OCALA MAGAZINE: DIGITAL EDITION JANUARY 2018

“When I had a heart attack, I asked to be taken to Munroe Regional. From the minute I arrived, the care I got was exceptional. It turned out I needed a quadruple bypass plus treatment for a heart rhythm disorder. The surgeon and staff couldn’t have treated me or my family any better. If you need care for any kind of heart condition, I’d say that Munroe is where you want to be.”

Munroe Regional Medical Center has a nationally recognized cardiac program. You can have confidence knowing that we have the tools, techniques and talent to meet a complex cardiac situation head-on.

So make Munroe Regional the choice for your heart.

Do you know your heart health?

Take a free heart risk assessment today at MunroeHeartCare.com.

If you’d like, we can connect you with one of our cardiologists.

Weddings are golden here.

From the moment you arrive on our property and see the lavish clubhouse, smell the fragrant rose garden surrounding our grand stairway entrance, you can be assured your hopes, wishes and dreams are in good hands with our professional planner and sta. Let your special occasion become momentous and memorable in our breathtaking indoor and outdoor settings.

Please call 352-629-6229 to schedule a tour of our gorgeous facility | GoldenOcala.com Golf | Tennis | Equestrian | Fitness | Pool | Spa | Dining | Events

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THE EXPERTISE OF UF HEALTH, NOW CLOSER TO HOME.

University of Florida Health has a new location in Ocala and is now available to care for your health care needs. Our boardcertified physicians are proud to bring the care and expertise you expect from UF Health to Ocala.

Cardiology 352.854.0681

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LIFE. SAVED. “I was visiting the springs in Ocala when I was involved in a four car accident on HWY 27 near downtown. I was ejected from the car and landed on the pavement. A nurse from Ocala Regional Medical Center saw the accident, had her daughter call 911 and the nurse performed CPR on me. I came to Ocala Regional Medical Center as a trauma alert and went into surgery for hours.

I was in the hospital for almost a month and the list of my injuries is so long but every single day is getting better. So many people at Ocala Regional supported me and worked diligently to maintain my vitals so I would survive. I feel very blessed and feel like I have a second chance at life.”

-Tommy, age 23

TAKING CARE TO THE NEXT LEVEL. Ocala Regional Medical Center’s Level II Trauma Center has transformed care for critically injured patients in Marion County and beyond. Our experts are here 24/7, saving time and saving lives, giving patients like Tommy a second chance at life.

See Tommy’s full story and learn more about our Level II Trauma Center at OcalaHealthSystem.com/trauma

CONTENTS

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OCALA’S CITY MAGAZINE SINCE 1980 Volume 37 | Issue 7 | January 2018

FEATURES

16 VISIT AMELIA ISLAND Omni’s Amelia Island Plantation Resort has a room waiting for you.

19 STATE OF THE CITY Ocala’s 2017 progress and 2018 forecast.

30 PERSON OF THE YEAR: RONDO FERNANDEZ Most people know Rondo for his entrepreneurial spirit, cuban delicacies and that deep booming voice you can’t help but recognize.

32 BUSINESS OF THE YEAR: BROOKLYN’S BACKYARD Prince of Pizza and King of the Wing winner, Brooklyn’s Backyard has made quite a name for themselves in Marion County.

34 PROJECT OF THE YEAR: FORT KING NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK

ON THE MENU:

42 BIG LEE’S BBQ

DEPARTMENTS

26 STATE OF THE CITY Physics and the Year Ahead

In late 2017, Ocala residents and visitors gathered at the Fort King National Historic Landmark to celebrate the unveiling of the newly reconstructed fort.

38 NATURAL OATS One tiny business with a big name in skin care.

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the FRONT RUNNER: ADENA

28 STATE OF THE COUNTY Sales tax status check – the first year.

36 STUDENT ATHLETE OF THE MONTH St. John’s Tristan Fratello.

40 MEDICAL JOURNAL: DEHYDRATION Fatigue can be an early indicator of many serious illnesses, but in many cases, the solution is simple and can be remedied quickly.

42 ON THE MENU: BIG LEE’S BBQ 45 GOING OUT January happenings around Ocala

SPONSORED ADVERTORIAL 12 THE FRONT RUNNER: ADENA Adena offers an unsurpassed lifestyle.

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LIFE. SAVED. Tommy, age 23, Ocala Trauma Survivor

See Tommy’s full story and learn more about our Level II Trauma Center at OcalaHealthSystem.com/trauma

ocala magazine Volume 37, Issue 7

AWARD WINNING CITY MAGAZINE #1 MOST BEST OVERALL CONSUMER MAGAZINE IN FL 2016 BEST OVERALL WRITTEN MAGAZINE IN FL 2016

Linda Young Marks publisher linda@ocalamagazine.com

Kelli Fuqua Hart editor-in-chief kelli@ocalamagazine.com

Elle Tomaszewski creative director elle@ocalamagazine.com

ON THE COVER

Beatriz Martins model Adena Golf and Country Club location Chris Redd chief photographer Ali Truluck of Simply Monat hair and makeup Rent the Runway wardrobe

MANAGEMENT

Liz Cole office manager liz@ocalamagazine.com

WEBSITE & SOCIAL MEDIA Chris Wims director of social media chriswims@ocalamagazine.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Chris Redd chief photographer chris@ocalamagazine.com

Kevin Bischof social photographer

SALES & MARKETING

Christine Aicher business analyst christine@ocalamagazine.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Whitney Willett Amber Tompkins Lisa McGinnes Theresa Orozco Ida Cunningham Brody Barcode

medical editor food editor social editor proof reader writer entertainment editor

The City of Ocala & Marion County

EDITORIAL OR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES phone 352.622.2995 fax 352.622.9200 www.ocalamagazine.com THE OFFICIAL CITY MAGAZINE OF The Reilly Arts Center • HITS • FAFO • Equiventures OFFICE 743 S.E Fort King St. Ocala, FL 34471 MAILING ADDRESS P.O. Box 4649, Ocala, FL 34478 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR by mail or email; kelli@ocalamagazine.com SUBSCRIPTION $49 - One year, $95 - Two years, $5.95- Single Issue. COPYRIGHT ALL contents copyrighted 2016 by Special Publications, Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction or use of editorial or advertising content in any manner without written permission is strictly prohibited.

FOLLOW US ON

EDITOR’S note

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SEASON FINALE Over 5.2 million people tuned in to see if Ross would finally end up with Rachel. I cried – oh, how I cried – to see a 10-year season of my life coming to a close.

I was firmly nestled in adolescence the first time I heard those infamous Rembrandts lyrics. The witty jokes and sappy scenes would be what I based my idea of relationships on – wanting to have those kinds of friendships and someone to look at me the way Ross always looked at Rachel. When the cast took their last bow on May 6, 2004, I knew it was because the actors wanted to explore new and greater opportunities but it didn’t make accepting the end any easier.

Fast forward to 2013. Now in my mid thirties, I had just sold a business and was teetering on the thrill of opportunity and fear of uncertainty. It was in this moment I would be asked to lunch by Ms. Marks and offered the role as this magazine’s editor.

I knew that was a God thing – a chance to work with and for this community and for a prestigious publication I had always believed to be the highest in quality and this city’s best. It was and has continued to be an honor.

Over the last four years, I have experienced some of the brightest and darkest times of my professional life – both for which I am thankful. I was tested and pushed. I was challenged and criticized. I was able to express levels of creativity with teams of people I will forever respect and appreciate. I created, from scratch, word for word, a product I was able to bring to life month after month – a publication that has touched souls, created relationships, praised do-gooders, educated the masses, started initiatives and mended lives.

To most, this is just a magazine but, to me, it has been life. It’s been working until the sun comes up and missing opportunities to kiss my daughter goodnight. It’s been standing in the line of fire, taking hard shots, for simply doing my job. It’s come with provisions, but also pain. Let’s be honest, people are critical, judgmental and downright mean. It’s thrown me in the public eye and that kind of pressure can crush you or create a diamond. For the last four years, I have transparently shared some of the most painful, insecure, meaningful and renewed parts of me, allowing this community to be a part of, not only my published stories but my personal life.

As part of my growth and transformation I have also realized it is time for me to close this chapter as Editor-in-Chief at Ocala Magazine. My life in the past four years has evolved and I find myself being called to do more. I have learned invaluable lessons from Linda Marks and will continue to hold her in high esteem for believing in, trusting and proving to me what I am capable of. She was always more than a boss – she is a confidant and friend.

Change can be concerning, but I urge you to celebrate in my new journey and continue to support a magazine that has served this community for nearly 40-years. I’m leaving my seat as editor, but my appreciation for and homage towards Ocala Magazine remains. I promise to serve the city of Ocala, in a new role, with as much eagerness, conviction and zest as I have as editor. I pray the relationships I made continue to flourish and what work I’ve done will continue to sew good seeds.

Ocala, I love you and am grateful you allowed me to serve you as your city magazine editor. Linda, I am beyond grateful for the platform and opportunity you blessed me with. To my team, I have no doubt you will accomplish excellence in this new year.

As I finish the last editor’s note I will write for Ocala Magazine, I think back to that bittersweet moment when the curtain closed on everyone’s Friends – a sad day for us all. But I am blessed in knowing, although I am taking a bow as editor, I will look back at this opportunity the way Ross always looked at Rachel.

Kelli Fuqua Hart, Editor-in-Chief www.writtenbykelli.com | writtenbykelli@gmail.com

the FRONT

RUNNER: ADENA An unsurpassed lifestyle WRITTEN BY IDA CUNNINGHAM

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dena founder Frank Stronach, knows quality and wanted to build a world where members could experience, taste and be surrounded by luxury. From its emerald green grasslands, towering marble columns, spiraling staircases and glistening waterways, Adena presents a lifestyle, unsurpassed.

The Park Avenue of Marion County, Adena’s sophisticated suites, plush poolside cabanas and posh decor offer an experience like no other. Stronach hand-selected every detail of the Adena Club from the 36 commissioned Voka

paintings, custom Pininfarina furnishings and eco-friendly homes.

Adena’s picturesque setting provides the perfect location to celebrate love, host guests or fashion new business.

Named Best New Private Club by Golf Digest, this 420-acre development frames three old lime rock quarries and boasts split level fairways, a monster par five and a precarious peninsula green. Enjoy a magnificent waterfall as you wind your way to Adena’s massive clubhouse, tennis courts and resort-style pool.

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the FRONT RUNNER

Adena Grill offers members the highest quality in healthy ingredients. Adena Farms rests on 95,000 acres where cattle graze freely and foods are grown naturally — no chemicals, hormones, GMOs or antibiotics. Grass-fed, Angus-based cattle graze year-round, “eating fresh greens in wideopen pastures filled with spring-fed ponds,” according to adenafarms.com. Adena’s cage-free chickens are fed an allnatural diet, free from antibiotics and hormones. All are USDA-certified organic.

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This level of quality carries over to the dinner table, where guests feast from a healthy menu – foods that “deliver delicious flavor and wholesome quality in every bite.”

Adena members can rely on the farm’s core values of sustainable farming that is truly farm-to-table, supplying chain traceability.

Adena Farms guarantees “choice cuts of meat that deliver fuller, richer and more intense flavors in every bite.”

the FRONT RUNNER

Adena provides a sophisticated atmosphere in which to socialize, as well as challenging greens and courts for a range of athletes. Whether sampling flights at the Adena Wine Bar or taking a lesson on one of Adena’s seven Har-Tru tennis courts, you will be impressed by the unsurpassed service and quality that comes standard with every membership.

From the young entrepreneur to professional pilot, equestrian lover to socialite, retire each day in a world

developed by Frank Stronach – a world filled with the finest wines and cuisine, most divine views, a grandiose clubhouse, stunning suites and dramatic events, exclusive only to Adena members.

For more information on Adena Golf and Country Club, visit www.adenaclub.com or call Stacey Rollins, Director of Membership & New Development at 352-368-1220. Adena Club offers multiple levels of membership, offering multifaceted amenities. om

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OMNI AMELIA ISLAND

plantation resort

BOOK YOUR ROOM, PARK THE CAR AND ENJOY ONE OF FLORIDA’S MOST LUXURIOUS RESORTS – WHERE YOU NEVER HAVE TO LEAVE THE PROPERTY TO ENJOY FINE DINING, SHOPPING, SPORTS, RELAXATION AND MILES OF BEAUTIFUL BEACH. WRITTEN BY KELLI FUQUA HART, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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ocated just three hours north of Ocala, the Omni Amelia Island Plantation resort would have you believe you’ve been transported to a storybook setting, complete with sandy white beaches, French-style eateries and romantic trails that lead through cascading oaks and canopies.

A welcoming 1,350-acres greet you and your family as you make your way through a long, winding drive framed with pristine foliage, lush fairways, glittering ponds and luxurious venues. From the helpful hands of valet to the friendly faces of guest services, the check-in experience alone is proof of the Omni’s dedication to sincere hospitality.

Whether in one of the Omni’s Deluxe Ocean View rooms, Executive Suites or End Suites, you will enjoy breathtaking, panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean – a front row seat to majestic sunrises and colorful sunsets.

Towering views of the largest poolscape in northern Florida by day and glowing oversized fire pits at night, make spending time on the Omni’s patios and balconies desirable.

The accommodating guest rooms provide Serta Pillow Top mattresses, soft linens, sophisticated bathrooms and stylish decor that will wow you and your family as soon as you walk through the door.

The spacious suites make leaving your room unnecessary but, with an infinity edge swimming pool, nine dining venues, 36 holes of championship golf, an extensive shopping village, nature center, fully equipped fitness center, full-service spa and salon, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding and 3.5 miles of private beach, you’ll want to get out and explore every inch of what the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort has to offer.

Upon arrival, hotel staff suggested places to eat and ways to play throughout our stay. One name mentioned over and over was that of Miss Donnie. We couldn’t leave the resort without meeting the woman behind the Sunrise Cafe – Omni Amelia Island’s local celebrity. I can honestly say (and I have traveled to many parts of the globe) I have never had as delicious a breakfast as I had at the Sunrise Cafe. Miss Donnie’s pastries are the flakiest. Her butters, the most flavorful. Her grits – oh, the grits! (and I’m from the south so I know grits). Called the “Art of Breakfast,” this buffet offered organic cereals, local fruit and honey, cage-free omelets, maple-blueberry sausage and the best croissant I have ever tasted. From southern comfort to gourmet spreads, dining on-property delivers nothing short of deliciously satisfying.

Chef Daven Wardynski has led the Omni Plantation culinary team since 2012. What makes him so unique is his unparalleled way of thinking outside of the box. He is the mastermind behind The Sprouting Project – an on-location initiative using an aquaponic greenhouse, organic garden, beehives, barrel room, orchard and chicken coop to grow, cultivate and reinvent the same ingredients he then uses fresh in his nine on-site restaurants. Over 2.5 million bees creating 5,000-lbs of honey and 36 barrels of honey-infused cocktails,

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OMNI AMELIA ISLAND plantation resort

THE OMNI AMELIA ISLAND PLANTATION RESORT IS A FOOD DESTINATION. IT IS A BEACH DESTINATION. IT IS BOTH A BUSINESS AND WEDDING DESTINATION. IT IS AN ALL-ENCOMPASSING DESTINATION TO BRING CHILDREN OF ALL AGES THAT OFFERS ENGAGING ENTERTAINMENT WITHOUT SACRIFICING ANY OF THE LUXURY.

fermented wines and specialty vinegars make up the many benefits of Chef Daven’s project – all a part of your Omni Plantation dining experience.

The Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort is a food destination. It is a beach destination. It is both a business and wedding destination. It is an all-encompassing destination to bring children of all ages that offers engaging entertainment without sacrificing any of the luxury. It is a fairytale experience with realistic expectations – the sincerest form of hospitality, immaculate accommodations, impeccable service and originality that surpasses all others.

For more information and to book your stay, visit omnihotels.com or call (904) 261-6161. om

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STATE of the

CITY

Each January, Ocala Magazine looks at the state of our city – reflecting on what we’ve accomplished over the past year and forecasting what the new year holds. It’s clear to see the direction in which Ocala is heading, because all signs point up! The population is up, development is up, tourism is up, jobs are up and hopes are high.

WRITTEN BY LISA MCGINNES PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS REDD, CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

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STATE of the C I T Y STATE of BUSINESS Ocala has been named one of the Top 10 Metros for Future Job Growth by Forbes magazine for the fifth consecutive year – the only city in Florida to hold this distinction. Moody’s Analytics expects our job growth rate, over the next two years, to be more than double the U.S. average.

According to the Ocala/Marion County Chamber & Economic Partnership (CEP), 2017 brought 2,056 new jobs with $194.2 million in capital investment. The average wage of new jobs is 115-percent above the county average.

“This was a record year,” says Kevin Sheilley, CEP President and CEO. He points to four major announcements during the year – the Chewy facility, Mestizo Foods takeover of the Golden Flake plant, announcement of a second Cardinal LG facility and the Wells Pharmacy Network expansion.

“For those of us who get to be so fortunate to call Ocala home,” says Sheilley, “I think we’re really going to see a lot of exciting things and commercial development is continuing to be strong. I thought 2016 was going to be a big year, 2017 was going to be a bigger year and now I think 2018 has the chance to be even bigger.”

A year ago, Wells Pharmacy Network expanded its SW 33rd Avenue compounding pharmacy facility by nearly 30-percent - adding 5,000-square feet of space.

According to Sheilley, the Chewy company received keys to their new building in December and was set to begin warehouse operations on January 2. At a big hiring event in early December, they brought 200 employees on board and are expected to ultimately create a total of 600 jobs and a $49 million capital investment in Marion County. Chewy.com is an online pet products retailer.

Early in 2017, the AutoZone distribution center began construction, which is expected to be completed this month.

Sheilley says AutoZone already has 100 employees and will soon add more. “By this time next year, they should have several hundred employees,” he says.

In September, Cardinal LG announced plans to construct a second laminated glass manufacturing facility across the street from their plant on SW 44th Avenue. The new, stateof-the–art 300,000-square foot building is expected to be completed late this year and, at that time, the company plans to add 50 employees to its current staff of 400.

Colorado-based Mestizo Foods took over the former Golden Flake factory on October 1 and has already hired 100 employees to staff two production lines. They are expected to double the number of employees in the upcoming year.

“Over the next 12-18 months, Ocala will see the impact on this economy,” Sheilley predicts, “and there are more things coming.”

Sheilley says the next big announcement will come this month and will focus on McLean Company and another big distribution center. McLane, headquartered in Texas, distributes grocery and food service products through its 80

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distribution centers across the country and its private truck fleet.

Over the past year, the CEP added two initiatives over the last year that Sheilley says will bolster our workforce to meet the growing job opportunities.

The talent development initiative is a partnership with Marion County Public Schools to make sure our community produces the graduates our businesses need and to provide opportunities for everyone at every level.

The new logistics academies at Lake Weir and West Port high schools were designed to expose students to the many facets of the industry, including the flow of products, payments and information between consumers and suppliers, and following high school students can choose to enter the local workforce or pursue a bachelor’s degree in logistics at the College of Central Florida.

This month the CEP will roll out its Live Life Here campaign, which is a talent attraction initiative. “We’re going to work aggressively to recruit talented people to relocate to Ocala and become part of our community,” Sheilley says.

The CEP’s Equine Engagement campaign was created to develop and connect with equine-related businesses. Sheilley says they have already far surpassed their goals. “With the new World Equestrian Center and the Nations Cup coming back, equine is going to continue to be a huge driver in our economy.”

STATE of the C I T Y

LAST YEAR AT THIS TIME WE WERE TALKING ABOUT PLANS FOR A NEW HOTEL ON THE SQUARE AND THE NEWLY-COMPLETED 302 BROADWAY LOFTS IN THE OLD SPRINT BUILDING. THAT WAS JUST THE TIP OF THE ICEBERG FOR DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT. STATE of EQUINE The Horse Capital of the World continues to distinguish itself in the international equine community.

In October, plans for The World Equestrian Center at Golden Ocala Golf and Equestrian Club were approved by the Marion County Board of Commissioners. The 3,000acre project will add 300 farm estates, a three-acre outdoor stadium, 17 outdoor arenas, four climate-controlled indoor arenas and 1,500 permanent stalls. Also planned are onsite riding trails, a veterinary practice, luxury hotel, fine dining restaurant, four additional dining establishments and a 200site RV park.

This February, Ocala will host the FEI National Cup Qualifier for the fourth consecutive year. Last year, more than 5,000 spectators packed the grandstand at HITS Post Time Farm to watch jumping champions, from seven countries, compete for gold medals and hundreds of thousands of dollars in prize money. New this year will be the Youth Nations Cup event for the young rider, junior and children’s age groups.

Last year was the inaugural Jump Downtown event featuring the Parade of Nations which honors the many countries represented by the riders, followed by the Celebration of the Horse breed showcase. According to Louisa Barton, CEP Director of Equine Engagement, this year’s event on Saturday, February 17 will be bigger and better, featuring the Budweiser Clydesdales, horse-drawn carriage rides and

additional festivities on the downtown square.

STATE of DOWNTOWN Last year at this time we were talking about plans for a new hotel on the square and the newly-completed 302 Broadway lofts in the old Sprint building. That was just the tip of the iceberg for downtown development.

According to Sheilley, the new Hilton Garden Inn on the square is on track to open a year from now. The city recently started utility work on the site and construction should begin any time.

The 1890s building on Magnolia Avenue, across from the square, is currently undergoing renovations to the second and third floors for the new luxury Lofts on the Square. The Boyd Group developers are set to break ground on the three-acre Lincoln Square residential and commercial development, south of the square, on the site of the old Lincoln Mercury dealership.

South Magnolia Avenue is a showpiece of downtown transformation with its new brick paving between Broadway and Fort King streets and its new businesses and renovations.

STATE of MIDTOWN As an expansion of the downtown development, the City of Ocala identified its next revitalization priority as Midtown, or roughly the area north and east of downtown between the square and Tuscawilla Park. The plan was adopted in June of 2017.

“We want the development in Midtown to compliment and be connected to downtown,” says Senior Planner David Boston of Ocala Planning Division Growth Management. He says the first “catalytic site” planned for redevelopment is the current Ocala Fire Rescue Station No. 1 at 410 NE Third Street.

City of Ocala Urban Design Coordinator Aubrey Hale explains the city-owned property is “a highly sought-after site which the city thinks will catalyze the kind of development we want to see in the rest of the district.” The city is currently in negotiations with a developer and proposed plans include a mix of townhomes or apartments and retail/restaurant space.

Boston says the city hopes to start construction by this time next year.

Hale adds the fire station project has been ongoing over the last five years and planning for a new fire station – to be located at NE Eighth Avenue and NE Fourth Street – began about a year ago.

An integral part of the Midtown Master Plan is the Osceola Trak, which Boston calls a “people mover” – providing safe passage for pedestrians and bicyclists traveling from downtown across State Road 40 into Midtown. He explains how, during 2018, the city will enhance Osceola Avenue with widened sidewalks and bicycle paths, safer crosswalks, and enhanced lighting and signals. He says the Department of Transportation will repave SR 40 this year and construct pedestrian-friendly medians.

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STATE of the C I T Y

“THE PARKING GARAGE IS CLEAN, BRIGHT AND SAFE TO USE,” SAYS CITY OF OCALA GROWTH MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR TYE CHIGHIZOLA. “THE GARAGE WILL CONTINUE TO BE A GREAT ASSET TO DOWNTOWN, ESPECIALLY WITH THE NEW HOTEL UNDER CONSTRUCTION THIS NEXT YEAR.” “The goal was to look at SR 40, not as a barrier but, as a seam,” he says. “This is going to be a busy year,” he adds, saying the city hopes to complete the Osceola Trak project by the end of the year.

STATE of DOWNTOWN PARKING

With all the growth downtown, we asked the city for an update on the new parking garage which opened just over a year ago on SE Broadway Street.

“The parking garage is clean, bright and safe to use,” says City of Ocala Growth Management Director Tye Chighizola.

“The garage will continue to be a great asset to downtown, especially with the new hotel under construction this next year.”

We also asked about the new parking meters installed downtown in early 2017 amid mixed reviews from citizens and business owners.

“Parking violations and citations are down since their implementation,” Chighizola reports. “We expect to continue to make adjustments to the timing of the meters in order to accommodate specific areas and needs of the community.”

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STATE of TOURISM As Ocala grows, we are seeing an increase in tourism and visitors to our community. The Ocala/Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau (OMCVCB) reports a 6.3-percent increase in visitors to the area, reflected in the 2017 Economic Impact Tourism Study.

“As we move into the New Year, the tourism industry will continue to welcome guests with the same warm hospitality and unique adventures that can only be found in Ocala/ Marion County,” says OMCVCB Executive Director Loretta Shaffer. She notes that more than 41-percent of visitors to the area now engage in ecotourism and recreation activities and account for $275,276,900 in direct spending. She adds the Marion County Board of County Commissioners supports the tourism industry, recognizing it as an economic driver, bringing a positive impact to our community.

STATE of REAL ESTATE AND DEVELOPMENT

Realtor Steve Rudnianyn, President of the Ocala Marion County Association of Realtors (OMCAR), says it’s an exciting time to be in real estate. Property is being sold is at a premium, creating a seller’s market. He points to the new Florida

STATE of the C I T Y

Crossroads Commerce Park on County Road 484 as one of the most exciting new developments for our community.

In November, the 900-acre McGinley Farm, about two miles from I-75, was sold to the city to be developed into one of the largest commerce parks in the state. County officials anticipate the site will bring more new jobs to the area.

Rudnianyn says real estate professionals are excited about the 49th Avenue project which will provide residents easier access from the city to CR 484. He calls it an “ignitor” for the commerce park and says it will be a “game changer” for the county’s southern corridor.

STATE of LAW ENFORCEMENT Since Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods was sworn in at the beginning of 2017, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) has implemented three new programs aimed at public safety.

The reinstituted Motor Unit increased traffic enforcement and safety with new motorcycles for deputies on patrol.

The Juvenile and Crisis Intervention Unit purchased scent preservation kits, which allow K9 units to track at-risk missing persons including children, special needs residents

and the elderly. The kits preserve scent samples taken from these individuals so they can be found quickly if they wander away from home.

The new therapy dog program was created in cooperation with the Department of Children and Families (DCF). A trained therapy dog was donated to MCSO and is used by the DCF liaison deputy to interact with victims of traumatic events. Deputies say the dog calms and comforts children before they give their statements to detectives or testify at criminal proceedings and even enhances their memory recall, ensuring all the vital facts of the case can be collected.

Sheriff Woods also created a new Agricultural Deputy position and AG Watch Program in 2017, which he says will establish a contact network and improve responsiveness to the needs of the county’s vast agri-business community.

In 2017, MCSO added 34 patrol deputies and 17 detention deputies, and Sheriff Woods began implementation of a new pay plan which he says will improve recruiting and personnel retention for the agency.

The new Marion County Animal Abuser Registry took effect on January 1, 2017 after the Marion County Board of Commissioners unanimously passed the bill in late 2016, known as Molly’s Law. Molly is a striking white bulldog mix who was stabbed in 2014 by Steven Fleming. Molly barely survived and eventually recovered in the care of Marion County Animal Services and was later adopted by SPCA of Ocala Director Lilly Baron. So far, no offenders have been prosecuted and added to the list.

Fleming committed this horrific crime before the bill was passed so his name does not appear on this list. Officials say having the registry will protect animals from being adopted or purchased by abusers. Marion County is only the second Florida county to adopt an animal abuser registry.

THE STATE of HEALTHCARE

Both Munroe Regional Medical Center and Ocala Health expanded their healthcare services for the community in 2017.

Munroe Regional Medical Center (MRMC) opened the hospital’s new Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

The multi-million dollar, 12-bed NICU serves premature babies and is part of the hospital’s renovation of the Women’s Center, which will get remodeled labor and delivery rooms in 2018. Last year, MRMC also consolidated its diagnostic imaging services in a renovated, central area to make x-rays, CT scans and MRIs more convenient for patients. This year MRMC will begin renovations to its emergency department, adding several rooms and improving patient flow and efficiency.

Across the street, Ocala Health’s Ocala Regional Medical Center (ORMC) is also expanding. The hospital is currently renovating its emergency department, adding 12 exam rooms, for a total of 32, and adding a new public emergency room entrance. ORMC is adding two operating rooms to

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STATE of the C I T Y

bring the total to 13, and will bring the hospital’s total bed count to 256 after adding 34 more patient beds.

Ocala Health’s West Marion Community Hospital (WMCH) completed expansion to its emergency department in 2017, adding nine exam rooms to bring the total to 31. WMCH also doubled the number of operating rooms last year with eight now in use. This year WMCH will continue expansion by adding 44 patient rooms for a total bed count of 138. They will also add a fifth floor shell to allow for quicker future expansion.

STATE of CHARITABLE GIVING

In 2017, the Ocala Marion County Community Foundation welcomed the Non Profit Business Council as its newest affiliation. The council, founded in 2009 by the CEP, is comprised of more than 100 area nonprofits and oversees the successful Youth Philanthropy in Action program which introduces middle schoolers to the concept of philanthropy.

Last year the foundation introduced several new charitable funds including the Marion County Bar Association Civil Legal Aid Fund, a first of its kind in the state of Florida; the Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Fund for training of service dogs for veterans and first responders; the Horse Country Protection Fund, designed to raise awareness about conserving equine and agricultural land; and the Matching Gift Fund for Marion Cultural Alliance Applaud the Arts gift to the Marion Disaster Recovery Network.

The Community Foundation, created as a convenercollaborator-catalyst for community building through philanthropy, has raised more than $3.2 million dollars and granted more than $2.25 million for civic, cultural, community and economic development since its creation in 2011.

The United Way of Marion County is currently in the final stages of its 2017 campaign chaired by Rusty Branson of CenterState Bank. The goal of $2 million is a four percent increase over the $1,927,431 they raised last year.

One particularly successful program funded through the campaign is Strong Families, which provides permanent, stable housing for families, along with GED and skill building classes. In 2017, the program’s second year, they doubled the number of families served, and a new group will be launched this month in Dunnellon.

STATE of VETERANS

In May 2017, the new Marion County Veterans Center opened in the old bowling alley on East Silver Springs Boulevard. This revolutionary, one stop veterans service center is the first of its kind in the state and has quickly become the model other communities want to emulate.

“Our building represents a unique, one-of-a-kind partnership,” said County Commission Chair Carl Zalak III. He said Marion County has a single goal in mind – making it easier for our veterans to receive the services and assistance they have earned.

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The center is the culmination of years of tireless efforts

by Hank Whittier, Executive Director of Marion County Veterans Helping Veterans, who believed veterans should be able to access all the local service agencies under one roof.

Current services include Caliber Home Loans, Combat Veterans to Careers, Stirrups ‘n Strides, and a computer lab where veterans can update skills and search for jobs. Also in the center is Marion County Veterans Services, which helps veterans find government benefits including compensation, pension, healthcare, education and death and burial benefits. “It’s different here in Marion County,” Whittier says.

“This is the place to live. We care about our veterans.”

STATE of the ARTS

Over the past few years, Ocala continues to prove its commitment to the arts. Marion Cultural Alliance (MCA) Executive Director Jaye Baillie summed up the state of the arts going into 2018 by saying, “The state of our creative community is strong. As MCA, we interact daily with our local artists and arts organizations and detect growing energy, talent, and commitment to the arts. Our strategic plan has, at its core, the aspiration to be one of the best cities in the nation for the arts.”

MCA’s Brick City Center for the Arts, known as “The Brick,” provides a unique venue in historic downtown for rotating exhibits, events and performances. In 2017, the city-owned building welcomed 15,000 visitors and featured the work of 200 local and regional artists.

City of Ocala Cultural Arts and Sciences Division Head Laura Walker says the arts have been growing exponentially in our community. She points to the super-popular First Friday Art Walk as an example. At 44, the number of exhibiting artists is the same as this time last year, but administrators still have more applications from artists who want to join and, Walker says, they will probably begin adding more blocks soon to accommodate new artists.

In 2017 they doubled the number of community participants on the square. Walker’s position itself is reflective of a growing arts culture. She was added to the city staff in Spring 2017 when the position was created. She oversees all cultural arts projects including events, festivals and concerts, public art and venues like the Discovery Center and Magnolia Art Xchange.

She says the city will begin its community cultural arts planning process this year, getting input from arts organizations, artists and the community to develop a comprehensive ten-year plan and to determine if there is a viable “arts district.” Cultural arts are a key piece of the revitalization of Midtown.

On Northeast First Avenue, the landmark Union Station is being reborn as the Magnolia Art Xchange (MAX) to open later this year as art studios, co-op space and art galleries.

The adjacent Tuscawilla Art Park, opened in January 2017, will host the first Ocala Outdoor Sculpture Competition

STATE of the C I T Y

ON TV’S FOOD NETWORK, RASHAD JONES, OWNER OF LOCAL FAVORITE BIG LEE’S BARBECUE, WON THE GUY’S BIG PROJECT COMPETITION IN DECEMBER OF 2017 AND IS NOW FEATURED IN HIS OWN SHOW, EAT SLEEP BBQ, AIRING ON SATURDAY NIGHTS. this February, which drew entrants from across the United States and Canada. Ten finalists will vie to have their pieces displayed for a 20-month exhibit. Sculptures to be added this year will include two new installations in Lake Tuscawilla.

Just across Tuscawilla Park, the Reilly Arts Center is the anchor of the performing arts community and the improving Midtown neighborhood. The Reilly, opened in Fall 2015, continues to expand, and had several milestones in 2017 – “Sweeney Todd,” the first stage play produced in partnership with the Insomniac Theatre; filming of a nationally-aired PBS special; the largest-ever Symphony Under the Lights performance, in the open-air theatre; and the formation of the Associate Board of Directors, a group of young professionals whose mission is to expand the Reilly’s family programming and expand awareness of the arts to young adults and families.

Next door to the Reilly, the Discovery Center children’s museum hosted its first exhibit in its brand new, 5,000-square foot upstairs exhibit hall in 2017. The popular dinosaur exhibit was replaced later in the year with the current “Super Kids Save the World,” and the center will rotate three more exhibits this year – “Wild Weather,” “Tropical Odyssey,” and “Game On.” Walker says one focus for this year will be bringing in national acts for downtown concerts. On January 20, Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band, the first Americans to win a Children’s Latin Grammy, will perform at the Discovery Center. In March, the Brick City Beer and Wine Festival will feature a yet-to-be-announced music act and, in November, Harvestfest, which featured the Georgia Satellites and Aaron Tippin in 2017, is expected to attract a world-class lineup of musicians.

In summer 2017, the Levitt AMP concert series came to Ocala for the first time, bringing ten performances to Webb Field at the Ocala Martin Luther King Jr. Recreational Complex. The grant program from the Levitt Foundation awards free concerts to up to 15 small-to-mid-sized cities. The winning cities are chosen from 25 finalists who acquire votes

online. Currently, Ocala is a finalist for 2018, with winners to be announced in early January. “It’s great for our community to have so many arts and culture activities,” Walker says. “It’s amazing for a city this size.”

The newly-completed Fort King had its grand opening in December 2017, drawing twice as many attendees for the second annual re-enactment. About 2,000 visitors watched the living history depiction of the 1830s Seminole War attack on the fort and more than 600 eighth grade students enjoyed the fort’s first annual school day.

“The kids loved it,” said Bill Rodriguez, Parks Division Head for the City of Ocala. He says Fort King has a lot going on in 2018 – including the new Junior Ranger program, for 8-13 year olds, that kicks off this month and the historic homemaking series for adults that will offer programs on homesteading topics like broom making, soap making and Dutch oven cooking. Rodriguez says the fort’s programming is highly responsive to community input.

“Getting folks outdoors is one of our biggest goals here,” he says. “There’s a huge comeback now for people wanting to learn about edible plants and natural resources and trying to get kids away from video games and out having fun and learning something.”

FAMOUS OCALANS to WATCH THIS YEAR

Ocala native Olympic speed skaters Brittany Bowe and Joey Mantia head to Milwaukee, Wisconsin for the 2018 U.S. Olympic Long Track Speedskating Trials January 2-7. You can watch them compete for Team USA in the XXIII Olympic Winter Games from Pyeongchang, South Korea February 9-25. Bowe, who holds the world record in the women’s 1,000 meter, earned bronze in 2017 world competition and Mantia, who won a gold medal at the 2017 World Single Distance Championships, is a favorite to medal in the Mass Start event making its Olympic debut this year.

On TV’s Food Network, Rashad Jones, owner of local favorite Big Lee’s Barbecue, won the Guy’s Big Project competition in December of 2017 and is now featured in his own show, Eat Sleep BBQ, airing on Saturday nights. om

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STATE of the CITY

Matt Wardell took office in 2015 and represents Ocala’s fourth district.

His passion for making Ocala the best it can be began with turning the old City Auditorium into the Reilly Arts Center. That effort included raising more than $2.7 million and managing the full renovation of the aging Works Progress Administration (WPA) building. Wardell is currently the CEO at the Reilly, overseeing both its artistic and administrative operations, and a small business owner working in digital and print marketing. On Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017 he was appointed by his colleagues to serve as City Council President.

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n physics, potential energy is defined as energy possessed by a body by virtue of its position relative to others and stresses within itself. Think of a wrecking ball swung to its full height; it is full of potential energy ready to careen down on its target and

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complete its job. The key to the potential energy is realizing that it is stored energy. It took great effort and work to lift that giant ball to the proper height. Our downtown core is full of potential energy ready to be unleashed and it certainly took some great effort and work to get it to that place. Ocala’s City employees and councils, both past and present, have worked hard to store energy in our community.

Significant investments and work on our infrastructure, careful planning that recognizes our downtown businesses and residents as partners, not adversaries, and an emphasis on job creation and the arts is setting us up for some great successes ahead.

The truth is though, there’s a part of that definition of potential energy above that often gets overlooked, specifically, “stresses within itself.” When we step back and think about it, we all know that growth is not easy and there will be issues along the way. The construction downtown can be inconvenient. Road closures and special event zones can be unpredictable as we work to find balance in creating a vibrant downtown. And yes, a short brick road may be a bit… bumpy.

Let’s talk about that brick road for a moment.

A little more than a year ago, five of the eight potential offices and retail spots along it were vacant and dormant. Now, the road has been rehabbed, the sidewalks have been extended, proper lighting has been installed and the results are clear. The corner above the old Starbucks (isn’t that how we tend to refer to things around here? By what used to be there?) has what might prove to be a major media company of the future that has over a dozen employees. The downstairs will soon be alive with a thriving downtown destination. The building adjacent to that has had significant renovations done to its second floor, including the installation of cantilevered balconies for what will be some pretty hip downtown apartments. A brand new boutique by those that brought our community The Ivy House will soon go in next door. The Marion Theatre, most likely one of downtown’s best known landmarks, has never looked better. And last, but certainly not least, the corner of Magnolia Avenue and Fort King Street, will soon be Ivy on the Square, a modern twist on an Ocala staple. I would argue that both the City’s investment — and really, as taxpayers, that is your investment — in the rehabilitation of Magnolia and small but important partial grants for facade and second floor renovations are some of the primary reasons for the renaissance of that important corridor.

That new old brick road isn’t the only thing happening in Ocala and certainly not the most significant. The soon-tobreak-ground downtown hotel project (the old chamber lot), the establishment of new Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) districts that will lead to a much needed community center on our community’s west side, rehabbing of our major corridors and a renaissance in the midtown and North Magnolia business districts, the doubling of the size of our airport (paid for largely with Federal funds), the evolution of community concerts like the Levitt AMP Ocala Music Series at Webb Field this past summer (partially paid for with a grant secured by the City and the Marion Cultural Alliance) — all of these indicate an incredible amount of potential energy throughout our community. With all of that potential energy, the key to capitalizing is making sure it is converted in the right direction and used in the most efficient way possible so that we can go best impact. That’s where your City Council, and I as Council President, could use your advice.

My hope for this upcoming year as Council President is to see an increase in public involvement at our meetings and in our decision-making process. To give you an example of why I think it’s lacking currently, I’ll tell you a story that happened about three months before I was elected in 2015.

I had been attending meetings on and off for a year or so to make sure I knew what I was getting into by running for office and at this particular meeting there was quite a dustup. Close to 100 residents came to City Hall that Tuesday because they were upset at what they felt was the City getting away from using its official seal and the words “God Be With Us.” They were passionate about the issue and the Council at that time carefully listened to dozens of comments for well over an hour, maybe two. Ultimately, the City had never stopped using the seal and once that was communicated effectively at the meeting, those residents left City Hall and the rest of the business meeting continued. Those who remained in the chamber were down to myself, a reporter

for the Ocala Star Banner, and 15 to 20 City employees. The very next item on the agenda was setting our millage rates (property tax rates), discussion and voting on the City’s $745 million budget. Do you know how many people commented on that annual budget? None.

I don’t bring up that story as a negative statement, but I’m not sure people are fully aware of how important their comments are and how much the City Council does listen.

I want our residents to know that if they have the will to be involved and give input, I am hungry for it. Every one of our meetings are open to the public and welcome public comment. Decisions from that massive annual budget down to policies for parking and park enhancements happen on a bi-weekly basis. It is relatively easy to be up-to-date on the decisions before Council. Our regular meetings are the first and third Tuesdays of every month at 4 p.m. at City Hall located at 110 SE Watula Ave. The agenda and entire agenda packet (including contracts, bid comparisons for City work, staff reports and recommendations) is always placed online several days in advance on the City’s website www.ocalafl.org Government Agendas and Minutes.

I know that 4 p.m. may not be the best time for some to get to City Hall, so send us an email with your comments before the meeting. When sent, those emails and communications are usually placed into the record and do impact our decision-making process. And look, sometimes we may not agree, but that doesn’t mean those comments don’t have an impact and more often than not, you may be providing input that we haven’t heard before. I believe for our local government to be effective it has to be a true extension of the people it represents and right now you have leadership and a Council that is apt to listen.

If we get this right, if your Council and City staff continue to work hard and your input is part of the picture, there truly is no limit to just how powerful our little wrecking ball called Ocala can be.

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STATE of the COUNTY

SALES TAX STATUS CHECK —The First Year PROVIDED BY MARION COUNTY

It’s only one penny out of (almost) every dollar spent in Marion County, but the funds collected through the first year of the county’s one percent sales tax have already paved roads, rolled out new patrol cars for sheriff’s deputies and placed new radios in the hands of firefighters. Read on for highlights of what county agencies have accomplished with the sales tax funds in fiscal year 16-17.

MARION COUNTY FIRE RESCUE Six new ambulances rolled into Marion County and are now running calls; look for the red ambulances labeled R4, R7, R18, R31, R531 and R32. These trucks provide emergency medical response and transport and remain quite busy.

During fiscal year 15/16, 73 percent of the 74,227 emergency calls MCFR responded to were medical in nature.

Three new grass trucks were distributed throughout the county, enhancing the department’s ability to fight wildfires or structure fires in wooded areas.

7KUHH QHZ ÖUH HQJLQHV are slated to arrive this month, a tanker truck will go into service at Station 9 and staff vehicles are also being distributed.

Future purchases in the next three years include selfcontained breathing apparatus, Toughbooks (specialized

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laptops used by crews in rescues and fire trucks to input patient information and navigate to emergencies), and additional emergency vehicles.

In 2017, staff worked on siting and designing a replacement Station 28 (currently in Rolling Greens), and construction should begin in 2018. The new location will be more centrallylocated for the station’s response area, providing improved response times and giving crews a permanent home.

MARION COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE Forty-nine new patrol cars are now on the road, helping deputies respond quickly and safely to emergency calls. Other vehicles set for replacement include those driven by evidence technicians and civil process staff.

The Sheriff’s Office is also purchasing more than 100 ballistic and SWAT vests, which are custom-made to fit each

RECAP – WHAT’S THE SALES TAX? This four-year, one-percent tax is applied to most purchases (some items, such as groceries, are exempt) made by residents and visitors to Marion County.

The money collected funds only public safety and transportation infrastructure and equipment, not salaries or recurring costs.

It was approved by Marion County voters in 2016; the state began collecting it in January of 2017, and Marion County started receiving funds in March. deputy. These important pieces of safety equipment require regular replacements to ensure adequate protection, and additional vest purchases are planned over the next years remaining on the sales tax.

A new helicopter is set to fly in with the New Year, replacing the previous unit that was destroyed in an accident. Staff also has worked to update information technology infrastructure, making improvements that will continue throughout the next several years.

PUBLIC SAFETY COMMUNICATIONS Marion County first responders use radios to communicate, but the radios being used prior to this year were nearing the end of their support life. More than 2,000 new radios are being distributed to public safety personnel across the county, including staff with law enforcement, fire rescue and animal control. This new system will ensure that first responders can communicate within and across their individual agencies.

ROAD PROJECTS (OFFICE OF THE COUNTY ENGINEER) The sales tax will cover capacity projects (building new roadways and lanes) and rehabilitation projects (resurfacing roadways). Road projects require significant planning and construction time, and staff is actively working through the survey and design phases for many of the projects scheduled

in the upcoming years. Crews have already worked on the following rehabilitation projects: County Road 42 (from US 441 to County Road 25).

County Road 326 (from the Levy County line to US 27).

County Road 464B (from the Levy County line to US 27).

WHY THESE PROJECTS? The departments and agencies receiving funds established their prioritized projects on an annual schedule, which was approved by the Board of County Commissioners at public meetings.

Any changes to the purchase list or schedule are approved by the Board at a public meeting. Note that the project categories will not change, although purchases or timing of the purchases within the project categories could change based on new information or opportunities to save money.

For example, though the original approved schedule provided for new radios in fiscal year 2018-2019, it became more costeffective to make the purchase in 2017.

MORE ABOUT THE SALES TAX — Visit www.marionsalestax.org for more information, maps, photos and updates.

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PERSONof the YEAR: OCALA MAGAZINE’S

RONDO FERNANDEZ WRITTEN BY IDA CUNNINGHAM PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS REDD, CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

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EACH YEAR, OCALA MAGAZINE RECOGNIZES ONE OUTSTANDING LOCAL WHO HAS SERVED THEIR COMMUNITY AND DIRECTLY IMPACTED THE PEOPLE IN IT. THIS YEAR, WE ARE PLEASED TO PASS THIS HONOR TO RONDO FERNANDEZ.

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ost people know Rondo for his entrepreneurial spirit, cuban delicacies and that deep booming voice you can’t help but recognize. Some people know him from as far back as the Rondo’s Good Times Bar & Grill days, when life for Rondo went from an all-time high to an abrupt lowest of lows. In fact, many people like to condemn Rondo for his past transgressions, as if we don’t all have a past of our own.

Rondo Fernandez, of the Mojo Grill & Catering, has a remarkable testimony. To mention his past is not to dig up bones but rather highlight the infectious changes he’s made in both his personal and professional life. Ten years ago, circumstances in Rondo’s life catapulted him to make some changes that would carve out an entirely new path for he and his family.

In 2009, Rondo took to the grill – again – opening Mojo’s downtown. The space had a bluesy feel but always left people waiting in long lines for a table – a bittersweet problem to have. Ultimately, Rondo knew he needed bigger digs and moved his establishment to Pine Plaza near Zone Health & Fitness.

Rondo had more space, yet the long waits remained the same. In 2013, Rondo marked a deal near Target that would give his patrons nearly 8,000-square feet of dining and bar space. Thanks, in part, to his dedicated staff and creative wife, Toby, Rondo was able to open the new Mojo Grill in under a month. From there, Rondo has opened a Mojo Grill in Belleview and a third location in east Ocala where the former Horse & Hounds used to be.

Today, the Mojo Grill is a household name but the dynamic service and mouth-watering menu is not why people adore Rondo. His heart for people – those less fortune, underprivileged youth and struggling mothers (to name a few) – is why Ocala and surrounding areas admire and support everything Rondo spearheads.

When Ocala Magazine asked our readers to suggest local individuals deserving of being named “Person of the Year,” Rondo’s name rang out. Tammie Packard wrote, “Can’t say enough about how wonderful Rondo is and in so many ways.

From his music, ministry, community outreach, family man, and oh, his restaurants!”

Jim Wynn commented, “It would be difficult to find a

person who does more for the community than Rondo.

Thank you for all the big-hearted things you do!.”

Rondo has donated gifts of service and support to organizations including ARC Marion, the American Cancer Society, Making Strides, Relay for Life and the list goes on – and on. He sits on the board of the Ocala Outreach Foundation, a local organization that depends solely on local donations that go back to help local families in need – 100%.

In 2017, Rondo organized Feed the Fearless, a program that fed all of our local, on-duty firefighters thanks in part to the Mojo’s team, local dignitaries, business sponsors and community leaders. Originally slated for September 11th – in an effort to honor the 343 fallen firefighters on 9/11 – Rondo found himself having to reschedule due to Hurricane Irma. The last minute reschedule proved chaotic, but Rondo and his team turned it around and on September 25th, at lunchtime, every single Marion County Fire Station was served a delicious hot lunch.

In November of that year, Rondo hosted a Turkey Drive to benefit Feed the Need and Interfaith Emergency Services.

Feed the Need is a non-profit, faith-based organization that focuses on helping at-risk youth and adults who are left without a home – founded by Rondo. It has contributed thousands upon thousands of dollars to the Marion County School Board’s homeless youth program.

Events such as “Dust My Broom,” “Night of Praise” and “Havana Nights” are all under the umbrella of Feed the Need and have provided this program everything from monetary donations to hygiene products to clothing for homeless youth. It takes numerous local eateries and businesses to pull off events like this, businesses such as Sonny’s BBQ, Pasta Faire, Uncle Maddio’s Pizza, The Lunchbox, Loco Graphics, Ocala Car Audio and Ocala Website Design – to name a few.

Rondo is a man of inspiration who has not let the pits of life keep him from great things. He is mostly respected for his drive and perseverance – for getting back up, dusting off and turning a dark season of his life into a lifetime of being a beacon of light for his community. When it comes to choosing a Person of the Year, Ocala Magazine could not agree more with the consensus that rallied for Rondo Fernandez.

PERSON OF THE YEAR RUNNERS-UP: Diane Schofield with Hands of Mercy Everywhere, Pastor Matt Overfelt with Ocala United and Diane Coleman with His Compassion, Inc.

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BUSINESSof the YEAR: OCALA MAGAZINE’S

BROOKLYN’S BACKYARD

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EACH YEAR, OCALA MAGAZINE RECOGNIZES ONE OUTSTANDING BUSINESS THAT HAS SERVED ITS COMMUNITY AND DIRECTLY IMPACTED THE PEOPLE IN IT. THIS YEAR, WE ARE PLEASED TO PASS THIS HONOR TO BROOKLYN’S BACKYARD.

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rince of Pizza and King of the Wing winner, Brooklyn’s Backyard has made quite a name for themselves in Marion County. Brooklyn’s is known for their delicious menu, unique atmosphere and stellar customer service but, this year, Brooklyn’s gained a reputation for truly being in the business of giving back.

On November 10th, Tim Thomas took to Facebook and wrote, “Seven years ago today, Janice and I purchased a little pizzeria called Brooklyn’s Original Pizza. With only 40 seats, we worked our tails off for three years to eventually build what we all know as Brooklyn’s Backyard. Thanks to all of Ocala’s support, we were able to turn a small little restaurant into a place where families and friends can come enjoy a relaxing evening with great food. Thanks to all of our staff, most of which have been with us for most of this journey.

Thanks to our Chef Jeremy Zajac – without him this all wouldn’t be possible. Thanks to all of our loyal customers and friends. We’ve had a great seven years and the best is yet to come!”

Tim was right! The best was yet to come when the following month, Ocala Magazine readers named Brooklyn’s Backyard a 2017 Best of the Best winner. Now, just one month later, Ocala has voted and named Brooklyn’s Backyard the Ocala Magazine Business of the Year. Yep! I’d say this has been one hell of a year for Brooklyn’s – and well deserved.

They did more this year than simply serve up delicious burgers with a friendly smile. They went over and beyond for this community and it has paid off!

When Ocala Magazine posed the question online, “Which local business would you name “Business of the Year?” readers flooded the comments with nominations for Brooklyn’s Backyard. It seems their customers notice just how much owners Tim and Janice Thomas give back to this community.

Patricia Gail wrote, “Brooklyn’s Backyard does so much for Ocala. They are always ready to step in when there is a need.

They are especially good to our first responders and military.

They absolutely deserve to be BOTY!” Robert Paull commented, “These people always go above and beyond. And when your wife has eight food allergies, going above and beyond ain’t easy. Brooklyn’s Backyard absolutely deserves to be the Ocala [Magazine] Business of

The Year.”

Kacey Spaulding Brack said, “Family businesses that give back to their communities are the best ones out there! They have done so much this year for Ocala! They deserve it.”

Just recently, Tim posted looking for a couple of families who needed help making Christmas come true in their home. During Hurricane Irma, Tim and Janice organized a FB movement to help feed the hungry and tired linemen who were working around the clock for Marion County.

Brooklyn’s Backyard set out to feed over 400 OEU workers and orchestrated the meals necessary to make this happen.

Kelly Huber commented, “Thank you Brooklyn’s for taking care of these hard working men and women. You guys rock!” Other online followers chimed in looking to help or thank those who were working with Brooklyn’s to ensure these linemen were fed. In the end, over 800 individuals were fed.

“Thank you all so much for your generosity and willing to help this community,” commented Tim. “This is why Janice and I chose Ocala as the place to raise our children. We all come together in tough times – such a wonderful place we live in. I will be posting all of the restaurants that participated in this effort. Please support them because they support this community. Stay strong Ocala.”

The opportunity to feed linemen gained traction and both Tim and Janice felt so compelled by this opportunity to serve, they dedicated the first Wednesday of each month to feeding local first responders. From 5:30pm until 9:30pm, Brooklyn’s Backyard hosts “Meet Our Heroes” night, where all working first responders are served a hot meal. It is also encourages locals to come by Brooklyn’s and thank these brave men and women first-hand.

Customer Patricia Gail went on to say, “Thank you Tim, Janice and Brooklyn’s for all you do! You do so much for this community! Not just first responders – you are always quick to help in all situations. We love you and appreciate you so much!”

Clearly Brooklyn’s Backyard has touched many lives in this community in 2017 and their generosity has captured the hearts of those who I’ve here.

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR RUNNERS-UP: Pasta Faire, Ocala Health, Jackalopes Pressure Washing Services and Marion County Children’s Alliance.

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PROJECTof the YEAR: OCALA MAGAZINE’S

FORT KING NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK

PHOTO PROVIDED BY THE CITY OF OCALA

I

n late 2017, Ocala residents and visitors gathered at the Fort King National Historic Landmark to celebrate the unveiling of the newly reconstructed fort. With a booming reenactment and tour of the built-to-scale structure, event-goers were in awe of the finished product and rich Ocala history.

Marion County residents and surrounding counties have waited, with anticipation, for this historic fort to be rebuilt and open to the public. We have watched this project happen in phases, over time, so it is not shocking readers would vote to name the Fort King National Historic Landmark “Project of the Year.”

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A little bit about this project (as taken from the State of the City article published in Ocala Magazine in November 2017).

The development of Fort King National Historic Landmark has been phased. The first phase of the project is at completion and includes the building of the fort walls and two block houses. This is a replica of the second fort that stood on the same hill. Under advisement from Gulf Archeological Research Institute, the original fort footprint was mapped and the replica fort was positioned to ensure that archaeological resources were preserved. With the completion of the first phase of this project, we can begin to give visitors a true sense of the history that this park embodies. Public

programs, school field trips and tours will give visitors a deeper understanding of the importance of this site.

The second phase of the Fort King project is a broader effort to expand the scope and definition of the park. This will include the building of the internal structures once inside the fort, a new Fort King visitor and education center, a working blacksmith shop, exterior structures and a Seminole Chickee.

The Fort King Visitor Center will serve as the hub for stewardship programs designed to educate the public on the importance of preserving the historical and environmental resources at Fort King. Visitors will also learn about Fort King’s legacy from both the Seminole and soldier perspectives. The visitor center will include a museum that will house the vast collection of over 50,000 artifacts recovered from this site – including display pieces such as Andrew Jackson’s pin and a soldier’s bayonet scabbard buckle. Two classrooms will provide space to serve student groups with displays and interpretive tools that are sure to engage. With the assistance of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, the Seminole people will share the role Fort King played in their history.

The large gathering chickee at Fort King will serve as an outdoor classroom in the meadow. Complementing the replica fort, the chickee will blend into the natural environment and will represent the presence and contributions of the Seminole people to Florida. The blacksmith shop, internal fort structures and external structures will build a park that is indicative of the way the site looked in 1837. With these structures in place, the park will become an immersive experience taking the visitor back in time. Through programing, re-enactments, storytelling and daily operation, the public will be able to truly interpret the rich history that Fort King represents.

A brief history of the fort (as taken from the State of the City article published in Ocala Magazine in November 2017).

“In the winter of 1834 orders were received for the troops at Fort Marion to take up the line of march for Fort King, Seminole Agency. This was to strengthen the force at the Fort under the command of Brigadier D. L. Clinch, pending the negotiations between the Seminole tribe of Indians and the United States Agent, General Thompson.”

So begins the story of Fort King.

Shortly after Spain ceded Florida to the United States in 1821, the government began a mission to relocate the Seminoles to make way for white settlers. The First Seminole War prior to that had already incited hostilities between the Seminoles and these same settlers. In 1827, Fort King was built to provide the United States a position from which to manage those hostilities. The fort was named after Colonel William King who had commanded the Fourth Infantry.

In July 1836, Fort King was abandoned, and amidst shifting relations between the U.S. government and the Seminole Tribe, it was burned to the ground by the Seminoles. In

1837 Fort King rose from the ashes. A second fort was built on the same hill as the first. This new Fort King became a major military post during the Second Seminole War. Fort King represented the United States government’s resolve to expel the Native Americans from Florida and served as the seat from which the government would “tame” the state for continued habitation by the white man.

The Second Seminole War was commanded from these grounds from 1827 through 1842. Every regiment of the U.S. Army stood inside the walls of Fort King at some point during the conflict. It was at Fort King that the Seminole Osceola took his first major stand against the U.S. Army and one of the most significant leaders of the Seminole Tribe, Abiaka, got the common name Sam Jones.

The Second Seminole war was concluded without a victor and, soon after, Fort King was given to the people of the newly established Marion County, becoming the county seat and the first county courthouse. Twenty-five years later, many of the same men who served at Fort King became leaders to both the Confederate and Union Armies in America’s next big conflict. Those remaining from the unconquered Seminole tribe escaped to the Florida Everglades where they still reside and are known today as the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

The Seminole Wars were very complex and contentious in their nature. They were about relocation, pride, freedom, land and loss. The Second Seminole War in particular was about broken promises. The Seminole Wars were instrumental in the shaping of the newly formed State of Florida. This was a time of great suffering on both sides. It was as if this land was waiting a couple hundred years to tell its story. It was not just an act of fate that these 40-plus acres of Earth remained undeveloped in a rapidly developing City of Ocala.

The community worked fiercely to preserve the site in an environment that wasn’t always respectful of preserving our past and a time when other Seminole War sites were being paved over for new development. Finally, with the help of concerned citizens and the support of local government, the Fort King site came under ownership of the City of Ocala and Marion County. On Feb. 24, 2004, Secretary of the Interior, Gale Norton, designated Fort King a National Historic Landmark. This designation protects the site and positions it to tell its story for generations to come.

It is said that to move forward we must learn from the past. Fort King National Historic Landmark, 3925 E Fort King St., is a park dedicated to telling the story of the Seminole Wars. It is rich with the history of our county, our state and our country. The vision for a future Fort King is that of a living history park that does not just speak of events from the past, but immerses the public in the life, times and history of the 1800s in Florida.

PROJECT OF THE YEAR RUNNERS-UP: An Accidental Zombie Named Ted and Levitt AMP Ocala Music Series. om

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natural

OATS One tiny business with a big name in skin care.

WRITTEN BY KELLI FUQUA HART, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS REDD, CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

K

eta Browning has a background in Broadcast Journalism from Florida A&M but today, the buzz about Keta stems from a skin care business that is quickly taking Ocala by storm.

On April 26, 2017, Keta took to Facebook and introduced her new company – Natural Oats Soap Co. Her announcement described her products as “100% natural, organic bath and beauty products, made authentically with care and quality ingredients.” Soon after, she posted a photo of her Spring 2017 collection of “bright, fun, fresh” soaps with “fruity scents.” It was clear, Keta was excited about her products and created each one with genuine TLC. Natural Oats began popping up at events and markets all over town – the Florida Horse Park, Circle Square Commons Farmer’s Market, and Marley Mae Fall Market. Orders were also pouring in on her new website and Etsy shop. Her product line expanded to moisturizing body lotions, bath soaks, lip scrubs, activated charcoal, hand bars and more.

On August 18th, Keta happily announced Natural Oats was an official business – a Licensed Limited Liability company.

Her dreams were quickly coming true. One month later, Keta alluded to “exciting new opportunities” being “on the horizon,” leaving customers curious about her next big move.

Just before September’s end, Keta made a very exciting announcement on the Natural Oats Facebook page. “We teamed up with The Olive Oil Market in downtown Ocala to create a special collection of handcrafted soaps and lotions using premium Italian olive oil off their shelves.”

By mid-October, Natural Oats was a contender for Ocala Magazine’s Best of the Best award, vying for the title of Best Made-Local Business. Being “open for business” for just a few short months, Natural Oats came in third to two longestablished local businesses – quite impressive.

Today, Keta’s business is flourishing. Her product line now has more options than ever. Online bloggers and skin

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care professionals are praising her all-natural, premium ingredients. In fact, you can now find her quality products at Kairo Clothing in Ormond Beach and we expect to see more Natural Oats products in retail stores across the state.

To find out more about Natural Oats, like them on Facebook or visit www.naturaloatssoap.com. om EDITOR PICKS : FAVORITE NATURAL OATS PRODUCTS I have extremely sensitive skin and the more I use natural, safe products, the more harsh, chemically-created products negatively affect my skin. What first attracted me to Natural Oats was Keta’s brilliant use of social media to promote beautifully crafted and packaged products. I wanted to see if the products worked as well as they looked. I am already a believer in the benefits of olive oil and Himalayan Salt so I hoped these products would stack up. I was impressed with the scents of these products – not overbearing, but rather pleasant.

They lather quite well and leave my skin feeling moisturized and soft – no residue. One of my favorite products is Keta’s lip scrub. Not only delicious in taste, the scrub removed the dry outer layer of skin and revealed soft, smooth, kissable lips. What makes Natural Oats even better is the price. Most of Keta’s products are $5, but none more than $10. And with free shipping over $35 and adorable arrangements of gift baskets, Natural Oats make for the perfect gift to self or others! Product photos from www.naturaloatssoap.com.

Rose-Infused Floral Beauty Oil $10: 1 fl. oz. of Coconut Oil, Sunflower Oil, Organic Vitamin E Oil, Rose Essential Oil and Organic Rose Bud to hydrate your hair, skin and nails.

Mandarin Rose Soap $5: 4.5 oz. of Saponified oils of Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Olive Oil and Avocado Oil with Raw Organic Shea Butter, Organic Coconut Milk Yogurt, Mandarin Essential Oil, Rose Essential Oil and Organic Rose Petals.

Lavender Lemonade Lip Scrub $5: 1 oz of Organic Sugar, Organic Unrefined Coconut Oil, Raw Shea Butter, Lemon Essential Oil and Lavender Essential Oil to exfoliate dead, chapped or dry skin cells from the lips.

Oat Milk Body Lotion $5: 4 fl. oz. of Water, Hand Pressed Oat Milk, Organic Aloe Vera, Organic Coconut Oil, Raw Shea Butter, Organic Grapeseed Oil, Organic Sweet Almond Oil, Organic Chia Seed Oil, Black Walnut Oil, Macadamia Nut Oil, Organic Jojoba Oil, Glycerin and Optiphen Plus Pink Salt Rose Bath Soak $5: 6 oz. Recharge and Rejuvenate with the healing mineral infusion of Natural Oats Pink Salt Rose Bath Soak. Himalayan Pink Salt works as a powerful detoxifier. When dissolved in water it becomes an ionic solution that draws toxins out of the skin, while helping soothe away soreness and relax cramped muscles.

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MEDICAL Journal

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“WHY AM I SO TIRED?” PART 1: DEHYDRATION Fatigue can be an early indicator of many serious illnesses, but in many cases, the solution is simple and can be remedied quickly. If you are in good health and still feel constantly tired, a few easy lifestyle changes may be all it takes to feel like your best self. In this 3 part series, we will explore how dehydration, vitamin deficiencies, and constipation contribute to fatigue.

A

WRITTEN BY WHITNEY WILLETT, MEDICAL EDITOR

fter the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, most of us are feeling a little worse for wear.

But if you feel like you’ve been constantly tired since about 2008, you are not alone. Some of the latest research indicates that only 15% of American adults do not complain of fatigue on a weekly basis. More shocking is that 48% of American adults report waking up tired and poorly rested four or more days a week.

If you are one of nearly half of all Americans that seems to be chronically tired for a long period of time, you’ve probably already seen your doctor. Serious illness can be a major contributor to prolonged fatigue, but the vast majority of cases are relatively healthy people that just can’t seem to shake the feeling of always being tired. If you are in good health and feel like you are always dragging, you’re probably feeling frustrated. But something as simple as staying hydrated may be the answer to helping you feel vibrant again.

There is a laundry list of symptoms that come with fatigue and none of them make life any easier. The most common symptoms are chronic tiredness/sleepiness, headache, muscle

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aches, mental fogginess and moodiness. Fatigue can mimic mild flu-like symptoms and make it’s sufferers difficult to deal with, but some symptoms can be dangerous. Fatigue can also cause dizziness, slow reflexes, blurry vision and poor handto-eye coordination. Symptoms of this nature can make the afflicted person a danger on the road or a liability on the job.

Several US studies conducted over the past five years report that as many as 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated.

There are a multitude of negative health implications of not drinking enough water, but understanding the role that dehydration plays in fatigue may help give the motivation needed to drink up.

You’ve probably heard facts and figures before about how much of our bodies are made up of water. Aside from the shear volume of water our bodies are composed of, a little lesson in biochemistry helps us best understand why getting enough water is so vital to the way we feel.

Adult bodies are approximately 55-65% water, with women being on the lower end as their bodies have a higher percentage of fat than men’s do. On a cellular level, water

WHEN YOU ARE DEHYDRATED, YOU ARE FORCING YOUR HEART TO WORK HARDER AND ROBBING YOUR BRAIN OF EFFICIENT TRANSPORT OF NUTRIENTS. THAT ALONE MAKES IT EASY TO SEE WHY DEHYDRATION CAN CAUSE FATIGUE. accounts for 70% or more of total cell mass. Each of our cells go through metabolic processes that require replacement of water lost during that process. That water comes from the same source that all other nutrients come from, the blood.

Blood plasma accounts for 55% of bloody fluid, and is 92% water by volume. Thus, approximately 50% of blood is water. When our bodies are dehydrated, the fluid loss in rehydrating the cells isn’t adequately replenished and the blood volume drops. When our blood volume is low, our heart has to work harder to push oxygen and nutrients through the bloodstream. Basically, dehydrated blood is sludgy blood.

The diminished blood plasma leaves the blood very thick and viscous, making the heart have to work a lot harder to push through your body to get nutrients to vital organs like your brain and muscles. Your heart and brain are undeniably the two most important organs. When you are dehydrated, you are forcing your heart to work harder and robbing your brain of efficient transport of nutrients. That alone makes it easy to see why dehydration can cause fatigue, but there’s more.

Since our blood is responsible for transporting nutrients to our body, you may be wondering how the nutrients make it from our digestive system to our blood stream and then to our organs and cells (what a journey!). Even if it’s been a while since you’ve sat through a science lecture, you probably remember hearing the word osmosis. Osmosis is a process in which the molecules in a solvent are passed through a semipermeable membrane from a less concentrated solution to a more concentrated one. If that doesn’t quite sound like English to you, let’s simplify it for our purposes: Osmosis occurs in our small and large intestines and is how the nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream. In many cases, osmosis is how blood delivers nutrients as well. The better hydrated our body is, the more efficiently we can absorb

nutrients and fuel our organs and tissues.

In a nutshell, dehydration causes fatigue by malnourishment from inadequate absorption of nutrients and making the body work a lot harder to distribute them.

So how can you tell if you are dehydrated? There are several telltale signs, but the best indicator is our urine. Decreased urine output and dark urine color are red flags that a person is dehydrated. Normal urine output for adults is about 2 liters per day. Since that would be cumbersome to measure, simply look at the color. If your urine is more yellow or amber, you are dehydrated. Someone who is well hydrated will have nearly clear urine, with only a faint yellow hue.

It seems like for a long time, we have all been told we need eight, 8 ounce glasses of water a day, for a total of 64 ounces.

But we are all different, so obviously that generalization is only true for a small percentage of people. Most nutritionist now agree that optimal hydration can be achieved by drinking half your weight in ounces. If you weigh 150lbs, you need to drink 75 ounces of water each day. If you are 200lbs, you need to drink 100 ounces per day. While that may seem like a lofty goal to drink that much water every day, it would be well worth it if it means finally shaking that tired feeling.

One last thing to keep in mind: the only real way to stay hydrated is the drink water. While other beverages may quench your thirst, they often lead to dehydration...even if their main ingredient is water! Anything with sugar, caffeine and other chemicals (like quinine found in some carbonated water and tonics) will cause dehydration. The same goes for artificial sweeteners. The body cannot use these additives and has to work hard to separate them out as waste. Adding natural and nutritious flavor agents like lemon, lime and ginger can help jazz up plain water so you can get your fill. om

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ON the MENU

BBQ served with a handshake and a side of wisdom.

WRITTEN BY AMBER TOMPKINS, FOOD EDITOR PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS REDD, CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

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M

aricamp Road travelers will tell you that traffic moves a little slower while Big Lee’s is open on Fridays and Saturdays. This off-thecharts BBQ food truck was opened by power couple Rashad and Patrice Jones in July of 2014 and has been serving up smoky, meaty goodness ever since.

A safe rule of thumb when it comes to eateries, food trucks or otherwise, is when they are only open on select days, for only a few hours — the food is usually crazy good! And Big Lee’s is no exception. You may have to wait in line for a little, but at least you’ll be in good company. Fellow BBQ lovers chat with each other while they wait. During Ocala Magazine’s visit to Big Lee’s food truck, people in line where sharing their stories about how often they eat at Big Lee’s and how they first got acquainted with the simple, yet dreamy BBQ. Martin Ruben and his wife had just driven from Canada…three days in the car for smoked meat?! You’re kidding, right? Nope, and once you taste it, you’ll understand why. The Ruben’s told OM they’ve, “Never had better Brisket than Rashad’s.” The couple met smoke master Jones through a Rotary Association sponsored Youth

Leadership Seminar where he had been hired to be the keynote speaker. That’s right, Rashad Jones is not only a BBQ genius, he’s a motivational speaker as well. And one who takes his own advice to heart. He attributes his success to one of his philosophies on life, “Be the most authentic version of yourself, work hard and good things will happen.” He can be overheard sharing his wisdom to many patrons that visit Big Lee’s.

The location of this ever-popular food truck is 3925 SE 45th Court in Ocala. Rashad and his crew use two smokers to prepare all of their succulent meats. One of the smokers is 25 years old and the other was recently handcrafted by Rashad and a friend out of a 1,000 gallon tank. One thing is clear at Big Lee’s — they love what they do. You can taste that in every bite. Rashad was kind enough to let OM in on his BBQ secret…it’s not fancy equipment, elaborate secret rubs or specialty imported wood. The secret is…ready for it? Time. Patience and elbow grease pay off when it comes to producing quality smoked meats. They begin by first trimming the meat and letting it dry and brine for 24 hours.

After this, it gets rubbed down and put into a smoker for another 24 hours.

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BIG LEE’S BBQ 3925 SE 45TH COURT OCALA, FL 34480

352-304-9105 WWW.MYBIGLEESBBQ.COM

@mybigleesbbq “The key to a good fire is stoking it every half hour and using super dry, seasoned wood,” Rashad explained. After the meats have been smoking low and slow for a full day, they are pulled off, wrapped in a double layer of butcher paper and aluminum foil, then put back on until they soften. Jones loves the ins and outs of all things BBQ and has gotten his smoking down to a science. “BBQ should be an aesthetic experience… all your senses should be engaged and intrigued.” He loves watching the expressions of people tasting his food because he can tell how much they are enjoying it. That this is how BBQ is supposed to taste.

Be prepared for the possibility that by the time you get up

to the window, the menu item you were hoping to order may already be sold out. But rest assured, everything coming out of Big Lee’s food truck is amazing and all worth ordering! Some of the more popular menu items (that always go quick) are the hearty, smoky, bark-covered burnt ends and the brisket. If you get the chance, give “The Kathy” a try. This brisket-stuffed macaroni and cheese will leave you speechless! The smoky brisket is pulled and dressed in a sweet, tangy BBQ sauce before it is stuffed into a bowl of homemade macaroni and cheese. This concoction is sharp, sweet, savory and velvety all at the same time. Topped with shredded cheddar, “The Kathy” is definitely a must try. om

BRISKET RECIPE DIRECTIONS:

1. Starting with an 8-10 lb brisket, trim fat to a 1/4 inch height.

2. Apply 1/3 cup of your favorite dry rub or seasoning blend to the entire brisket.

3. Apply 1/4 cup of coarse ground black pepper to the fat cap portion of the brisket.

4. Load brisket onto 225 degree preheated smoker with the point (fattier side) facing the fire.

5. After 5-6 hours there should be a layer of bark that has formed and some jus pooling on the flat (skinnier side).

6. Increase smoker temp to 275 degrees for 45 min.

7. Remove brisket from smoker and wrap it in three separate sheets of peach butcher paper or heavy duty aluminum foil.

8. Place triple wrapped brisket into a large aluminum pan and return to smoker at 200 degrees. Maintain 200 degrees for 10 hours.

9. Remove brisket and let it rest on counter top for an hour.

10. Carefully remove this piping hot brisket from its wrapping.

11. Slice and enjoy!

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ANUARY

HITS OCALA EVENTS p. 48

here’s what’s on deck this month

DIRTY DANCING

p. 49

FIRST FRIDAY FUNNY

p. 50

27TH ANNUAL YOUNG ARTIST HONORS RECITAL

p. 46

Have an event? Submit your info to kelli@ocalamagazine.com

MUSIC

this month in

MYSTERIES OF THE AMAZON: MUSICAL PERFORMANCE BY TRIBE OF LOVE

JANUARY 11TH AT 5PM - 8PM

Appleton Museum A musical performance by Tribe of Love, including organizer Susanna Raven with Maryn Azoff and Jan Paul Werge. For more information, contact AppletonMuseum@cf.edu. For a full listing of on- and off-site events, please visit AppletonMuseum.org/exhibits/ Special/mysteries.html.

6 GUITARS STARRING CHASE PADGETT JANUARY 13TH AT 8PM

The Reilly Arts Center A single performer portrays 6 different guitar playing characters each sharing their own style of music. As the show unfolds, audiences are treated to great songs from each genre that showcase breathtaking musicianship. This sonic feat is done not merely with just one performer but just one guitar as well. There are plenty of laughs too! For ticket info, visit www.reillyartscenter.com.

OSO SUB. 3: KISS OF THE SWISS MUSE

JANUARY 20TH AT 7:30PM AND 21ST AT 3PM

The Reilly Arts Center Raymond Chobaz returns to bring music inspired by his home, Switzerland! Guest soloist Yefim Romanov plays Tchaikovsky’s captivating Violin Concerto in D Major, a piece inspired by the Swiss Alps. The concert closes with Randall Thompson’s Symphony No. 2, a heartfelt, direct, and exciting work that will leave you wondering why you haven’t heard it before! For ticket info, visit www.reillyartscenter.com.

MODERN VINYL SERIES: KELSEY WALDON

JANUARY 27TH AT 7:30PM

The Reilly Arts Center The Kentucky singer/songwriter hails from Monkey’s Eyebrow, in rural Ballard County where her family put down roots several generations ago, metaphorically and otherwise. “Farming and planting tobacco were some of the first jobs I had growing up,” she recounts. Waldon released her debut album in 2014, The Goldmine. The set was met with open arms from both critics and lovers of the kind of country music that she makes — the kind born in bars and raised in honky-tonks, the kind leaning on pedal steel and driven by Telecaster. This is the series you don’t want to miss. For ticket info, visit www.reillyartscenter.com.

27TH ANNUAL YOUNG ARTIST HONORS RECITAL JANUARY 28TH AT 5PM

The Reilly Arts Center Finalists from our 27th annual Young Artist Competition will compete with their accompanists in front of our live audience. After the judges deliberate, we’ll select the winners and make the announcement live. The winners will go on to perform their concerto with the OSO at the fourth subscription concert “Youth, Nationalism, and a Hero’s Song.” For ticket info, visit www.reillyartscenter.com.

CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE: CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVIVAL

FEBRUARY 2ND AT 7:30PM

The Reilly Arts Center Experience Classic Albums LIVE as they perform Creedence Clearwater Revival’s acclaimed album “Chronicles”, followed by their greatest hits! Note for Note, Cut for Cut. For ticket info, visit www.reillyartscenter.com.

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ART

this month in

MYSTERIES OF THE AMAZON: VISIONARY ARTWORK OF PABLO AMARINGO AND HIS STUDENTS

NOW - JANUARY 14TH

Appleton Museum of Art This exhibition features approximately 95 paintings by Peruvian artist Pablo Amaringo and his students from Olsen’s private collection. Completed 2001-2016, the large-scale, acrylic paintings are considered to be some of the best examples of Mestizo vegetalista and ayahuasquero shamanism gathered in one place. Exhibiting brilliant use of color, the paintings depict the plant, animal and angelic spirits encountered in deep ceremonial visionary experiences. In addition, groupings of Peruvian ethnographic objects let the viewer further experience these unique cultural groups.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS BY JORDAN SHAPOT (OPENING RECEPTION)

JANUARY 5TH AT 5PM

Brick City Center for the Arts “First Impressions” pays homage to Native Americans and serves as a reflection of the fragmented identity of their culture and rich traditions. These indigenous people have been disrespected and mistreated throughout American history. As a result, many traditional ways of life have disappeared completely. The traditions are still practiced but often-times on a considerably smaller scale.

For more info, visit www.jordanshapot.com.

ARTS AND CULTURAL ECONOMIC IMPACT IN OCALA

JANUARY 17TH AT 3PM

Marion Cultural Alliance, 23 SW Broadway St., Ocala January Arts and Cultural Roundtable Featuring Randy Cohen, Americans for the Arts VP of Research and Policy. We are hosting Randy Cohen, the Vice President of Research and Policy for Americans for the Arts. Mr. Cohen will be releasing Ocala’s arts economic impact from the Arts & Economic Prosperity 5 national study. This meeting will take place on January 17, 2018 at Brick City Center for the Arts, 3:00-4:15 pm. Please RSVP through the link below, The event is FREE.

OPENING RECEPTION: FOR YOUR EYES ONLY – ARTISTS’ ALLEY EXHIBIT

FEBRUARY 2ND AT 5PM

Marion Cultural Alliance, 23 SW Broadway Street, Ocala, FL Join MCA for the Opening reception of this extraordinary and unique art exhibit , designed to excite your passion for the arts. Presented by the group of almost if not completely crazy members of Artist-Alley. Looking for art that can make a statement or just a special piece all will be available. The exhibit will remain open until 9 pm and through the end of February.

heART IN THE PARK FEBRUARY 3RD AT 10AM

Tuscawilla Park Historic District Please join us on Saturday, February 3, as children and families come together at Ocala’s historic Tuscawilla Park to participate in a community art project benefiting KidsCentral. This public event hopes to encourage creativity in children of all skill levels by providing the opportunity for them to paint something they love. $10 for each “artist” includes a canvas, an assortment of paintbrushes, and access to several arts and crafts supplies. Participants will also have the opportunity to donate their finished pieces back to the Junior League of Ocala for the chance to have their artwork showcased at the Brick City Center for the Arts. Tickets available online at www.bit.ly/ heARTproject.

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CULTURE

this month in AUDUBON BIRD HIKE

JANUARY 6TH AT 8AM

Fort King National Historic Landmark, 3925 E. Fort King St. Come join bird-lovers and discover native birds at this free nature hike presented by the Marion Audubon Society. For more info, call 352-368-5535.

SYLVIA ZERBINI PERFORMANCE

JANUARY 7TH AT 3:30PM

Grande Liberte Farm, 18552 NE 81st Street, Williston Internationally acclaimed Sylvia Zerbini demonstrates her amazing communication and partnering with up to 16 horses in her mesmerizing Grande Liberté performances. She transforms Liberty work into the ultimate equestrian performing art. Witness her herd of Stallions and Geldings working together to create the quintessential Equestrian Ballet experience. Call 941-256-1063 for more info.

HITS OCALA JANUARY CLASSIC

JANUARY 16TH - 21ST

HITS OCALA JANUARY FESTIVAL II

JANUARY 23RD - 28TH

HITS OCALA PREMIERE III

JANUARY 30TH - FEBRUARY 4TH

HITS OCALA WINTER CLASSIC IV

FEBRUARY 6TH - FEBRUARY 11TH

ALL AT HITS POST TIME FARM The extensive range of classes, offering over $4 million in prize money, and abundant show opportunities makes HITS Post Time Farm in Ocala, Florida, a prime winter destination. The HITS Ocala Winter Circuit features USEF National and Premier-Rated Hunters, 5* and 6* Jumpers, two $50,000 USHJA International Hunter Derbies and qualifiers for the HITS Championship. In February, HITS Post Time Farm will also play host the 2018 FEI Nations Cup™ Jumping for the fourth consecutive year. The HITS Ocala Winter Circuit culminates each March with the Great American $1 Million Grand Prix.

NATURE HIKE WITH DAVID

JANUARY 27TH AT 8AM

Silver Springs State Park Take a guided hike on the 3rd Saturday of each month, September through May, and learn about the flora and fauna of North Central Florida. David Rakes is an experienced and knowledgeable naturalist with a broad understanding of the natural communities surrounding the Silver River. Each hike will start from a different location in the park and will focus on different plants. You may receive the opportunity to view wildlife such as Florida white-tailed deer, Sherman’s fox squirrel, Eastern gopher tortoises, and more.

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ON STAGE this month

A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN

JANUARY 9TH AT 7PM

Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center, 1051 Main Street, The Villages, FL 32159 Fueled by such unforgettable songs as “Me and Bobby McGee,” “Piece of My Heart,” “Mercedes Benz,” “Cry Baby” and “Summertime,” this sensational show is a musical journey celebrating Joplin and her biggest musical influences—icons like Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Odetta, Nina Simone and Bessie Smith, who inspired one of rock & roll’s greatest legends. Call the Box Office at 352-750-5411.

DIRTY DANCING

JANUARY 12TH AT 7:30PM AND 13TH AT 2PM AND 7:30PM

Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center, 1051 Main Street, The Villages, FL 32159 Featuring the hit songs, Hungry Eyes,Hey Baby,Do You Love Me? and the heart-stopping (I’ve Had) The Time of My Life. London’s Sunday Express says, This crowd-pleasing stage adaptation hits the jackpot! Don’t miss your chance to see this record-breaking live theatre sensation. You’ll have the time of your life! Call the Box Office at 352-750-5411.

“I LOVE A PIANO”

JANUARY 11TH - 14TH, 17TH - 21ST, 24TH - 28TH, FEB. 1ST - 4TH

Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd.

It’s an all-American celebration of the marvelous music of legendary composer Irving Berlin as we follow the journey of a piano through several generations. This rousing revue features more than 60 of Berlin’s most beloved songs, including such golden classics as “Blue Skies,” “There’s No Business Like Show Business,” “Puttin’ on the Ritz,” “An Old-Fashioned Wedding,” “White Christmas,” “Easter Parade,” “God Bless America,” and many other timeless favorites. Call the box office at 352-236-2274.

THE STUDIO THEATRE - FRANKIE AND JOHNNY IN THE CLAIR DE LUNE

NOW UNTIL JANUARY 11TH AT 2PM AND 7PM

Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center, 1051 Main Street, The Villages, FL 32159 Four time Tony Award Winner, Terrence McNally’s Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune tells the story of Frankie, a waitress, and Johnny, a short-order cook, who work together in the same restaurant. Lights up on Frankie and Johnny in the bed of a grimy 1987 New York studio apartment. Frankie is hopeful that Johnny will now put on his clothes and depart, but Johnny, the romantic, has other ideas. Call the Box Office at 352-750-5411.

ART GARFUNKEL

JANUARY 16TH AT 7PM

Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center, 1051 Main Street, The Villages, FL 32159 Garfunkel was originally revered for his Grammy-winning, chart-topping songs and albums with partner and fellow NYC native Paul Simon. Their greatest hits collection, which includes “Mrs. Robinson,” “Scarborough Fair,” “The Sound Of Silence,” “The Boxer” and “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” among others, is one of the biggest selling album ever. Call the Box Office at 352-750-5411.

JACK HANNA

JANUARY 22ND AT 7PM

Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center, 1051 Main Street, The Villages, FL 32159 You have stayed up late to watch him on The Late Show with David Letterman or woken up early to catch him on Good Morning America – now enjoy this awe-inspiring program as you learn about some of the world’s amazing animal species and the wild adventures of Jungle Jack Hanna! So sit back and relax as Jungle Jack’s infectious energy takes you “into the wild!” Call the Box Office at 352-750-5411.

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DOWNTOWN

this month in )5(( 323&251 '5,1.

EVERY TUESDAY IN JANUARY

0DULRQ 7KHDWUH 6( 0DJQROLD ([G 2FDOD Stop by the Marion Theatre downtown for Customer Appreciation Day on Tuesdays. Receive a free popcorn & drink with your movie ticket purchase!

YOGA @ THE BREWERY

EVERY TUESDAY IN JANUARY AT 6:30PM ,QĂ–QLWH $OH :RUNV 6( 0DJQROLD ([G 2FDOD Yoga and a beer @ InďŹ nite Ale Works, hosted by Jen Van FLeet of Power Yoga Ocala. Get a 1-hour yoga class followed by a tasty brew in the taproom! $10 cash or check gets you the class and 1 beer.

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EVERY SUNDAY IN JANUARY 3L RQ WKH 6TXDUH $5 Signature drinks, $2 off craft bottles.

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JANUARY 5TH AT 7PM

6\PPHWU\ &RIIHH &UHSHV Join local comedian Chris Wims and a host of other comedians for a FREE comedy show. This night of laughs is family-friendly.

Symmetry Coffee will offer a special event menu so come hungry. It is always a full house so come early to get your seats. This is perfectly paired with First Friday Art Walk so stop over and bring your friends! For more info, follow Chris Wims on FB or @omgitswims on IG.

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JANUARY 12TH AT 6PM

'LVFRYHU\ &HQWHU 1( 6DQFKH] $YH 2FDOD From 6PM to 9PM, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kids night out! Hands-on activities for kids ages 9 to 12 at the Discovery Center. For more information, call 352401-3900.

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JANUARY 20TH AT 2PM

7XVFDZLOOD 3DUN Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band have been crowned the very ďŹ rst Americans to win a Latin GRAMMY in the Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s category!

Garnering three EMMY Nominations and one win for their work on the EMMY award winning PBS show â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Friday Zoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; with their own TV show â&#x20AC;&#x153;Lishy Lou and Lucky Tooâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; husband and wife duo Lucky Diaz and Alisha Gaddis have been named â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;THE face of kindie musicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; by the Washington Post, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;SUPERSTARSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; by Red Tricycle, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Rolling Stones of Kids Musicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; by the Style Network, and PEOPLE Magazine called their album â&#x20AC;&#x153;The #1 in COOLEST kids music!â&#x20AC;? Get ready for a hip-shaking, head bopping dance party explosion!

Tickets are included with exhibit admission â&#x20AC;&#x201C; $6 per person or $20 for a family of 4, otherwise concert-only tickets are $2 per person.

Find out more information about Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band by visiting http://luckydiazmusic.com/. For questions or more information, please contact the City of Ocala Cultural Arts Office at 352-629-8447 or email artinfo@ocalaďŹ&#x201A;.org.

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INVOLVED this month

OCALA CARS & COFFEE MONTHLY MEET

JANUARY 7TH AT 8AM

3711 E. Silver Springs Blvd. Ocala Open to all forms of automotive & motorcycle enthusiasts! From classics to exotics and everything in between, this is a monthly meet held on the 1st Sunday of each month from 8-11AM. Bring the whole family and have a great time! Call 352-301-3225 for more info.

KINDRED SPIRITS SANCTUARY TOURS

JANUARY 17TH AT 10AM

12606 N. US HWY 27, Ocala Gates will open 15 minutes before and will close 15 minutes after the scheduled start time. If you are more than 15 minutes late you will miss the tour and will be asked to come another time. We do not charge for tours but donations are always needed and appreciated!

We will also have T-shirts and other merchandise available for purchase. Companion animals are not allowed. We know you love your pets, but for the health and safety of our residents we ask that you leave your companion animals at home. If you bring them with you to the sanctuary you will be asked to leave. Dogs may NOT be left in your parked vehicle while you tour. Visit www.kssfl.org or call 877354-6373 for more info.

LEAF SERIES (LEARN•EXPLORE•APPRECIATE•FOCUS)

JANUARY 19TH AT 10:30AM

Shalom Park Join Fitness Director Cammy Dennis who will help you explore the many dimensions of wellness and learn how the “great outdoors” are extremely influential when it comes to boosting health. No admission fee. Bring a lawn chair. Please, no pets. Call 352-873-0848 for more information.

KING OF THE WING

JANUARY 30TH AT 5PM

Ocala Livestock Pavilion, 2232 NE Jacksonville Rd. Best Event in Ocala see you at Ocala Livestock Pavilion 5pm-9pm, $30per adult , $15 per/ages 5-12. Ticket includes a sampling of competitors wings and 4 beverages of your choice. Music and Fun for all! Tickets by Eventbrite.

SPRING/SUMMER SERIES RACE #1

FEBRUARY 3RD AT 7AM

Ocala Gran Prix, 4121 NW 44th Ave., Ocala LIKE Ocala Gran Prix on Facebook for more information.

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this month in the

LIMELIGHT

Josh Yailaian, Nilam Patel

Maria Roman, Mary Britt

Marsha Scott, Judge Edward Scott

Martha Cieplinski, Karen Hill

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OCALA MAGAZINE Mixer WRITTEN BY LISA MCGINNES, ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEVIN BISCHOF, SOCIAL PHOTOGRAPHER

Ocala Magazine honored our inaugural Forty Over 40 class and our 2017 Best of the Best winners at a celebration hosted by Ocala Golf Club on December 6th.

Around 60 honorees, readers, advertisers and staff enjoyed holiday music, wine and beer sampling by 7 & 7 Coffee and Wine House, and a hot and cold buffet featuring Swedish meatballs, roast beef and honey ham.

Ocala Golf Club General Manager Jason Lenhart explained that the food selections represented some of the most-requested dishes from their newly-renovated kitchen, which now provides full catering services and custom menus for weddings and other events under the guidance of new Food and Beverage Manager Charles Passon.

“We’re taking this to the next level,” said Lenhart.

“We’ve had a stellar, record-setting year.” He said the club is unique because, although it’s a “muni” course owned by the City of Ocala, they have built a social program that’s available to all residents. In addition to growing the game of golf with renovated greens, they are growing as a recreational park.

DonaMarie Nosse, owner of 7 & 7 Wine and Coffee House, served samples of two of their most popular Italian wines, Corvo Moscato and Valle Pinot Grigio.

She also brought a selection of craft beer for sampling, and explained that their list of 70 draft beers features many Florida brews including 2FDODÊV ,QÖQLWH $OH Works.

Ocala Magazine Publisher Linda Marks thanked Forty Over 40 honorees and Best of the Best nominees and winners. “We are proud of you and your awesome contributions to our community,” she said. “You make a difference with the excellence you produce. Thank you.”

Evelyn Nussel, co-owner of The Ivy House Restaurant and Catering, was honored as a Forty Over 40 recipient, and the restaurant was Best of the Best People’s Choice winner for Best Dessert Menu in Town and a finalist for Best in Food Service. She gave a preview of the planned changes for The Ivy House: “We will open in our new location downtown in the middle of January,” she said. “We’ll have a fresh new atmosphere and feel, an enhanced bar, and all the same recipes you know and love – with a few surprises to come.”

Ocala Magazine plans to host more of these mixerstyle gatherings in the future. Watch our Facebook page to stay in the know on all our future events. om

Ashley Cox, Kim Burt

Evelyn Nussel, Josh Leverette

Renee & Paul Bruce

Scott McArthur, Rebecca & Jay Fratello

MAGICAL CHRISTMAS STARS, STRIPES, ACTION! Masquerade Ball WRITTEN BY LISA MCGINNES, ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEVIN BISCHOF, SOCIAL PHOTOGRAPHER

Veterans Helping Veterans, Inc. welcomed more than 200 people to their fourth annual gala dinner on December 1st at the Holiday Inn, where the ballroom was transformed into a Hollywood glamour-themed masquerade party complete with red carpet and marquee.

Director Hank Whittier said “amazing” volunteer Jinky Diaz of Caliber Home Loans organizes the event, including the spectacular silent auction filled with autographed celebrity memorabilia. “It’s our biggest fundraiser of the year,” Whittier said. He explained that the $20,000 raised at the event allows the organization to help veterans throughout the year at the Marion County Veterans Center. om

Julia Ganglehoff, Brad Wildman

Katie Allman, Debbie Muir

Chad Walker, Andrew Lowrey, Bob Childs

Dr. Christopher Bonesteel, Pooja Patel

Scott & Racquel Townley

Ivedent Lloyd, Megan Brock

Bob Childs, Eugene Poole

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MARION CULTURAL ALLIANCE Holiday Party WRITTEN BY LISA MCGINNES, ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEVIN BISCHOF, SOCIAL PHOTOGRAPHER

Danny Vincent, Tammy Griffen-Vincent

The Brick City Center for the Arts was festive with holiday music, colored lights, hors d’oeuvres and wine for around 60 Marion Cultural Alliance members who gathered on December 1st to celebrate the holidays and the opening of board member/artist liaison David D’Alessandris’ Fabrication exhibit.

“We’re here to celebrate our creative community,” said MCA Chair Elect Lisa Lombardo.

D’Alessandris explained that his show is inspired by nature and design, but, most importantly, by the media and tools he uses. Many of the pieces he created over the past year for this show include fabrics to give them unique texture and color. om

Jaye Baillie, Vanessa Lane Jennings

Harriet Daniels, Judy Green

Leslie Hammond, Traci Karbler

Steve Chappellie, Robert Sbranti

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Jackie & Michael Whatley

Vandy & Ed Shake

ENTERTAINMENT

Night

BRODY BARCODE PREVIEWS A Few of This Month’s Upcoming Movies, Records and TV Shows

MOVIES THE COMMUTER - RELEASE DATE: JAN. 12TH Directed by: Jaume Collet-Serra & Rated PG-13; “The Commuter” tells the story of an insurance salesman, who while on his daily train ride home is caught up in a criminal conspiracy; one that may pose a deadly outcome to all on board. Starring: Liam Neeson, Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, Sam Neil, Elizabeth McGovern, & Jonathan Banks Directed by: Jaume Collet-Serra

PROUD MARY - RELEASE DATE: JAN. 12TH Directed by: Babak Najafi & Rated R; “Proud Mary” is the story of a hit-woman, working for a crime family in Boston, whose life completely changes when she meets a young boy; following their paths crossing during a hit-job gone wrong. Starring: Taraji P. Henson, Billy Brown, Neal McDonough, Margaret Avery, Xander Berkeley, & Danny Glover

12 STRONG - RELEASE DATE: JAN. 19TH Directed by: Nicolai Fuglsig & Rated R “12 Strong: The Declassified True Story of the Horse Soldiers,” based on the nonfiction book, “Horse Soldiers” by Doug Stanton, retells the story of the 1st Special Forces team to go into Afghanistan; following the attacks of September 11th, 2001. Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Taylor Sheridan, Michael Shannon, Michael Pena, William Fichtner, Trevante Rhodes, & Rob Riggle

TV SHOWS

THE X-FILES: SEASON 11 - RELEASE DATE: JAN. 3RD

Following the success of its 2016 comeback, Fox Networks stated “The X-Files” would return for an 11th season on April 20th, 2017. Picking up from where season 10 left off, FBI agents Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) and Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson) continue to search for their missing son, while investigating unexplainable cases; using techniques based on science and the paranormal... Starring: David Duchovny, Gillian Anderson, Mitch Pileggi, & William B. Davis as Smoking Man; “The X-Files” will air on Fox. Created by: Chris Carter

THE CHI: SEASON 1 - RELEASE DATE: JAN. 7TH Taking place on the South Side of Chicago, “The Chi” is a dramatic coming-of-age series; focusing on the lives of an interconnected group of working-class African-Americans. Starring: Jason Mitchell, Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine, Alex Hibbert, Yolanda Ross, & Tiffany Boone; “The Chi” will air on Showtime. Created by: Lena Waithe

AMERICAN CRIME STORY: SEASON 2 - RELEASE DATE: JAN. 17TH Following its 1st season of the FX true crime anthology, which focused on the O.J. Simpson ‘Trial of the Century,’ the series returns to explore, “The Assassination of Gianni Versace,” based on the book, “Vulgar Favors: Andrew Cunanan, Gianni Versace, and the Largest Failed Manhunt in U.S. History” by Maureen Orth. Starring: Penelope Cruz as Donatella Versace, Edgar Ramirez, & Ricky Martin, “The Assassination of Gianni Versace” airs on FX. Created by: Scott Alexander & Larry Karaszewski

RECORDS BLACK REBEL MOTORCYCLE CLUB — “Wrong Creatures” - RELEASE DATE: JAN. 12TH Influenced by such iconic musicians as, The Velvet Underground, T.Rex, and The Rolling Stones, the Black Rebel Motorcycle Club will release their 8th studio album, “Wrong Creatures” through Vagrant Records. On November 19th, 2017 Black Rebel Motorcycle Club dropped their upcoming records 4th single, “King of Bones.” www.blackrebelmotorcycleclub.com

FALL OUT BOY — “M A N I A” - RELEASE DATE: JAN. 19TH Produced by the Grammy-winning musician, Pharrell Williams, “M A N I A” will be the 7th studio album from Fall Out Boy; released through Island and DCD2 Records. On November 14th, 2017 Fall Out Boy published their upcoming records 4th single w/ music video, “HOLD ME TIGHT OR DON’T.” www.falloutboy.com

KIMBRA — “Primal Heart” - RELEASE DATE: JAN. 19TH “Primal Heart” is the 3rd studio album from the Grammy award-winning musician, Kimbra; released by Warner Bros.

Records. On November 10th, 2017 the New Zealand artist released her upcoming records 2nd single with music video, “Top of the World.” www.kimbramusic.com

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Our New website is live! visit www.ocalamagazine.com Check out current content, additional stories, behind the scenes sneak peaks, local advertisers and more!

ALSO FOLLOW US ON

743 S.E. Fort king st.

352-622-2995

DINING

out

DINING out

Oyyster Oyster O yyste ysste yst st ster er Sea Seafood Seafoo S Seaf Se Seafo eaf eafood ea afo food food ood od Barr aand Bar Ba annd nd Gri Grille G Gril Gr rrill riille ril rille ilillle ill lllee

HOLIDAYS ARE HERE! Mojo Elite Catering is a division of the Mojo Grill & Catering Company. We pride ourselves in first class food and exceptional service for all your family, business and event needs throughout this holiday season! Our chefs are knowledgeable in any cuisine and can make your vision a reality. From formal to family we have you covered! Ask us about our Holiday specific menu and book NOW through November 1st to receive our seasonal pricing!

DON’T FORGET ABOUT OUR BEST IN TOWN TO-GO CATERING CALL 352-369-6656 OR EMAIL CATERING@MOJOGRILLANDCATERING.COM

HOURS: SUN-THURS 11AM - 10PM FRI & SAT 11AM - 11PM

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Ocala’s only craft coffee shoppe, Symmetry offers a variety of fine coffees & teas to include hot beverages (Espresso, Americano, Cappuccino, Latte, Cafe Breve & more), cold beverages (flash brews, drip brews, iced coffee, Nitro Tap, teas, juices, Kombucha & more) and a slow bar to include Aero Press, Kalita Wave and V60 Pour-over. Sweet crepes available all day. Follow us on Instagram at symmetry_coffee_and_crepes Symmetry Coffee & Crêpes is now roasting locally right here in Ocala. Sourcing the highest quality green coffee and roasting to the highest of standards to keep the natural flavors intact for you to enjoy. Stop by today and grab a bag.

MENTION THIS AD AND GET 10% OFF ANY BAG OF COFFEE

HOURS: MON-FRI 7AM - 6PM SAT 8AM - 3:30PM CLOSED SUNDAYS

CALL 352-547-5668 OR EMAIL US AT CATERING@MOJOGRILLANDCATERING.COM WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MOJOSCATERING

108 N MAGNOLIA, STE 102 OCALA, FL 34475 352-525-0495

MOJOGRILLANDCATERING.COM

WWW.SYMMETRYCOFFEECREPES.COM

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JAN ‘18

Murphy’s Oyster, Steak & Seafood restaurant invites you to come dine on their delicious seafood varieties, choice steaks, fresh wings and more in their friendly atmosphere. From tasty Philly Cheese Steaks and and authentic gyros to steamed clams and Snow Crab, there is something for everyone – including the kids! Their massive outdoor tiki bar with flat-screen TVs is the perfect place to watch the game. Open 7 days a week, Murphy’s will be your first choice for lunch and dinner. Like us on Facebook!

HAPPY HOUR 11AM - 7PM DAILY SPECIALS ALL YOU CAN EAT JUMBO SNOW CRAB LEGS MON, WED & SAT 3PM - 9PM HOURS: MON-SUN 11AM - 12AM 3821 OLD BLITCHTON RD. OCALA, FL 34475 352-236-5656 WWW.MURPHYSOCALA.COM

DINING out

Ribs. Pork. Beef. Chicken. Turkey.

Sonny’s smokes it all, in every location, every day, over real oak and for a long time – up to 12 hours to be exact! Sonny’s has delicious Sidekicks to include: Homemade Coleslaw, BBQ Beans, Homestyle Mac & Cheese and more. Start your meal by sharing some delicious Redneck Egg Rolls! Leaf-lovers will enjoy Sonny’s Bottomless Salad Bar, with or without a slow-smoked favorite on top.

Located within Trilogy® at Ocala Preserve, we welcome you to come and experience Ocala’s newest culinary adventure. Think low country inspired shrimp and grits, “Brick City” roast chicken, and grilled heritage pork chop. Salted Brick brings to life regional favorites alongside American classics using locally-sourced fresh ingredients. Featuring a centerpiece exhibition kitchen and wood-fired oven, watch as items are grilled to perfection above a natural flame.

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

STOP ON BY BETWEEN JANUARY 8TH AND FEBRUARY 18TH TO GET YOUR PORK COMBOS!

HAPPY NEW YEAR BE SURE TO CHECK OUT OUR NEW HOURS OF OPERATION!

ASK ABOUT OUR DAILY, NOT ON THE MENU ITEMS! WE OFFER GIFT CARDS, CATERING AND ENTERTAINING!

HOURS: SUN-THURS 11AM - 9:30PM FRI & SAT 11AM - 10PM 4102 E SILVER SPRINGS BLVD. 1845 SW COLLEGE ROAD 1794 SW COUNTY ROAD 484 5209 SE ABSHIER BLVD. WWW.SONNYSBBQ.COM

HOURS: WED-THURS 11AM - 8PM FRI & SAT 11AM - 10PM SUNDAY 11AM - 7PM HAPPY HOURS: WED-THURS 3PM - 5PM FRI-SAT 3PM - 5PM & 8PM - 10PM SUN 3PM - 5PM

HOURS: MON-THUR 11AM - 10PM FRI & SAT 11AM - 11PM SUNDAY 12PM - 10PM

4021 53RD AVENUE RD. OCALA, FL 34482 352-509-5183

3405 SW COLLEGE RD. #103 OCALA, FL 34474 352-237-3151

WWW.SALTEDBRICKOCALA.COM

WWW.TONYSSUSHI.COM

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DINING out

Fine ine Din Dining

GOLDEN SPOON AWARD WINNER 7 CONSECUTIVE YEARS! 2010 TO 2016

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NEW LOCATION. FRESH AMBIANCE. MORE GREAT FOOD.

The Marion Cafe, located inside the old Ocala National Bank building, is owned by a couple of local guys who have a passion to serve fresh, quality ingredients in a fun atmosphere. Each menu item is creatively named and deliciously made. From their Chicago Beef Dip to their Delightful Dill, the Marion Cafe has unsurpassed flavor.

And, with over 25 craft beers to choose from, the cafe makes the perfect spot to grab a quick bite or watch the big game!

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 2016. Sky is the place to be for a unique fine dining experience.

We are excited to announce our new location on the Downtown Square. The Ivy House Restaurant will now be called “Ivy on the Square.” We have renovated a beautiful downtown location. Same great food with many new dishes, that are sure to become favorites. Come enjoy our new dessert bar, cocktail bar, and our new posh boutique across from the restaurant.

We still offer catering and private parties to host your event at our new location!

NEW YEARS EVE DINNER

IVY ON THE SQUARE

AT SKY

OPENING JANUARY 2018

NEW SPECIALS ADDED DAILY FREE DELIVERY!

HOURS:

MENTION OCALA MAGAZINE TO RECEIVE 10% OFF YOUR MEAL!

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HOURS: MON-THURS 5PM - 10PM FRI & SAT 5PM - 11PM

SUN & TUES 11AM - 2PM WED & THURS 11AM -8PM FRI & SAT 11AM - 8:30PM CLOSED MONDAYS

3600 SW 38TH AVE. OCALA, FL 34474 352-291-0000

53 S MAGNOLIA OCALA, FL 352-622-5550 OCALA 352-528-5410 WILLISTON

108 N MAGNOLIA AVE. #104 OCALA, FL 34475 352-362-5300

WWW.OCALASKY.COM

WWW.IVYHOUSEFL.COM

WWW.THEMARIONOCALA.COM

JAN ‘18

HOURS: MON-FRI 10AM - 3PM

Are you suffering from loss of energy?

FREE HEALTH WORKSHOP Energy January 23rd - 1:00 P.M.

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XFUSIONSMOKESHOP.COM 1416 E SILVER SPRINGS BLVD OCALA, FL 34470

352-671-7866

Fusion Smoke and Vape Shop gives you outstanding service for all your vaporizer, e-liquid, and tobacco needs. We have all the items and accessories you’ll want for vaping and more. We offer a wide variety of high quality CBD products for both you and your pets!

SMOKE & VAPE 3131 SW COLLEGE RD. OCALA, FL 34474

(352) 547-8280

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Try Us! www.classichitsocala.com www.facebook.com/classichitsocala

4000 Oriental Rugs Ask Your Neighbors about our Reputation, Quality & Service!

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quality workmanship since 1974

Strait Plumbing RF # CFC1428775

Repairs-Remodels • Drain Cleaning • Water Heaters Residential & Commercial • Slab Leaks • Custom made Water Softeners • Trenchless Sewer Line Replacement Emergency Service available

352-622-6736 352-245-0085

senior citizen discount

veterans discount available

Licenesed & Insured

Celebrating 12 Years Celebrat

Add Some Luxury Phone 352-427-2942

george rossidis, md, facs Board Certified General and Bariatric Surgeon

4600 SW 46th Court, Ste 220 Ocala, FL 34474

§ (352) 291-0239 ¬ (352) 291-0254 Minimally Invasive Surgeons of Ocala (MISO) www.MISOcala.org

A REVOLUTIONARY SOLUTION TO REFLUX DISEASE It’s time to win the battle against reflux.

Reflux (also called Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, or GERD) is caused by a weak muscle in your esophagus called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)that allows acid and bile to flow back from the stomach into the esophagus, causing damage to the lining of the esophagus, throat and lungs.

1 in 5 patients in the United States suffer from GERD and 20 million Americans are taking acid blocking medications. Around 40% of the patients on medications continue to have symptoms and 15% of those patients will develop Barrett’s esophagus, a premalignant condition that can lead to esophageal cancer. The annual costs associated with GERD are 6 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.

FAX 352-854-1247

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/PRONTOLIMOS

WWW.PRONTOLIMOS.COM

Contact us at 352-291-0239 for further information.

We are located at 4600 SW 46th Court, Suite 340, Ocala, 34474 For further information on the LINX procedure visit www.toraxmedical.com/linx

The all-American Irving Berlin musical!

many more!

“Blue Skies” • And

“Easter Parade”

tz” • “Puttin’ On the Ri “White Christmas”

”• “God Bless America

s” s Like Show Busines “There’s No Busines

Music and Lyrics by Irving Berlin • Conceived by Ray Roderick and Michael Berkeley Musical Arrangements by Michael Berkeley World Premiere Production Produced by Tri-Arts, Sharon, CT

JANUARY 11 - FEBRUARY 4 Six singers, 60 timeless songs!

Sponsored by: Ocala Style Magazine TICKETS: $25 for adults and $12 for full-time students

352.236.2274 • OcalaCivicTheatre.com

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

$249,900 3 br/2 ba 4,814 sq. ft.

ENGLISH TUDOR HOME FOR SALE 3640 SE 22nd Place Ocala, FL 34471 MLS # 519854

MAIN FEATURES • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Listing Status: Active Year Built: 1978 Garage: 2.00 Beds: 3 Full Bath: 2 Half Bath: 0 County: Marion Acres: 0.36 Appliances: Dishwasher, Dryer, Garbage Disposal, Range, Refrigerator, Washer Sq Ft: 4814.00 Pool: Yes Special Features: Cathedral Beam Ceiling, Formal Dining Room, Inside Laundry, Screened Porch Zoning: R-1 Single Family Dwelling Subdivision: Crestwood

ABOUT THE PROPERTY Large POOL home in a wonderful Southeast location across from Jervey Gantt Park with its sports fields and beautiful walking paths. This home is ready for new owners to enjoy! Open kitchen, several living areas and many options for bonus room. Covered patio plus a large, private, fenced backyard with gazebo/pavillion. Courtesy of Sellstate Next Generation Realty.

3640 SE 22nd Place Ocala, FL 34471 $249,900 | 3 br/2 ba | 4,814 sq. ft.

MLS # 519854

Agent: Laurie Ann Truluck Phone: (352) 877-3887 Fax: (352) 387-2373 1720 SE 16th Ave. Bldg 200 Ocala, FL 34471 R

“I love my new smile!”

Dawn Sabol, Retired RN/MSN Vietnam Veteran US Army Nurse Corps

Dentistry by Dr. Tina Chandra Restoratiions by Williams Dental Lab Gilroy, CA

Happy New Year!

INTRODUCING NEW FACIAL LASER

a beautiful smile begins here BEFORE

AFTER

TINA CHANDRA, D.D.S., LVIF Cosmetic, Neuromuscular and Sleep Dentist ... a Physiologic Approach

cosmetic veneers smile makeovers aesthetic laser TMJ disorder

bite problems sleep apnea sedation dentistry botox + juvederm

(352) 861-1500 chandrasmiles.com