Ocala Magazine April, 2019 by ocalamag

OM OC A L A M AGAZ INE

APR 2019

Olivia Newton-John EXCLUSIVE:

on Ocala, Her Autobiography and Living in the Moment

Marion County’s

Top Volunteers Cookbook Confidential with Rsvp Robin

Little Hero, Big Heart Magic, the Therapy Horse

Ocala’s City Magazine Since 1980 | $5.95

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CONTENTS APRIL • 2019 FEATURES

14 Olivia Newton-John

An exclusive chat with the iconic singer, actress and “cancer thriver”

20 In the Service of Others

The state of volunteerism in our city, county and state as we celebrate National Volunteer Month

26 Cookbook Connoisseur

Food, Entertaining and Lifestyle Blogger Rsvp Robin gives us the scoop on her favorite culinary tomes

32 Nesting Habits: Artist Profile

A look into the world of acclaimed local artist Carlynne Hershberger

38 Home Sweet Parade of Homes

Everyone’s favorite home event kicks off this month

DEPARTMENTS

Detail of "Devotion" by Carlynne Hershberger

ON THE COVER Olivia Newton-John

Photography by Mark Sullivan Bradley shot at Gaia Retreat & Spa

OM OC A L A M AG A Z I NE

APR 2019

Olivia Newton-John

EXCLUSIVE:

on Ocala, Her Autobiography and Living in the Moment

Marion County’s

Top Volunteers Cookbook Confidential with Rsvp Robin

Little Hero, Big Heart Magic, the Therapy Horse

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | APR 2019

Ocala’s City Magazine Since 1980 | $5.95

6 Publisher’s Letter 8 From the Mayor 10 State of the City 12 State of the County 43 PLAY 44 Socially Speaking 52 Our guide to the best local event locations 57 EAT 58 Culinary Shopping 60 Dining Out 63 LIVE 64 Health Journal 68 Charity - Interfaith Emergency Services 70 ETC 74 Everything Equine 77 WORK 78 On the Job 80 Looking Back

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Tionna took a leap of faith when cancer kept her from the gym. At UF Health, she found a problem-solver who never gave up.

Dr. William Slayton and his team are expanding treatment options for children facing leukemia. He was able to give Tionna a bone marrow transplant from her sister, despite the girls only being a partial match. After 378 days in the hospital, Tionna is back where she belongs â&#x20AC;&#x201D; doing cartwheels. And Dr. Slayton is back to searching for new solutions that move medicine forward.

Learn more at ProblemSolvingCare.org.

25052 Tionna Ocala Magazine 9 x 10.875 w-bleed.indd 1

2/18/2019 2:06:08 PM

OM Volume 38, Issue 10

APRIL 2019

OCALA’S #1 MOST AWARD-WINNING CITY MAGAZINE Linda Marks | Founder & Advisor linda@ocalamagazine.com

Philip Glassman, CCIM | Publisher philip@ocalamagazine.com

Penny Miller | VP/Corporate Development/Principal penny@ocalamagazine.com

EDITORIAL John Sotomayor | Managing Editor john@ocalamagazine.com Nick Steele | Arts + Culture Editor nick@ocalamagazine.com

ART Jessi Miller | Creative Director jessi@ocalamagazine.com

EDITORIAL OR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES 352.622-2995

www.ocalamagazine.com OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNER HOPS — Historic Ocala Preservation Society MEDIA PARTNER & PRESENTING SPONSOR of the Tailgating Competition at Live Oak International OFFICIAL MEDIA SPONSOR FOR 2019 International Women's Day EXCLUSIVE MEDIA SPONSOR FOR George Albright Annual Golf Tournament THE OFFICIAL CITY MAGAZINE OF

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OFFICE 743 SE Fort King St. Ocala, FL 34471 MAILING ADDRESS P.O. Box 4649, Ocala, FL 34478 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR by mail or email; nick@ocalamagazine.com SUBSCRIPTION One year - $49, Two years - $95, Single Issue - $5.95. COPYRIGHT ALL contents copyrighted 2019 by Ocala Magazine Publications . All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or advertising content in any manner without written permission is strictly prohibited.

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | APR 2019

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LETTERS

from the publisher

Giving Back WE KICKED OFF OUR CHARITY SPOTLIGHT last month and I promised that we would highlight a different organization each month. For April, we visited with the dedicated folks at Interfaith Emergency Services, Inc. I had the pleasure of learning about their mission from CEO Karla Grimsley. For over thirty years, this forward-thinking organization has been doing a tremendous job of creating resources here in Marion County by providing food and shelter for the homeless in area, helping families in-need of food and basic necessities by setting up food pantries and engaging our community through drives for food and personal hygiene items. When I asked Karla what help they needed, she said that the most impactful way to contribute is by hosting a food/hygiene items drive. They can even support by providing the signage and other materials you will need. ON APRIL 27TH, they will be hosting a great event called Ladies High Tea where the women of our community can gather and support the mission of Interfaith. In September, we are all invited to participate in the Walk a Mile in Our Shoes event, to get a better understanding of what it is to actually walk a mile in a pair of donated shoes, which may or may not be your exact size. It’s important because it humanizes those on the fringes of our society and allows us to contribute to their homeless shelter for women, children and families. WE ARE ALSO TAKING A LOOK AT THE IMPACT VOLUNTEERISM has had, not only here in our own city and county, but throughout Florida. We spoke with the new CEO for Volunteer Florida Clay Ingram, who shared his insights and provided a picture of the many ways in which our wonderful volunteers give of themselves and the impact they have had on our state.

THROUGHOUT THE ISSUE, you will find coverage of many generous, creative and heroic members of our community. They include the many community groups, businesses, volunteers and students from Forest High School who will be participating in The Mayor’s Big Cleanup, the wonderful organizations raising valuable funds for worthwhile causes in our Socially Speaking pages, to a tiny therapy horse named Magic—who spreads happiness wherever he goes. WE NEED TO CONTINUE TO SUPPORT AND CELEBRATE THESE “GIVERS” and participate in

the good works being done right here in our community. So I hope to see you at a food drive, the Mayor’s Big Cleanup, or walking in some second hand shoes to show your support. April is National Volunteer Month, so there’s no better time to turn those good intentions into to some good deeds.

PHILIP GLASSMAN, PUBLISHER

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | APR 2019

Karla Grimsley and Philip Glassman

Karla Grimsley and Philip Glassman Photos by Joshua Jacobs

I’M ALSO THRILLED TO BE ABLE TO FEATURE OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN on our cover. Beyond being a fantastic actress, singer and pop icon—I have always admired her powerful positivity, even when facing a crisis. She took the time out of her busy schedule to talk with our Nick Steele about her new autobiography, her attitude about cancer and her impressions of Ocala/Marion County from her visit here.

APRIL IS FLORIDA VOLUNTEER MONTH Help your neighbors. Strengthen your community. Change your life. Volunteer.

How can you volunteer? Mentor at-risk students Coach a youth sports team Run errands for home-bound seniors Walk dogs at an animal shelter Clean parks or beautify neighborhoods Prepare communities for disasters Provide pro-bono services (i.e. legal council or IT support) Serve on a nonprofitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s board of directors

www.VolunteerFlorida.org 850.414.7400

LETTERS

MAYOR

from the

Volunteerism Makes an Impact Forest High School Gives back on National Volunteer Day BY MAYOR KENT GUINN

pril is National Volunteer Month. Here in the Ocala/Marion County community, we exemplify what it means to give back and to be compassionate. The attitude of Ocala is one of service toward others. There are many examples that range from the extensive volunteer programs at the major hospitals, to the chaplains at the City Police department, to the cleanup services offered to improve our environment. Mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Spring Cleanup Day is a proud annual tradition that the City of Ocala has hosted for many years. I began volunteering with the program back in 1997 when E.L. Foster was the mayor and I became a City Council member. It was paused for a bit, but then we started it up again six or seven years ago. On Saturday, April 20th from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., community groups, businesses, and volunteers will participate by collecting litter or cleaning up an area at various locations throughout the city. At the end of the event, all collected litter will be brought to a collection site at Tuscawilla Park, where participants will be given free T-shirts commemorating their service. One year after the April 24, 2018 shooting at Forest High School, Kelly McManis-Panasuk, the teacher credited with stopping the shooter Sky Bouche in the hallway, will meet with me for the inaugural Forest Gives Back Day on Saturday, April 20th in association with Mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Spring Cleanup. Attendees will gather at First Baptist Church, where many students met with their families after the shooting, early in the day for a celebration ceremony in the sanctuary. Many Forest clubs and athletic teams are participating in the Spring Cleanup as their community service project. Those students will be joined by staff, approved parent volunteers, district personnel, and other community members to clean up the city. Some of the other volunteer services being performed by the Forest High School students include beautifying the campuses of their feeder pattern schools (the different schools that students attend as they progress through grade levels), delivering baked goods to neighborhood children, offering tutoring services for students to prepare for state tests, and reading to children at the local library. Our community is a compassionate community, as seen by this great example of Forest High School students giving back and helping others.

Mayor Kent Guinn 8

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | APR 2019

Programs and initiatives supported by the Volunteer Florida Foundation include: Florida Disaster Fund Florida Gubernatorial Fellows Program Champion of Service Award Governor’s Veterans Service Award Governor’s Young Entrepreneur Award Governor’s Medal of Heroism Florida Black History Month Florida Hispanic Heritage Month

Donate at www.VolunteerFlorida.org/Donate

WORK

state of the

CITY

Every Drop Counts during an irrigation cycle. Prior to running your irrigation system, place straight sided cans, such as a tuna can, around your yard. After your sprinkler cycle has finished, measure the depth of the water in the can. Irrigation systems should deliver no more than one-half to three-quarters of an inch of water. If this amount is exceeded, then the amount of time your system runs needs to be reduced. You may be surprised about how little time is actually required to meet that water level threshold. It’s important to make sure that you are only watering on your designated irrigation day and during the specified time. During this time of year, residents and businesses can irrigate two days a week. Odd numbered or not numbered addresses can irrigate Wednesdays and Saturdays, where even numbered addresses can irrigate Thursdays and Sundays. Watering should not take place between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. These restrictions are also in place for those using irrigation or private wells. You should also only water when needed. You can determine if your turf needs watering by simply stepping on it. If the blades of grass spring back to their original place, the lawn can wait on watering. If your grass stays down, it could use a drink. The length at which you mow your grass can impact its drought tolerance. Never cut more than one-third the length of your blade of grass when mowing. Cutting more than that can stress your grass and cause it to crave more water. The taller you grow your grass, the deeper its root structure will be, allowing it to be more drought-tolerant. One of the best ways to save water while irrigating, is to know your irrigation system. • Do you know all of your zones? • Do you have any broken heads? • Do you know how long it runs in each zone? • Do you know exactly when your system runs?

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | APR 2019

• Is your rain sensor working? • Do you know how to check, fix, or edit any of the previously listed questions? Knowing how to run your system, along with repairing it, can make the difference in having a healthy lawn and a lower water bill. Switching your landscape from sod to a zero to low irrigation Florida Friendly landscape is a surefire way to save even more water. What are other ways you can conserve water? Something as simple as using the dishwasher instead of handwashing dishes can have a dramatic impact on your water consumption. The typical kitchen faucet uses two gallons of water per minute. If you let your water run for a few minutes before you start washing your dishes to ensure it is hot, that’s about six gallons of water. Then, you wash and rinse those dishes, keeping the water running the whole time. Maybe that takes 15 minutes, which is another 30 gallons of water. That is 36 gallons of water, just to wash a small amount of dishes. If you are using an Energy Star rated dishwasher, you would use around four gallons of water. Even if you are using an older model dishwasher the water consumption would be closer to 15 gallons. That is over a 50 percent reduction in water use, just by using a dishwasher. The water we have is the only water that has ever been, or will ever be, here on earth. Though April is Water Conservation Month, make every day water conservation day. FOR MORE INFORMATION Want to learn more about how you can save water or what the City is doing to help promote conservation? Call the City of Ocala Water Resources Department call (352) 351-6772 or email Rachel Slocumb, Conservation Coordinator at rslocumb@ocalafl.org.

Photos courtesy of the City of Ocala

ou wake up in the morning, roll out of bed and start to brush your teeth. Did you turn the faucet off for those two minutes while you were brushing your teeth? If not, you just wasted approximately four gallons of water, eight if you have the same practice at night. Water use can easily add up without much effort. Do you know how much you are using? The month of April is Water Conservation Month. During this month, the City of Ocala will be promoting and supporting water conservation. Protecting our finite natural resource begins in our homes and businesses. The City of Ocala uses an average of 12 million gallons of water a day. It is estimated that fifty percent of this water is used exclusively for irrigation, or to put it simply, watering your lawn. There are ways to reduce water use on your lawn. One simple way is to measure the amount of water that is actually being used

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COUNTY From Landfill to Transfer Station

Marion County Solid Waste is going through an operational transition, and it’s important that you and your family know about it. PROVIDED BY MARION COUNTY

he current landfill is expected to reach its maximum capacity by July of this year. Once full, newly collected waste will be transported to a landfill in Sumter County, making the local Baseline Landfill a transfer station. With limited room here, county officials negotiated 2.5 million cubic tons of landfill space; providing a new location for Marion County to dispose its waste. All of Marion County’s 18 recycling centers will remain fully operational, and you can continue disposing waste just like you always have—properly. “We’re here to help,” said Solid Waste Manager George White, “We want the public to feel free to call us if they have any questions at all. We still accept household waste, tires and most of the same items that we have for decades. We even help properly retire U.S. flags.” So what exactly does this change mean for you? For most of you, this change won’t have a major impact on your day-to-day routines. And if you’re wondering, the county doesn’t expect increases to the solid waste assessment anytime soon. However, there are a few things that Solid Waste will no longer accept and your cooperation is vital to our community’s continued success. Here’s the list of unacceptable waste as of April 2019:

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | APR 2019

“Safeguarding the environment is a top priority and we will continue adapting to the needs of our growing population.” • • • • • • • • • • •

Abrasive grit Asbestos Boats Broken concrete/Concrete pipes Contaminated soil Deceased pets and livestock Dirt and rocks Power poles Railroad ties RVs/Campers/Mobile homes Sludge

There are multiple companies in the area that still collect the items mentioned above. We’re asking residents to use these alternative disposal resources as needed. “We appreciate everyone’s patience during this transitional period,” said Marion County Environmental Services Director Jody Kirkman, “Safeguarding the environment is a top priority and we will continue adapting to the needs of our growing population.”

To best serve residents, Marion County Solid Waste has several important waste disposal programs including e-waste, furniture collection and more. A complete list of special programs can be found on our website. “We have plenty of helpful initiatives in motion at all times,” said White. “One really interesting service we provide is “sharps” disposal. County residents can stop by any of our convenient recycling centers and pick up a sharps container for free. Just speak with an attendant.” FOR MORE INFORMATION visit marioncountyfl.org/solidwaste or contact us at 352-671-8465. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have. Thanks for doing your part in keeping Marion County clean and safe. Facebook – Marion County, Florida Twitter – @MarionCountyGov Instagram – @MarionCountyFL

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L iving Proof BY NICK STEELE

For many, Olivia Newton-John will forever be Sandy from Grease, the girl next door with a heart of gold, who sang and danced her way into our hearts alongside John Travolta. But the English-Australian singer, songwriter, actress, entrepreneur, and activist is so much more. And after five decades in the public eye, we’re being treated to a glimpse behind the headlines through her recently released autobiography Don’t Stop Believin’.

Photo by Denise Truscello

livia Newton-John has been in the news a lot lately. After reuniting with Travolta and some of the Grease cast for a special screening and talk to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the film hosted by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences last year, came the news that she was facing another health crisis. Although she had successfully received treatment for breast cancer in 1992 and believed herself to be cancer-free, she revealed that not only had her cancer

returned in 2013, but again in 2017. The cancer had spread (or metastasized), first to her shoulder and most recently to her lower back, causing her to fracture her sacrum. Speculation about her health actually led to reports that she was near death. The 70year old Newton-John gamely faced down those rumors by appearing on social media, beaming her signature smile, confirming that her cancer had returned, but that she was feeling good and that reports of her being near death had been greatly exaggerated.

“When I first had cancer in 1992, I chose chemotherapy and surgery as my treatment,” she explains. “The second time, about five years ago, I just used herbs and specialized IVs to boost my immune system. I did very well on that,” she continues. “Then last year, I got a little more aggressive with it and added in some more Western medicines.” But Newton-John is also exploring more natural treatments, including modifying her diet by cutting out all sugar and focusing her energy on a whole body approach to wellness. “From what I know, stress can affect your immunity. If you are in a constant state of stress or living under stress, your body doesn’t have the strength to fights things off that it would normally. We all have stress. We’re never going to get rid of stress. But we’re not just a body. Your mind and your spirit influence your body,” she offers. “What we need to do is find a way of releasing it, that works for you.

APR 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

Everyone is different and we all have our own way of doing that. I was able to do all these things for myself. I was able to afford to have meditation classes, acupuncture, homeopathy and massages. I thought that this should be available to everyone being treated for cancer and they should learn about helping their mind, body and spirit. So it was really, really crucial to me that we have all of those elements at my wellness center.” The Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre (ONJ) at the Austin Hospital in Australia, officially opened in 2012 as a result of Newton-John’s tireless work to help create and fund a world-class hospital, wellness center and research facility. There are currently over 200 clinical trials in progress at the ONJ Centre, providing access to new breakthrough therapies and seeking a cure for cancer. “I got to experience the center firsthand, this past September, when I ended up in my own hospital for treatment.” she explains of

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | APR 2019

her stay there during last year’s recurrence. “I was able to do artwork in my room and have someone come in and massage my hands and feet. It was just so healing and made the experience so much more pleasant. I was really proud that all these things I was pushing so hard to provide were not only working, but also important to the patients.” And while she acknowledges that her condition is chronic, she reports that she is stable. “Cancer is something I will need to stay on top of for the rest of my long life,” she says. “It’s up to me to manage my stress, to eat and rest well, and to continue with the healing protocols. I take it one day at a time and today is a great day!” She prefers not to use words like battle or survivor, “Thriver has a different connotation than survivor,” she explains. “Survivor can mean someone hanging onto a lifeboat. A thriver is more like someone who is already in the lifeboat and is enjoying the view. It’s about that different view. Your words are im-

portant because they inform how you think and how you feel. You make that choice by what you say. So I am trying to reinforce the positive. Addressing your emotional health is a major part of your healing. My husband John is always happy to wake me up and remind me, ‘Be careful of what’s in your head. Your body hears you.’” Her husband, John Easterling, is an American eco-entrepreneur, environmentalist and the founder of the Florida-based natural remedy firm Amazon Herb Company. He also is helping his wife treat her pain. “John makes me a green algae drink, every morning with all these herbs and cannabis oil.” she says. “He grows the plants and makes them into liquid for me. I take drops maybe four to five times a day.” But his work goes far beyond just reducing or eliminating the pain those with cancer have to deal with. His focus now with this plant is its natural ability to go after cancer on several fronts. Newton John explains,

Olivia Newton-John Wellness Center photo by Stu Morley, all others on this spread by Denise Truscello

“Motherhood puts everything into perspective."

"I have the most wonderful relationship that I have had in my life. I’m very grateful.”

“The primary focus is on compromising cancer growth by interfering with its life cycle, preventing the cancer from developing its own blood supply by stimulating the natural process of cell suicide known as apoptosis, and activating an immune response to kill the cancer. Everything we do in life revolves around healing of some kind. It not only helps me, but I love that it might also help other people, too. It’s our life mission. He’s my rock. I‘m very lucky to have him.” In fact, she admits that she hadn’t expected to find love again before she met Easterling. “It was a wonderful surprise and a wonderful gift,” she says of falling in love at 59 years-old.” I’m sure a lot of women can relate. You get into your late fifties, going into your sixties, and you think you’re never going to meet anyone. Well, I’m living proof that you can. I have the most wonderful relationship that I have had in my life. I’m very grateful.” But she also believes a common goal is essential. “I think that relationships require

give and take, compromise, understanding, forgiveness, and letting go of the little stuff,” she explains. “I think it helps to have a common goal that you are both working towards and passionate about really helps. The cannabis thing is something that we are both advocates of and working hard to help make it more available to people. It’s wonderful that in many states in America it is easy, but in many other places and countries, it is impossible. People are suffering and it’s needless suffering. People die from opiates, but people don’t die from cannabis. It’s healing plant has so many more secrets yet for us to discover. They are doing so much important research. Not everyone understands it, but there are so many studies available on the internet. If people really want to learn about it, they can just go on an read about all the positive stuff that is happening with cannabis and what a gift it is to us.” In fact, cannabis has become something of a family business. “My daughter Chloe, her fiance and her dad have a cannabis farm

and they’re doing really well with it.” she says “My husband and I are excited about it and trying to help however we can.” When I ask her about the lessons that motherhood has taught her, she doesn’t hesitate, “Motherhood puts everything into perspective. With everything that has happened in my life, if anyone asked me what was the most important thing, I’d say it was my child. Nothing compares to that. It’s a gift. I’m just so thrilled to watch her grow. It is really a wonderful experience.” Another of her favorite people is John Travolta, who she describes as a friend for life. “He just radiates pure joy and love. He is one of the most genuine and sweet people on earth,” she offers. “He really cares for other human beings on a deep level.” And while she says that the potent chemistry they had for one another during the filming of Grease was real, their timing was always off and they never pursued a romantic relationship. “It was the type of

APR 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | APR 2019

“He just radiates pure joy and love. He is one of the most genuine and sweet people on earth.”

husband, family and their animals. “What I focus on now is finding peace during my healing,” she offers. “I believe in moving forward in life—and never back.” And what does she want her legacy to

be? “My legacy? Wow,” she replies, as if the question has caught her off guard. “I hope that my daughter has a wonderful, happy, healthy, fulfilling life. And I really hope that my hospital will end cancer.”

Photo by Irene Newton-John

chemistry that you can’t fake,” she recalls. You either have it or you don’t. We had it! In the end, we left the making out to Sandy and Danny, but the deep feeling of sisterly love that I have for John continues to this day.” When she visited Travolta and had a chance to explore the Ocala/Marion County area, she was struck by all the natural beauty. “Gorgeous. I thought it was fascinating and quite beautiful. You’ve got a lot of horses and I love horses,” she says. “I also love the tropical nights. The nights in Florida, with that warm breeze, are just beautiful. You can’t reproduce that anywhere else.” Travolta also provided her with a first, after their many years as friends. “I flew into John’s private airport there and I’d never seen anything like that before. I was quite impressed,” she enthuses. “When we were filming Grease, he told me, ‘One day, I’ll have a house with a runway.’ I knew he would.” When she gets back home to Australia, her favorite place to unwind is the Gaia Resort, which she created with a dear friend. “We wanted to create it as a place where our friends could come,” she explains. “Now it’s turned into this magnificent world-class resort, retreat and spa, We’ve won all kinds of awards from all around the world for it. We have the best food and truly the best healers.” But most of the time, you can find her on her farm in California with her husband John, two miniature horses named Harry and Winston, their dog Raven, cat Magic and a whole bunch of chickens. “I love going out and collecting the eggs. How wonderful is that? It is such a gift,” she says. “We’re very lucky that there are a lot of farms near where we live, where we can get fresh produce. And we have friends who are great cooks,” she continues with that uproarious laugh. “We’re so lucky in that respect!” Newton-John envisions a future for herself there on farm, where she’s an “old lady” sitting around contentedly with her

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pril is National Volunteer Month and a time to recognize and salute the many volunteers who make contributions all year long. It’s also a time when Volunteer Florida (VF) launches their 30 Volunteers in 30 Days campaign. It’s an initiative through which VF salutes one volunteer a day throughout the month of April. On April 25th of 2018, that honor went to Mark Archdeacon of Marion County. Archdeacon has served as the president of Dunnellon COPS group of Marion County and is an active member of the Community Emergency Response Team. He also works with the Rainbow River Watch and is a board member with Citizen Corps Leadership Council. When bestowing the honor on Archdeacon, VF offered, “Mike’s selfless commitment to protecting his community and his fellow citizens is inspiring and commendable.” When asked why he serves as he does, Archdeacon offered, “I enjoy

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what I do. It’s very rewarding and gives me a sense of fulfillment. I believe that if can help people, even just one person, then my life will have had a purpose.” Each year, honorees from across Florida are recognized for their commitment to make Florida communities safer, stronger, and healthier each day. It is an opportunity to celebrate those who improve the lives of our most vulnerable citizens, including children, seniors, and veterans. It also highlights those who work tirelessly to restore our precious natural resources and those who have helped, and continue to support, statewide disaster relief efforts. As the state’s lead agency for mobilizing volunteers and coordinating donations before, during, and after disasters, VF continues to be actively engaged in both Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Michael recovery efforts. “Volunteer Florida receives over $66 million in federal, state, and local funding to support our efforts to expand na-

tional service, promote disaster resiliency, and advocate for volunteerism in Florida,” explained Chief Executive Officer Clay Ingram of Volunteer Florida (The Florida Commission on Community Service). “The agency was originally established to administer national service programs, like AmeriCorps, throughout the state. Today, the majority of these programs are education-based, but our grantees are also actively working to protect public land, end homelessness, and help adults with developmental disabilities live independently.” Ingram goes on to explain that after Hurricane Andrew hit Florida in 1994, VF evolved to serve as the state’s lead agency for mobilizing volunteers and coordinating donations before, during and after disasters. “We also manage the Florida Disaster Fund, the official fund for aiding Florida’s communities after disasters,” he continued. “Volunteer Florida also exists to endorse volunteerism as a solution to critical issues

in Florida. We host annual community service projects and soon, we will launch an online portal that will connect individuals, families, and groups to volunteer opportunities statewide.â&#x20AC;? During times of disaster, Florida Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) and local government agencies submit requests for volunteers. Simultaneously, VF collects volunteer registrations (typically through an online database) and upon receipt, provides

the requesting organizations with a list of individuals to contact. Each list is developed to ensure that the individualsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; locations, schedules and skill sets align with the specific volunteer opportunity. National service programs, like AmeriCorps, are funded through the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS). VF leverages state and local funding to draw down CNCS grants. Nonprofits, educational foundations, and other organizations apply for

these grants through VF in a competitive process. VF administers AmeriCorps programs in Florida, and 81% of them engage members in schools, where they mentor students and help them overcome barriers to success. Last year, AmeriCorps members served over 50,000 students in Florida, and 67% of those students improved their test scores. In partnership with the Florida Department of Education, VF also adminis-

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ters the Rural Community Assets Fund, or RCAF, to nonprofits and school districts that recruit and mobilize volunteers to help students with everything from reading comprehension to career planning. “Volunteerism has a transformational impact on Florida,” Ingram said “Whether volunteers are reading with struggling students, beautifying a local park, or providing pro-bono accounting services, they are helping our neighbors, strengthening our communities, and making the state a better place for all of us to live.” That sentiment is echoed, on a local level, by Resource Development Manager Connie Carroll of the City of Ocala. “Volunteers are extremely important,” Carroll said. “I’ve been responsible for recruiting volunteers for the City of Ocala since 2013. Without our volunteers we’d be hard pressed to accomplish everything we do! Our volunteers give back to Ocala in a big way by helping us with community events like the Cattle Drive & Cowboy Round-up, First Friday Art Walk, Harvest Fest, Light Up Ocala, and many others,” she continued. “In addition to our community events, we have volunteers who give time weekly at our various centers and with things like exercise classes, and Homework Help, and at the Fort King National Historic Landmark in the visitor’s center. We also have several high school volunteers who give time, which

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is a requirement for their Bright Futures Scholarship. These students must be at least 16 years of age.” Carroll explains that the city currently has 211 volunteers and that in 2018 they contributed a combined total of 25,000 hours. She further reports that volunteer hours are increasing for several reasons, which she believes include making a difference in your community, getting in some physical activity, lowering stress while learning a new skill, and making friends. “We have so many wonderful individuals and groups that volunteer with us,” Carroll explained. “They all inspire me! We have a group of student volunteers from North Marion High School’s National Honor Society who are near and dear to my heart. I work closely with their advisor, Miranda Innis, who does a phenomenal job of encouraging the students to be a part of the community and to really focus on their volunteer assignment when they arrive. I’ve met some great students who volunteer with us annually until they graduate (and sometimes after graduation). I feel like I get to know them on a different level and be a part of their high school experience. It’s great to see our youth get excited about giving back to the community where they live and do it with a smile on their face.” Carroll says that the City of Ocala is always looking for volunteers to give back to their community. “We can cer-

tainly get them busy doing something they enjoy,” she offers. Volunteers are also vital for the Hospice of Marion County, “We couldn’t do everything we do without them in executing our mission to deliver exceptional, compassionate end-of-life care to our community,” says Chief Executive Officer Rick Bourne. “Our volunteers have and continue to make a huge impact not only in the services they provide, but in the positive financial impact they have on our bottom line, as well as helping us with fundraising.” With over 700 volunteers assisting them in their mission, Bourne explains that there are a diverse number of ways to help. “Our hospice volunteers serve in many different areas including patient support, assisting us at our hospice thrift stores, with our veteran-to-veteran support programs and veteran recognition ceremonies, hospice pet programs, community outreach, fundraising events, and at health fairs,” Bourne offered. “There are also opportunities in our ambassadors’ program, at Camp Mariposa with events for children, in administrative and office support, and greeters at our hospice houses, as well as with our Transitions Program which provides respite for clients and caregivers. In 2018, our volunteers provided more than 85,000 hours across all these areas.” Jessica Nisbett, donor relations director at the United Way of Marion County

Volunteer Florida CEO, Clay Ingram

shares that volunteers are also instrumental to the success of their organization. “As a non-profit, we must keep our overhead expenses as low as possible to make the biggest impact in our community,” Nisbett says. “Volunteers allow us to do that and they are vital to our ability to combat the largest issues facing our community. On an annual basis, we work with more than 1,200 volunteers.” Volunteers work in the following areas: • The Board of Directors • Annual Fundraising Volunteers (i.e., campaign cabinet, workplace coordinators, loaned executives) • Community Impact Volunteers for ReadingPals, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, and Strong Families Skill Building Presenters and Mentors • Vision Council members who review funded partner grant proposals and interview agencies, oversee funded partner progress, and make funding decisions for community grants • Day of Caring Volunteers • Internal Committees for Public Relations, Major Gifts, New Accounts, Governance, and Endowment/Planned Giving • Affinity Group Volunteers (i.e., Youth United Way and Women United)

United Way’s ReadingPals program is also strictly volunteer-driven. With over 200 ReadingPal mentors dedicated to improving the literacy skills of kindergarteners in Marion County, these volunteers have a passion for supporting early intervention and giving these children a hand up to be successful for the rest of their lives. The perspectives from the volunteers are inspiring and certainly convey the importance of the work they’re doing. “Children need mentors in their lives,” offered one volunteer for the program. “At ReadingPals, we can give them our individual attention while teaching them the fun of reading.” Volunteer Maria A. Chandler says, “For everyone who feels that they don’t have the time to volunteer, add up the time that you wait in line at the grocery store, your favorite restaurant or coffee shop, shopping for that new thing that you really don’t need, or surfing the web on your phone. You have time to give back.” Hank Harrell explains what it is that motivates him. “Having been a 'reading pal' for several years, I still look forward to that point, that comes each year, when you see a light come on in the child’s eyes. They suddenly understand that they can read!” The United Way of Marion County is actively seeking additional volunteers

to help in all areas, particularly for both the ReadingPals program and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, which provide services for kindergarten students, individuals, and families throughout Marion County. “Volunteering is such a great way to make a hands-on difference in your community. People volunteer for many reasons: feeling compassion for others in need, wanting to give back, and being passionate about the issues facing our community. Whether it is important to you to improve lives in our community by advancing the common good or simply an act of personal development, volunteering offers an opportunity to 'Live United' by engaging in our community,” said Nisbett. “When we reach out a hand to someone, we influence the condition of all. Together we can fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in Marion County, and make a difference for the place that we all call home.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION The Florida Volunteer Month visit flgov.com Volunteer Florida, volunteerflorida.org The City of Ocala: ocalafl.org/recpark Opportunities at Hospice of Marion County, call (352) 8737400 or visit hospiceofmarion. com/volunteers Volunteering with the United Way of Marion County, please call Cathy Truesdale at (352) 732-9696 or visit uwmc.org/ volunteer

APR 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

Paying Tribute to African-American Leaders

ach February, Florida celebrates Black History Month. It is special opportunity to recognize and celebrate the important contributions African-Americans have made, and continue to make, to the Sunshine State. On March 20th, First Lady of Florida Casey DeSantis, along with Governor Ron DeSantis, honored the winners of the Black History Month Art contest during the an awards ceremony at the Florida Governor’s Mansion. The theme for this year’s contest was “Celebrating Public Service” and paid tribute to African-American leaders who have played prominent roles in public service throughout Florida. “Ron and I were honored to celebrate the work of some of our state’s most talented students, teachers and artists as we announced the winners of Florida’s Black History Month student contests and Excellence in Education Award recipients,” said First Lady DeSantis. ‘In addition, we were excited to highlight the artwork of Mary Ann Carroll, a mother of seven children and the only original female member of the Highwaymen, who is an extraordinary example of creativity and resilience. How fortunate we are to have these talented people call Florida home.” All the nominations were received by Volunteer Florida’s Black History Month Committee. “Volunteer Florida was proud to join Governor DeSantis and the First Lady to celebrate Black History Month,” said Volunteer Florida CEO Clay Ingram. “While we honored African Americans of the past, we also recognized the students and educators who share these individuals’ stories and carry on a legacy of greatness. They hold so much promise for Florida’s future.” Ingram was joined at the ceremony by the Governor-appointed Commissioners: Autumn Karlinsky, (Chair), Christina Bonnarigo Villamil, Kerry Anne Schultz, Cindy O’Connell, Kelli Walker, Maritza Rovira-Forino and Penny Miller. Students were invited to participate in academic and creative contests based on this

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Clay Ingram, Governor Ron DeSantis, First Lady Casey Desantis, Deanne Reynolds and Linda Miller-Baker

Cara Mitchum of Downtown Miami Charter School

year’s theme. Students in grades K-3 were invited to participate in an art contest while students in grades 4-12 were invited to participate in an essay contest. Additionally, students, parents, teachers and principals were inGovernor Ron vited to nominate full-time ed- DeSantis and ucators of all student grades for First Lady Casey Desantis with a the Black History Month Excel- student essay contest winner lence in Education Award. Among the winners of the Student Essay Contest was Marion County student Chloe Lundeen of Dunnellon High School. Chloe wrote her essay about James Armistead Lafayette, who served in the Continental Army as a slave and helped America win the Revolutionary War to gain independence from Britain. First Lady Casey DeSantis also hon-

(l to r) Kerry Anne Schultz, Penny Miller, Chair Autumn Karlinsky, First Lady Casey Desantis and Cindy O’Connell

ored three outstanding educators with the Excellence in Education Award. The recipients were nominated by students and peers. the honorees are as follows; Nicole Wilson of Longwood Elementary School in Okaloosa County, Deanne Reynolds of Pembroke Pines Charter Middle School in Broward County, and Linda Miller-Baker of Washington County School Program at Okeechobee Youth Development Center in Okeechobee County. To learn more about Black History Month, please visit www.FloridaBlackHistory. com or contact info@volunteerflorida.org.

A World of Style BY ELKA PETERSON

hen you think of visiting a typical bed-and-breakfast, you probably imagine a cozy overnight stay at an intimate establishment, followed by a homemade breakfast the next morning. What you might not expect is a B&B that offers destination-inspired rooms, designed with a nod to such iconic locales as Tokyo, Paris, London and Africa. But that’s exactly what you’ll find at Bralonni's Bed & Breakfast in nearby Trenton, Florida. Just a little over an hour’s drive from Ocala, Bralonni's is a great place for your next getaway. We sat down with the B&B’s owner Vicki Sawyer-Lindo for a quick chat. What inspired you to start a B&B? I’ve traveled throughout my life and have had the opportunity to experience some of the most exquisite hotels to quaint privately-owned inns. I’ve always enjoyed the intimacy and privacy of a smaller inn and I believe these experiences were the catalysts of the inspiration behind the vision of Bralonni’s. Quite honestly, I enjoy meeting people and had a desire to develop a refuge that would allow people an opportunity to mentally and emotionally escape from their everyday lives; a place to relax, relate, release and re-group. The first time that I saw the property, my mind began to run wild with ideas and possibilities and I knew that this would be the perfect location for my vision. I envisioned a venue packed with amenities to accommodate any need that a guest may have. Where does the name originate from? As the new construction was underway, I began to visualize a venue where weddings, reunions, retreats, corporate, church and charitable events could be held while at the same time offer lodging. What I envisioned was very special to me and I embraced my vision with my whole heart, as I do my grand-babies. This is where the name Bralonni’s was birthed. I named the venue after my grand-children Braylon and Zerlonni because I love them with my whole heart. Are there any special features? Bralon-

& Comfort

ni’s is Trenton’s Best Kept Secret with amenities throughout the venue. Some of our features are an indoor fountain in our guest room corridor, which is the perfect place for reading and relaxing. Our gift shop has unique customized Bralonni’s souvenirs from crystal to lingerie. One of my favorite desserts is ice cream, so of course, Bralonni’s has an Ice Cream Parlor as well as a Tiki Bar for the enjoyment of our guests. Our authentic Pergola is equipped with a grill designed for private parties or intimate evenings for two. We are most exited about our newly-constructed Pavilion that accommodates up to 400 guests. The property also has a Basketball and Volleyball court, two Jacuzzi’s, a game room, computer room, and much more.

SPONSORED

Zerlonni and Braylon

What inspired the decor? While designing Bralonni’s, I thought about my travels and wanted to share my experiences with my guests. Each of our suites are themed and decorated based on places I’ve visited/ dreamed of visiting and enjoyed. Downstairs you will experience the ambiance of Egypt, Bar Harbor, London, Tokyo, and Houston. The highlight of our downstairs suites is Caribbean. The Caribbean Suite offers a beautiful garden view with two private decks, a king size bed, 50” flat screen TV, garden tub, his/her walk-in closets, his/her walk-in showers and kitchen. Our upstairs suites are themed after Paris, Maine, Texas, Africa and Japan; most of which have private balconies. What type of breakfast is served? We know that breakfast is the most important meal

of the day. Therefore, our chef will start each day by preparing a full course buffet style breakfast that will be served in one of our dining areas. Are pets welcome? We’ve carefully thought about the comfort of our guests, so we are considering “Pet friendly” suites in the near future. What do you think attracts visitors to Bralonni's B&B? Bralonni’s B & B is serene. It’s a place that can’t be classified as an everyday “Hotel” because it’s not. It’s a place where you can be free; a place of comfort; a place to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Trust me, it’s where you want to be! FOR MORE INFORMATION on this unique B&B visit Bralonnisbnb.com or call (352) 463-0023.

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The

Cookbook Connoisseur BY ROBIN FANNON OF RSVP ROBIN

y lifelong cookbook obsession began at 7 years old, when my Mom gave me Betty Crocker’s The Boys and Girls Cookbook. It had a cheerful, bright yellow cover and was full of clever recipes, colorful photos and amusing illustrations.

If someone asked me to describe a perfect afternoon, it would include delicious food aromas emanating from the oven, a favorite cooking program on the television and enjoying a sumptuous snack while simultaneously perusing a beautiful cookbook. I have found Ina Garten’s The Barefoot Contessa series is particularly wonderful for such a day. While I do have a bookcase full of classics like Craig Claiborne’s The New York Times Cookbook, Marcella Hazan’s Essentials of Italian Cooking, The Silver Palate series by Sheila Lukins and Julee Rosso and Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child, Louisette Bertholle, and Simone Beck—my eyes are always peeled for the latest mas-

terpiece for inspiration. Whether you are a fan of Martha Stewart or not, her books are incredibly detailed and, unlike many cookbooks, her recipes are thoroughly tested. When working at the Food Network in New York, I had the opportunity to spend time in the test kitchen. While recipe testing can be a fun and delicious occupation, it can also be disappointing, tedious and frustrating—which is why the best cookbooks are those where the

Photo by Philip Marcel APR 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

recipes have been tested by professionals. There’s also something so visually seductive about cookbooks that feature beautifully-shot, glossy photos, which is why I have included credits for the photographers and food stylists for each book. I believe that behind every great cookbook author is a great team of artists. My current favorite cookbooks have all been released within the last few years, but are already becoming my goto classics. I hope you agree!

“...THE BEST COOKBOOKS ARE THOSE WHERE THE RECIPES HAVE BEEN TESTED BY PROFESSIONALS. ” inspires me to get in the kitchen and start rattling some pots and pans! My Favorite Recipes: Blood Orange and Roasted Beets with Yogurt, Tarragon and Hazelnuts and the Spinach and Goat Cheese Frittata

The title Simple is an acronym for S “short on time” I ingredients are 10 or fewer M is for make ahead P is for pantry-led L is for lazy days E is for easier than you think While novice home cooks might find some of these recipes complicated they will be rewarded handsomely by the results. My Favorite Recipes: Hot Charred Cherry Tomatoes with Cold Yogurt and Orzo with Shrimp, Tomato and Marinated Feta

Cook Beautiful

by Athena Calderon with photos by Johnny Miller — food styling by Rebecca Barthosheky

Miller won the James Beard Foundation award for food photography, so it’s a visual stunner. It also doesn’t hurt that Calderon is a former model, an interior designer and has great personal style. She is the founder of the incredibly popular “Eyeswoon” lifestyle blog and her Instagram page is swoon-worthy indeed. Although the recipes are “rooted in simplicity”, this is not a beginners cookbook. It definitely requires planning, foraging and may include unfamiliar ingredients to some. Heavily influenced by a Mediterranean diet, the ingredients are always seasonal and fresh, featuring lots of fruit, vegetables, proteins, herbs, spices and olive oil. Every time I pick up this book it

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Simple

by Yotam Ottolenghi with Tara Wigley and Esme Howarth, photos by Jonathan Lovekin — food styling by Wei Tang

I first fell in love with Chef Ottolenghi’s food style when his amazing cookbook Jerusalem was released in 2011. If I had to describe his cooking style I would say he creates layers of flavors that are heavily influenced by Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine. Ingredients such as tahini, za’atar and sumac make regular appearances. This is not your typical American diet fare. But if you are willing to explore different flavors and textures then this book is for you.

Food Swings

by Jessica Seinfeld with photos by John Kernick and Mark Seliger — food styling by Sara Quessenberry

Admittedly, I have a huge girl crush on this powerhouse of a woman. Yes, she is Jerry Seinfeld’s wife but that is hardly her claim to fame. Seinfeld is an accom-

plished best-selling author and founder of Good Plus Foundation, which provides much needed useful items to underprivileged families. Her energy and sense of playfulness in her approach to cooking is fun and contagious. The premise of Food Swings is that sometimes we eat healthy and sometimes we don’t. The recipes are all relatively simple and can be prepared with readily available ingredients. Her website www.jessicaseinfeld.com is easy to navigate and provides a plethora of delicious family-friendly recipes. My Favorite Recipes: Oven Fried Chicken and Creamy Mushroom Pasta

PINK SPAGHETTI

WITH BEET & RICOTTA SAUCE Makes 4 to 6 servings »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »»

Kosher salt 2 red beets, the size of tennis balls 2 tablespoons plus ¼ cup olive oil ½ cup boiling water 2 cups part-skim ricotta 1 pound dried spaghetti ¼ cup freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese ½ cup chopped fresh basil ¼ cup chopped toasted walnuts Zest of 2 lemons

Fill a large pot with water and several large pinches of salt and bring to a boil. » Peel the beets, then shred them in a food processor, using a shredding blade, or on the large holes of a box grater. You’ll have about 4 cups shredded beets. » Heat 2 tablespoons of the olive oil in a medium sauté pan over medium heat. Add the grated beets and a pinch of salt and sauté, stirring frequently, for 3 to 4 minutes. Once the beets have softened, add the ½ cup boiling water and cook for 3 minutes more. » Transfer the beets to a food processor, add the remaining ¼ cup olive oil, and purée into a smooth paste. Add the ricotta and 1½ teaspoons salt. Purée again until very smooth. Set aside. » Cook the spaghetti in the pot of boiling water according to the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water and drain the spaghetti. » In a large bowl, quickly combine the hot pasta with three-quarters of the beetricotta sauce and mix together well. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time. Add more sauce and/or water if necessary. Any extra sauce will keep in the refrigerator for a few days (see Tip). » Twirl a serving of pasta onto a plate or into a bowl and sprinkle with some Parmigiano-Reggiano, basil, walnuts, and lemon zest. Repeat with the remaining pasta. Serve immediately. Tip: Use the extra pasta sauce as a veggie dip, sandwich spread, or crostini topping

The Love & Lemons Cookbook

by Jeanine Donofrio with photos by Jack Mathews — food styling by Jenn Elliott Blake

This dynamic husband and wife team are the co-creators of the award winning blog “Love & Lemons” (loveandlemons.com) If you are vegetarian or vegan then this is the site and book for you. The New York Times describes it as “happiness in itself tossed in every bowl”. Many of their recipes are finished with a squeeze of lemon, which makes it all very light, fresh and cheerful. Prettiness aside, it does deliver some seriously de-

APR 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

CHICKEN MEATBALLS IN ROASTED LEMON BROTH

Sarah Hymanson and Sara Kramer Here’s a technique we never knew about: roasting lemon halves until puffy and caramelized so they release a deeply aromatic, concentrated juice. It’s the centerpiece of this soup and brightens the broth immensely, making it the perfect base for mini meatballs, veggies, and creamy potatoes. This recipe was inspired by a friend’s grandmother’s soup that Sarah and Sara tasted while in Israel. Their love of Middle Eastern flavors—so evident at their popular L.A. eateries, Madcapra and Kismet—are on full display here. Makes 5 servings

Meatballs »» ½ cup pine nuts

»» 1 leek, white and light green parts, only, finely diced »» 1 fennel bulb, finely diced »» 2 shallots, finely diced »» 3 sprigs fresh thyme »» 2 tablespoons olive oil »» Kosher salt »» 1 pound ground chicken (dark meat only) »» Freshly ground black pepper

Broth »» 2 lemons, halved

»» ¼ cup olive oil »» 1 shallot, halved with the root intact and outer skin removed »» 3 bay leaves »» ½ cinnamon stick »» 8 cups unsalted chicken broth »» 1½ teaspoons crushed dried mint »» Kosher salt »» 4 cups cubed potatoes (use fingerlings or another small creamy variety) »» 4 cipollini onions, halved and sliced into ¼-inch half-moons »» 1 bunch hearty spinach, long stems trimmed

Make the meatballs: Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, tossing them several times so they cook evenly. Transfer to a plate and let cool. Once cool, coarsely chop the nuts. » Combine the leek, fennel, shallots, thyme, olive oil, and ½ teaspoon salt in a medium skillet. Sweat over medium-low heat until everything is soft, about 10 minutes. Remove the thyme and let the mixture cool. » In a large bowl, combine the cooked vegetables, pine nuts, chicken, 2 teaspoons salt, and several cracks of pepper. Cover and refrigerate. Make the broth: Preheat the oven to 400°F. » Roast the lemon halves cut-side up on a baking sheet for at least 45 minutes, until the lemons are puffy and the bottom ends are browned. Let the lemons cool and deflate, then squeeze them over a strainer or sieve to catch any pulp and seeds. Set the juice aside. (You’ll have about ¼ cup roasted lemon juice, depending on the size of your lemons.) » Heat the olive oil in a stockpot over medium heat. Place the shallot halves in the olive oil, cut-side down, and cook until well browned. Add the bay leaves and the cinnamon stick and swirl around a few times. Carefully add the broth, being mindful of the hot oil, and follow with the mint, a pinch of salt, and the potatoes. Slowly bring the broth to a light simmer, allowing the potatoes to absorb the flavors without breaking down. » After 20 minutes, or when the potatoes are just tender, remove the shallot and the cinnamon stick. Add the onions. Next, add the roasted lemon juice 1 tablespoon at a time. Taste the broth after each addition and adjust the seasoning. » Finish the meatballs: With lightly wet hands, form the chicken mixture into balls about 1 inch in diameter. (You should have 25 to 30 meatballs total.) When done, add the meatballs to the broth. Gently poach over medium heat for about 7 minutes, or until just cooked through. Right before removing from the heat and serving, add the spinach to the broth to wilt. Remove the bay leaves and serve.

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WORTH CHECKING OUT

Here’s a round-up of some other notable cookbooks to add to your collection.

Salt Fat Acid Heat

Photo by Philip Marcel

by Samon Nosrat

Cravings and Cravings; Hungry For More by Chrissy Teigen licious and healthy recipes. Local, seasonal produce are the stars here and the recipes are simple and perfect for the warm Florida summers. They can do some pretty gosh darn amazing things with Brussels sprouts! My Favorite Recipes: Lemon Broccoli and Caper Couscous and Apple Fennel Salad

Cherry Bombe, The Cookbook

by Kerry Diamond and Claudia Wu with photos by Alpha Smoot – food styling by Claudia Ficca

This book is about women and food. Part of the dedication reads, “Thank you for being domestic goddesses, culinary trailblazers and queens in the kitchen.” I am a big fan of Kerry Diamond and the Cherry Bombe brand she has built. She is the owner of Smith Canteen coffee shop in Brooklyn, and in addition to this book, there is a quarterly magazine and Radio Cherry Bombe. Then there is “Jubilee”, an annual conference where culinary sisters can connect, network and discuss current issues. Fans and followers are affectionately known as “The Bombe Squad.” Personally I love to listen to her podcasts on my daily walk, in which she interviews mavens of food, health, and style. The book is simply gorgeous and it’s pink! My Favorite Recipes: Chicken Meatballs in Roasted Lemon Sauce and Pink Spaghetti with Beet and Ricotta Sauce

Eat Beautiful by Wendy Rowe

The Clean Plate

by Gwyneth Paltrow

Food For Thought

by Christina Ferrare

Magnolia Table by Joanna Gaines

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Nesting Habits BY NICK STEELE

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or Ocala-based artist Carlynne Hershberger, creativity runs in the family. “The art bug bit just about everyone in my family in some form or another. My mother paints, my grandmother painted, and my uncles and cousins have been involved in the arts,” she explains. “I remember visiting my great uncle and seeing the oil portraits he was working on; the smell of turpentine in his apartment; thinking how much I would love to get into those paint tubes. When I was little, my grandfather would ask me to draw cartoons from the Sunday comics. So I did that for him all the time. He was very encouraging.” But her early passions were not limited to the funny papers. “According to my mother, I drew on the walls and furniture from the time I could hold a crayon,” she shares. “I remember art supplies being my absolute favorite thing in the world. I still remember the smell of my first box of 64 Crayola crayons. From kindergarten on up, all my favorite classes in school were art classes.” From that point, her path as an artist was set and she began a period of exploration that led to her current style. “My first love was drawing, so I worked in graphite and colored pencil for 20 to 30 years. I gradually started adding other mediums. I worked in pastel, oil, acrylic, watercolor, and collage. Now I like to mix media,” she explains. “I mainly use acrylic on canvas but also add gold leaf. When I want to work on paper, I use watercolor combined with colored pencil and gouache.” Hershberger’s advice to anyone interested in pursuing a career in the arts is simple. “Whatever your thing is, do it and continue to do it. Build a strong body of work. Learn as much as possible. Take as many classes or workshops as possible. The main thing is the quality of the work. That comes first,” she offers. “Then think about selling. You have to put the time in. If there was a shortcut, I would’ve found it!” Hershberger has certainly put the time in and has risen to prominence in our com-

“There are so many people affected by adoption, but the first mother’s view is seldom seen. I’m afraid that series does upset some people because it goes against the usual happy adoption narrative. munity through a combination of public art projects, displays of her fine art, and custom portrait commissions. You’ve probably even admired her life-sized painted pony Aggie, from the Marion Cultural Alliance (MCA) public-art project Horse Fever, which stands in front of City Hall. As an artist, it was an exciting and rewarding experience for both Hershberger and her husband Mark. “Love Horse Fever!” she enthuses. “I painted three of the horses, one in each group.

My husband also did three horses, and he sculpted the original “Horse Fever in Motion” figure and built all the horses that were painted in that group,” she continues. “We loved working on those. They were fun, challenging, and a great thing for Ocala. People come from all over to see the horses and take pictures with them. It also seemed to spark more interest in public art. Just look at where we are now with the sculptures at Tuscawilla Park and now we have the art park. It’s been a

APR 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

wonderful thing for us and the town.” Hershberger was also recently tapped by Ocala’s Community Cultural Arts Manager Laura Walker for another prominent public-art project. “Laura contacted me about painting the transformer on the square. It’s right across the street from the new Hilton building,” she explains. “It started out as a big, green electrical box—not that attractive—and they wanted to make something pretty to face the new hotel. We got together with Mike Zeak, from Zeak Technique (custom welding, fabrication, and restoration), and collaborated on the design. We wanted something that said Florida, so we came up with the palm fronds, and Mike did his design in the metal work fence around the box. I think our efforts worked well together and hopefully we’ll be able to do more in the future. Shouldn’t all transformer boxes be decorated? Towns everywhere have all these flat surfaces just waiting to be used as canvases.” And while she can get pretty excited

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at the prospect of transforming America’s electrical boxes into works of art, her passion project is her Nest series. “For me, the nest has deep personal meaning,” she explains. “But it can mean many things to many people. Recently someone actually asked me what it is that people see in the nest paintings, so I asked the question on my Facebook page,” she continues. “One person said hope, another said family. For some, it’s about bird watching or being a nature lover and for some, it may just mean springtime. My

“The main thing is the quality of the work. That comes first. Then think about selling. You have to put the time in. If there was a shortcut, I would’ve found it!”

friend Cheryl Ritter said, ‘For me, they represent nature’s intriguing architecture. Built with determination, purpose, and adaptability.’ I thought that was a great answer, because since I began really studying the nests I’ve become more and more enchanted with birds and their abilities. In fact, if there’s such a thing as reincarnation, I want to come back as a bird, maybe a crow. They’re very smart. I don’t look for people to have a specific takeaway from the nests. If they’re drawn to them, they’re seeing something personal and that meaning could be as unique as each individual. That’s how it should be with any art. Everyone sees something different in it.” For the artist herself, her initial inspiration came in the form of a rather industrious lodger. “A wren began building a nest in my mailbox,” she recalls. “This happened for several years in a row and I got to watch the baby birds and see them fledge. After the nests were abandoned, I saved them when I cleaned out the mailbox. My interest in

APR 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

nests seemed like a logical progression of my work, since all my work is based in the natural world. I decided to paint the first one outside, just to explore it as part of my landscape work. I enjoyed it so much I did another and then another. People began to respond to them and I’m still intrigued by them so I guess I’ll be painting them for a while. I’ve also collected quite a few nests. I’ve been gifted nests by friends and relatives when they find them, so now I have a corner of my studio that’s filled with them. It’s great; I always have a reference on hand.” There was, however, another more personal catalyst for the series. It is an exploration of coerced and unethical adoptions, from a birth mother’s point of view. “That first nest, that I painted, was part of my Silent Voices series,” she explains. “The series is about the view of a mother whose child was surrendered at birth in a forced adoption— about living with infant adoption from my point of view. It began as a form of therapy for me, a way of working through the trauma and healing,” she continues. “There are so many people affected by adoption, but the first mother’s view is seldom seen. I’m afraid that series does upset some people because it goes against the usual happy adoption narrative. It can be a difficult subject, but it can open up discussion about a reality that many don’t realize exists. Silent Voices is also an ongoing project. I’ve had one exhibit with those paintings in Georgia. I’d like to have another, maybe closer to home. My ultimate dream is to have a museum show with it someday. I also have a book, available through Amazon, with some of the paintings and narrative poetry that I wrote to go with them.” Hershberger is also often engaged to create custom commissioned portraits. “When I do portraits, I usually go back to my first love...colored pencil,” she explains. “I like the control and amount of detail I get with a pencil. I do children’s portraits mainly. They’re more fun than grown-ups. If possible I like to take photos of the subjects myself or I’ll work with the client’s photos. I’ll go over the pictures with the clients to choose the best one. For many of them, I like to work on colored paper. Different colors can set a mood and really enhance the portrait. I really prefer candid shots to work from because that’s when you see the child’s

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personality come through. It’s a real joy to bring that little face to life on paper.” Her drive to capture that sort of authenticity in her work can also be witnessed in her paintings of the natural world. “There’s just so much I want to paint. Mother Nature keeps inspiring me,” she offers. “We need to keep our connection to nature, learn from it and protect it. For me, painting is how I stay connected.” Hershberger recently staged a threemonth exhibition at City Hall, and her work is frequently included in the MCA member shows. A few of her pieces are available through the MCA gift shop. She will also be part of some upcoming group shows at Blackbird Farm and Studio in Micanopy (micanopyblackbird.com). She is represented by Signature Art Gallery in Tallahassee and Macon Arts in Macon, Georgia. For more information, visit carlynnehershberger.com.

COMING JANUARY 2020

Celebrating OM Ocala Magazine’s 40th Anniversary › A COFFEE TABLE HARDCOVER RED BOOK › THE TOWN & COUNTRY ISSUE › THE STATE OF THE CITY › HORSE CAPITAL OF THE WORLD

A state-of-the-art edition showcasing our great city of Ocala and Marion County.

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Home Sweet Parade of Homes 38

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verybody loves a parade, especially when it’s the 2019 Spring Parade of Homes. Organized by the the Marion County Building Industry Association (MCBIA), the parade is the largest home event in Marion County, showcasing the newest designs and construction trends that the building industry has to offer. The parade kicks off this month from April 25th through Sunday, April 27th. It returns May 2nd to the 5th and again May 9th through the 12th. The hours for the tours will be 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays.

For the past 50 years, the MCBIA member professionals have provided construction services on a wide variety of projects from new home and commercial construction to renovations such as remodeling a kitchen or bath, or building that much-needed addition to an existing home. We caught up with Parade Chairwoman and President of Architectural Artworks & Graphics Jackie Suarez to get the details for the upcoming parade. “The first Parade of Homes took place in 1971 and included just ten homes,” says Suarez. “The 2019 Spring Parade will have 36 entries spread out all over the county, with homes ranging in price from $156,000 to several that are over one million dollars.” The MCBIA currently has around 150 members. MCBIA, was previously called the MCBA (Marion County Builders Association) and was officially chartered and joined the State (FHBA ) and National (NAHB) Associations in the seventies. “There is no cost for attending and all models are open for viewing,” says Suarez. “There will be a condensed version of the Parade of Homes Magazine out during the first week of April and the full version should be out by April 15th.” The Parade of Homes Magazine will include a directory of MCBIA members. The group urges the public to use this as your guide, to avoid being scammed by unlicensed tradespeople. FOR MORE INFORMATION Visit their website at MCBIA.org, for further information.

APR 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

OM0419

Contact Eric Shaw, Local Rep 352-497-9707

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The White Charity Register Special OM 40th Anniversary Edition Join us in Celebrating our 40th anniversary in 2020 at our CHARITY REGISTER WHITE PARTY GRAND EVENT. Reserve Your Ad Placement Now â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Space Is Limited. More Information On Our White Party Will Be Forthcoming.

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play

Enchanting Events This month our team was out on the town at some spectacular events, including the Ocala Royal Dames for Cancer Research’s Tiara Ball, Voices of Change Animal League’s (VOCAL) FurBall, and the Central Florida Wedding Expo. We also take a look at some of the best locations in our area to host your next soiree, glittering affair, and your wedding day. Left on Broadway, pictured above, entertained guests with their sultry sound at VOCAL’s FurBall. From left, saxophonist Greg Snider, percussionist Karim Martin, vocalist Olivia Ortiz, and guitarist Mike Wall. Socially Speaking p44 | Bridal & Event Guide p50

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socially speaking

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STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY RONALD W. WETHERINGTON | SOCIAL EDITOR Ron@ocalamagazine.com

Glamorous Tiara Ball Supports Cancer Cure

nce a year, the crème de la crème of Ocala/Marion County society gather for the Ocala Royal Dames for Cancer Research Tiara Ball. This year’s 33rd annual ball was held at Stone Creek Golf and Country Club with grand results. “Imagine”, the iconic song by John Lennon, was the theme as the Ocala Royal Dames and their over 300 guests celebrated. Dressed in black-tie, attendees were greeted with a magnificent flower arrangement highlighting a large white peacock that was picture perfect. The ballroom, decorated in gold and white, featured tall cylinders enveloped in bling with large white flower arrangements. Two English footmen, in full costume, added to the regal ambiance. The Tiara Ball chairwomen, Lydia Kuttas, Nor-

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ma Chicklo, and Jody Micilcavage, worked countless hours to make the evening a success. Attired in their lovely white gowns, three debutantes were presented to society. They were: Hannah Bickler, Fayth Garmley, and Emily Rochlin. Three Royal Knights also were honored. They were: Dr. David McFaddin, Dr. William Mendenhall and Dr. John Mullinax. The Master of Ceremonies was 2018 Royal Knight Reverend Dr. David Sokol. Music throughout the evening was provided by Josh Angel. There were too many official sponsors to list here, including Ocala Magazine. Since its inception, the Ocala Royal Dames for Cancer Research has raised over three-million dollars net. They provide funds to researchers at UF Health Cancer Center, Gainesville and Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida. The seed money they provided Dr. Shari Pilon Thomas from Moffitt Cancer Center contributed to the development of the prescription medication Keytruda®, which is now the standard treatment for advanced melanoma. This drug has also just been approved as first line therapy in lung cancer. The Royal Dames also work with Ocala’s College of Central Florida by providing scholarships to students pursuing careers in cancer research, treatment, and education. The College of Central Florida’s Shop Talk program is also supported by the Ocala Royal Dames. In 1986, Theresa Castro brought together a group of public-spirited women and organized the Ocala Royal Dames for Cancer Research which became chartered as a not-forprofit organization in 1987. Theresa’s daughter, a highly-esteemed businesswoman, Bernadette Castro elaborates, “Even my mother could never have envisioned the magnificent and financially record-breaking 2019 Tiara Ball Imagine. I must say, however, that with Lydia Kuttas as chair, I was not at all surprised. Lydia has a very special gift for taking what she imagines and

Shannon and Dr. Michael Hollaway

turning those beautiful, whimsical ideas into reality. From the elegant décor, to the beautiful debutantes, the Royal Knights presentation to the dancing, it was all wonderful. You would have thought you were in New York or Palm Beach, but you were right here in Ocala.” Ms. Castro continues, “Over 33 years ago, my mother brought her idea of the Royal Dames for Cancer Research from Ft. Lauderdale to Ocala. The Royal Dames and their Tiara Ball in Ft. Lauderdale are still going strong, and here in Ocala, we’re still going strong, too! As the Tiara Ball continues to grow — outdoing itself year after year. Consistently, the Ocala Royal Dames organization hosts the most glamorous fundraiser in the region, and in so doing has donated over $3 million to cancer research, all with volunteers and no overhead costs! I salute Lydia Kuttas, her fellow Royal Dames, and our generous community leaders, who have supported this year’s ball. I am proud to call myself a Royal Dame!” Cancer is an insidious killer. Imagining a cure for cancer, as the Ocala Royal Dames are doing, is assuredly the most worthwhile of charitable causes. To learn more about the Ocala Royal Dames or to make a donation, visit ocalaroyaldames.org.

Kareem and Anastasia Bohsali, Katherine Sokol and Tony Deras

Dakota Gardner, Norma Chicklo, Lydia Kuttas and Joshua Boodos

Suraida Kamal, Linda and Bill Paul

Fayth Garmley, Emily Rochlin and Hannah Bickler

Dr. Jim and Norma Chicklo, Jim and Susanne Cantrell

Lydia Kuttas and Dr. Shari Pilon-Thomas

APR 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

socially speaking

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STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK STEELE

Compassion is Contagious

oices of Change Animal League (VOCAL) hosted their fourth annual FurBall on February 23rd at Golden Ocala Golf and Equestrian Club. It was an evening of elegance, frivolity, and some serious fundraising. “Our goal was $100,000 and we exceeded that by $10,000,” President Linda Norman said, who presided over the evening with her Co-Founders Kate Rengel and Lauren Carpenter. “Our presenting sponsor, the Paglia family of Florida Express Environmental, gave very generously. A $10,000 match-challenge was issued early in the evening on behalf of the Jane Graham McKay and Katherine Hill McKay Endowment Fund. Four generous donors donated the first $10,000 and that was subsequently matched by the fund. Michael and Shari Paglia made a $10,000 donation and then offered another $5,000 if that was matched, which it was,” Norman enthuses. “There are many others that were very generous, but prefer to remain anonymous.” The generosity was indeed contagious at this lavish event. The theme of the evening was “Mardi Paws” and guests were greeted by the event’s doggie mascot Edna, one of VOCAL’s adoption success stories (an adorable pitbull with over 33,000 followers on Instagram) decked out in her festive finery. “Edna was definitely one of the highlights of the evening,” Norman offers. “Born without a cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls walking and movement, she was never expected to walk. Edna’s determination and unbridled love of life has inspired all of us to look at obstacles as mere challenges and just overcome them. That’s what Edna did.” The evening featured a gourmet dinner, lively gaming tables in the casino room, the sultry sounds of Left on Broadway, inspiring presentations, and decadent desserts served up on Golden Ocala’s expansive second

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floor porch. Evan Hecht, the master of ceremonies, kept the crowd engaged throughout the evening. A short video, produced by R&L Global Logistics for VOCAL, was shown. It featured highlights of their community outreach programs, pet food bank, and shelter operations. The video can be seen on the VOCAL website and Facebook page. VOCAL is a volunteer-run, nonprofit 501(c)(3) with a vision of solving the homeless pet/pet overpopulation problem in Marion County. To learn more about VOCAL, visit vocalforpets.org

Darcy Bird and Dr. Maggie Bell

Nathan and Amanda Mitts, Alaina and Mike Wickham

Marissa Paglia, Ashley Sutherland, Sara, Dominic _ Vincent Carrizzo, Kristen and Ryan Hinshaw

Lauren Carpenter, Linda Norman, Kate Rengel

Nancy and Dr. Fred Wollett

Kindel Carpenter with Edna

Tammy Davis of VOCAL oversees the gaming tables Sasha and Mike Arthur

Evan and Tiara Hecht

Nate Chambers and Dasha Ivandeava

APR 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

OCALA MAGAZINE PRESENTS

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socially speaking

PLAY

STORY BY NICK STEELE PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK STEELE AND MAHAL IMAGERY

A Golden Afternoon

he weather was perfect for the Central Florida Wedding and Special Event Expo at Golden Ocala. The sort of weather you hope for on your big day—warm and sunny with a gentle breeze, without even a trace of humidity. Inside, guests sipped bellinis and nibbled on gourmet treats as they made their way through a wedding planner’s wonderland. The Expo’s organizer, Amelia Jewett, kept a watchful eye over the event, ensuring that everyone was having a delightful time, as any good hostess does. Golden Ocala was a sponsor and the perfect venue not only for the Expo, but also for any sort of celebration. With an extraordinary eye for detail, everything from the delicious culinary offerings, attentive staff, and elegant interiors were absolutely awe-inspiring. Party Time Rentals was another sponsor who wowed, with chic environments that demonstrated how they could personalize and transform an event space through exceptional interior design. Ocala Magazine and TheKnot.com were media sponsors for this fabulous afternoon. We met some amazingly talented vendors, too many to call them all out by name. But one of our favorites was Lyn Larson of mahalimagery.com, who blew us away with infectious energy her gift for telling stories through photography—so much so, that we have included some of her photos as well. Attendees left with some serious swag. The getting was good, as organizers gave away $1,500 worth of goodies in their VIP tote bags, $6,000 worth of wedding-related door prizes, as well as four-night Royal Caribbean cruise to one lucky couple. To learn more about the expo, visit CFWeddingExpo.com

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Alisa Carlino of Golden Ocala and Amelia Jewett of the Central Florida Bridal and Event Expo

Alexa Raven Metcalfe

Ray Gopaul and John Smithies of Party Time Rentals. Photo by Imahal Imagery

Guests wait to enter the Center Florida Wedding Expo. Photo by Mahal Imagery

Sarah Watts and Monika Whitehead of Sugar Mamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sweets

Katie Coleman and Abby Herrygeus

Suzanne Ramirez and Evan Hogewood

Madison Karelas, April Fontana, Tonya Futch and Ariel Karelas Belinda Smith models a gown from Dalis Bridal Couture

Jhury Fleuranvil and Leonardo Gabriel of SharpLenz Photo

Ethan Burns and Kristin Miller of Salon Jaylee Photo by Mahal Imagery

APR 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

L cation,

Location, Location Juliette Falls

Juliette Falls

Appleton Museum of Art

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve probably heard this oft-repeated term, first coined in the 1920s, as it is usually used in association with real estate locations and the effect the location has on their value. But as anyone who has ever planned a wedding or a grand celebration, the location is certainly one of the most important elements. So whether you are planning for your big day or a more intimate affair, hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a round-up of some of the most appealing locations around.

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APPLETON MUSEUM 4333 E Silver Springs Boulevard, Ocala AppletonMuseum.org (352) 291-4455, x1831 The Appleton Museum of Art offers sleek architecture and several elegant and unique indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinner or celebrations of any kind. The café and courtyard are ideal for parties or dinners with maximum seating of 100 in the café, however when combined with the courtyard, they can accomodate up to 250 seated. Outside catering is required. BRALONNI’S BED AND BREAKFAST 6359 SW County Road 307, Trenton bralonnisbnb.com (352) 463-0023 This elegant 194-acre bed and breakfast is available to host weddings, receptions, luncheons, birthday celebrations and retreats. They offer a wide array of rooms and bedroom suites, perfect for your wedding party or out of town guests. The rooms are themed on famous destinations, so you can honeymoon in Parisian, Caribbean or Egyptian style without ever leaving the state. COUNTRY CLUB OF OCALA 6823 Southeast 12th Circle, Ocala thecountryclubofocala.com (352) 237-6644 x6 Whether your hosting a cocktail party for 300 or an intimate five-course dinner for 30, this customizable indoor/outdoor venue offers a full range of catering options and a special event coordinator. They can handle every detail, from planning, décor, lighting, and entertainment, to custom menus and bar services. CIRCLE SQUARE CULTURAL CENTER AT ON TOP OF THE WORLD 8395 SW 80th Street, Ocala csculturalcenter.com (352) 854-3670 Located in Circle Square Commons, the recently renovated and expanded Circle Square Cultural Center is billed as Ocala’s largest indoor venue for events at 17,500 square feet, seating up to 600 guests banquet style and 930 theater style. This is more of a big event venue, than a place for small intimate celebrations and events. The space features a stateof-the-art audio visual and sound system.

Golden Ocala

DISNEY WEDDINGS & HONEYMOONS disneyweddings.com/florida (321) 939-4610 It’s hard to deny the magic and romance that abounds at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, a world filled with beautiful gardens, stunning beach venues, balmy breezes and breathtaking sunsets. From a small and intimate affair to a full-fledged gala wedding, Walt Disney World Resort is the perfect place to make your dream day a beautiful reality. Disney honeymoon delivers fairy tale experiences, exotic locales, romantic beach retreats, enchanting accommodations and award-winning restaurants. GOLDEN OCALA 8300 NW 31st Lane Road, Ocala goldenocala.com (352) 402-4376 If it is opulent and unforgettable that you’re looking for, then this is the gold standard. From the incredible setting, sheer number of options, impeccable service and attention to detail, you’ll find everything you need to make yours a magical event. You’ll feel absolutely confident knowing that their talented staff are overseeing every detail and that your event planner or bridal assistant will be with you throughout the day. If your planning to have your big day there, you have your pick of enchanting options for the ceremony and

reception. There are also many extras and options—from custom packages at the spa for the bridal party or a round of golf for the gents, before heading over to the clubhouse where there’s ample space for both groups to get ready—you’ll be spoiled for choice. Their award-winning chef will create a custom menu and can accommodate most dietary restrictions. They even have professionally-designed, fully-furnished, private villas on the property to accommodate you and your guests. In addition to weddings, the events team can help customize special events as diverse as an intimate dinner party to a family reunion or company retreat. HILTON OCALA 3600 SW 36th Avenue, Ocala hiltonocala.com (352) 873-6442 With a chic resort-style feel, The Hilton blends traditional style and contemporary flair. The stylish ballroom makes the perfect setting for your reception. They can also host an outdoor ceremony in the shade of their grand Oak trees or on their six acres of magnificent green space fields. You even have the option of a rustic barn wedding. They can also arrange for you to make an entrance atop a horse drawn carriage or dance the night away, under the stars. If you fall on the more metropolitan side, you can even have a chic poolside reception or event.

APR 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

Lake Receptions

HOLIDAY INN & SUITES 3600 SW 38th Avenue, Ocala ihg.com (352) 629-9500 From intimate ceremonies to elegant blacktie affairs, this full-service boutique hotel offers on-staff event and wedding planners. With a striking lobby and a variety of event rooms, including a nearly 5,000 square foot Grand Cypress Ballroom, the venue prides itself on having the most space of any hotel in Ocala. Private parties and dinners can also be accommodated in the hotel’s 6th floor, fine-dining restaurant SKY, where the executive chef can create a custom menu, featuring your preference from the highly-acclaimed menu. SKY gets high marks for their gourmet fusion menu featuring, fresh seafood, delectable steaks, and delicious desserts. IVY ON THE SQUARE 53 S Magnolia, Downtown Ocala ivyhousefl.com (352) 622-5550 With a passionate Southern flair, the Ivy House Restaurant & Catering team are industry experts in the realm of truly gracious hospitality. Their custom menus, awe-inspiring presentations, world-class service, and flawless event execution, make them the perfect partner for you next special event. They can also accommodate intimate special events, in a relaxed dining atmosphere, at their Ocala location.

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JULIETTE FALLS COUNTRY CLUB & GOLF COURSE, DUNNELLON 6933 SW 179th Avenue Rd Dunnellon, FL 34432 (352) 522-0309 Juliette Falls is a fun and festive location for your wedding ceremony and reception. The lush landscaping and waterfalls that accent the natural rolling terrain of the fairway, provide a beautiful backdrop for your ceremony and photos. Whether a wedding, birthday, anniversary, wedding shower or retirement party, the staff are dedicated to making your big day an outstanding one. The clubhouse, plus party area, can accommodate up to 135 guests and their award-winning chef can customize a delicious menu. LAKE RECEPTIONS, MOUNT DORA 4425 N. Highway 19A lakereceptions.com (352) 357-8223 Lake Receptions is in the business of making your wedding dreams come true. Central Florida’s premier stand-alone event venue is ready to accomodate you, whether you are planning an intimate gathering of 75 or party or a party with 500 guests and a dance floor. Their flexible indoor and outdoor space options can be tailored to your specific desires, perfect for all of the activities you have planned for your guests. A family-owned business for over 17 years, Lake Receptions offers many packages to help make planning your event easy.

OCALA JOCKEY CLUB 8720 W Hwy 318, Reddick ocalajc.com/weddings (352) 591-1212 x1 The Ocala Jockey Club restaurant is an exclusive event-only facility, that sits on a hill in the center of a 924-acre Thoroughbred farm. It features a large, open dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows, 360-degree tranquil views over the farm in all directions, wood interiors and a unique copper fireplace. The entire restaurant is available for rentals with a seating capacity of 170 inside and 200 outdoors. There is an attached poolside area that can be rented along with the venue. There are two gazebos and a barn venue, for events, that are available for bookings between May and October. The rolling green farmland and stunning sunsets make it an ideal setting for a celebration of any kind. SILVER SPRINGS STATE PARK silversprings.com/ weddings-and-events (352) 261-5840, x3 Let’s face it, there may be no more beautiful place to say “I do” than in Silver Springs State Park, surrounded by all that natural beauty—your love reflected by the crystal clear springs. You can have your ceremony outside, amid the splendour, and then enjoy a delicious dinner and dance the night away in the Paradise Ballroom or at the Twin Oaks Mansion. Whether you are planning a wedding, family reunion, rehearsal dinner or intimate get-together, the natural beauty and unique event facilities at Silver Springs are sure to fit the bill.

DREAM • PLAN • THINK

WEDDINGS • PRIVATE EVENTS • CORPORATE MEETINGS From a private meeting for five to an event for 500, Holiday Inn & Suites Ocala Conference Center is the perfect gathering place.

3600 SW 38th Ave. Ocala, Fl 34474

352-629-9500 or e-mail events@ocalainn.com

Cover Model Contest Would you like to be featured on the cover of Ocala Magazine? Please submit photo(s) and your contact information to Editorial@OcalaMagazine.com by May 31st. All genders welcomed, must be 18-years old or over to submit.

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Mark Your Calendars!

Kentucky Derby Party Saturday, May 4 • 10am - 2am

Watch the Race Place your bets at the casino $5 Mint Juleps & Bloody Marys A percentage of proceeds benefit

RAWHYDE LIVE DANCE HALL & SALOON 718 S Pine Ave. Ocala, Florida 34471 • (352) 304-6447

HOPS Set amid the ambience of the city’s oldest historic district and through the generostiy of the homeowners, H.O.P.S. is pleased to showcase some of Ocala’s distinctive architecture, history, and culture. Since 1992, these home tours have provided a rare opportunity for guest to go inside some of our community’s most beautiful private residences. 712 S.E. Fort King St. Ocala, FL 34471 | (352)351-1861 www.HistoricOcala.org

2019 Historic Ocala Preservation Society Board Members Pamela Stafford ~ President Richard Perry ~ Vice President Dennis Phillips ~ Treasurer Brian Stoothoff ~ Secretary Linda Anker Jarl Hagood Peg Harding R.J. Jenkins Lela Kerley Caryl Lucas Penny Miller Suzanne Thomas

EAT

dining

OUT Ivy On The Square It’s springtime, and that means gathering with friends and families for lunch or a night out. Come out and enjoy our expansive menu with fresh salads, mouthwatering comfort food, late night tapas and drinks! Specials include Southern Fried Lobster, hand-cut steaks and our famous Baked Krispy Chicken. Save room for our delicious homemade desserts like the Key Lime Pie or Chocolate Midnight Cake. In the mood for lunch and shopping? Stroll through our beautiful boutique offering gifts and home decor.

Stop by and enjoy cocktails on our beautiful patio or at the bar. Cheers to spring sips! Gift cards available.

Named by Florida Trend as one of the “Top 500 Best Places to Eat in the State” for several years. Call for catering info. 53 S. Magnolia Ave., Ocala | 352-622-5550 Tues - Sat 11am-9pm | Dining | Thurs - Sat 9pm -Til... | Tapas & Cocktails 106 NW Main St., Williston | 352-528-5410 Sun-Wed 11am-2pm, Thurs-Sat 11am-8pm | ivyhousefl.com

Murphy’s Oyster & Seafood Murphy’s is so much more than an oyster bar! Stop in for daily lunch and dinner specials. Grab a happy hour drink and stay to watch the game. Sit back and enjoy live music or join in the fun with karaoke. Relax with friends on the outdoor Hookah Patio. At Murphy’s we pride ourselves on serving great food along with a great experience. Our fresh seafood is the best in town, and we also o er a full menu with your favorite appetizers, burgers, salads and steaks.

Mon - Sun 11a - 12a Happy Hour 11a - 7p 3821 Old Blitchton Rd, Ocala, FL 34482 | (352) 236-5656 www.murphysocala.com

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dining out

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Tony’s Sushi Sushi Me! At Tony’s Sushi you can select your favorite sushi to include made-to-order specialty rolls by creating your own! Enjoy being entertained at the grill, watching your food being prepared while having some fun. For a more intimate setting, Tony’s offers private tables – perfect for special moments. Tony’s full bar includes sakes, imported draft beer & more. Like Tony’s on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TonySushiOcala

Ask about our daily, not on the menu items! We offer gift cards, catering and entertaining.

Mon-Thur 11a-10p, Fri & Sat 11a - 11p, Sun 12p - 10p 3405 SW College Rd. #103 Ocala, FL 34474 | 352-237-3151 www.tonyssushi.com

Sayulita Taqueria Surf Town Roots. Modern Street Food. Say Taco. We are bringing Sayulita sunshine and hand crafted tacos to downtown Ocala’s historic square! Known as “Say Taco” to locals, Sayulita features an indoor dining room, bar, and open air dining space. From games, to fire pits, live music, and movies, consider date night or family dinners planned! With an extensive food and bar menu, there is something for everyone. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for news, updates, and all kinds of fun! Mon-Thurs 11a-10p, Fri-Sat 11a-2a, Sun 11a-9p 10 NE 1st Street Ocala, FL 34470 | 352-629-4700 saytaco.com | facebook.com/saytacoFL | @saytacoFL

Cafe Crisp Faith. Fitness. Food. Conveniently located in the Frank DeLuca YMCA, Cafe Crisp makes clean eating easy with fresh, healthy meals – to enjoy at the cafe or to take home - and they offer weekly meal prep packages that make it easy to stay on track with meals and snacks. Cafe Crisp also caters events large or small! Stop in for a smoothie before your workout and come back for delicious sandwiches, soups and salad bar.

Ask about our weekly meal prep specials

Mon-Fri 7a–6p 3200 SE 17th st (in the YMCA), Ocala, FL 34471 | 352-694-3100 www.facebook.com/cafecrispocala APR 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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dining out

Sky Fine Dining Sky Fine Dining is located on the 6th floor of the Holiday Inn Suites. The eclectic gourmet cuisine & steak house concept is inspired from current trends & classic dishes like fresh cut steaks, live Maine lobster, rack of lamb & fresh seafood such as sea bass, salmon & shrimp. Sky also features a sushi menu made with fresh ingredients. Golden Spoon Award Winner 7 consecutive years - 2010 to 2018. Sky is the place to be for a unique fine dining experience. GOLDEN SPOON AWARD WINNER 9 CONSECUTIVE YEARS! 2010 TO 2018

Wok and Wine Wednesdays: 25% off Wok 15% off Bottles of Wine ENJOY EASTER BRUNCH WITH US!

Special menu Friday through Wednesday Mon-Thurs 5pm-10pm, Fri & Sat 5p-11p 3600 SW 38th Ave., Ocala, fl 34474 | 352-291-0000 www.ocalasky.com

Fine Dining

The Lodge Craft Pub & Eatery The Lodge Craft Pub and Eatery is Downtown’s new gastropub for cocktails, food and fun! Follow The Lodge Ocala on Facebook for announcements about menu items and specials. We have more than 200 craft brews, a large wine selection and specialty food menus. This casual pub and eatery is located just off the downtown square, so you can take advantage of free valet service. We’ll see you soon at The Lodge! Sun-Thurs 11:30a–11p, Fri-Sat 11:30a–2a 36 SE Magnolia, Ocala, FL 34471 www.facebook.com/thelodgeocala

Pi on Broadway Featuring Ocala’s only open air, rooftop bar and dining space, Pi is THE place for lunch, dinner and nightlife. A local favorite for after-work happy hour gatherings and guests visiting historic downtown, Pi offers craft beer, wine and cocktails from two full bars. Enjoy delicious and unique pizza from an open-flame oven or explore the “shareables” menu with a group of friends. Pi also offers sandwiches, salads and desserts all made fresh in-house daily.

Tues 4p–12a, Wed-Sat 11a–12a, Sun 4p–10p, Mon Closed 110 SW Broadway St., Ocala, FL 34471 | 352-369-5100 www.pionbroadway.com

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Live music Wednesday through Saturday

live

Live Your Best Life We all want to live our “best lives” and find a way to give back to our community. This month we introduce our new Health Journal, covering new and noteworthy subjects about health, fitness, wellness, nutrition, and your emotional well being. We even look at what’s best for your pets. We also highlight the important work that is being done at Interfaith Emergency Services, right here in our community, as well as the long reach of Compassion International through The Compassion Experience project. Above: Jessica Alba models ERTH Jewelry as part of a campaign to benefit UNICEF USA. Health Journal p64

Charity p68

Everything Equine p74

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WORD OF MOUTH On April 5th, Dentistry at Bridlewood will hold their 10th annual Free Dental Event from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 7555 SW State Road 200 in Ocala. They will offer the choice of one free cleaning, filling, or extraction per patient on a first-come, first-serve basis. You must be 18 years or older to qualify for services. The first 300 patients are guaranteed to be seen. The practice is celebrating 30 years of business and explains, “This is the day that we give back to a community that has been so wonderful to us.” Call (352) 873-2000 or visit ocalasdentist.com for more information.

Bug Out

We all know that citrus fruits are loaded with Vitamin C, which is essential for the growth and repair of tissues throughout our bodies. They are also natural diuretics that help the body eliminate toxins and promote healthy function of the liver, kidneys, and the digestive tract. But did you know that researchers have identified over 60 unique types of flavonoids in citrus fruits that exhibit antioxidant properties, with the highest concentrations found in the peel? In fact, gram for gram, citrus peels contain higher levels of minerals, vitamins, and dietary fiber than the actual fruit. According to the USDA, one tablespoon of lemon peel has twice the Vitamin C and triple the fiber than a lemon wedge without the peel. In February, a researcher at the University of Massachusetts Amherst received a $1.5 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to study how polymethoxyflavones, a unique class of flavonoids found in lemons and oranges, can prevent and treat inflammation in the colon and such associated diseases as irritable bowel disease and colorectal cancer. To get the benefits of these appealing fruits, chop, zest, or grate the peel into baked goods, savory sauces or your next smoothie.

Much like snowbirds, fleas are attracted to warmer climates. So as things to start to heat up, it’s a good time to start thinking about treating your furry friend against these pesky creatures. “Here in the warm Florida climate, fleas and ticks thrive. This means that our dogs and cats need protection from these pests even more than animals living in other areas,” explains Magnolia Animal Hospital. While there are a variety of options available, from collars to topical treatments, it’s best to consult your vet for the right option. Many organizations discourage flea collars as they can contain substances that may be harmful to your pet’s health and could cause an allergic reaction. While there are no oral medications for ticks, there are oral medications for fleas. A good practice, as temperatures rise, is to wash your pet's bedding once a week, bathe your pet regularly, and use a flea comb to check for any unwanted hitchhikers.

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LIP SERVICE Want to know the secret to Jessica Alba’s perfect pout? She recommends that you exfoliate your lips before an evening out. Yup, that’s right...exfoliate your lips. She’s even posted a recipe for a DIY lip scrub made with brown sugar, organic honey, and organic coconut oil on her Honest Company blog. Not a “make your own” kind of gal? Don’t worry, she’s got a quick beauty hack for you, using her Honest Healing Balm. blog.honest.com

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isiting Smocala Smoke & Vape is a sensory experience. The store is bright and inviting, shelves stacked with sleek products. And then there’s the scent, an enticing blend of tempting aromas. Smocala is a fine tobacco and vape supply store, located in College Park Plaza across from The Paddock Mall. It’s truly an all-in-one-shop, carrying a wide variety of tobacco products, e-cigarettes, e-juice, and hookahs. For more traditional tobacco consumers, Smocala offers the most popular brands of cigarettes, as well as more natural, additive- and chemical-free brands like Native Spirit. Smocala has one of the biggest selections of the most popular cigarillos around, as well as a variety of limited edition and

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | APR 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS REDD

hard-to-find flavors at competitive prices. While they carry various gauge cigars, their offerings are limited to two high-quality brands: award-winning Archetype and customer favorite ACID. Pipe smokers can find a full line of pipe tobacco and a beautiful selection of clean-burning, American-made artisan glass pipes. They also carry the highly-sought-after Rooster Apparatus line from artist David Goldstein, who pioneered the crushed-glass percolator technique. Hookahs in all sizes, shapes, and colors are available, along with flavored wet tobacco and all the accessories. They have a friendly and knowledgeable staff, who go out of their way to welcome and assist you. “We get great satisfaction out of spending time with customers and finding

out their needs,” says owner Andrew Hammar, who opened Smocala in November of 2016. Manager Tyler Ming has been with the store since before the doors opened. He and his staff make it a point to engage everyone who comes in the door. “We have a great group of employees,” Ming says. “Our employees know our products and are friendly and willing to help customers — it doesn’t matter if you don’t know what you’re looking for.” Vaping devices, e-cigarettes, and liquid, or e-juice, are the most popular products Smocala sells. “Vaping is an awesome alternative to cut traditional tobacco out of your life,” Ming explains. He knows from personal experience. He used vape to quit cigarettes. He explains that in contrast to traditional cigarettes, many of which contain more than 8,000 chemicals, vape has only

“Our employees know our products and are and willing to help customers— it doesn’t matter if you don’t know what you’re looking for.” four ingredients. The popular Naked 100 line, one of their best sellers, features all natural and organic flavoring. “I quit smoking five years ago,” he says. “I’ve stuck with vaping the whole time and I’ve never been happier — I can run, I can breathe, I can smell.” Ming explains that vaping liquids come in a variety of pleasant scents, with the most popular being fruit or dessert scents, like Hawaiian passionfruit/orange/guava, key lime butter cookie, and rainbow sherbet, but there is no burning or “ashy” smell. Even if you don’t smoke, vape, or use

nicotine products, Smocala has a large selection of gift and novelty items. Their assortment of Zippo lighters includes many hard-to-find Harley Davidson and military designs. Their novelty section includes a fun array of party games, toys, T-shirts, and posters. They also carry the full line of Wildberry incense and clean-burning, natural soy wax candles.

SMOCALA SMOKE & VAPE College Park Plaza 3131 SW College Road, Suite 403 (352) 547-8280 Hours: Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Follow Smocala Smoke & Vape on Facebook and on Instagram @smocala_smoke_and_vape

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Walking a BY SHARON RAYE

omelessness is not one size fits all—It’s hard to accept the statistics given by the Federal Reserve Report on the Economic Well-Being of US households in 2017 that states 40% of Americans cannot afford an emergency to occur. According to the United Way Alice Report, which is a system that studies financial hardship—59,852 Marion County households can’t afford the basic costs of living, despite the fact that household members are working. Many are living paycheck to paycheck, without any room for a glitch. What are the solutions here? Costs of living are continuously rising, while wages are stagnant. It’s increasingly hard to find affordable living. Whose shoulders should this fall on? Our government ? Our local community? Where is hope for an often hopeless situation? For over three decades Interfaith Emergency Services, Inc. has been doing a tremendous job of providing solutions for Marion County. Interfaith was established in 1983 by local pastors to meet the demands of families in need of food, setting up food pantries in our community churches. Now guided by a board of directors, Interfaith has 30 permanent employees and over 250 volunteers. As our residences needs grew, so did Interfaith’s services. I had the pleasure of taking a tour of the Interfaith facilities with CEO Karla Grimsley. When asked what their specific mission is, she stated, “We want to meet people’s basic needs, period.” Interfaith certainly does just that and sprinkles in a lot of love along the way. The Interfaith Emergency Services (IES) Shelter Program provides 36 emergency beds

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | APR 2019

Mile

for women, children and families. All basic necessities are met when they come in. Residents are provided with supportive case management every week to help with their individual needs to get them back on the track to self-sufficiency. In addition to the 36 emergency beds, there are eight permanent beds for the chronically homeless due to mental handicaps. Special rooms are also available for expectant mothers and those recovering from some surgeries. The residents do have requirements such as daily chores, attending devotions during the week, as well as, actively working or seeking employment. In 2016, Interfaith opened Center for Life, a medical clinic established through a partnership of professionals that volunteer their time to provide free medical, dental, vision, and mental health services, as well as, prescriptions to those who are low income and without insurance. They also provide help for clients with the navigation process of applying for services and ben-

efits that may be available to them. Food 4 Kids is a program created in 2014 when school teachers became aware that many children were not eating at all or eating very little over the weekend. The backpack program provides food for children who qualify for free lunches and for each child in their household. These backpacks are filled every Friday and delivered to the schools by volunteers. The children then take home enough food to feed themselves and their siblings over the weekend, returning the backpack to school on Monday. Currently 38 public schools in Marion County participate in Food 4 Kids and 1,900 children are enrolled in the program. Interfaith also provides emergency services such as food, hygiene items, clothing, ID cards, and eyeglasses. There is an intake process and a shared database to monitor clients that helps to manage the limited resources. Once those in need complete the intake process, food and

“I don’t know another charity that does the scope that we do.” hygiene items can be distributed six times a year. The clothing boutique is open every day and is stocked with work, church, and school appropriate clothing free to anyone in need. Treasure hunters will be delighted to know the IES Thrift Store provides another source for the community to find that special something at affordable prices. Proceeds from items sold goes to the emergency prescription program at the Center for Life. Something stuck with me that Karla Grimsley noted, “I don’t know another charity that does the scope that we do.” And I couldn’t agree more! If you are thinking like I am, that Interfaith is doing so much, they couldn’t possibly do anymore? Think again, as Karla has another project in mind. She said, “I’m hoping to get an Engagement Center built on our property that will have offices where then we can get government funding available now that is directly available for case management for people who live on the streets. For the chronically homeless that would never get help otherwise.” This Engagement Center would make a difference in the lives of the homeless who don’t live in the facilities every day to help establish trust, which she says is a missing component stopping the homeless from seeking help. Interfaith hosts three major events annually to help raise awareness and donations. Let’s make a difference and get involved with

our community. Legacies of Love is a fundraiser held on Valentine’s Day celebrating individuals in our community who have created a legacy of love through community service and philanthropy. Proceeds from the event go directly to support the Center of Life, where free medical services are provided to those in need. Ladies High Tea is an annual event held in March in partnership with On Top of the World and Shalom Park. It is a gathering for women in a beautiful garden setting where they share a lovely afternoon having an authentic high tea, seated at exquisitely decorated tables, while hearing stories from women who have overcome extreme circumstances. Proceeds from this event go directly to support the ministry of Interfaith that includes a homeless shelter for women, children and families. Due to the weather this year the event will be held indoors at the Silver Springs State Park in their ballroom on April 27th. Walk a Mile in My Shoes is an annual event like no other. Interfaith offers an opportunity to experience firsthand the conditions many homeless endure day in and day out. Participants gather sponsorship donations for their walk and commit to walk one mile. Once you arrive at the starting point you must give up your shoes and choose a pair of donated shoes (sizes are not guaranteed). Participants walk down Silver Springs Blvd carrying their own shoes in a plastic bag and holding a cardboard sign. Proceeds sup-

port Interfaith’s homeless shelter. This event takes place on September 28th. Registration begins at 9:00am and the walk starts at 10:00am. The homeless are certainly in need of such things as food, water, clothing, hygiene products, and of course, shelter. However, acts of kindness, acknowledgment, and prayer offer support beyond their basic needs, which can lead to hope. One equipped with hope has possibilities, which in turn can lead to success. Next time you encounter someone who is homeless try to see them for what they are—people like you and me. Interfaith is not a government funded organization. They rely 100% on financial support from churches, individuals, organizations and businesses. Interfaith’s lifeline is their volunteers as Karla concluded, “ We can’t measure the value of our volunteers. We can’t exist without them, they are the work force here.” FOR MORE INFORMATION, call (352) 629-8868 or visit their website: iesmarion.org

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SHARED EXPERIENCE BY ELKA PETERSON

ast month, I had the opportunity to attend an event called The Compassion Experience which is part of an ongoing series of events created by Compassion International, a child development and sponsorship organization that partners with churches throughout the U.S. and Canada. On the organization’s website, they describe themselves as the world’s leading authority in holistic child development through sponsorship. Part of the group’s mission is to educate the public on the realities of global poverty and how we can help change the life of a child living half a world away. The event was hosted locally by Village View Church in Summerfield. This free, family-friendly, immersive exhibit gave visitors firsthand insight into the lives of children in such impoverished countries as Guatemala and Uganda. The exhibit featured replicas of the children’s homes, schools and markets. Walking through each part of the exhibit provided attendees a chance to see what it’s like to live in a wood-built shack with a tin roof or a mud-made hut with no running water. Experiences help us create lasting memories and connect to a given topic in a

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | APR 2019

more personal way. The Compassion Experience offers you an opportunity to immerse yourself in a world completely different from your own—to expand your consciousness and compassion for others, who live in a world of poverty. There are over 60 events that take place each year, with with local visits to Orlando, Kissimmee, Tallahassee, Valrico, Vero Beach and Summerfield this year. If you wish to attend an event and experience it firsthand, they will be in Celebration Church in Tallahassee from April 26th to the 29th, City of Life Church in Kissimmee from May 3rd through the 6th, and Christ Church in Orlando from May 17th through the 20th. According to Whitney Gruver, the tour director for the Compassion Experience in Florida, “We expect anywhere from 1000 to 3000 visitors per event, depending on the size of the community we visit,” she explains. “Out of each event, 100 to 150 children are sponsored in places like Guatemala, Nicaragua, Uganda, Rwanda and Tanzania.” Ken Wood, who visited the event with his wife and two children, explained his motivation for attending, “We’re aware of Compassion as

a worldwide ministry,” he says. “We attend Village View Church together, as a family, and we wanted to come and experience it.” The experience is one that he hopes will provide his children a valuable perspective about global poverty. “It offers them a more-rounded world view and gives them the opportunity to realize that many times the American experience can be very insular,” he says. “And it helps them understand that things are very different elsewhere.” According to compassion.com, for over 60 years, Compassion International has been making a difference in the lives of children growing up in some of the most impoverished places on earth. Though the statistics on poverty have greatly improved over the past 25 years, the reality is that there are still 385 million children living in extreme poverty. The Compassion Experience offers attendees a chance to see the vast differences that exist between different cultures and how families the live in impoverished countries. Being able to see how others live, and the plight they must endure in their daily lives, gives us a better appreciation for life. It’s certainly an eye, if not heart, opening experience.

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billion dollars per year. Symptoms associated with GERD include heartburn, regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, dental erosions, asthma, chest pain, shortness of breath. Patient’s with reflux disease often suffer poor quality of sleep, reduced work productivity dietary, compromises to avoid symptoms and lifelong dependence on medications. Although lifestyle modifications and acid blocking medications are able to control the symptoms at times, studies show that 40% of those patients will continue to have symptoms. There is now growing concern regarding the association of acid blocking medications with osteoporosis, dementia, chronic kidney disease and myocardial infarctions. There is now a revolutionary approach to GERD. The LINX device is a small, flexible ring of magnets that is placed laparoscopically around the lower esophagus and opens to allow food and liquid down, then closes to prevent stomach contents from moving up. The procedure is completed within an hour and patients go home on the same day, and resume a normal diet as soon as tolerated. Patients after LINX implantation report 85% freedom from medications and heartburn, 99% freedom from regurgitation and significant improvement in their quality of life. Get your life back and solve reflux for good! Minimally Invasive Surgeons of Ocala is the only practice in town accredited to perform this procedure.

A REVOLUT It’s time to Reflux (al or GERD) is c called the low acid and bil the esophag esophagus, th 1 in 5 p GERD and blocking me on medicatio of those pat premalignan cancer. The billion dollar Symptom regurgitation erosions, as Patient’s with sleep, reduce to avoid sy medications. Although medications studies show to have sym regarding the with osteopo and myocard There is n LINX device placed lapar and opens to to prevent s procedure is go home on soon as toler Patients aft from medica regurgitation quality of life Get your l Minimally practice in to

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organ Auto Group celebrated the grand opening of Jaguar Land Rover of Ocala in firstclass style on March 15th, with a ribbon-cutting at the new dealership located at 5830 Southwest College Road in Ocala. The dealership will serve all of Central Florida, from Gainesville south to Leesburg. In addition to new Jaguars and Land Rovers, the dealership will sell and service all pre-owned vehicle makes and models, using only factory-trained technicians. Paul Corbett has been named general manager of the dealership and will oversee all operations. “Brand new, expansion Land Rover dealerships don’t come out of the ground very often,” Corbett commented. “We felt this was a rare

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opportunity to bring the Jaguar performance brand and the luxury Land Rover brand to the right market in Central Florida.” Morgan Auto Group is owned by Larry Morgan and his son Brett Morgan. Both are highly regarded business and community 104.7Morgan is the past Chairman of leaders. Larry the Florida Automobile Dealers Association, past Chairman of BayCare Health Systems, and the founder of Tires Plus. His philanthropic and community advocacy includes serving as the chairman of the Valspar PGA Championship, which raises millions of dollars annually for local charities, and a five-million dollar family gift to establish the Morgan Heart Hospital at

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Big Heart,

LittleHero BY LOUISA BARTON

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ally, she has been featured in the National Geographic Kids book 125 Stories of Amazing Pets: Inspiring Tales of Animal Friendship and Four-legged Heroes and received the Ronald McDonald House Caring and Sharing Award in 2017. She is in the United States

Photography provided by Gentle Carousel

ost people, even horse enthusiasts, have no idea that there is a very famous and heroic celebrity horse living right here in North Central Florida. She has a largerthan-life personality, but the same cannot be said about her stature. Her name is Magic and she is one of 18 miniature therapy horses who visit around 25,000 adults and children per year at hospitals and hospice programs, as well as many families, veterans, and first responders who have experienced traumatic events. Magic and her team of equine companions only stand a little above knee high to most adults, but not all heroes are huge. Some are small in stature, and with huge, kind hearts are larger than life, bringing a peace and comfort otherwise unknown to many. Some of Magic’s accolades include being named a Reader’s Digest and AmericanTowns Power of 1 Project Hero; one of the 10 Most Heroic Animals of 2010 by Newsweek and The Daily Beast; The E.T. York Distinguished Service Award; one of seven Most Notable Animal Heroes in the World by The Daily Mirror; and AARP’s Most Heroic Pet in America. She was included in the Top 10 Heroic Animals in the world by TIME Magazine, a list that also includes Moko the dolphin and Alexander the Great’s famed steed Bucephalus. Magic is the only living animal on the list. Addition-

Equestrian Federation/Equus Foundation Horse Stars Hall of Fame, as well as being a Breyer Portrait Model Horse. So, yes, you can purchase an even more miniature model of her in many tack stores and online. Magic is also an honorary deputy with

the Alachua County Sheriff â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office. She was honored with a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition and the Autism Paws of Honor Award, as well as the distinction of being Pet Hero of the Year in 2016 by the Florida Veterinary Medical Association Hall of Fame. Magic also received the American Red Cross A Hero Among Us Outstanding Service Award in 2016. Debbie and Jorge Garcia-Bengochea are the owners and caregivers of these incredible and brave miniature horses at Gen-

tle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses, an award-winning, all volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity that is celebrating 20 years of service. It takes two years of extensive training at their Gainesville farm to prepare one of these miniature horses for this very special and serious job. After that, they are constantly challenged with new experiences. Many of us vividly remember the terrible and heartbreaking tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary in Newtown, Connecticut, with so much loss of life. The incident

APR 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

was the deadliest mass shooting at a high school or grade school in U.S. history. The day after the tragedy, Gentle Carousel was contacted by the Newtown community to come and help comfort families. Therapy horses Magic, Aladdin, and Wakanda traveled north from Florida to Connecticut. For two weeks the horses worked in the community at schools, at the Newtown Library, with families, first responders, and at local hospitals. Over 600 people arrived, in two shifts, to the Newtown library to visit with therapy horse Magic. It was the first time that many had seen each other since the tragedy. Even more came to visit the next day to spend one-on-one time with the therapy horses. From the interrogation room at the Newtown police station to a Sandy Hook preschool, the horses brought their love where it was needed most. Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses has returned to Sandy Hook several times since the first visit. Most of us cannot even imagine what it is like to be involved in such a tragedy. But these tiny therapy horses have brought

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | APR 2019

“Most of us cannot even imagine what it is like to be involved in such a tragedy. But these tiny therapy horses have brought special love to many of the people impacted by so many such tragedies...” special love to many of the people impacted by so many such tragedies, including the tornado that hit Moore, Oklahoma; the Charleston and Orlando nightclub shootings; as well as the victims of child trafficking in Washington, D.C. These little equine wonders were there to comfort the victims’ families and many of the first responders. Jorge and Debbie also work in inner cities, where most children and adults may never have an opportunity to see a horse. They bring a special kind of four-legged peace and comfort to all whose lives they touch. Whether it is someone about to take their last breath or a young child suffering with a terminal disease, people find so much comfort in being able to see and touch a horse. Gentle Carousel also has a literacy program, “Reading Is Magic”, that inspires young readers and brings books to life. The horses work inside schools and libraries, with mentoring programs, at literacy events, and

at education resource centers in high-crime neighborhoods. The program is focused on young and at-risk readers. Jorge, Debbie, and the Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses provide all their services free of charge and receive no government funding. Magic is our hero, and she calls it home right here in North Central Florida. She and her brave companions travel the globe as our ambassadors of hope. This is a great labor of love and, on those small and narrow equine shoulders, a great weight is carried. There are lots of ways to support the wonderful work of Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses, from volunteering, sponsoring the work of an individual therapy horse, or purchasing a needed supply item from their wish list. You can help these little heroes bring their love where it is needed most. LEARN MORE AT gentlecarouseltherapyhorses.com.

work

Passion to Profit Ever wonder how successful entrepreneurs turn their passions into profits? This month, our contributing writer Elka Peterson sat down with Jason Schappert, the founder of MzeroA Online Flight School, to talk about how his early passion for aviation took flight and how he got his own successful business off the ground. The enterprising pilot looks back on some disappointing hurdles he encountered, his humble start as an online instructor, and his belief that every single day presents him a chance to continue to learn and grow. On The Job p78 | Looking Back p80

APR 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

WORK

JOB

on the

Head In

The Clouds BY ELKA PETERSON

harismatic. Passionate. Visionary. These are just a few words to describe Jason Schappert. He is a pilot, entrepreneur, and the founder of MzeroA.com, which was named one of Grow Florida’s 2017 Companies to Watch. Born in Baltimore, Maryland and raised in Ocala, Florida, Schappert knew early on that his passions would include airplanes and aviation. That was thanks to some special outings with his beloved grandmother, who cared for him while his parents worked.

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | APR 2019

She took Schappert on daily trips to the Ocala Airport to watch the airplanes. When given other options for their regular day trips, like a visit to the local fire department, Schappert always chose the airport instead. He spent countless days sitting out on the field, eating peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, while watching the airplanes fly in and out. Even after Schappert’s grandmother passed away, the passion that she nurtured in him soared. He admits to not being a very

good student and even skipping classes in high school to spend time at the airport. “I was an average student—Cs in everything.” And while he may not have been a good student in school, he has proven to be a good student in life. He credits his entrepreneurial skills to his father, who owned a pest control business. “Working in my father’s business taught me everything about customer service, the power of persuasion and sales.” These skills would help Schappert in the future, not in pest control, but in the aviation industry. Knowing of Schappert’s first love, and in an effort to continue to nurture his son’s dreams, his father bartered flight lessons from a local flight instructor when Schappert was just 12 years old. The ambitious teenager had his pilot’s license at 16, flew solo for the first time at 17, and was a flight instructor by 18. On his experience flying Schappert says, “Flying is freedom. I have an intense fear of heights but not so in an airplane. I literally hate going on balconies, but flying is no problem.” He began college but after dropping out three times, decided it wasn’t for him. His head was in the clouds, figuratively of course, as he envisioned himself flying at much faster speeds. Anyone who has dreams of flying knows that practice and persistence are strongly advised. On the wings of ambition, Schappert decided to pursue his ultimate goal in life, to fulfill his need for speed and become a military fighter pilot. Unfortunately, he discovered that he wouldn’t be able to accomplish that goal because of his 6’4” stature. Shot down, but not out, an undeterred Schappert looked for other ways to not only succeed in aviation, but to help others pursue their passion. As an entrepreneur with limited resources, he asked himself how he could find leverage in the aviation industry. During this time, YouTube was launched and inspiration struck. Schappert began filming and uploading flight instruction videos from his home. “It was just me in a dinky apartment with a tripod video camera filming videos about flying,” he says with a laugh. He continued to pursue his vision and soon had a strong following. As the number of

viewers on his YouTube channel grew, so did the requests for him to teach them to fly. So in 2008, he began instructing. By 2010, to keep up with the demand for aviation information and to share his knowledge, Schappert wrote his first flight training book titled, Pass Your Private Pilot Checkride. He continues to write and publish books about the subject and has sold many copies to date. In 2012, he incorporated MZeroA.com, an online ground school that follows the same national lesson plan issued by the FAA. “See it on the ground, demonstrate it in the air,” he says. That same year he made his first hire. Over time, his team has grown and he is proud to be able to create jobs for the Ocala community. But it’s not just his passion and enthusiasm that motivates his team. When he’s not teaching or writing books, Schappert is reading. He stays inspired by listening to audio books, preferably the self-development type by authors like Napoleon Hill. His favorite quote by Hill is, “Within every adversity

“A good pilot is always learning. That carries over into everything I do. I’m always learning.” is the seed to an equal or greater benefit.” In other words, everything happens for a reason and there is opportunity, even in failure. His hobbies include reading, learning, and growing as a person. “I end every aviation video saying, ‘A good pilot is always learning.’ That carries over into everything I do. I’m always learning.” It goes without saying that education is key in every part of Schappert’s life. And with continued education being a part of every pilot’s career because the FAA requires recertification every two years, Schappert plans on helping the aviation community keep up with those needs and demands. Part of keeping up with those needs is staying abreast of technology. The newest gadget sharing air space and regulated by the FAA are drones. So it goes without saying

that Schappert saw this as an opportunity to expand his business. To this day, MzeroA.com has had 14,000 flight clients and 20,000 drone clients. The demand has become so great that Schappert has had the NYPD, FDNY, as well as other departments nationwide, reach out to him to learn how to use drones in their tactical operations. In 2017, MzeroA.com was named in the Inc. 500 list of 2017 top growing private companies. They received the same honor last year in the magazine’s top 5000 list. As the saying goes, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” It may also be apt to say, don’t judge the success of an individual by the number of times they drop out of college. That list includes such legendary entrepreneurs as Michael Dell, Steve Jobs, and Bill Gates. Now we can add Ocala’s Jason Schappert to that list.

APR 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

looking back

True Blue Trailblazer

urs is a rich and storied history. Today, our community is just as vibrant and diverse as ever, but our past holds stories that are vital. Stories we need to continue to share and preserve. Each month, we will use our back page as an opportunity to look back on some of that rich history. The photo seen here is from the Marion County Public Library’s Archives. It dates back to 1968 and features an interaction between one of our pioneering Po-

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | APR 2019

lice Chiefs, Kenneth Charles “K.C.” Alvarez, and two young boys on the steps the Ocala Police Department. We chose this particular image because it possesses the warmth and All-American spirit of a Norman Rockwell painting. Alvarez joined the OPD in 1938 and remained with the department for an impressive 36 years, 23 of those as the chief. He explored every opportunity to continue his education during that time, graduating from the FBI National Academy in 1951. He also

created a training program for his own officers that would garner statewide recognition and he was largely responsible for the establishment of the Criminal Justice degree program at the College of Central Florida (CF). To this day, the Criminal Justice Institute of Florida at CF awards the Kenneth Alvarez Endowed Memorial Scholarship in his memory. It’s also relevant this month, as the annual Race Against Child Abuse is taking place on Saturday, April 13th. The 5K run, put on by the Ocala Police Department, raises funds for Kimberly’s Center for Child Abuse here in Ocala. For event details, call (352) 8734739 or visit kimberlyscenter.org.

Historic photos courtesy of Marion County Library. More images are available at http://cdm16873.contentdm.oclc.org The library has made the best effort to adhere to all known copyright and rights of privacy and encourages anyone with additional information concerning any item in this collection to contact the library.

WORK

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