Ocala's 352 Preview Magazine 07/24

352 PREVIEW OCALA’S GUIDE TO E NTE RTA INMENT, NIGHTLIFE & FAMILY FUN

07.24 VOLUME 5

NO.10

HOT SP TS These Central Florida destinations are perfect for chilling out!

Horseshoe Bend - 5+ Acre Homesites

Saddlebag Lake- Bring the Family

Located just minutes from The Villages & south of Ocala sits 7 parcels, each 5+ acres. Currently, a spec home is being built on one tract. Deed-restricted, equine-friendly community offers the $939,000 peaceful country setting you have been looking for.

Water frontage on dual Saddlebag Lakes. Located close to The Villages on 18.92 +/- acres is this extraordinary 2020-built, barnstyle home, with 3,500 +/- SF under the roof. Large metal building for storing larger equipment. $1,950,000

Turning Pointe Estates

Hawthorne 116+/- Acre Ranch

Partially open floor plan with 3BR, 2BA. Spacious family room, dining area, plus large storage area. Backyard offers screened-in porch with pergola, perfect for enjoying morning coffee. This great location is close to I-75, between Ocala and The Villages. $269,000

4BR, 4BA brick home that spans 3,227 +/- SF. Home features a newer metal roof, wood floors, and A/C. Property adjoins Lochloosa Trail, which runs from Depot Trail to the Hawthorne Trailhead. 3 entrances to the property off State Road 20. $2,200,000

11+/- Acres Close To OBS 11+ acre estate with a custom cedar house and stunning views of the Ocala Breeder Sales racetrack. The home features a fully screened, wraparound porch, a covered outdoor living room, and an updated granite kitchen, open floor plan, plus original cedar beams. The main floor boasts a primary suite with a spa-like bathroom. Other highlights include 5 bedrooms, a new roof, HVAC system, and a spacious workshop. The property is conveniently located just 12 minutes from the World Equestrian Center and close to Ocala Breeder Sales. $1,150,000

Let Me Show You Ocala!

Ultimate Equestrian Lifestyle

9.7+/- acre property in the desirable NW Marion County with a 3BR, 2BA split open floor plan, wood floors, stone fireplace, owner’s suite with bonus room, screen-enclosed pool plus a Generac generator. The equestrian will enjoy the 6-stall show stable, with tongue-and-groove ceilings, extensive wood details, a wash stall, rubber paver center aisle, an entertainer’s office, and a kitchen. The outside features 4-board fencing, 8 grass paddocks, and the potential for a covered arena jump field. Includes detached 4-car garage/workshop. This property is ideal for equestrian living. $2,361,750

If you’re considering buying or selling, give us a call today!

List your property with Joan Pletcher... Our results speak for themselves.

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

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

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352 PREVIEW OCALA’S GUIDE TO ENTERTAINMENT, NIGHTLIFE & FAMILY FUN

JULY 2024 | VOL. 5, ISSUE NO. 10 WORD GIRLS KARIN FABRY-CUSHENBERY

KARIN@352PREVIEW.COM

352 PREVIEW 07.24 VOLUME 5

O CA LA’S GUIDE TO EN TERTAIN MEN T, N IGHTL IFE & FAMILY F U N

NO.10

HOT SP TS These Central Florida destinations are perfect for chilling out!

No one should face cancer alone.

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* CONTENTS 07.24

OCALA’S GUIDE TO ENTERTAINMENT

NIGHTLIFE & FAMILY FUN

*28HOT SPOTS TO CHILL OUT THE WEATHER IS HOT, BUT WE’VE GOT IDEAS TO KEEP YOU COOL.

08 | TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN THE 352 & MORE

Shark Swim photo courtesy of Discovery Cove; Azul photo courtesy of Meeple Movers

A handy guide to get you going and keep you busy this month.

WATCH 12 | CONCERT SPOTLIGHT

Last-minute tickets and local shows you won’t want to miss.

14 | SONG IN HER SOUL

Country music singer Emma Forgette has her sights set on Nashville.

16 | FINS UP!

Dive into SharkCon 10.

18 | SCHOOLS’S OUT, FUN’S IN

Kids and families around Marion County recently celebrated the start of summer break at the School’s Out Kids Fun Fest.

CRAVE 34 | NEW LOCATION, SAME TASTY FARE

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EXPLORE 20 | SUMMER SCHOOL

The learning never stops with these fun, adults-only classes.

24 | OLD FLORIDA FUN

What started as a family orange business decades ago has grown into one of Central Florida’s most beloved “true Florida” tourist attractions.

26 | GAME NIGHT DONE RIGHT

The mission behind the Meeple Movers Board Game Café is to unplug, play and connect.

Todd and Shelly’s Farm Fresh Restaurant moves to Ocala.

36 | BITE-SIZED BITS

Restaurant news and foodie fun to keep your palate up to date.

WE WANT TO MAKE GAMING ACCESSIBLE TO AS MANY PEOPLE AS WE CAN IN AS MANY WAYS AS WE CAN. WE HAVE ALL STYLES OF GAMES, FROM HOBBY AND CLASSIC TO ROLE PLAYING AND COOPERATIVE. OUR GAMES GO WELL BEYOND THE TRADITIONAL.

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TOP TEN 07.24

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OCALA BABY

ONE FOOD TRUCK

FRIDAYS FRIDAYS IN JULY Bring your appetite to On Top Of The World’s Circle Square Commons for Food Truck Fridays, happening every Friday in July starting at 6pm. Live entertainment and dancing will also happen from 7-10pm. Different food trucks will be open each night. The Kiosk will sell beer, wine, soda and bottled water, and you can finish off the night with a sweet treat from Mr. B’s Big Scoop. Admission is free, and the event is open to the public.

Coolers and well-behaved leashed pets are permitted outside at the town square. For more information, visit circlesquarecommons.com.

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352PREVIEW.COM

2 PRE-K EXPO

JULY 6 Stop by the Paddock Mall from 10am-2pm to learn, shop and play. The expo features family-friendly products, services and resources and will be specifically focusing on pregnancy to preschool.

The event is loaded with important information for expectant parents, families and caregivers.

Expecting mamas can get their belly bumps painted, and the whole family can snap pics in the photo booth. Attend information sessions covering family-related topics and fun mommy-and-me classes. Little ones can enjoy the soft play zone, and kids of all ages can enjoy temporary tattoos, balloon twisting, crafts and more. All activities are free. Learn more at touchofmagicevents.com.

BATURDAYS OF SUMMER JULY 6 & AUGUST 3

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Take a well-deserved break and get wild with Lubee Bat Conservancy while visiting with the world’s largest bats in a small event setting. Speak with bat experts all while discovering a newfound love for the cutest misunderstood mammal. Attend with family and friends, pack a picnic, sit in on educational presentations and explore the Lubee grounds. The event takes place from 11am-2pm both days. Tickets are limited. No tickets will be sold at the gate. Purchase tickets at lubee.org/baturdays.

A HANDY GUIDE TO GET YOU GOING AND KEEP YOU BUSY THIS MONTH

Baturday photo courtesy of Lubee Bat Conservancy; Fort King photo by Karin Fabry-Cushenbery

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JULY 8-12

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Ageless Adventures is a weeklong family program through Master the Possibilities that blends generations and enables grandparents (or parents) to participate in a class with youthful partners while exploring a variety of fun and exciting topics. Classes include golf, arts and crafts, robotics, RC airplanes, science labs, photo scavenger hunts, rockets, inventions, drones, swimming, salsa dancing and water balloon games. There are multiple class opportunities each day from 9am-5pm, and classes take place at a variety of nearby locations. Class costs vary by activity. Register at masterthepossibilities.org.

FAMILY DISCOVERY CAMP JULY 13, 20, 27 & AUGUST 3

The Fort King National Historic Landmark will host the Summer Nights Lecture Series during select dates in July. Each week different topics will be presented by professionals in the natural and historical resource fields. Events take place from 6-8pm for kids and adults 13 and over and are free. For more information, visit ocalafl.gov/recpark.

AGELESS

ADVENTURES

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SUMMER NIGHTS LECTURE SERIES JULY 11, 18, 25

OCHELLA JULY 13

Come explore with scientist Sarah Steele Cabrera from Florida Museum to learn the many wonders of the insect world and how scientists collect and study insects. Camps are designed for children in grades kindergarten through sixth and their families, and the price is $15 per participant. Pre-registration is required by July 11 at floridamuseum. ufl.edu/kids/summer-camps/.

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Come to the Ocala Downtown Market from 6-9pm for the First Annual Ochella Event, a celebration of music, art, food and community. This event will raise funds for the talented Lake Weir High School Band. The Downtown Market Main Stage will feature gifted student performers alongside local musicians, and attendees can shop local vendors while taking in a diverse mix of music genres, from jazz to pop and funk. Find the event on Facebook for details.

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MCA’S ART IN THE ATTIC JULY 13-20 Marion Cultural Alliance will host its Art in the Attic sale at Brick City Center for the Arts. This fundraising event features previously enjoyed art at yard sale prices. The Pre-Sale Party will take place on July 12 from 5-7pm.

Tickets are $25 for MCA members and $35 for non-members. Learn more at mcaocala.org/art-in-the-attic.

THE SEUSSIFICATION OF ROMEO AND JULIET JULY 14-16 Happening this month at the Ocala Civic Theatre, this whimsical reinvention of Shakespeare’s romantic tale, as told by Thing One and Thing Two, in rhyming couplets, is a lot more magical than tragical. Oh, the laughs you will laugh when Seuss is on the loose in Verona! The show takes place at 2pm on Sunday and 7:30pm on Monday and Tuesday. Purchase tickets at ocalacivictheatre.com.

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PUBLIC ARCHAEOLOGY DAY JULY 20

Join Gulf Archaeology Research Institute archaeologists as they excavate the Fort King National Historic Landmark looking for artifacts. Attendees will be able to see how excavations are done and data is recorded and how the information is used to learn about the past. This is a free activity at the Fort King National Historic Landmark, and all ages are welcome.

Learn more at ocalafl.gov/recpark.

JUL ‘24

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& MORE 07.24 REC IT FRIDAYS THROUGH AUGUST 16

Every third Friday through August 16 from 5-7pm Ocala Recreation and Parks staff will arrange fun games and activities for families to enjoy. This free program takes place at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, and all ages are welcome. ocalafl.gov/recpark

Tuscawilla Park, July 19 at Fort King National Historic Landmark and July 26 at Citizens’ Circle. ocalafl.gov/recpark

EATON’S BEACH JULY 4TH CELEBRATION JULY 4 Head to Eaton’s Beach on Lake Weir for a full day of fun, featuring food and drink specials during the day. After 6pm, $5 wristbands will be required to be downstairs. Kids 5 & under are free. Event includes a dazzling fireworks show at dusk.

Purchase of wristband benefits Sons of the American Legion. eatonsbeach.com

IGGY’S 4 ON THE FOURTH FREEDOM RUN JULY 4

FUN IN THE SUN OUTDOOR ADVENTURES TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS IN JULY On Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout July, the Ocala Recreation and Parks Department will bring all the summertime fun to our local parks. The events are free and take place from 1-3pm. The schedule is July 2 at Turnipseed Park, July 9 and 11 at Citizens’ Circle, July 16 and 18 at Clyatt Park, July 23 and 25 at Fisher Park, and July 30 and August 1 at Idylweir Park. ocalafl.gov/recpark

READING WITH THE RANGERS FRIDAYS IN JULY Parks are a great place to read— just ask an Ocala Park Ranger!

Pack a snack, blanket or chair, and get ready to enjoy a good book.

The program is free and open to all ages and takes place at 10am.

The schedule is July 5 at Heritage Nature Conservancy, July 12 at 10

352PREVIEW.COM

Kick-off your Fourth of July with a thrilling 4-mile run through the heart of Ocala. Honor our country and its heroes, and celebrate the legacy of Greg Iggy Miller as you race under shady trees and finish strong at Veterans Memorial Park.

Speedy results, festive awards and patriotic pride await you at the finish line. Events start at 7:30am. runsignup.com/Race/FL/Ocala/ Iggys4ontheFourthFreedomRun

PATRIOTIC CELEBRATION JULY 4 Celebrate Independence Day outdoors at The Town Square at Circle Square Commons from 4:30-9:30pm. The event includes live music, dancing, food trucks, beverage kiosk, photo kiosk and fireworks and is open to the public. Parking is $10 (cash only) for the general public. circlesquarecommons.com

PATRIOTIC SKIES: A FOURTH OF JULY DRONE EXPERIENCE JULY 4 Join the City of Ocala for a stunning drone show that will light up the night sky in a

dazzling display of patriotism and creativity. Marvel at the synchronized movements of 300 drones as they paint the sky with colors and shapes, creating a truly mesmerizing experience for all ages. The event will take place from 5-10pm at Tuscawilla Park. In addition to the drone show, guests will enjoy live entertainment, food trucks and a kids’ zone. Admission to this event is free, and the drone show begins at 9:30pm. ocalafl.gov/julyfourth

SPRING SUNSET POLO JULY 6 Join the Ocala Polo Club for the Spring Sunset Polo Season.

Close out the season celebrating Independence Day with the Independence Cup. Gates open at 5pm, and the matches begin at 6pm. Matches are family friendly, and well-behaved dogs are welcome on leash. Don’t worry if you don’t know anything about horses or polo; come ready for a fun time tailgating with friends and they’ll teach you the rest. ocalapolo.com

4TH ANNUAL VFW CAR SHOW JULY 6 This year’s Silver Springs Shores VFW car show will be bigger than ever. A variety of cars and categories will be on display, with more than 20 trophies up for grabs.

The event will also include vendors, food trucks, a dunk booth, 50/50 raffle, door prizes, a silent auction and amazing music. The event takes place from 10am-2pm at 11100 SE Maricamp Road, Ocala. facebook.com/vfw4493

BRING YOUR OWN BABY CELLO CONCERT JULY 13 This short concert is an opportunity for parents of infants (up to 12 months old) to enjoy live classical music with their babies in

tow. Cellist Emily Austin Smith will perform a few works from the solo cello repertoire followed by a fun and familiar tune for all to share.

Crawling, rolling, bouncing, crying, feeding, laughing and spitting up are encouraged but not required.

Cost is $7. reillyartscenter.com/ community-conservatory

GIRLS’ SUMMER NIGHT OUT JULY 20 Get ready to celebrate yourself and your girls during a groovy Girls’ Summer Night Out event at the Ocala Downtown Market from 6-10pm. Discover a large variety of nearly 100 local Central Florida female-owned vendors, offering everything from boutique shopping and sweets to art and fantastic services. The event will also include a DJ, photo booths and food trucks.

This event is free for everyone to attend and open to the public. Find the event on Facebook for details.

AFTER DARK IN THE PARK MOVIE JULY 26 The Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place will host this free movie night where Space Jam: A New Legacy will be shown. When NBA champion and cultural icon Lebron James and his son, Dom, are trapped in a digital space by a rouge A.I., Lebron must get them home safe by leading Bugs Bunny and the whole Looney Tunes gang to victory on the court. The event takes place from 7-9pm and is free. Movie is rated PG. ocalafl.gov/recpark

OCALA COMEDY EXTRAVAGANZA JULY 27 This comedy event will take place at Roma’s Italian Restaurant at 8pm. Headliners include L.J. Brock, Slimm and Ryan Cleveland, with special guest Derek Mayer. Tickets are $10 at the door, and you can pre-order them at Roma’s. The event is for ages 18 and up. Find the event on Facebook for details.

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JUL ‘24

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WATCH

TICKETS

PLEASE

LIVE & LOCAL TAYLOR SHINES – THE LASER SPECTACULAR

JUL 19 | REILLY ARTS CENTER

IN THE SPOTLIGHT JUL CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE: PINK FLOYD

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REILLY ARTS CENTER

Classic Albums LIVE performs some of your favorite classic rock albums note for note, cut for cut! On July 14, the Reilly Arts Center will host Classic Albums LIVE as they perform Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here. Tickets range from $25-$55 and can be purchased at reillyartscenter.com.

HEARHER E THE RUNDOWN

JULY 6 CIRCLE SQUARE COMMONS

THE MUDDS

JULY 6 LA CUISINE FRENCH RESTAURANT

BECKY BABY

SANDRA & ALEX LEKID JULY 13 INFINITE ALE WORKS

THE BIG BAD

JULY 18 INFINITE ALE WORKS

RADLIN’ ROOTZ

JULY 6 OCALA DOWNTOWN MARKET

JULY 19 SPANISH SPRINGS SQUARE, THE VILLAGES

HOUSTON KEEN

BLACK SHEEP

JULY 11 CHARLIE HORSE

NOAH HUNTON JULY 12 & 19 EATON’S BEACH

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352PREVIEW.COM

JULY 20 THE FIRST & LAST TAB FOOD & SPIRITS

SEPTEMBER DOGS

JULY 27 THE FIRST & LAST TAB FOOD & SPIRITS

SEPTEMBER 12 MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION AMPHITHEATRE AT THE FL STATE FAIRGROUNDS, TAMPA

LUKE BRYAN

SEPTEMBER 14 MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION AMPHITHEATRE AT THE FL STATE FAIRGROUNDS, TAMPA

WEEZER

SEPTEMBER 20 KIA CENTER, ORLANDO

NICKI MINAJ

OCTOBER 5 AMALIE ARENA, TAMPA

CYNDI LAUPER

NOVEMBER 6 AMALIE ARENA, TAMPA

PARMALEE

NOVEMBER 7 SEMINOLE HARD ROCK TAMPA EVENT CENTER, TAMPA

JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE NOVEMBER 9 KIA CENTER, ORLANDO

P!NK

NOVEMBER 18 CAMPING WORLD STADIUM, ORLANDO

AEROSMITH WITH THE BLACK CROWES FEBRUARY 11 KIA CENTER, ORLANDO FEBRUARY 14 AMALIE ARENA, TAMPA

It’s two hours of non-stop Taylor Swift hits seamlessly blended with the world-famous touring Laser Spectacular & Light Show. The show also features large-screen video projection, 3-D glasses and all the mind-bending effects the Laser Spectacular is famous for.

LAKESIDE CONCERT

JUL 27 | EATON'S BEACH Join Kendall Tucker and The LACS with special guest J. Michael Phillips for the biggest lake party Marion County has ever seen.

Kendall Tucker and The LACS bring a unique style of music that blends country, rock and rap together for an awesome sound everyone can enjoy. Show takes place 5-10pm.

Purchase tickets in advance on eventbrite.com, or learn more on the Eaton's Beach Facebook page.

DOUG STONE

AUG 3 | ORANGE BLOSSOM OPRY Doug Stone, a contemporary country star, found his mark in music as a lonesome baritone balladeer. An American country music legend, celebrating 34 years of hit music, Stone is excited to showcase his talent at the Orange Blossom Opry.

KAREN DURRANT: A TRIBUTE TO TINA TURNER AUG 17 | CIRCLE SQUARE CULTURAL CENTER

Karen Durrant is widely regarded as the No. 1 Tina Turner look-alike and impersonator in the world.

She captures all the excitement, looks and performances of the famous Tina Turner with seemingly endless energy.

Photo courtesyof Reilly Arts Center

KORN

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JUL ‘24

13

WATCH

SONG IN HER SOUL LOCAL COUNTRY MUSIC SINGER EMMA FORGETTE HAS HER SIGHTS SET ON NASHVILLE. WRITTEN BY CYNTHIA MCFARLAND

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352PREVIEW.COM

Photo courtesy of Emma Forgette

M

usic has always been the central theme of Emma Forgette’s life. With the release of her first three singles this spring, the independent country artist is well on her way.

Born in New Jersey, Emma moved to Ocala in grade school and is a 2023 graduate of Trinity Catholic High School.

She played first chair flute in high school and, in her junior year, began to focus on singing.

Having been trained in classic opera, Emma auditioned for college in opera but found her heart lies elsewhere.

“I love traditional older country,” says Emma, who counts among her influences Tammy Wynette, LeAnn Rimes, Carrie Underwood, Lainey Wilson and Toby Keith. “I really like the way country tells a story; there’s always going to be a song you connect with.”

Emma credits well-known local artist Conrad Marcum with her first live performance at Eaton’s Beach in 2022.

“He pulled me up on stage and asked me to sing because he’d heard a song my mom posted online,” recalls Emma.

Jim O’Baid serves as Emma’s artist development consultant.

“Jim worked for Music Row magazine for decades in Nashville,” says Emma’s mom, Tara.

“He’s helping source songs for Emma and making great connections.”

“Counting to 3,” Emma’s first single, was released on February 16, 2024. That was quickly followed by “Here to Get My Stuff” on March 15, and “Somebody’s Somebody” on May 17. Her

latest single, “It’s A Good Day,” which she wrote herself, was released in late June.

Emma co-wrote “Counting to 3” with her producer, Alex Houton.

“Here to Get My Stuff ” was written by Bobby Randall, former member of Sawyer Brown and Confederate Railroad.

“Somebody’s Somebody” was written by Jan Buckingham, Kelly and Troy Walls. Emma says this song really hits her heart and that, “It’s a message people need to hear now.”

Emma performs live at various venues in Central Florida. She already has the songs for her debut album, which she plans to release later this year.

When she’s not singing and playing guitar, she’s often hanging out with family—parents, Don and Tara, brother and sister twins Logan and Karlee, and grandmother Ann McHenry. She and her mom are Hallmark movie buffs, and Emma also loves spending time with her dogs and horse.

Emma has her sights set on Nashville.

“Even if I’m not living in Nashville, I want to play at the Grand Ole Opry and share my music with people,” she says.

Catch Emma live: Follow Emma’s social media and website to see where she’s performing in Central Florida. emmaforgette.com

Reddy 4 Results?

Dr. Reddy explains the benefits of Red Light Therapy and clarifies the confusion surrounding Full Body Red Light Therapy beds.

Cell-U-Light Therapy Center is a premier total health and wellness center offering a variety of services including chiropractic care for the entire family and is Ocala's only provider of TheraLight Full Body Red Light Therapy.

What is full body red light therapy?

Full body red light therapy (FBRLT) involves exposing the entire body to low-wavelength red and near-infrared light. This non-invasive treatment is known to penetrate the skin, promoting various health benefits by stimulating cellular function and repair.

How does RLT work?

RLT works by delivering specific wavelengths of light to the body. These wavelengths penetrate the skin and are absorbed by the mitochondria, the energy-producing parts of cells.

This boost in cellular energy promotes healing and regeneration.

What are the primary benefits of FBRLT? RLT alleviates chronic pain and reduces inflammation and is effective for conditions like arthritis, muscle strains and joint pain. It also boosts collagen production, which helps reduce wrinkles and fine lines, leaving your skin more toned, tightened and smoother.

Exposure to red light can help regulate sleep patterns, improve overall sleep quality and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. RLT accelerates

wound healing and reduces swelling.

It can enhance cognitive function and memory by improving brain cell function and reducing neuroinflammation.

Is RLT safe?

Yes, RLT is generally considered safe when used appropriately. It is noninvasive and does not involve UV light.

How often should one use FBRLT? The frequency of RLT sessions can vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated. Typically, sessions last between 10-15 minutes, and it is recommended to start with 3-4 sessions per week.

How long does it take to see results from RLT? For most, noticeable results can be seen within a few sessions, while others might take a couple of weeks.

Consistency is key!

Does the type of FBRLT bed matter?

Absolutely. The key to the healing power of red light is in its ability to deliver a specified amount of energy into the treated tissue. Few devices on the market have the ability to deliver such energy to facilitate the healing and results most people are looking for. TheraLight is a Class I, Class II medical device with high-density LEDS that has the power and specific wavelength combination to achieve the maximum surface coverage and

deepest penetration for therapeutic doses of light.

Will my treatment be supervised by a doctor?

At Cell-U-Light Therapy Center, you will meet with the doctor for a consultation to review your specific concerns and/ or conditions. With TheraLight, there are thousands of programmable combinations delivering a rapid and dose-dependent therapy session that produces outcomes specific to you. Let Dr. Reddy find your unique combination to unlock your full potential for a healthier, happier, more youthful life.

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WATCH

FINS UP! DIVE INTO SHARKCON 10.

WRITTEN BY CYNTHIA MCFARLAND

I

f you never miss watching Shark Week or SharkFest each summer, then SharkCon is right up your alley.

Back for its 10th year at the Florida State Fairgrounds on July 13-14, SharkCon is a celebration of all things shark-y.

It’s a given that attendees will have fun, but there’s also plenty of educational opportunities featuring scientists and shark experts.

“This year we really tried to focus on people who are Great White experts.

We have 12 different speakers, all shark scientists, with six talks each day,” says Spencer Steward, has everything needed to SharkCon executive try scuba diving in a safe, SPENCER STEWARD, director. shallow environment.

SHARKCON EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR “Each of them will “Nat Geo’s SharkFest talk about the work is letting us premiere Shark Beach with Anthony they’re doing, and a couple of our experts will Mackie,” says Spencer, noting that the Marvel have breakout sessions,” he adds. “They’ll break Avengers actor will join the event virtually for down into smaller groups so the ‘shark geeks’ the airing of the one-hour documentary special. can dig in and really learn.”

Mackie isn’t the only movie star SharkCon is hands on with plenty of participating. activities included with admission.

“We have the largest panel of Jaws actors, There are touch tanks with bamboo sharks, one from each of the Jaws films, and they will be sea urchins, starfish and horseshoe crabs doing Q&As with the audience,” says Spencer. provided by Clearwater Aquarium and Mote Richard Dreyfuss, of the original Jaws Marine Laboratory. movie (1975), is making his third SharkCon Kids will love the 27-foot shark slide and the appearance. Dreyfuss is joined by Jeffrey shark tooth sand dig.

Kramer of Jaws and Jaws 2 (1978); Christine Check out the paddleboard and kayak clinics.

Freeman, the water skier in Jaws 2; Lance Guest Visit the scuba pool where Trilogy Dive Center from Jaws: The Revenge (1987); and Dorothy

WE HAVE THE LARGEST PANEL OF JAWS ACTORS, ONE FROM EACH OF THE JAWS FILMS, AND THEY WILL BE DOING Q&AS WITH THE AUDIENCE.

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Fielding of Jaws: Deleted Scenes (2000).

In addition to increasing awareness, SharkCon raises money for ocean and shark conservation efforts.

“Sharks are mysterious and beautiful, but there’s also the element of danger. Once you start studying them you realize the role they play in keeping the oceans healthy,” says Spencer.

SHARKCON Florida State Fairgrounds Expo Hall, Tampa Saturday, July 13, 9am-9pm and Sunday, July 14, 9am-5pm Advance tickets: Adults (age 13 and up): $24.95 (one day), $29.85 (both days) Kids (age 3-12): $5.95 (one day), $8.95 (both days) sharkcon.com

Your Health & Wellness is our Mission.

OUR PRO GRAMS THROUGH OUR COMMUNITY INVESTMENTS, THE MARION COUNTY HOSPITAL DISTRICT CONTINUES AS THE LARGEST SINGLE BENEFACTOR OF HEALTH - IMPROVEMENT INITIATIVES IN MARION COUNTY.

ACTIVE MARION PROJECT Active Marion Project (AMP) is a free county-wide healthy lifestyle initiative that challenges Marion County citizens to be more active and get moving toward better health.

FITNESS & NUTRITION IN SCHOOLS Fitness and Nutrition in Schools (FANS) is an innovative chronic disease prevention program that incorporates increased physical fitness opportunities, improved nutrition, and healthy lifestyle education in our school system.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR PROGRAMS AT

BEACON POINT Beacon Point is a full-spectrum treatment facility for mental health and substance use available to all Marion County citizens, regardless of their ability to pay.

MCHDT.ORG

COMMUNITY HOME PROJECT Community Home Project assists families with employment, educational tutoring and continuing education, healthcare navigation and dental clinics, and fitness and nutrition classes.

WATCH

SCHOOL’S OUT, FUN’S IN

JUAN, EMERSON & MARCO IARRAZABAL

JAYDEN TORRATA & AMANDA DALRON

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JUSTIN MACDONALD

JUNE 2 | OCALA DOWNTOWN MARKET

K

ids and families around Marion County recently celebrated the start of summer break at the School’s Out Kids Fun Fest, presented by The Gray Family, held at the Ocala Downtown Market. The event included a hula-hoop competition, live characters, bounce houses, face painting, dancing, food trucks and more than 60 vendors offering kid- and family-related services. Learn more about the Ocala Downtown Market and the upcoming events taking place there at ocaladowntownmarket.com.

TALIYAH BURTON, NYLA WILLIAMS, JASMIN BROWN, JAZIYAH ATKINS & IVORTY BURTON

MATT & STEPHANIE GRAY, EVENT HOSTS

JESSICA DERRICK & KEITH CARSON

KETLEEN, GABRIEL & NOAH MARINHO

ALYSSA GERARD & KONSTYNCE WAYNWRIGHT

DAWN & BILL FORNESS 18

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PAIN, BE GONE! DISCOVER THE SECRETS TO LASTING RELIEF WITH PRACTITIONER-ASSISTED STRETCHING FROM GET STRETCH’D. IS GET STRETCH’D A FRANCHISE? No, Get Stretch’d is a family-owned business.

Founders Dean and Kathy Johnson have been well-known in the community over the past 30 years, through their entrepreneurial journey in the magazine publication business and radio management. They, along with their grandson and partner, Jagger, believe in the transformative benefits of stretching, and their mission is to help their community achieve their wellness goals, one person at a time.

IS STRETCHING THE ONLY THING YOU DO DURING MY SESSION? No! When you take advantage of our multimonth memberships that include assisted stretches, we perform additional therapeutic modalities, which may include acupressure, muscle gun treatments, muscle scraping, ice therapy, and stretch bands, at no additional cost.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY STRETCH SESSION? Wear comfortable clothing so you can move freely during your stretch session. Please don’t forget to wear or bring your socks! We provide complimentary spring water and encourage you to hydrate, facilitating a better stretch and range of motion.

I CAN STRETCH MYSELF. WHY DO I NEED ASSISTED STRETCHING? Assisted stretching allows your body to relax and push past its normal range of motion that is halted by your stretch reflex. Our skilled stretch professionals provide active dynamic stretching with added resistance that will give you a deeper stretch with maximum benefits. You’ll experience isolated stretches that target specific muscle groups needed to give you relief.

mitigate pain and improve your overall body health.

DOES STRETCHING HELP WITH SCIATICA OR OTHER PAIN? Yes, stretching can alleviate or eliminate pain from head to toe, including sciatica, plantar fasciitis and lower back, hip and knee pain. It also increases circulation, flexibility and range of motion, reduces tension and body stress, improves mobility and decreases risk of injury. In most cases, we can help those with hip and knee replacements, as well as those with shoulder repairs.

WHO IS STRETCHING ME? ARE THEY TRAINED IN THIS FIELD? You are being stretched by well-trained, professional, certified stretchers who all have backgrounds in anatomy and physiology, ranging from physical therapy, occupational therapy, kinesiology, physical training and exercise science.

WHEN WILL I SEE RESULTS? You can see results immediately depending on the severity of your complications, but a consistent stretching plan will increase those health benefits over time. Just like any activity, consistency is key.

HOW IS PRACTITIONER-ASSISTED STRETCHING DIFFERENT FROM MASSAGE?

IS STRETCHING EXPENSIVE? DO YOU ACCEPT INSURANCE?

Stretching is practically painless and a necessity for everyone. When you elongate your connective tissues, you increase flexibility,

No. It’s extremely affordable! We accept cash, checks and credit cards, plus select FSA and HSA reimbursements.

$25

60-MINUTE

ST R E TC H + E VA LUAT I O N FO R F I R ST T I M E C U STO M E R S ( $80 VA LU E )

EXP. 07.31.2024

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GET STRETCH’D 303 SE 17th St., Ste. 301 (Next to Publix) 4414 SW College Rd., Ste. 1012 (in Zone Health & Fitness Heathbrook) (352) 820-3911 getstretchedocala.com getstretchedocala getstretchedocala JUL ‘24

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EXPLORE

SUMMER SCHOOL THE LEARNING NEVER STOPS WITH THESE FUN, ADULTS-ONLY CLASSES. WRITTEN & COMPILED BY KARIN FABRY-CUSHENBERY

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he kids may be out of school for the summer, but that doesn’t mean Mom or Dad can’t learn a thing or two during the break. A variety of fun, educational or creative classes are available in our area for adults, whether you want to learn to dance, decorate a cake or swim. Get ready because school’s about to be back in session!

or the tango, Arthur Murray Dance Centers in Ocala has a class for that. Instructors are specially trained, and you’ll be turning in your two left feet for your dancing shoes before you know it.

Visit arthurmurrayocala.com for class information.

open to OTOW residents and nonresidents. Try the Individual Guitar/ Banjo Lesson half-hour sessions from July 15-29. Class times vary, and the class is open to beginners through advanced players. Visit masterthepossibilities.com for details.

CALM YOURSELF

PUT UP YOUR DUKES

Evolve Power Yoga offers a great

Want to get in shape and learn the basics of self-defense at the same time? Visit Ocala Boxing Academy where their fitness class inspires students to do just that. Ocalaboxingacademy.com will provide all the info needed to get started.

GET COOKIN’

GET ARTSY The Appleton Museum of Art offers classes in various art mediums.

Check out Dig into Clay: AM Wheel Throwing August 20 through September 14 on Saturdays from 10:15am-12:45pm. Over the six-week course, learn to throw vases, serving sets or even your own unique creations. $210 for members, $245 for non-members.

Visit appletonmuseum.org to view the class schedule.

HIT THE DANCE FLOOR Whether you want to learn line dances, swing dances, ballroom 20

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selection of yoga and meditationtype classes. One to check out is Sound Bath where participants will relax to the tones of crystal bowls, which are calming instruments, and singing. The idea is to enter a relaxed, meditative state allowing you to feel centered and energized.

Check evolvepoweryoga.com for upcoming class schedules.

MASTER AN INSTRUMENT On Top of the World’s Master the Possibilities offers classes in dozens of categories, from math and humanities to music and technology. The classes are

The Fat Tuscan in Gainesville offers a great selection of cooking classes, including pasta making, holiday classes, bread making, crepes and desserts, soups, appetizers and tapenades, and much more. Check fattuscan.com frequently for newly added classes and to register for current classes.

icing, icing consistencies and decorating techniques. Sign up at bestillbakery.com.

BE COZY Learn to make your own crocheted blanket or scarf in the Get Hooked beginner crochet class at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center. The class is offered on Tuesdays from 10-11am year-round for ages 50 and up, and students will need to bring their own crochet hook (size 4-5), yarn and scissors. Sign up at ocalafl.gov/recpark.

BUILD YOUR BUSINESS SKILLS The College of Central Florida offers custom corporate training to help your business along, including a selection of computer classes on programs like QuickBooks, Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suite. Visit cf.edu to find out more.

LEARN THE KEYS Parramore Music has a variety of music lessons available, including adult piano lessons for beginners through advanced players. Visit parramoremusic.com to make contact with a teacher.

BAKE A TREAT Who doesn’t love a sweet cookie treat? Ocala’s Be Still Bakery offers online cookie decorating classes for beginning, intermediate and advanced decorators.

You’ll learn the basics of royal

SNAP A PIC Have you always wanted to learn to take the perfect picture? CF’s Discover Digital Photography class is an instructor-guided, six-week course that offers 24 hours of instruction.

On View Through October 6, 2024

EN POINTE Expressions of Dance in Art

Ernst Oppler, (detail) “Schéhérazade,” 1910s, Oil on canvas, Gift of Susan Oppler Wood, Florida Institute of Technology 2021 transfer.

Appleton Museum, Artspace and Store

Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, noon-5 p.m.

4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd. | AppletonMuseum.org

-an equal opportunity college-

JUL ‘24

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EXPLORE learning the basic steps to many popular line dances. Sign up at ocalafl.gov/recpark.

PICK UP A RACKET Year-round adult (and junior) tennis clinics and lessons are held at the Fort King Tennis Center.

Learn the ins and outs of tennis in a supportive, fun environment. Visit ocalafl.gov/recpark for more.

FIND YOUR GREEN THUMB Want to attract beautiful pollinators to your garden? Then the UF/IFAS class Attracting Bees, Butterflies & Hummingbirds is for you. The speaker will discuss key ways to attract these friendly critters to your garden. The class, offered on July 18 from 11am to 12pm, is free, but registration is required. Visit sfyl.ufl.edu/marion for details.

GET IN THE SADDLE If you’ve always wanted to learn how to ride a horse, Grey Dawn Stables has the class for you. Their horseback lessons are open to all ages, and they offer both English and Western riding lessons. The horses are gentle, and necessary tack and safety helmets are included. Lessons are available for beginners to competition-level riders. Go to greydawnstables.com for more information.

A three-month self-guided option is also available. Course cost is $150.

Learn more at ed2go.com.

STAY ON YOUR TOES Coeur Ballet Academy offers adult beginner and intermediate ballet lessons, as well as adult Pilates and Barre classes. For dates and times of classes, visit coeurballetacademy.com.

PICK UP AN OAR We talk about kayaking a lot, but if 22

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you’ve never done it before you might be a bit apprehensive. The Kayak 101 class at Discovery Kayak Tours will teach you everything you need to know about kayaks, paddles, rescue/ gear, strokes and proper techniques.

Visit discoverykayak.com/kayak-101 for more information.

SWIM A LAP Florida Aquatic Swimming & Training offers swim lessons for all ages, including adults ages 18 and over. The beginner class includes

learning basic safety skills, and the intermediate class helps students refine strokes to become more active in the water. Check out floridafast.com for details.

SCOOT ON OVER Get your boot scootin’ boogie on with Footloose Line Dancing Classes on Tuesdays from 11am12pm. The class, which takes place at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, is open to those age 50 and up and includes

TAKE THE WHEEL Whether you just need to sharpen your driving skills or are interested in taking the driving test at the DMV, Ocala Driving School offers driving lessons for teens and adults. Classes range from basic (six hours) to intermediate (eight hours) to advanced (10 hours) to advanced superior (12 hours). Registration takes place at ocalasafedrivingschool.com.

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EXPLORE

OLD FLORIDA FUN WHAT STARTED AS A FAMILY ORANGE BUSINESS DECADES AGO HAS GROWN INTO ONE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA’S MOST BELOVED “TRUE FLORIDA” TOURIST ATTRACTIONS. WRITTEN BY KARIN FABRY-CUSHENBERY

W

here can you tour an orange grove, take pics with dinosaurs, enjoy a round of mini golf and top it off with a refreshing ice cream cone?

Boyett’s Grove in Brooksville has all of this and more.

“Boyett’s Grove is a very family-friendly attraction,” says Co-owner Kathy Oleson. “Visiting is like a walk back in time. We are old Florida tourism at its best.”

The 1940s machinery in the packing house is still used during Citrus season, and visitors can tour the facility year-round, learning the ins and outs of one of Florida’s largest industries.

In the winter and spring months, take home or ship a basket of tasty citrus fruit or join the tropical fruit club to have citrusy deliciousness delivered right to your door, including a variety of oranges, tangerines and grapefruit.

After the tour, explore the grounds where you’ll find a 5-acre wildlife park, which is home to camels, llamas, goats, monkeys and more.

Make sure to snap a pic of Elvis, the 13-foot alligator. Make a stop in the aviary and the aquariums as well.

Want to take a real step back in time? The dinosaur cave is sure to excite the little ones in your group. Included with your admission to 24

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the wildlife park, the dino cave features roaring animatronics, including a pterodactyl, T-rex and brontosaurus.

The Dinomite Gold Mine is where you go to search for hidden gems and treasure as you sluice your bags of rocks. You can purchase this add-on when purchasing a ticket.

“This is a cool little spot you won’t want to miss,” says Kathy.

Boyett’s also offers 18 holes of indoor/ outdoor mini golf fun. The fun props and scenes are perfect photo ops for the day.

“Come down and do something a little different for a day,” suggests Kathy. “We have a lot of old history at Boyett’s Grove combined with new and interesting attractions.”

Kathy and her husband, Jim, own Boyett’s

Grove, and they have passed the tourism and hospitality gene to their boys as well.

The Boyett family owns and operates two additional recreation attractions, including Kayak Weeki Wachee where visitors can choose between four different kayaking adventures (or even try them all!). Kayak rentals are available, and kayakers can hop from park to park, including the Weeki Wachee River, Pine Island Beach, the Coastal Paddling Trail and Bayport Fishing trip. Choose two days of kayaking for the price of one and three for the price of two. If you try all four trips you receive free entrance to Boyett’s Grove.

In addition, The Riverfront in Cocoa Beach offers an abundance of opportunities, from water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding to poolside lounging in the comfy cabanas. Live music adds to the ambiance and the fun. You can check out the Riverfront’s Facebook page for special events and opportunities.

BOYETT’S GROVE 4355 Spring Lake Hwy, Brooksville (352) 796-2289 boyettsgrove.com

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EXPLORE

IN A TIME WHEN SCREENS DOMINATE OUR EVERYDAY LIFE, IT’S IMPORTANT AND THERAPEUTIC TO DISCONNECT FROM OUR DEVICES AND RECONNECT WITH THE PEOPLE AROUND US. AND THAT’S THE MISSION BEHIND THE MEEPLE MOVERS BOARD GAME CAFÉ ON STATE ROAD 200: UNPLUG, PLAY & CONNECT.

J

WRITTEN BY KARIN FABRY-CUSHENBERY

on and Sonya Tyler are no doubt a fun couple. They have a longstanding love of gaming and took that passion to the next level when they opened their board game café in 2023. Meeple Movers Board Game Café (In case you’re wondering, a meeple is anything, such as a figurine, that represents you in a board game.) was born out of a gaming group Jon formed a decade ago that is now 800-plus members strong. With the opening of the café, the gaming community has a comfortable, fun location to meet up and enjoy a good game and good company. Customers can play at the café, purchase a game or even rent one to take home for several days for a nominal fee.

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“We want to make gaming accessible to as many people as we can in as many ways as we can,” says Jon. “We have all styles of games, from hobby and classic to role playing and cooperative. Our games go well beyond the traditional.”

At any given time, the store has 1,200-1,500 titles to purchase and 300 to rent or play in store. And, like any good gamers, Jon and Sonya have their favorites.

For Jon, it’s 51st State, a post-apocalyptic game that has players trying to rebuild the country. For teaching though, which is what Jon gets the biggest charge out of, he would choose Mantis, a game that encourages stealing cards

MEEPLE MOVERS Check the website calendar for upcoming events each week.

3101 SW 34th Avenue, Ocala (352) 572-5637 meeplemovers.com

Photo courtesy of Meeple Movers

GAME NIGHT DONE RIGHT

from your opponents to create matching pairs for yourself.

“I love teaching people how to play the games,” says Jon. “I am an extreme extrovert, so I am all over that. I feel like I’m meeting new friends and having a good time all the time.”

Sonya loves the game Splendor and also King of Tokyo, which she describes as a “fun, cute, easy game.” Jon adds that it’s a king of the hill Yahtzeetype game where you take out fellow monsters.

“If you can think of a topic, there is likely a game for it,” says Jon. “Everything from construction and gardening to animals and aliens. The games range from very strategic to chaotic to simple.”

Jon and Sonya share that they have a wide variety of customers (friends), from dedicated role players to first-time gamers looking for a fun family night. Meeple Movers is a family-friendly environment that can go from quiet and subdued to rowdy and raucous depending on the games being played. But Jon says, rest assured, it’s always fun! It’s also perfect for an interactive date night. In addition, Meeple Movers would love to host your next party, get together or team-building event. Besides the huge variety of games, the cafe also offers a selection of puzzles, game accessories and more.

The on-site café offers an assortment of goodies to enjoy while playing, from burgers and pizzas to chicken teriyaki pot stickers and corndogs. Plus, all the favorites like fries, mozzarella sticks, soft pretzel sticks, candy, popcorn and more.

“We keep our menu simple, making sure we put out good, quality food,” says Sonya. “We also offer craft beers, ciders and sodas you may not find at other places in town, plus a selection of wines.”

Jon and Sonya (who also works full time at Interfaith Emergency Services) love to share their passion for board games with customers and friends and pride themselves on helping customers find just the right game to play or purchase. They encourage everyone to come and check out their board game café.

“Board game cafes are unique,” says Jon. “And Meeple Movers is unique among board game cafes. We are very focused on providing a great experience for everyone who walks through the door. So come and try something new, unplug from the screens and visit with family and friends. I guarantee you’ll have fun.”

352 MARKETPLACE

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MILANO ITALIAN GRILLE 5400 SW College Rd.| Ocala (352) 304-8549 milanotogo.com

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HOUSE CALLS

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FOOD & BEVERAGE

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RISING PHOENIX MARTIAL ARTS Proudly Veteran Owned Empowering Ocala Through Quality Taekwondo Instruction 3131 SW College Rd., Ste # 401 | Ocala (352) 269-8046 risingphoenixata.com

& B OXI

Located in historic downtown Ocala and open from 1pm-2am daily.

Enjoy our regulation-sized pool tables, full liquor bar, dart machines and customer-controlled TouchTunes jukebox. Want to get away from the smoke or the crowd? Reserve our non-smoking private room and enjoy the perks of your own music, television and other games like table tennis.

DOWNTOWNBILLIARDS.COM JUL ‘24

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HSPOTST TO CHILL OUT

Let’s be real for a minute… July is just plain hot. If it doesn’t involve splashing around in the water, nighttime outdoor entertainment, a cool treat or air-conditioned activities, we’re sitting this month out. Thankfully, we’ve found plenty of these types of activities for your enjoyment. Check out all the following ideas for plenty of hot spots around Central Florida that are perfect for cooling off.

WRITTEN BY MELISSA PETERSON

OUTDOOR PURSUITS

Paddle Silver River. If you’re looking for a nearby escape, Silver Springs State Park is perfect for a scenic paddle through Florida’s heartland. The state park offers multiple paddling opportunities, including an hourly paddle excursion near the head spring, a fivemile adventure from the headwaters to Ray Wayside Park with return transport to the park or a guided paddle tour complete with a fun history lesson of the area. Kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboard rentals are available, or you can bring your own for a small launch fee. silversprings.com Tube the Ichetucknee. If you’re looking for a relaxing day on the water, traveling the pristine waters of the Ichetucknee River at Ichetucknee Springs State Park by innertube is the perfect outing.

For your convenience, tubes are available for rent within the park, or you can bring your own tube (as long as it doesn’t exceed 60 inches) 28

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DISCOVERY COVE or rent from outside vendors that are plentiful nearby. There are two launch points within the park accessible by tram service (wristband purchase required), with floats lasting 45 minutes to two hours. The midpoint launch only allows 3,000 tubers each day, so it’s recommended that you get to the park early, as entry lines into the park can get long. ichetuckneesprings.com Surf Daytona. As one of Ocala’s closest beaches, Daytona is typically the go-to destination for a quick daytrip. And lucky for us, Pure Life Surf School, located in Daytona Beach Shores,

is one of Florida’s most unique and sought-after surf schools, offering both private and group surfing lessons for all ages and a top-rated kids’ summer surf camp. With consistent 1-to-3foot waves pretty much all year, the goal for lessons at Pure Life is to have you up and riding the waves in the first lesson. purelifesurfschool.com Explore the Homosassa River. If you don’t have your own boat, no worries—there are plenty of pontoon boat rentals in the area.

In the summer months, you can make your way down the river toward the Gulf to go scalloping,

Shark swim photo courtesy of Discovery Cove; Window photo courtesy of Great Wolf Lodge; Tiana photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort

Central Florida is chock-full of ways to stay cool even while enjoying the great outdoors. Here are 14 ways to battle the soaring temps this summer.

attraction. Take the plunge into an incredible aquatic setting just below the surface of the ocean. Keep an eye out and you might just spy a school of fish grazing in the meadow. aquatica.com/orlando

GREAT WOLF LODGE

TIANA'S BAYOU ADVENTURE or take an easy 15-minute ride to Homosassa Springs, where the manatees gather in the winter.

The Bay Scallop season in Levy, Citrus and Hernando Counties is July 1 through September 24.

Fishing opportunities are also plentiful in the area, with redfish, snook, ladyfish, snapper and more calling the Homosassa home. A quick internet search will turn up multiple rental companies in the area.

Ride Aquatica’s newest waterslide. Get ready for a stunning new twist on waterslide thrills with Aquatica Orlando’s all-new Tassie’s Underwater Twist

Tour the Bayou with Tiana. The all-new Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, where the old Splash Mountain once thrilled guests, opened at Disney’s Magic Kingdom on June 28. As guests float through the cypress trees and Spanish moss of a beautiful Louisiana bayou, keep an eye out for Princess Tiana, Louis and Mama Odie. Between Disney’s iconic storytelling, technologically advanced audio-animatronics figures and a thrilling 50-foot drop that’s sure to cool you off, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure has enough fun for everyone. disneyworld.disney.go.com Take the kiddos to the falls.

Castaway Falls at Tampa’s Adventure Island water park, that is! This brand-new interactive splash and play area is open now and offers multiple levels and more than 100 distinct play elements. With three giant tipping buckets that dump over 1,300 gallons of water combined with four thrilling slides, soakers, flow pipes, hose and spray jets, water curtains and tipping troughs, it’s an ideal spot for kids of all ages— even the littlest adventurers! adventureisland.com See life underwater. While many imagine snorkeling in the open ocean, in Central Florida, our natural springs offer the perfect setting to explore the underwater world. Magnificent springs form the basis for swimming holes in the Ocala National Forest, where the crystal-clear water is a constant temperature year-round, and excellent for snorkeling to see fish and other freshwater marine life. Alexander Springs, Juniper

Springs, Salt Springs and Silver Glen Springs are just a few of the spots you’ll want to check out. fs.usda.gov/main/florida Dive with sharks. Yes, you heard that correctly—sharks! There are opportunities for both cage and free dive adventures right off the Florida Atlantic Coast, depending on your comfort level, and SCUBA certification is not required. A quick internet search will provide several businesses operating in Central and South Florida. For a tamer experience, Orlando’s Discovery Cove offers a Shark Snorkel deep-water free swim. discoverycove.com Plan a lagoon day. It’s a sight like no other. With acres of beach-lined crystal-clear water, these manmade, chlorinated, humongous pools are popping up throughout Central Florida.

One of the closest lagoons is Epperson Lagoon, located in Wesley Chapel. This location is open to the public for a fee and offers a 30-foot water slide, floating obstacle course, bumper boats, and kayak and paddle board rentals. When you're ready for lunch, The Reef Café is the go-to spot for guests to fill up and recharge, serving a wide variety of salads, snacks, and sandwiches, while the swim-up tiki bar serves tropical drinks. metrolagoons.com Take to the seas. Royal Caribbean’s newest mega ship, Utopia of the Seas, is making its way to Central Florida starting this month, with Port Canaveral as its homebase. Making only three- and four-night trips, this ultimate short getaway features more pools than the days to count, with a trio of adrenalinepumping waterslides and the FlowRider surf simulator. Plus, the adventure continues at private island Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas, with everything from long stretches of beach to the largest freshwater

pool in the Caribbean and 14 waterslides. royalcaribbean.com/ utopia-of-the-seas Take a lesson. Summer is the perfect time for the littlest tikes in your family to familiarize themselves with the water.

Learn to swim with the City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Department at either the Hampton or Jervey Gantt Aquatic Fun Centers. The program consists of six lessons over a two-week period. Students are placed in groups according to their swimming levels and will learn how to stay safe around water, floating, strokes, how to be efficient swimmers and additional aquatic skills.

Cost is $55 per participant. ocalafl.gov/aquatics Visit a top-rated beach. Dr. Beach, one of the world’s foremost beach experts, ranks beaches around the world each year—and Florida beaches undoubtedly make the list year after year. For the 2024 rankings, two Florida beaches made the top 10 list: Caladesi Island State Park in Dunedin and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park in Naples. Both beaches are, of course, located on the Gulf side of Florida and, thus, have the white-sand beaches and clear, calm water we all love. floridastateparks.org Book a stay at the lodge. We’ve all heard the rumors—Great Wolf Lodge is opening its newest location in Florida. Slated to open in September in Naples, this uber family-friendly resort will boast 500 suites and a sprawling 100,000-square-foot indoor water park. In addition to the water park, the resort offers a wide variety of family entertainment, including a bowling alley, gem mining, ropes course, mini golf and arcade.

The resort is offering fantastic grand opening packages up to 30 percent off, and reservations are currently being accepted. greatwolf.com/naples JUL ‘24

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There’s nothing like summer when the sun goes down. Check out these “cool” ideas for enjoying the outdoors while under the stars.

Ocala Drive In Showing newly released, first-run movies, the Ocala Drive-In features two screens, and movie-goers can view two films for one low price. During the summer, the first movie starts later in the evening, so make sure you check out the website for the exact times. The drive-in is open seven nights a week, and admission is $6 for adults, $3 for children ages 6-12 and free for children 5 and under. facebook.com/ocaladrivein Summer Nights Lecture Series The Fort King National Historic Landmark will host the Summer Nights Lecture Series during select dates in July and August.

Each week different topics will be presented by professionals in the natural and historical resource fields. Lectures will take place on July 11, 18 and 25 and August 1, 8 and 15. Topics include foraging 30

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skills, Central Florida’s history, citrus and fruit trees, Marion County’s prehistory, civic youth engagement and the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Events are free for ages 13 and over and take place from 6-8pm. ocalafl.gov/recpark.

The Pavilion at Green Gaits Green Gaits is a boutique feed store for equine enthusiasts founded in 2021 and located in Ocala on West Highway 40.

Building on their company’s exceptional reputation, the business recently opened The Pavilion at Green Gaits, a fun, family-friendly food and event space, complete with a covered pavilion, custom-built stage for live music and entertainment, and enchanting fire pits. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, hosting an event or simply looking for a unique space to unwind after a long day, The Pavilion

Rocket Launches If you haven’t stood outside at night and watched a rocket launch from the comfort of your backyard, are you really even a Central Florida resident?

Although it is possible to see the launches during the day, the dark night sky makes the event a lot more dramatic. Even though Cape Canaveral is 130 miles to our southeast, the firepower under the rockets can easily be seen if the cloud cover cooperates. You’ll want to find a location that offers a fairly open

view of the horizon where trees will not block your view and look in the correct direction. You can find upcoming launches at spaceflightnow.com.

Bioluminescent Kayak Tours During warm summer months, the waters of the Mosquito Lagoon, Banana River and Indian River Lagoon on Florida’s East Coast light up with bioluminescence— and nighttime kayaking tours are the perfect way to experience this unique sight. Dinoflagellates and pulsing Comb Jellies create these light shows that you’ll want to see for yourself. Pro tip: Book your tour during a new moon so the night is as dark as possible. There are plenty of tour operators to choose from, and a quick internet search can get you started. visitspacecoast.com

SWEET TREATS Sometimes we just need a little cold and creamy ice cream to cool us off on a hot day. Here are five of our favorite local spots.

Sweet Jane’s Candy Store 2774 NE 102nd Ave. Rd. Silver Springs, FL With a twist on the traditional ice cream sandwich, Sweet Jane’s Candy Store not only offers a wide selection of nostalgic candy brands but fantastically yummy homemade ice cream whoopie pies—vanilla ice cream sandwiched between two cookies.

Options include chocolate chip, sugar, pumpkin, chocolate and red velvet cookies.

Ice Cream King 9570 SW 62nd Ave., Suite 400 Ocala, FL A local family-owned shop, Ice Cream King loves bold and delicious flavors. Offering Real Hershey’s Ice Cream, made with

Bioluminescent Kayak photo courtesy of BK Adventure

SUMMER NIGHTS

offers rotating food vendors, a custom-built food truck and a one-of-a-kind, self-serve beer and wine trailer—both with rotating menus. Open Thursday through Saturday from 5-9:30pm. greengaitsocala.com/thepavilion

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Ocala’s Chocolates & Confections 104 E Fort King St. Ocala, FL Come for the homemade chocolates—stay for the refreshing ice cream cones. Located near the downtown square and offering gourmet, exotic and everyday chocolates, the shop also serves over 30 flavors of ice cream, with unique flavors like Rum Raisin, Calypso Crunch, Garbage Can, Dulce de Leche Cheesecake and Mexican Hot Chocolate, as well as all your traditional favorites.

Mr. B’s Big Scoop 8399 SW 80th St., Suite 16 Ocala, FL Family owned and operated since 2008, Mr. B’s is a one-of-a-kind Ocala staple. This shop is based on the legacy of the owner’s great grandfather, who was in the ice cream business for 40 years, so you could say the love of ice cream runs in their family! Every day, you can find them serving up happiness by the scoop in a rotating variety of flavors for every taste.

Sprinkles Ice Cream 6675 SE Maricamp Rd. Ocala, FL Sprinkles is a cute roadside stop in Silver Springs Shores with colorful picnic tables for enjoying your scoops on the spot. With traditional flavors and fun extras, you’ll find something to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy scoops in the cup or cone; sundaes with toppings like chocolate syrup, caramel, strawberry and pineapple, whipped cream, cherries and walnuts; or a nostalgic banana split.

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STAY (INSIDE) AWHILE If you can’t take the heat… get out of the sun! Sometimes we just need a little A/C, right? That doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. Here are some indoor events that both families and couples will enjoy.

Skillz & Drillz Mondays, July 1-29 Ocala Recreation and Parks can help families unlock the potential of their child’s growth through the Skillz & Drillz program. Happening at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place from 5:30-6:30pm on Mondays in July, this unique class is the perfect blend of fun and learning, aiming to sculpt a solid foundation for both physical and cognitive sports development. The program is for kids ages 5-7 and costs $15 per player. ocalafl.gov/recpark Free First Saturday July 6 Visit the Appleton Museum of Art on the first Saturday of each month from 10am-5pm for free admission all day to see the special exhibitions and permanent collection and to make art in the Artspace. In July, The Donut Express and Grilled Cheese Emporium food trucks will be on-site from 11am-3pm. In combination with the special exhibition Outsider Aviary: Robert W. Smeltzer’s Birds of America, at 11am and 2pm, see a screening of the 2017 documentary Audubon. appletonmuseum.org The Seussification of Romeo and Juliet July 14-16 The Capitulates and the Monotones feel about each other the way

Sam-I-Am feels about green eggs and ham. But, despite their feuding families, star-crossed youngsters Romeo and Juliet love each other like the Cat in the Hat loves trouble.

Sublimely silly, this whimsical reinvention of Shakespeare’s romantic tale—as told by Thing One and Thing Two, in rhyming couplets—is a lot more magical than tragical. Oh, the laughs you will laugh when Seuss is on the loose in Verona! ocalacivictheatre.com Taylor Shines The Laser Spectacular July 19 It’s two hours of non-stop Taylor Swift hits seamlessly blended with the world-famous touring Laser Spectacular & Light Show. The show also features large-screen video projection, 3-D glasses and all the mind-bending effects the Laser Spectacular is famous for. DJ Tiff is an extraordinary on-stage presence that will have Swifties singing along with their favorite. Joined by DJ JC, the two performers propel Taylor Shines to a thoroughly enjoyable evening for moms, dads and all the Swifties in the family. reillyartscenter.com Date Night at the Discovery Center July 19 Located at Tuscawilla Park, the

Discovery Center is Ocala’s local children’s science center that lets kids learn in a fun, hands-on way.

On select nights, however, adult couples 18 and over are invited to the Discovery Center for a new way to do date night! Guests enjoy light appetizers, kid-free playtime in the current exhibit and hands-on activities like animal encounters and science experiments. In July, discover the wonders of Earth and end the night exploring the stars in the StarLab planetarium. Tickets are $30 per couple. Registration required. mydiscoverycenter.com Candlelight: The Best of The Beatles July 26 Experience the timeless music of The Beatles like never before.

This enchanting concert series, happening at the Ocala Civic Theatre, celebrates the legendary band’s greatest hits, performed by talented musicians in an intimate and atmospheric setting.

Candlelight offers a unique opportunity to experience the magic of their music in a whole new light. The event promises an unforgettable evening filled with beautiful harmonies, captivating storytelling and the timeless spirit of The Beatles. candlelightexperience.com

Taylor Shines photo courtesy of Reilly Arts Center

quality ingredients in a wide variety of flavors, try their special selection of extra creamy, ultrapremium ice cream packed full of flavor and inclusions.

TWO CAN’ T-MISS JULY EVENTS!

July 4th Event

Lakeside Concert

Come out and join us on Thursday, July 4th for our Independence Day event!

Join Kendall Tucker and The LACS with special guest J. Michael Phillips for the BIGGEST LAKE PARTY Marion County has ever seen!

THURSDAY, JULY 4 | ALL DAY FUN!

Featuring: $17.76 BBQ SPECIAL $7 BOMB POP DRINKS $4 SHOT SPECIALS Wristbands will be required after 6pm to be downstairs, and the cost is just $5 each.

Kids 5 & under are free.

PLUS a dazzling fireworks show at dusk!

SPONSORED BY:

PURCHASE OF WRISTBAND FOR BEACH ACCESS WILL BENEFIT:

SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION

SATURDAY, JULY 27 | 5-10PM

It will be held at the beautiful Eaton’s Beach in Weirsdale , FL directly on Lake Weir. Kendall Tucker and The LACS bring a unique style of music that blends the likes of country, rock and rap together to give you an awesome sound that everyone can enjoy.

This will be a SOLD OUT event, so make sure to grab your tickets and don’t miss out on all the surprises we have lined up for the night!

SCAN QR CODE FOR TICKETS: GENERAL ADMISSION: $30 PLUS TAX + FEES

MEET-N-GREET W/ADMISSION: $75 PLUS TAX + FEES

No outside coolers, drinks or food permitted.

EATONʼS BEACH Sandbar & Grill on Lake Weir

Live Entertainment º Lakeside Happy Hour 2-5pm Sunday Brunch & Bubbles 9a-1p º Watersports Rentals

15790 SE 134th Ave. 352.259.2444 eatonsbeach.com

CRAVE

Photos courtesy of Todd & Shelly’s Farm Fresh Restaurant

Center, next to Shoe Carnival.

Having outgrown their original Belleview location, which opened in 2014, it was time for a bigger home. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

“Ocala had a lot of opportunities,” says Shelly Mayer, who was born and raised in Marion County. “We found this wonderful building in a great area.”

“Todd and I were over-the-road truck drivers,” says Shelly. “We drove a semi with a refrigerated trailer hauling produce for 18 years.

My mom had a produce market, so when we came off the road, we started selling produce and small deli items like soups and salads. We never considered owning a restaurant, but through customer requests, we just grew.”

NEW LOCATION, SAME TASTY FARE TODD AND SHELLY’S FARM FRESH RESTAURANT MOVES TO OCALA.

S

WRITTEN BY CYNTHIA MCFARLAND

uccessful businesses may excel in multiple areas but tend to be known for particular items or services.

For Todd and Shelly’s Farm Fresh Restaurant, their down-home friendly atmosphere and famous hotcakes have become trademarks.

A standout favorite with patrons of all ages, the made-to-order, 7-inch diameter hotcakes

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stand about an inch tall. From the Todd and Shelly Original to 15 other flavors like Pineapple Upside-Down, Cinnamon Roll and Banana Pudding, these aren’t “ordinary” pancakes.

Order them on their own or as a meal with eggs, bacon or sausage.

As of May 16, patrons have been ordering their favorite hotcakes and much more at the restaurant’s new Ocala location in Boyd Market

A retail corner of the restaurant has always been dedicated to fresh produce and local products from area farmers, including tomatoes, jams, jellies and local raw honey.

Todd and Shelly’s Farm Fresh Restaurant built a solid following for dine-in, take-out and delivery. Faithful customers supported the business even during pandemic lockdowns.

Thanks to the Ocala location, even more patrons are experiencing what made the restaurant so popular.

Dinner specials have been added, but overall, the menu stayed the same. Extensive offerings include numerous breakfast combinations, authentic gyros, burgers, sandwiches, wraps and fried green tomato BLTs, and of course, breakfast is still served any time of day.

Don’t miss the all-you-can-eat breakfast specials on weekends, rotating between hotcakes, biscuits and gravy, and French toast. Weekends also feature bottomless mimosas for $15 from 7am-3pm.

TODD AND SHELLY’S FARM FRESH RESTAURANT 2800 SW 24th Avenue, Suite 101 & 102, Ocala (352) 693-5877 Monday & Thursday: Saturday 7am-7pm Tuesday & Wednesday: 7am-3pm Sunday: 8am-3pm facebook.com/toddandshellys

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CRAVE

NEW & NOTABLE executive chef experience, creating dishes that combine flavor and flair. Now he is bringing his culinary expertise to Live Fire Chefs on Pine Avenue. The newly opened café offers breakfast and lunch menus that go several steps above the norm. Try an openfaced toast or the shaved ribeye brioche for breakfast. Live Fire also offers omelets, classics like the Live Fire Benedict or biscuits

FLYERS CAFÉ LOCATED IN LONGO PLAZA 18651 N US HWY 301, CITRA If you’re craving delicious Italian American cuisine, you’re going to want to take the short trip to Citra to try out the newly opened Flyers Café. Named for a Philadelphia hockey team, you’ll find nothing but made-from-scratch dishes such as chicken gnocchi, burgers made with neverfrozen meats, in-house smoked barbecue and fried catfish. To add to the Philadelphia flair, Flyers orders hoagie rolls, brioche bread and kaiser rolls from a Philly staple, Liscio’s Bakery. Flyers is open for breakfast and lunch from 7am-3pm, Wednesday through Sunday. Find them on Facebook for details.

LIVE FIRE CHEFS 506 S PINE AVENUE, OCALA (352) 425-3616 Chef Patrick Cahill has over two decades of

NEW SMYRNA BEACH BBQ CHALLENGE

and gravy, plus griddle favorites like the heavenly stuffed French toast. For lunch, the “on the bun” selection includes unique burgers, the lobster club, the Live Fire cheese steak and so much more. They also offer handhelds such as the insanely good Live Fire Grilled Cheese, a classic Reuben, Chicken Pesto & Mozzarella and more. In addition to the café offerings, Live Fire Chefs offers complete catering and event services. You can check out the complete menu and more at livefirechefs.com.

A little junk food is something most people can get behind from time to time. Who doesn’t love a warm chocolate chip cookie or some potato chips? In honor of Junk Food Day, we wanted to share our favorite “junk food” indulgences. What’s yours?

“OREOS AND MILK. I REALLY ONLY SNACK WHILE I’M CAMPING, SO IT’S A SPECIAL TREAT.”

“I DON’T EAT THEM VERY OFTEN, BUT I LOVE A BAG OF FUNYONS FROM TIME TO TIME.”

“MY SNACK DRAWER HAS GREEN BEAN AND CARROT CHIPS AND SOUR MIKE & IKE CANDIES.”

MELISSA PETERSON, EDITOR

KARIN CUSHENBERY, EDITOR

KRISTY TAYLOR, DESIGNER

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SUMMER JULY 6, 1-5PM

JULY 21 | TREAT YOURSELF

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THE FLAVORS OF

Plan a day at the beach and then stay for the New Smyrna Beach BBQ Challenge on July 6. The fun lasts from 1-5pm along Flagler Avenue and will include a tasting passport that allows guests to travel from booth to booth sampling all styles of tasty BBQ, including chicken, beef, pork and seafood. Tasting passports will be available at the door beginning at 12:30pm, but it’s suggested to purchase ahead on eventbrite.com because the event typically sells out.

JULY 13, 4-9PM

3RD ANNUAL SUMMER RUM & SEAFOOD FESTIVAL Head to Tampa on July 13 for the 3rd Annual Summer Rum & Seafood Festival. Taking place between 4-9pm at the Tampa Premium Outlets, the event will include the tastes of summer, including rum samples, seafood dishes, live music and plenty of cool drinks. General admission is $15, general admission with bucket upgrade is $35 and the Gold VIP Pass is $75 (plus taxes and fees per ticket).

Find more and purchase tickets on eventbrite.com.

EL TOREO

LA CUISINE FRENCH RESTAURANT

3790 E SILVER SPRINGS BLVD. | (352) 694-1401 | MON-SUN 11AM-10PM 3510 SW 36TH AVE. (SR 200) | (352) 291-2121 | MON-SUN 11AM-11PM

48 SW 1ST AVE., OCALA | (352) 433-2570 | LACUISINEOCALA.COM TUE-SUN 5-9PM | SUN 11AM-2PM | CLOSED MONDAY

Head to El Toreo for the best Mexican food this side of the border! Enjoy all of your favorite traditional Mexican dishes in a friendly and festive atmosphere. Beyond the outstanding Mexican food, El Toreo simply offers a warm, fun place to be— whether you’re dressed up or casual. Any day is a good day for one of El Toreo’s tasty margaritas: Mondays and Wednesdays $2 margaritas, Saturdays 2-for-1 margaritas and 2-for-1 happy hour every day from 4-7pm (excluding margaritas).

Treat yourself to a memorable dining experience at La Cuisine. Only the highest quality ingredients and produce are used to create traditional French fare in a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Reminiscent of a quaint Paris bistro, La Cuisine offers an ambiance that is ideal for a family brunch, a business dinner or a romantic evening out. With awardwinning dishes that are prepared fresh, in-house, each meal includes personal touches that only La Cuisine can provide.

Indoor and outdoor patio dining is available in beautiful downtown. Enjoy live music on Fridays and Saturdays.

9 Golden Spoons and Hall of Fame Award from Florida Trend Magazine.

Let us cater your next event!

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JUL ‘24

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352 PREVIEW 3035 SE MARICAMP RD STE 104, UNIT 168 OCALA, FL 34471

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The Birth Day Experience® Seeing your baby for the first time will be an experience you’ll never forget. That’s why, in addition to the extra monitoring and attention we offer in our Level II NICU and the elevated level of prenatal and postnatal care we provide through our McKenzie Kearney Gray Maternal Fetal Medicine program, we add thoughtful, memorable touches with The Birth Day Experience.® At AdventHealth Ocala, the only hospital in Marion County that delivers babies, our physicians and birth care advocates provide the care you and your baby need – so you can cherish every moment of your baby’s one-and-only real birth day.

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