy all aspects of it, so overall it was a great experience,” she says. “I really tried to keep my recipes simple and easy, even for people without a lot of time. In fact, that’s what I’m known for: The Overtime Cook who doesn’t have a ton of time to cook and bake.”

The satisfaction of cooking from scratch is something Miriam hopes more people will incorporate into their busy schedules.

“I think that aside from how much better homemade desserts are, compared to store-bought, it’s important to enjoy the experience of making and serving it,” she says. “Whether you create memories baking with your kids or bask in compliments as you serve treats to your guests, making homemade desserts from scratch is about much more than simply eating delicious goodies.”

Hot Gooey Caramel Pie

Dairy or Pareve › Yield: 2 pies, each 8-10 servings

2

sticks (1 cup) butter or trans-fat-free margarine 8 oz cream cheese or soy cream cheese 1 1⁄2 cups brown sugar 1⁄4 cup light corn syrup 2 eggs 1 teaspoon baking soda 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 1⁄2 cups flour 1 cup caramel chips 2 ready-made graham cracker piecrusts Vanilla ice cream, for serving, optional Caramel sauce for serving, optional (recipe is in the cookbook!)

Heat oven to 350°F. In the bowl of an electric mixer, on medium speed, cream together butter and cream cheese until smooth. › Add brown sugar and corn syrup; beat until smooth and creamy. › Add eggs, baking soda and vanilla, beating to combine after each addition. › Reduce mixer speed to low; add flour. Beat until combined.

Stir in caramel chips. › Divide batter between piecrusts. › Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the center is just set. (It will still be jiggly.) Serve warm with ice cream and caramel sauce (optional).

Note: As the name suggests, the pie is gooey—and it doesn’t cut into the neatest slices when warm. For a fancier presentation, make mini pies or serve it closer to room temperature, when it won’t be as gooey. Mini pies can be made in mini graham cracker crusts or ramekins and baked for 22-24 minutes.

Get Cooking!

overtimecook.com Something Sweet: Desserts, Baked Goods, and Treats for Every Occasion is available at local bookstores and through amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com.

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CHOCOLATE-STUFFED GOODIES: Give your brownies and cookies an extra helping of chocolate by adding chocolate pieces to the batter or dough before baking.

Fondue, Fudge & Mix-Ins

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TRAIL MIX: Add different types of nuts, raisins and dried fruit in with your chocolate pieces, and you’ve just made a semi-healthy trail mix.

If you have a bunch of leftover chocolate or want to take advantage of chocolate sales this month, what should you do with it all (besides guiltily scarfing it all down)? We’ve got you covered. Take a look at these 10 ways to incorporate the excess chocolate into fun gifts, activities, desserts and snacks.

MOVIE NIGHT POPCORN: Make a large amount of popcorn, and divide it all into separate bags. Sprinkle pieces of chocolate in the bags, or drizzle melted chocolate over the popcorn. Surprise family and friends with a bag of the movie-nightready treat.

4.

CHOCOLATE HOUSES: You’ve likely made a gingerbread house before and covered it with all kinds of frosting and candy. You can still use gingerbread cookies or graham crackers to make these houses, but, instead of frosting, use melted chocolate to decorate the houses and attach other pieces of chocolate to them. And don’t forget to have the kids help you with this one.

5.

HOT COCOA: Heat up a mug of milk and add in several pieces of chocolate. Stir until the chocolate melts into a rich and creamy cup of hot chocolate.

Simply 6.meltdipa bunch of chocolate and strawberries, bananas,

brownies or pound cake into it.

Better yet, have a few friends over for a fondue party.

7.

CHOCOLATE-COVERED FAVORITES: Melt chocolate and dip nuts, fruit, pretzels or other snacks into it. Place dipped morsels onto parchment paper to cool, and then store them in an airtight container. Add sprinkles for a fun touch of color.

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MILKSHAKES: Add coarsely chopped chocolate pieces to two scoops of ice cream.

Pour in a small amount of milk and ice, and then blend it all together.

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CHOCOLATE BARK: Melt chocolate and pour it onto a foil-lined baking sheet. Spread evenly and top with nuts, dried fruit or candy. Freeze until the chocolate’s solid, and then break into bite-sized pieces.

10.

FREEZE IT: Sick of all the extra chocolate?

Store the rest in sealed baggies, and stick them in the freezer. The chocolate should keep for a couple of months.

Peanut Butter Fudge

Use your chocolate to make this fouringredient peanut butter fudge by Rachael Phillips of rachphillips.com.

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2⁄3 1⁄2 1 1⁄2

cup peanut butter cup almond flour tbsp. Stevia or other sugar cup chocolate

Combine peanut butter, flour and sugar, and mix together until a stiff dough forms. › Roll the dough into small balls, and refrigerate for approximately one hour. › Melt chocolate, and dip the balls of dough into the chocolate using toothpicks. › Place on parchment paper, and stick them in the refrigerator to set.

Sources: babble.com, newbergcommunitydental.com, spoonuniversity.com, lovelivehealth.com, shibleysmiles.com, msn.com, rachphillips.com

CHOCOLATE FONDUE:

› 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.

Each Friday, we are offering 1½-pound Maine lobster. Reserve by Wednesday.

Homemade pizza served daily. Beef on weck & Monte Cristo Sandwiches. You’re invited to our Super Bowl Party on Feb. 7! Call for info. Wed.-Karaoke, Sat.-Music & Dancing. Welcome HITS & LPGA! Make your reservations for Valentine’s Day Special Menu.

Double Point Monday Take-out Tuesday Family Wednesday Wine Down Thursday

Blanca’s Café

5174 NW 26th Street, Ocala (in Ocala Palms) › (352) 867-0001 Mon-Sat lunch & dinner 10:30a-9p › Sun 11a-4p (Limited Menu) Open Sun for Valentine’s Day 3-9p › Reservations requested.

Come join us on the 19th hole at Blanca’s Café, tucked in among the rolling greens of the Ocala Palms Golf & Country Club. Blanca’s Café is a gem of a find for diners looking for excellent food served in a warm, friendly environment. Italian dishes and delicious homemade desserts are the café’s specialty. Patrons enjoy a full-service bar and live entertainment weekly, as well as spacious seating for up to 150.

Try one of the weekly dinner specials Blanca’s offers, or schedule catering for your next event through the café. Whether you’re a newcomer to town or a local looking for somewhere new to dine, Blanca’s Café offers something to please every palate.

Blue Highway Pizza

2130 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala › (352) 629-5555 bluehighwaypizza.com › Sun-Thu 11:30a-9p › Fri & Sat 11:30a-10p Pizza is for lovers... Celebrate Valentine’s Day with us by sharing one of our delicious hand-crafted pizzas or calzones with your special someone! Enjoy an antipasto, calamari or wings before trying a signature pasta or daily special. Finish with a decadent homemade dessert. Our selection of craft beer and fine wine makes a great complement to your meal—we offer a Happy Hour with select appetizers half off. You’ll taste the passion in each dish we lovingly prepare. Eat well, live well…

FEB ’16 ›

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Passion For Poutine

Who Made This Mess?

What is poutine, exactly? It starts with a bed of french fries topped with a handful of fresh cheese curds. But these are no regular cheese fries—they’re also topped with savory brown gravy to melt it all together.

Poutine’s origin story is as messy as the food itself, with several towns claiming it as their invention. It is known to have come from the province of Quebec around the 1950s. The most popular tall tale says in Warwick, Quebec, at a restaurant called Le Lutin qui rit, a customer asked for cheese curds on his fries.

The owner responded, “Ça va faire une maudite poutine,” which means, “That’s going to make a dreadful mess.”

Today, it’s a staple of Canadian cuisine with hip poutineries galore and chip wagons peddling yummy piles of fries in the cities.

Maybe you’ve noticed poutine popping up on menus everywhere. Maybe you haven’t tried it yet, or maybe it’s already your favorite cheat-day food. Whether you’re a poutine connoisseur or haven’t taken your first bite, you’re sure to fall in love with this delicious dish.

Poutine, Seven Ways If the classic gravy-and-curds combo isn’t your thing, there are plenty of ways to customize poutine to your taste or switch it up for an awesome dinner party.

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2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Make a meal out of it! Top fries with brisket, brie and au jus for a hearty, savory take. Try the recipe at chefjamie.com.

Poutine baked potatoes from foodnetwork.ca provide a starchy, savory craving buster that’s a little healthier since it’s sans fries.

Sweet potato poutine: One easy swap in the fry department creates a totally different flavor combo.

For the tot lovers, switch your fries for tater tots and voilà: Midwestern poutine.

Kimchi poutine is a delicious Asian spin on the dish. All you need is soy sauce, cayenne, kimchi and the recipe from honestcooking.com.

Breakfast poutine is easy to customize. Maybe you top yours with huevos ranchero and avocado or sausage gravy. This recipe from iamafoodblog.com features fried eggs and bacon gravy.

The Importance Of Poutine How amazing is poutine? It beat out standard time and the BlackBerry for No. 10 on the CBC’s Top 10 greatest Canadian inventions of all time. It made the cut with insulin and the telephone so, you know, it’s kind of a big deal.

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What’s A Curd, You Ask? Curds are freshly made cheese before it’s pressed into a block or wheel. Usually they’re white or yellow cheddar, but instead of being aged, they’re brand-new. The freshest curds actually squeak against your teeth when you chew. They’re delicious and adorable.

Sources: huffingtonpost.com, cottagelife.com, theweek.com

Poutine, Like Vladimir?

No, no, not at all like Vlad.

English speakers usually say it like “poo-teen,” but that’s pretty close to the French word for prostitute, putain. Instead, do as the people of Quebec do and call it “poo-tin.”

Need a lighter option? Find the recipe for roasted asparagus poutine with mushroom gravy at closetcooking.com to get your fix with a serving of veggies.

› DINING GUIDE

Join us for live jazz featuring Rudy Turner every Wednesday and Friday from 6:30-9:30p and live entertainment every Saturday with Bobby Blackmon, Gosia & Ali, Rick & Paige and many others beginning at 6:30p.

Located at the Crossroads of NW 80th Ave. and Hwy 40 West. No matter what you have a taste for, Crossroads Country Kitchen is sure to become a new favorite.

Former owners of “The Spiced Apple” restaurant in Ft. Lauderdale. We accept all major credit cards.

Trivia Night every Thursday 7-9pm (Silver Springs Blvd. location) Mariachi Band every Thursday at the 200 location 6-9pm Come celebrate Valentine’s Day with us!

Braised Onion Restaurant

754 NE 25th Ave, Ocala › (352) 620-9255 Tue-Thu 11a-9p › Fri & Sat 11a-10p › Sun 11a-8p › Closed Mon The 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 Taste of Ocala for two2 years. 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. Happy hour is Tuesday through Friday from 4-7p. Visit our website at braisedonion.com. Special Valentine menu in addition to Braised Onion’s regular menu.

Crossroads Country Kitchen 7947 W Highway 40, Ocala › (352) 237-1250 Mon-Sat 6a-9p › Sun 7a-3p

Located west on Highway 40 in Ocala, the Crossroads Country Kitchen is a must for anyone craving down-home, country cooking.

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, menu items range from a wide variety of homemade soups and chili to prime rib, fresh salads, seafood, prime steaks and burgers. If you’re in the mood for a real treat, try the Prime Rib Dinner For Two for $26.95. Make sure to leave room for one of the tasty home-baked desserts! In the mood for a fresh fish fry? Tuesdays and Fridays are all-you-careto-eat catfish or whitefish. Enjoy an Italian special on Wednesdays.

Big screen televisions will allow you to enjoy your meal without missing one second of the big game or race.

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 Monday, $4.45; Speedy Gonzalez on Tuesdays, $4.95; Quesadillas on Wednesday, $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

FEB ’16 ›

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The Ivy House Restaurant

917 E. Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala › (352) 622-5550 › Sun 11a-2p 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.

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 › Valentine’s Day Sun Feb 14 12-9p Dinner all day 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!

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 as well as an 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!

We want to invite visitors to the LPGA & HITS events to enjoy lunch or dinner with us.

For more information on catering, contact Waica Huggins or Evelyn Nussel at wmhivyhouse@yahoo.com Taking reservations for Valentine’s Day.

Make this Valentine’s Day special at Ipanema Brazilian Steak House. 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

Be sure to visit us at the Canopy Oaks Center.

Pavarotti’s also caters.

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

PAVAROTTI’S Pizza & Restaurant

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› DINING GUIDE

Start your week off right with Mini Mondays, featuring mini cupcakes by the dozen. Our cupcake milkshakes are ready for you!

Smallcakes, a Cupcakery

4701 SW College Rd., Suite 106, Ocala › (352) 484-1127 facebook.com/smallcakesocala › smallcakescupcakery.com Mon-Sat 10a-8p › Sun 12-6p Ocala just got sweeter, thanks to the opening of Smallcakes, a Cupcakery. With over 150 flavors and the franchise cranking out new flavors every month, there is something for every sweet tooth. Smallcakes features 13 daily flavors with a rotation of two to four specialty flavors. The most-asked-about flavors are key lime pie and strawberries n crème. Smallcakes also caters events, such as weddings and other parties, and if you don’t see what you’re looking for in the shop, the talented staff of decorators can create customized orders just for you with advance notice. Come in-store for pick up and share the sweetness today.

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.

The amazing private CHEF TABLE dining experience! Call (352) 873-6446 to design your evening for parties of 4-8.

I N S I DE H ILTO N O C A L A

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.

Arthur’s – An American Bistro Inside the Hilton Ocala › 3600 SW 36th Ave., Ocala www.hiltonocala.com › Breakfast: 6:30-11a daily Lunch: 11am-2pm, Mon-Fri › Sunday Brunch: 11:30am-3pm Dinner: 4:30pm-10pm, Tue-Sat

A true American bistro experience! Extraordinary flavors, in a casual and affordable setting. Hilton Ocala is proud to be the home of Arthur’s - An American Bistro. Renowned for years as one of the region’s most celebrated dining establishments, the new Arthur’s - An American Bistro provides a comfortable, graceful atmosphere to enjoy the one-of-a-kind American bistro flavors of Executive Chef Josue Torres and his high-caliber culinary team. In addition to this unique twist on American regional cuisine, you will also find one of the best wine, bourbon, Scotch and specialty drink selections in North Central Florida... so enjoy!

FEB ’16 ›

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Cody’s Original Roadhouse

2505 SW College Road, Ocala › (352) 237-8182 › codysamerican.com Doors Open at 11a › Serving Lunch and Dinner Daily “Where Quality and Value Come Together!” Hand-cut, USDA Choice steaks, rotisserie chicken, BBQ baby back ribs, chops, fresh fish, burgers, salads and more! Kids eat free Mondays and Tuesdays. Buy-1-get-1-free Fajita Wednesdays, $12.98. Daily 2-4-1 happy hour, 11am-7pm, includes draft beer, wine and all liquors (top shelf, too). Lunch from 11a-3p. Try our mouthwatering specials with all the fixins’ on Valentine’s weekend Feb 12th through the 14th: Bacon Wrapped Petite Filet Mignon with Lobster Tail $24.98, Twin Lobster Tail Dinner $24.98, Seafood Trio $23.98, Salmon Oscar $19.98 and Top Sirloin Steak and Garlic Sea Scallops $19.98.

Eaton’s Beach Sandbar & Grill 15790 SE 134th Avenue, Weirsdale, FL › (352) 259-2444 eatonsbeach.com › Sun-Thu 11a-9p › Fri & Sat 11a-10:30p

People from all over converge on Eaton’s Beach for a variety of reasons. For some, it’s the Sandbar’s scintillating musical lineup on the weekends. For others, it’s the ease of a day at the beach— complete with resort-style cocktails. We like to think it’s for the award-winning food. With back-to-back wins at Taste of Ocala, Chef Del Rio’s Pastrami and Shrimp & Grits are two things that make Eaton’s Beach a destination where the only thing better than the view… is the food.

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 and join today! Text MYSUSHI to 40518 and get exclusive offers, promos & coupons. Check out the specials!

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Take-Out Service Available. Locations in The Villages at 1041 Lakeshore Drive at Lake Sumter Landing and our new location at Brownwood in The Villages.

Welcome HITS visitors!

Check out EatonsBeach.com for weekly beach events and music guests. Try Eaton’s Beach catering for your next event—we’ll bring the beach to you.

From corporate events and birthdays to weddings and wedding rehearsals, Eaton’s Beach will help you plan the perfect event with the perfect food.

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

Serving Ocala since 1986!

Ask about our lunch specials!

Welcome HITS and LPGA!

› DINING GUIDE

Grab lunch or dinner on the water, enjoy a full liquor bar or get takeout from this family-friendly restaurant.

2015 Best of Taste Winner and Best Taste People’s Choice.

Mesa de Notte features a full-service bar serving beer, wine and liquor. Stop by the bar and enjoy an appetizer on your way home from work.

WELCOME LPGA & HITS

HAPPY HOUR Daily from 3-7pm & 9pmclose. Happy hour 4-11pm.

ASK ABOUT OUR CARRY-OUT Catering.

The Blue Gator

12189 S Williams Street, Dunnellon › (352) 465-1635 Sun-Thu 11a-10p › Fri & Sat 11a-12a With a menu full of delicious seafood and nights packed with events and live music, The Blue Gator is the place to go for a good time. Take your family and friends to enjoy football games, airboat tours and dinner on the water. Start the night off with the Blue Gator bites appetizer or one of their seafood baskets like the grouper platter. Get your fill of 59¢ wings on Tuesdays, and make sure to try the award-winning clam chowder from Cedar Key. Don’t forget to check out their Facebook page to stay up to date on events and specials!

Mesa de Notte

2436 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala › (352) 732-4737 › mesaocala.com Mon-Thu 11a-9p › Fri & Sat 11a-10p › Closed Sun Mesa de Notte uses only the freshest ingredients to prepare their unique, gourmet, Italian dishes. The menu features both lunch and dinner options and offers patrons an expanded, private dining room capable of accommodating up to 50 guests. It’s perfect for your next party or company meeting. The talented professionals at Mesa de Notte can also handle all of your catering needs–big or small. Don’t forget to make your reservations today for Valentine’s Day and experience their special menu on February 14 between 12pm and 10pm.

Tilted Kilt

3155 E Silver Springs Boulevard, Ocala (352) 351-5458 › ocala.tiltedkilt.com Mon-Thu 11a-11p › Fri-Sat 11a-Midnight › Sun 11a-10p Next time you’re in the mood for a taste of Ireland, look no further than Ocala’s very own Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery. Their classics will have you convinced that you’ve just taken a one-way flight to Dublin. Favorites such as fish & chips, shepherd’s pie and Gaelic chicken in an Irish whiskey cream sauce all served by beautiful lasses in kilts will leave you wanting more! Menu items as low as $6 from 11am-3pm makes The Tilted Kilt the perfect place for a quick bite to eat during lunch. Stop by with the whole family to enjoy TV on the big screens, games, good service and great food! Scan this QR code to see our calendar of events.

FEB ’16 ›

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8 MILES NORTH OF THE VILLAGES | US 441 FRI, SAT & SUN 8AM-3PM

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Fri - 8am-3pm Sat,Sun - 8am-4pm themarketofmarion.com

12888 SE US HWY 441, Belleview, FL 34420 076

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News About The Knap-In

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This annual event celebrates the history of Marion County by bringing together expert flint knappers, archaeologists, potters, hide tanners, bow makers and other specialists in prehistoric skills across the Eastern United States. Held at Silver Springs State Park, the Knap-In and Stone Age Art Festival also

features a variety of pre-historic stone tools, raw stone, flint knapping tools, unique crafts, food and more. New this year is a temporary exhibit of traditional archery equipment from around the world. Each piece comes from other museums and private collections to comprise a unique variety of pre-historic tools. The festival will be open to the public from 9am-4pm on Saturday and Sunday with a student-only day on February 19.

Photos courtesy of the Silver River Museum

There definitely won’t be any real napping going on at the annual Silver River Knap-In and Stone Age Art Festival with all the archery, tomahawk and atlatl dart throwing demonstrations going on!

LEARN MORE ›

Silver River Knap-In and Stone Age Art Festival

silverrivermuseum.com (352) 671-7700

STRAWBERRY FUN

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BY CYNTHIA MCFARLAND

The third annual Habitat Strawberry Festival promises to be bigger and better than ever.

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here’s a lot to be said for tradition, especially when it’s for a good cause.

The Habitat Strawberry Festival is fast becoming a Marion County tradition—one that benefits the community and families in need. Plus, it’s a whole lot of fun. What’s not to love about that?

The third annual festival takes place on Saturday, March 5, at the McPherson Government Complex located at 601 SE 25th Avenue in Ocala, just about two miles east of the downtown area.

Although the inaugural event in 2014 took place on Ocala’s downtown square, due to the remarkable turnout, it was immediately apparent that more space was needed. Starting in 2015, the festival moved to its current location at the McPherson Government Complex.

“We loved our partnership with the city, but the location limited us. Changing venues gave us huge opportunities. We had a zip line last year and will have it again this year, but that’s something we couldn’t have done downtown. In the future we even hope to have hot air balloon rides,” notes Elizabeth B. Chryst, chairman of the board for Habitat for Humanity of Marion County.

“This festival is our way of giving back to the community by making the event free with no cost for admission or parking,” says Chryst. “This year will feature bigger and better everything,

from the strawberries and food to the vendors, entertainment and car show. We use upwards of 650 volunteers from area churches, schools and other organizations to put on the festival each year. This year we already have the Atlas Club of Forest High school and Trinity High School each dedicating 125 volunteers for the day of the festival.”

As the event garners more awareness, festival organizers are encouraging additional community involvement, such as golf tournaments, 5K runs, fishing tournaments and more to piggyback off the festival. The third annual Habitat Strawberry Festival runs from 9am to 5pm on March 5, but you can get your strawberry on earlier by showing up for the Annual Pancake Breakfast put on by the Kiwanis Club of Ocala, starting at 7:30am.

(Although the festival is free, there is a small fee for the breakfast, which benefits Habitat.)

Enjoy browsing and shopping at over 150 vendor booths, featuring arts and crafts, unique goods and a fresh farmers market. Families won’t want to miss the Kid Zone, where the kids can burn off energy in an area set aside specifically for child-oriented activities. Youngsters can even compete in fun games to win tickets, which they can then trade for prizes.

Live entertainment will take place throughout the day on two stages simultaneously. There will also be a car show, and the reigning “Miss Strawberry” will pass on the crown to this year’s winner at the pageant.

Be sure to come hungry! Sonny’s BBQ and Chick-fil-A will be on hand, as well as other festival fare booths, and all food vendors donate a portion of their proceeds to Habitat for Humanity. Of course, you’ll find a great array of strawberry food items as well, from ice cream to shortcake and lots more. Proceeds from all strawberry foods benefit Habitat, so dig in.

And since it’s a strawberry festival, you can buy fresh berries, too. Flats can be pre-ordered online through the festival website to guarantee availability. Reserve your flat by prepaying for a voucher to redeem when you pick up your berries at a convenient drive-through location at the festival. There will also be booths at the festival where you can buy flats, but ordering ahead assures you won’t be disappointed in case demand exceeds supply. Last year, over 250 flats were sold through the online pre-order option.

Just what’s behind all this strawberry-oriented fun? Habitat for Humanity of Marion County uses the festival to raise enough funds to build at least one home.

A particular family has already passed the application process and been designated to benefit from this year’s event.

Habitat for Humanity of Marion County was launched in 1990 and celebrated its 25th anniversary in December 2015. One of more than 1,500 local U.S. affiliates

Habitat for Humanity of Marion County uses the festival to raise enough funds to build at least one home.

“In the future we even hope to have hot air balloon rides.”

of Habitat for Humanity International, the Ocala affiliate has proven itself one of the nation’s most productive, building or rehabbing as many as 15 houses per year.

In the Central Florida area, it takes roughly $50,000 to $60,000 for Habitat to build a house from the ground up.

Sometimes it makes more sense to “gut and rehab” an existing house, especially when you consider the number of foreclosures in recent years.

Thanks to an ongoing partnership between Habitat International and Bank of America, several thousand bank-foreclosed houses have been donated across the country. In the state of Florida, 1,045 homes have been donated as of this writing.

Founded in 1976, Habitat for Humanity International has built and renovated hundreds of thousands of houses worldwide. A grassroots Christian nonprofit organization, Habitat’s mission is to eliminate

poverty and substandard housing and homelessness. Habitat’s local U.S. affiliates and 70-plus organizations around the world have helped build or repair more than 800,000 houses, serving 6.8 million people.

The organization is funded through tax-deductible donations of money and materials and is manned by volunteer labor.

Habitat isn’t a “giveaway” organization. To be accepted for home ownership, a family must go through the application process, meet all “sweat equity” requirements (350 hours or more) and be able to repay the zero-interest loan. Including tax and insurance, mortgage payments are generally less than $450 per month.

“Habitat for Humanity has been blessed to have over 11,873 hours donated by volunteers in Marion County annually,” notes Chryst. “With all that time and talent being donated by residents of Marion County, Habitat’s Strawberry Festival is a great way for us to say ‘thank you’ and to give back to a community that gives so much.”

Learn more:

habitatstrawberryfamilyfest.com habitatocala.org FEB ’16 ›

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Start Your Engines

“T

he redevelopment of Daytona International Speedway reaffirms its status as the world center of racing for years to come,” says Daytona International Speedway’s CEO Lesa France Kennedy. “It is imperative that we build upon my grandfather’s vision to create a worldclass facility with premium amenities to provide unparalleled experiences for our guests and partners.”

This year, Speedway goers will be able to view the action in unprecedented style and comfort as the stadium features over 100,000 upgraded and wider seats along with thousands of premium club seats and 60 luxury suites. Five entrances have been redesigned and expanded for easier crowd control, and 40 escalators and 17 elevators will take fans to any of the three concourse levels spanning the nearly mile-long front stretch.

Speedweeks will kick off the action and officially open Daytona’s world-class raceway for the season. The nine-day event features seven races from four different series and concludes with › Lesa France Kennedy NASCAR racing’s crown jewel, the Daytona 500 on February 21. But the dust will barely have settled before all the two-wheeled action begins with the 75th Annual Bike Week kicking off in March. Consider this your guide to the next two month’s worth of engine action as well as some tips for getting the most out of your Daytona experience.

It is imperative that we build upon my grandfather’s vision to create a world-class facility with premium amenities to provide unparalleled experiences for our guests and partners.

Speedweeks Race Schedule FEB 13: Lucas Oil 200 and Sprint Unlimited Double Header › This opening event features the stock car portion of the series and includes longtime fan favorites with new names in the sport.

FEB 14: Daytona 500 Qualifying › Tensions will run high as anxious drivers look to solidify their place on the starting line of the Daytona 500.

FEB 18: Can-Am Duel › These two 150-mile races determine the starting grid of the Daytona 500 and give fans a look at the top contenders in the field.

FEB 19: NextEra Energy Resource 250 › This 100-lap under-the-lights series is known to be one of the most exciting of the week.

FEB 20: Powershares QQQ 300 › Veteran and fresh-faced drivers alike will battle it out in this last race before the signature event of the series.

FEB 21: Daytona 500 › Drivers in the 58th annual race will look to add their names to the list of NASCAR royalty.

5 Things You Need To Bring BINOCULARS. See just how quick a pit crew can change a tire.

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PORTABLE RADIO.

Tune in to WNDB in Daytona Beach for a live broadcast to boost the excitement factor.

EARPLUGS. With the engines revving and the fans screaming, you’ll need a pair or two.

AUTOGRAPH BOOKS AND MARKERS. You never know when

you’ll bump into your favorite driver, and permanent markers will also come in handy during the pre-race festivities when fans can sign the start/finish line.

COMFORTABLE SHOES. With so

much to see and do, be prepared to spend quite a bit of time on your feet.

Speedway Photos Courtesy of Daytona International Speedway

February kicks off some of the Daytona International Speedway’s most hotly anticipated events of the year, including the “Great American Race,” the Daytona 500. But fans of NASCAR’s richest race have even more of a reason to trek to Daytona this year. After a $400 million makeover, the DAYTONA Rising redevelopment project is set to unveil the world’s first motorsports stadium. › By Bonnie Kretchik

Stay Connected The new-and-improved stadium will boast FREE Wi-Fi throughout the stadium concourses, Midway and Sprint FANZONE.

Next-Level Fun Want to make the most of your Speedweeks stay? Stop by the Spring FANZONE, known as the hub of Speedweeks excitement. A FANZONE wristband will get you up close and personal with the drivers and pit crew as well as prime seating for this year’s concert featuring Florida Georgia Line.

Bike Week Action

What’s So Super About Supercross?

HERE ARE A FEW FAST FACTS ABOUT THIS ACTIONPACKED SPORT:

The Ride Of Your Life

› Supercross is comprised

Wondering what all that horsepower feels like? Experience it yourself with the Richard Petty Driving Experience.

Ride alongside a professional driver or take the wheel yourself for this heartpounding ride on a world-famous track. But don’t wait, the Richard Petty Driving Experience is only open February 5, 6, 7, 15 and 16 and won’t be up and running again until April!

of two divisions based on engine power—a 250cc and 450cc class.

A last chance qualifier (or LCQ) will also advance the top two finishers into the final round. › Supercross bikes can cost as

› The top 27 numbers on the bikes

much as $70,000 or more. are actually permanent. Numbers › Riders may give a “fist pump” in 28-99 are assigned to riders the air. While pretty cool to see, based on their national ranking this generally happens because and 100-999 are assigned based of lactic acid build up in their on rider’s requests. forearms. Believe it or not, the › Races are comprised of two heat best time to relieve some of races with the top nine finishers the tension is while the bikes moving on to the main event. are airborne.

Make Your Way to the Midway!

The Midway Extravaganza features an extensive list of vendors (over 150) from around the country showcasing the latest in parts, accessories, apparel and more. And some of the top motorcycle manufacturers, including Yamaha, Suzuki, Harley-Davidson, Indian, Victory, Piaggio Group and Kawasaki will be on-site throughout the week offering free demo rides.

MARCH 5: Daytona Supercross

by Honda › This nighttime show features bright lights and pyrotechnics along with the fastest supercross athletes in America.

MARCH 6-7: Rickey Carmichael Amateur Supercross › Those looking to pave their way in the sport will take their turn on the grueling track.

MARCH 8: FLY Racing ATV Supercross › Bike Week isn’t just for the two-wheeled riders.

The action intensifies as these four-wheelers compete in high-flying action.

MARCH 10-11: Daytona Flat Track › This 25-lap race illustrates bike-handling at its best.

MARCH 12: Daytona 200 › This signature event of the series showcases the top names in motorcycle racing.

Prime Partying

No trip to Bike Week is complete without a visit (or two) to Thunder Alley. Situated next to the Midway and Demo Ride Marketplace, Thunder Alley features a main stage with live entertainment all week long, including a bikini contest and leather fashion show.

WANT TO GO? › For more info or to buy tickets visit daytonainternationalspeedway.com or call (800) PIT-SHOP. FEB ’16 ›

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Downtown To Dos TAKE YOUR SWEETHEART TO ANY OF THESE LOCAL HAPPENINGS! FEB. 2: Six Gun Territory Day on the Ocala Square, 4-8pm FEB. 5: First Friday Art Walk in downtown Ocala, 6-9pm FEB. 11: A Sculpture Affair in Tuscawilla Park, 5-7:30pm FEB. 20: Cracker Cattle Drive and Cowboy Roundup in Tuscawilla Park, 10am-7:30pm FEB. 26: Model T Ford Winter Tour on the downtown Square, 11:30am-1:30pm FEB. 27: Ocala for Christ “United We Will Conquer” on the downtown Square, 3-9pm

FEB

13

Dining, Dancing And All That Jazz

Get your jazz hands ready as the Boys and Girls Club of Marion County presents the Bourbon Street Ball held at the Hilton Ocala. With a Mardi Gras theme, this night of dining, dancing, auctions and entertainment helps to raise funds for and celebrate the work of the organization. Doors open at 6pm, so come dressed to impress! bgcofmarion.com or (352) 690-7440.

Sweets For Your Sweet… Tooth!

February is a month known for sweets and sweethearts.

So bring your sweetheart (or sweet tooth!) to the 4th Annual Cupcake Wars. Held once again at Jumbolair, this cupcake-crazy cook-off pits amateur and professional bakers head to head in a sugary battle. Contestants will be vying for the titles of Top Taste, Decoration, Creative Theme, People’s Choice and more! Attendees can taste and purchase these cutest of cakes, and junior bakers can also participate in this year’s new addition of the Kids’ Cupcake Challenge. The event runs 10am-2pm, and proceeds benefit Victory Academy. victoryacademyocala.com or (352) 615-8219.

Regal And Royal The 30th Annual Tiara Ball will once again be held at the Golden Ocala Golf and

A Trinity Tradition

FEB

18-21

That’s right, it’s time for Trinity Catholic High School’s Winter Carnival. The high school grounds play host to this annual event that features a number of rides, games, activities and entertainment for the whole family. This year marks the 10-year anniversary of this Trinity tradition. Pre-sale and VIP tickets are now available, and special raffle tickets will be sold for $1 each or 12 for $10 for a chance to win $1,000 cash or a $500 gas card. trinitycatholichs.org or (352) 622-9025 ext 6047.

MAR

19 Equestrian Club. Presented by the Ocala Royal Dames, the proceeds from this annual event go toward funding projects for cancer research. Last year, the signature event raised over $120,000 and helped fund a highly effective new cancer treatment. This year’s theme is entitled “Majesty, An Evening of Royal Palaces,” so come dressed to impress and help support the Royal Dames and their mission to provide funding and education for cancer research. Tickets are $125, and doors open at 6:30pm. ocalaroyaldames.org or (352) 216-2232 or (352) 509-3370.

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13,28

Running For Love… And Horses!

The Big Hammock Race Series offers two chances this month to rack up valuable points toward some pretty nifty race bling. The Valentine’s Day 5K kicks off at 8am at Silver Springs State Park on February 13 and marks the halfway point in the series. The fifth race—and a Super Race at that—is the Live Oak International 5K running, in conjunction with the Live Oak International Combined Driving and Show Jumping events.

Runners and walkers will receive free entry to the equine action taking place at the race’s conclusion, including world-class show jumping and combined driving competition, boutique shopping, fine dining, kids’ activities and even an appearance by the world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales. And being a “Super Race,” runners can expect super prizes for the top three overall women and men as well as finisher medals for the first 250 finishers. Race day registration begins at 6am, and the race kicks off at 7:30am. bighammockraceseries.com.

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FEB ’16 ›

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Ongoing Events

A Quick Q & A

Free Yoga for Veterans › Wednesdays at Bliss Yoga at 12:15pm, (352) 694-YOGA.

With Margaret Spontak

Free ESL Classes › Wednesdays at First Baptist Church of Ocala at

Interview by Bonnie Kretchik

6pm, (352) 237-9858.

Chair Yoga › Wednesdays at Bliss Yoga at 10:30am, (352) 694-YOGA. Garden Workshop › Second Sunday of each month at Silver

Springs State Park at 1pm, (352) 236-7156.

Leadership & Learning

Marion County is rife with both volunteer opportunities as well as willing volunteers. Often, however, those looking to volunteer their time or services aren’t sure where to start, while, at the same time, needy organizations don’t know where to find individuals willing and able to help.

This scenario is precisely why Master the Possibilities, in partnership with Leadership Ocala Marion, is hosting a leadership conference designed to educate and unite volunteers and leaders. Director of Education at Master the Possibilities Margaret Spontak took a few minutes to explain the goals of the conference.

What is the main intention for hosting this conference?

We saw that there is a real need to unite organizations seeking volunteers with those looking for volunteer opportunities.

How did you decide to join forces with Leadership Ocala Marion?

The goals of Leadership Ocala Marion are to train leaders and help them plug into the services in the community. At the same time, at Master the Possibilities, we come across so many individuals looking to volunteer but who weren’t sure how to go about it or where to look.

So we wanted to merge the two organizations and host this conference together.

Who is the conference open to?

The conference is open to anyone, and we are hoping to get a good mix of established longtime residents and younger college kids. We think the mix would offer a good synergy.

What will the conference entail?

We will have a few speakers, and then attendees will be able to break off and attend two of the five learning tracts offered. These include serving on a non-profit board, becoming a social entrepreneur, discovering different opportunities, multigenerational mentoring, and managing and leading volunteers.

Aside from the speakers and learning tracts, what else can attendees expect?

Lunch will be provided, and we expect this to be an excellent time for everyone present to share what they’ve learned. Some of the best learning happens in the wings!

How can people register?

People can register online or by stopping by our office. Or, we offer a 24-hour registration hotline they can call and simply say they want to register for the conference.

FEB

24

WANT TO LEARN MORE? › Volunteer Leadership Connections: Plugging Into Community Service › Circle Square Cultural Center › February 24, 10am-3pm › $15 ($10 for Leadership Ocala Marion members and residents of On Top of the World, Indigo East, Candler Hills and Stone Creek Communities) › masterthepossibilities.com or (352) 861-9751 › 24-hour registration hotline: (352) 854-3699.

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AARP Tax Aide › At the Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays through April 15 from 9am12:30pm, (352) 629-8545.

Arts, Crafts and Culture Upcoming Exhibits At The Appleton › Paradise Park

Remembered: Photographs by Bruce Mozert and Others features 100 photographs of the segregated Paradise Park attraction in Florida that opened in 1949. The exhibit runs through April 24. Journey into IMAGIMATION: 100 Years of Animation Art from Around the World celebrates the ongoing 100-plus-year history of animation. The exhibit will be on display through April 24. Stickwork is a selection of drawings, videos and photographs that document the artist’s past projects and will be on display through April 17. appletonmuseum.org or (352) 291-4455.

Marion Civic Chorale Open Call › The Marion Civic Chorale invites interested singers to join in rehearsals as they prepare for their spring production of Faure’s Requiem. Rehearsals are Monday evenings from 6:45-9pm at St. George Anglican Church in Ocala.

(262) 227-6495.

Ocala Civic Theatre Winter/Spring Classes › The Ocala Civic Theatre offers a variety of acting and dancing classes for children of all ages. ocalacivictheatre.com or (352) 236-2274.

War-Toys Exhibit (February 5-March 18) › The College of Central Florida Webber Gallery will host the traveling exhibition WAR-TOYS: Israel, West Bank, and Gaza Strip. The exhibit features the work of Brian McCarty, who recreates the therapeutic drawings of children from war-torn Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip who have experienced war first hand. An opening reception will be held February 18 from 4-6pm. cf.edu or (352) 873-5809.

Sweetheart’s Craft Show (February 6) › A craft show will take place at Cherrywood Estates in Ocala from 9am-2pm, featuring a number of handmade items. (352) 237-1675.

Concerts at Christ’s Church Of Marion County

(February 6, 20) › The Christ’s Church Of Marion County will host two

free concerts this month. The Talleys will be performing on February 6, and the King’s Herald Quartet will perform on February 20. Both concerts begin at 6:30pm. ccomc.org or (352) 861-6182.

CF International Film Series (February 9, 23) › The College of

Central Florida presents its International Film Series, which will air world films that are culturally, historically and artistically important. This month’s selections are Ida on February 9 and Much Ado About Nothing on February 23. The films will be aired at 2pm at the Appleton and 7pm at College of Central Florida. cf.edu or (352) 873-5800.

College of Central Florida Dinner Theatre

(February 10-14) › The College of Central Florida Foundation’s 18th

Annual Dinner Theatre production Confessions of a Dirty Blonde will be held at the Webber Center. Evening performances, Wednesday through Continued on p.86

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Sunday, begin with dinner at 5:45pm. Matinée performances, Saturday and Sunday, will serve lunch at 12:15pm. Doors open 15 minutes prior to the scheduled meal times. cf.edu/foundation or (352) 873-5810.

Fine Arts Show (February 13) › The Visual Arts Association with the VCDD Recreation Department of The Villages will hold its Winter Fine Arts Show at the Laurel Manor Recreation Center from 9am-3pm. The event features over 65 talented artists as well as live entertainment.

Admission is free. (845) 807-7489.

Concerts

Ocala Symphony Orchestra Concert (February 13-14) ›

The Ocala Symphony Orchestra presents Star-Crossed Lovers at 7:30pm on February 13 and 3pm on February 14. Tickets are $10-$35. ocalaysymphony.com or (352) 351-1606.

Ticketmaster › (800) 745-3000 › ticketmaster.com All dates are subject to change without notice. Please call ahead to confirm venue listings.

FEB

Barry Manilow Brantley Gilbert Bellamy Brothers Andrea Bocelli Diamond Rio Loretta Lynn Never Shout Never Vince Gill & Lyle Lovett O.A.R. Travis Tritt The Beach Boys Rihanna Vance Joy Joe Satriani Tory Kelly Ciara 98ROCKFEST

Amalie Arena, Tampa CFE Arena, Orlando Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale Amalie Arena, Tampa Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center, The Villages House of Blues, Orlando The Peabody, Daytona Beach House of Blues, Orlando Reilly Arts Center, Ocala The Peabody, Daytona Beach Amalie Arena, Tampa House of Blues, Orlando Hard Rock Live, Orlando Hard Rock Live, Orlando House of Blues, Orlando Amalie Arena, Tampa

Feb. 4 Feb. 5 Feb. 6 Feb. 11 Feb. 14

4

Festival will take place at the Lake Sumter Landing Market Square in The Villages from 10am-5pm both days. The festival features over 175 crafters, a juried outdoor craft show and prices to meet all budgets.

Admission is free. artfestival.com or (561) 746-6615.

Magnolia Art XChange Open House (February 23) › The Magnolia Art Xchange will host a free open house at the Ocala Union Station from 5-7pm. maxocala.org or (352) 629-8414.

Feb. 22 Feb. 23 Feb. 23 Feb. 26 Feb. 27 Mar. 1 Mar. 13 Mar. 15 Mar. 18 Apr. 16 Apr. 24 Apr. 29

Craft Festival (February 20-21) › The 7th Annual Lake Sumter Craft

FEB

22

Ocala Symphony Orchestra at the Reilly Arts Center (February 26) › The Ocala Symphony Orchestra will perform movie

themes of various film clips, including Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Jurassic Park, Home Alone and Hook. The show begins at 7:30pm, and tickets are $15-$35. ocalasymphony.com or (352) 351-1606.

Travis Tritt Concert (February 27) › The Get Off The Bus Concert Series presents Travis Tritt in concert at the Reilly Arts Center at 7:30pm.

Ticket prices vary. getoffthebussconcerts.com or (352) 351-1606.

MAR

1

Fun Fundraisers & Charitable Causes Strut with Your Mutt Charity Dog Walk (February 13) ›

The 2nd annual Strut with Your Mutt Charity Dog Walk will take place at The Villages Polo Grounds. Registration begins at 8am, and proceeds benefit the Humane Society/SPCA of Sumter County. strutyourmuttthevillages.com or buffaloridgeanimalhospital.com or (352) 750-4711.

Sports

Don’t miss a single dunk, free throw or 3-pointer.

Here are the home schedules:

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Craft Night

(February 19) › A craft night to benefit Making Strides Against Breast Cancer will take place the third Friday of each month at 6pm. The event will take place at the Marion County Sheriff ’s administration building. (352) 732-5982.

NCAA Basketball

NBA

University of Florida @ Arkansas Feb. 3 @ Ole Miss Feb. 9 @ Alabama Feb. 13 @ Vanderbilt Feb. 23

Orlando Magic @ Los Angeles Feb. 5 @ Atlanta Feb. 7 @ San Antonio Feb. 10 @ Dallas Feb. 19 @ Indiana Feb. 21 @ Golden State Feb. 25 @ Philadelphia Feb. 28

7:00p 1:00p 7:00p 7:00p 6:00p 7:00p 6:00p

Miami Heat @ Los Angeles @ San Antonio @ Washington @ Indiana @ Golden State

2:00p 8:00p 7:30p 7:30p 7:30p

7:00p 9:00p 5:30p 7:00p

Florida State University @ NC State Feb. 1 9:00p @ Miami Feb. 14 6:30p @ Georgia Tech Feb. 14 9:00p @ Notre Dame Feb. 27 TBA University of Central Florida Feb. 6 12:00p @ Temple @ Cincinnati Feb. 9 7:00p @ Tulsa Feb. 21 2:00p @ Houston Feb. 24 7:00p 086

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Feb. 7 Feb. 9 Feb. 20 Feb. 22 Feb. 24

Sisterhood of Survivors Support Group (February 23) ›

The SOS Support Group meets the last Tuesday of the month at 1pm in the chapel, room 235, at Ocala West United Methodist Church. The group offers support and guidance for those facing cancer as well as speakers and lecturers. (352) 291-6904.

Pancakes in the Park (February 27) › The Friends of Silver Springs State Park will be serving a pancake and sausage breakfast on the river side of the park at 9am. Prior to the breakfast a guided nature walk will take place. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children under 12. Proceeds benefit Silver Springs State Park. thefriendsofsilversprings.org or (352) 236-5401.

Johnny Mello Show (February 27) › The Johnny Mello Show features country, rock n’ roll and doo-wop performances live on stage, prizes, raffles, line dancing, a pizza party and more. The event is held at the Lady Lake American Legion Post No. 347 and benefits Have A Continued on p.88

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Heart For Companion Animals. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door, and doors open at 6pm. (352) 687-1776.

Performing Arts Cirque du Soleil: La Nouba

Disney Springs, Orlando

Dancing Lessons

Orlando Shakespeare Theater

Cactus Jack’s 24th Annual Chili Cook Off (March 12) › Join the fun at this annual event to benefit the Ft. McCoy School. Chili must be cooked with no beans and be red chili only. A $30 entry fee is mandatory for all teams. Customers can purchase a cup of chili for a ticket. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place as well as the People’s Choice Award and Best Decorated Booth. (352) 685-2244.

Funny Money

Sonnetag Theatre at the IceHouse, Mount Dora

Next to Normal

Gainesville Community Playhouse

Penn & Teller Dance Alive National Ballet: A Midsummer Night’s Dream I Gotta Right to Sing the Blues

Hard Rock Live, Orlando

Feb. 2 Apr. 30 Through Feb. 7 Through Feb. 14 Through Feb. 21 Feb. 5

Curtis M. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Gainesville

Feb. 6

Reilly Arts Center, Ocala

Feb. 7

Blood Brothers

Ocala Civic Theatre

Feb. 11 Mar. 6

Katt Williams: Conspiracy Theory

CFE Arena, Orlando

Feb. 19

The Hippodrome Theatre, Gainesville Amalie Arena, Tampa

Feb. 19 Mar. 13 Feb. 24

Amalie Arena, Tampa

Feb. 27

Charles R. Dassance Fine Arts Center, Ocala The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center, The Villages

Feb. 28

Amalie Arena, Tampa

Mar. 17-20

Gypsy

Sonnetag Theatre at the IceHouse, Mount Dora

Mar. 18 Apr. 10

The Royal Opera – La Traviata

Reilly Arts Center, Ocala

Mar. 20

Women in Jeopardy!

Jeff Dunham Disney Live! Mickey and Minnie’s Doorway to Magic Flamenco Vivo: Poema de Andalucia Disney FANTASIA Live in Concert Cirque du Soleil’s TORUK: The First Flight

The Fox on the Fairway Ocala Civic Theatre Quartet

Ocala Civic Theatre

Kathy Griffin Broadway: The Big Band Years David Cross

The Peabody, Daytona Beach The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center, The Villages Hard Rock Live, Orlando

Mar. 7

Apr. 14

Flipping For Flamenco (February 29) › Ocala residents can get a sampling of some of the traditional dances of Spain this month at the Dassance Fine Arts Center at the CF Ocala Campus.

The Flamenco Vivo dance troupe will be performing live for students and the public alike. The show, Poema de Andalucia, is a journey through the alluring cultures and traditions of the Andalusian provinces in Spain. Following the performance, the artists will host a master class for CF students that the public is welcome to audit. Tickets are $15 and may be purchased at tickets.cf.edu or through the CF Box Office. (352) 873-5810. .com

Outdoor & Athletic Endeavors HITS (Through March 27) › The HITS Horse Show Series features

hunter/jumper action through March 27 at Post Time Farm in Ocala.

Competition runs Wednesdays through Sundays from 8am-5pm with special events and evening competitions presented throughout the series. hitsshows.com or (352) 620-2275.

Group Bike Rides (Ongoing) › Brick City Bicycles offers several group bike rides throughout the week and weekend. brickcitybicycles.com or (352) 369-9400.

Ocala Tractor Pull (February 5-6) › The annual Ocala Tractor Pull will be held at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion and features a number of different tractor varieties. The action kicks off at 7pm. ocalatractorpull.com or (352) 789-3736.

Ocala Outdoor Expo (March 5-6) › North Central Florida’s only outdoor sportsman’s show will take place at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. The expo features demonstrations, speakers, vendors and much more. Tickets are $6 for adults and free for children under 15. All proceeds benefit Brother’s Keeper. ocalaexpo.com.

Nature Walk (February 17) › The Marion Audubon Society will host FEB

27

a guided walk around Tuscawilla Pond to see seasonal migratory and resident birds. The walk will depart from the Discovery Center at 9am and is free and open to the public. mydiscoverycenter.org or (352) 401-3900.

Other Fun Stuff!

Quilt Show (February 5-6) › The Belleview Busy Bee Quilters will

host a quilt show at Silvers Springs Presbyterian Church in Ocala from 9am-4pm. The event will feature door prizes, raffles and vendors.

(352) 873-3639.

Yard Sale (February 13) › A yard sale will be held at Countryside

Apr. 5

29

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Mar. 24 Apr. 17 Mar. 31 Apr. 11 Mar. 30

FEB

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FEB

MAR

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Presbyterian Church from 8am-2pm. The sale will feature clothes, jewelry, toys, games, a bake sale and more. (352) 237-4633.

Safe Driving Experience (February 19) › Ocala Health will host

a free injury prevention event for drivers of cars, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles and golf carts on the campus of College of Central Florida from 10am-2pm. The event is open to drivers of all ages. ocalahealthsystem.com or (800) 530-1188.

Gourd Artist Gathering (February 20) › Area gourd

artists will be meeting at the Cherokee Park Recreation Center. marioncountygourdartists.com or (352) 245-7203.

Rotary Discovery Fest Cracker Cattle Drive and Cowboy Roundup (February 20) › This annual event features an

authentic cowboy cattle drive through the streets of downtown Ocala along with music, food, a Kid Corral, animals, demonstrations and more. The event runs 10am-4pm at Tuscawilla Park. ocalafl.org or (352) 401-3900.

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Hats, Horses & Hope As the sun began to set on an especially pleasant evening this past fall, glamour was on display at the 13th annual American Cancer Society’s Cattle Baron’s Ball held at the spacious Villages Polo Fields. In this one night alone $60,000 was raised, with more than $1.7 million raised throughout the history of the event. › Written And Photographed By Ronald W. Wetherington @ Villages Polo Fields

W

ith the Kentucky Derby inspired theme of “Hats, Horses and Hope,” VIPs arrived early to try their luck at the Casino in games of blackjack, war and roulette. Chips were available for purchase with proceeds benefiting “fighting the fight.” Ocala Symphony harpist Tasha Robinson set the scene with her one-of-a-kind music. Attendees were later entertained by DJ Fred and danced the night away to the music of the Dan Story Band.

Dinner was a fulsome affair, featuring delicious prime rib, goat cheese stuffed chicken and Mojo roasted pork loin. Dinner conversations were lively as guests discussed their auction bids. Tickets also were available for chance drawings of such items as an exquisite, locally handcrafted queen size quilt.

The 2015 Cattle Baron’s Ball committee was headed by Penny Cumbo, who was the event chair. Key members

090

› Ocala

.com

of her committee included Linda Blum, Kay Bogolin, Casey Caldwell, Krystal Dale, Jean George, Latahna Green, Carolyn Husk, Kathie Keul, Ray Nichols, Susie Nichols, Deborah Reagan, Tabitha Richards, Barbara Sattoe and Cheyanne Schaible.

After dinner, event chair Penny Cumbo shared with the crowd some words of inspiration: “I fight to honor my loved ones that lost their battle and to also honor my loved one that through advances in medicine and sheer will was able to overcome. Finally, so that when this story is told again by someone else that they can say, 'Yes, cancer touched my family, but, you know, everyone beat it.'” Cancer will touch one in three of us in our lifetimes.

Guest speaker and cancer survivor Bob Woodard had many members of the audience in tears as he described his experience while staying in Gainesville at one of the American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodges. Following his presentation, guests had the opportunity to make a donation to the Gainesville Hope Lodge to help fund other patients’ stays in the future.

The evening’s Kentucky Derby theme was enjoyed by all. Ladies donned fascinators and spectacular hats in keeping with this theme. Attention was paid to every detail of the Cattle Baron’s Ball, including Kentucky Derby table décor that could be purchased to take home or delivered to a local hospital or hospice home. Event sponsors included Bailey Industries, Campus USA Credit Union, Central Florida Health Alliance, Munroe Regional Medical Center and many more.

Plans are already underway for the 2016 Cattle Baron’s Ball of Lake, Sumter and Marion Counties. Later this year, on April 30, a Relay for Life sponsored by the American Cancer Society will be held in Ocala’s Tuscawilla Park.

Becky Beach, Gwynne Lewis, Jennifer Darbelnet and Alisha Warren

Tami Dion, Latahna Green and Lisa Honig

Rhonda and Ray McNeal, Helen Greene

Ronald W. Wetherington SOCIAL SCENE EDITOR

Mary Lou Temple, Beatrice Hester and Audrey Tierney

Susan Harryman, Stan and Linda Carpenter

Trisha and Neil Saffer, Sue and Bob Woodard

Becky and Matt Beach

Billy and Samantha Woods

Justin and Finny Grabelle

Beth Richman, Teresa O’Neill and Beth Jernigan

MaryBeth Morris and Jodi Stump

Steve Churchill, Kay Bogolin, Jacquie and Gordon Ralph

Marcy Boyle, Pat Kiser, Ireyna Bailey and Krystal Dale

Ricardo Stumaird, Laura Connell and Lou Dibenedetto

Angie Taylor, Kirk Malone, Alison and Matt Wade Bill and Susan Horyman FEB ’16 ›

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A Night in Vegas FurBall 2015

Photos by Crys Williams @ Country Club of Ocala

Voices of Change Animal League, a nonprofit that targets the area’s expanding pet population, recently hosted its first fundraising event, the FurBall, raising more than $20,000. The theme for the night was “A Night in Vegas,” and proceeds will go to build a low-cost spay and neuter clinic in Marion County.

Sarah and Pat Myers

Erika Lara, Vivek Varki and Maggie Bell

Gary Norman and Kate Rengel

David and Loida Moore

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Eileen and Bill Reynolds

Cindy and Phil Albaum

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Peter and Sharon Mai

Linda Norman, Molly and Jeff Wege

Annie Taber and Jennifer Madden

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TLC’s 4th Annual Champagne Dreams

Photos by Crys Williams @ Circle Square Cultural Center

Transitions Life Center hosted its 4th annual premier event, Champagne Dreams, on November 7 at the Circle Square Cultural Center in Ocala. Festivities included a silent and live auction, dinner by Decadence a La Carte, dancing and dessert. All proceeds benefited the programs and future construction of the TLC Campus.

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