Ocala Style Feb'17

FEB’17

Ocala

A FOODIE FEST: THE FIRST ANNUAL OCALA CULINARY FESTIVAL p.36

2017 SCHOOL REFERENCE GUIDE

Golden Ocala Redefines The Equestrian Experience

Considering Ocala?

Lucky Warrior

105 or 231 Acres +/- — You decide 3/4 mile dirt track, 3 stables with a total of 172 stalls. Maintenance building, 2 manager’s homes and office. Incredible building site.

Sienna Farms 283 +/- Acre Training facility 3/4 mile track - 8 barns 227 stalls, office, main residence, 4 employee homes, and 2 maintenance buildings.

Southern Hills Farm 39 +/- Acre training facility - 2-20 stall barns, 1/2 mile track, 16 paddocks, employee housing. Special ag commercial zoning.

Alamar Equestrian Estate $674,900

Alamar Village Estate $495,000

Gentlemans Farm on 9.54 +/- Acres.

Spacious kitchen with brick pizza oven, center island and large pantry opens to the family room with fireplace and overlooks the beautiful outdoors. In ground solar heated pool with hot tub. Detached over-sized garage/workshop that is perfect for storing your motor coach, trailers, etc‌ Equestrian Amenities Include: 4 Stall horse barn and 5 paddocks, plus artist studio.

4+ Acres. Great family home is located in private, gated equine friendly community 4 bedroom, 3 bath home plus office is ideal for the family. Screen enclosed pool is solar heated plus whole house generator. 4-stall center aisle concrete block barn, lush green paddocks and a 75 ft x 200 ft arena. In addition to the stalls in the barn there is also a workshop area with front and rear roll-up door.

Private and Secluded $595,999 6 +/- Acres with custom built home.

Beautifully updated kitchen which is open to dining area, family room and large pool. Lots of windows for natural light surround the enclosed pool area perfect for entertaining.

Detached garage with tool maintenance area plus upstairs bonus room.

Ready for horses.

Golden Acres – Close to the City $499,000 Beautiful Vistas - Enjoy this special waterfall and stream with beautiful Koi swimming as you relax on your expansive screen enclosed deck. Open living at its finest. Gathering kitchen and family room open for easy entertaining. Split floorplan offers privacy. $499,000 for home and 1.84 Acres. Adjoining 2.3 Wooded Acres Available for $195,000.

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

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

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

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Discover Ocala Real Estate To see more properties, visit us at www.ShowcaseOcala.com

Paradise Palms Reddick, FL $2,100,000 | MLS 511492

Look-Out Lane Ocala, FL $425,000 | MLS 504273

Moonshadow Farm Ocala, FL $1,200,000 | MLS 510957

The 3/2 main home is warm and inviting on 85+ acres, featuring 22 paddocks, three barns totalling 45 stalls and a 1/2-mile irrigated track.

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Valerie Dailey | 352.351.1080 Valerie@ShowcaseOcala.com

The 3/2 home rests on a gorgeous 3.3 acres, featuring three paddocks with vinyl and wood three-board fencing, and a three-stall barn with air conditioned tack room.

Valerie Dailey | 352.351.1080 Valerie@Showcaseocala.com Chris Workman | 321.693.4825 Chris@ShowcaseOcala.com

Gorgeous home on 12.2 acres in Ocala Downs, featuring a six stall barn, apartment, and tack room. Driving dressage arena, oversized covered run in, and double sized round pen.

Valerie Dailey | 352.351.1080 Valerie@ShowcaseOcala.com Barb Stanley | 845.853.5400 Barb@ShowcaseOcala.com

Turning Hawk Ranch Ocala, FL

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Valerie Dailey | 352.351.1080 Valerie@ShowcaseOcala.com

$1,900,000 | MLS 436674

19 acres of high-density, residential primed for high-end apartments and condominiums allowing for 16 units per acre. Only minutes away from HITS. Land is currently being cleared.

Louise Bono | 352.812.2768 Louise@ShowcaseOcala.com Valerie Dailey | 352.351.1080 Valerie@ShowcaseOcala.com

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9.4 acres in Equestrian Springs, perfect for building your dream farm. Private shaded twomile bridle path, four board fencing, and three plus acre private park with fishing springs.

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PIN US ON

Contents

In Every Issue

FEBRUARY ’17

015

THE BUZZ

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

By Cealia Athanason, Laurel Gillum & Bonnie Kretchik

016 G I V I N G B A C K 018 T H E G R E A T O U T D O O R S 020 C O M M U N I T Y C O N N E C T I O N S

On The Cover

025

022 Redefining Ocala’s Equestrian Experience.

The best of equestrian sport and country club living combine at the new World Equestrian Center at Golden Ocala.

THE HIVE

Dedicated to enriching the lives of local families.

By Kevin Christian & Laurel Gillum

026 P A R E N T I N G P O I N T E R S 028 S N A P S H O T S 030 C L A S S A C T S

In This Issue

032 Lifelong Learning.

The Ocala Style 2017 education, school & day care guide › Compiled by Karin Fabry-Cushenbery and Melissa Peterson

071

042 Scary Times, Tough Questions. How to keep the lines of

THE DISH

communication open and talk to your kids about difficult topics. › By Cynthia McFarland

Our best recipes, restaurant news and culinary quick bites. By Laurel Gillum

072 2 0 1 7 I N F O O D 074 A S M A R T S T A R T

047 Spring Training Spectacular. Once the calendar flips to February,

it’s smiles all around. The countdown to spring training games—and the new baseball season—is on. › By Brett Ballantini

081

056 Culinary For The Community. The first annual Ocala Culinary

Festival has palate-pleasing plans. › By Cealia Athanason

THE SCENE

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

By Laurel Gillum & Bonnie Kretchik

060 Sweet Tooth Heaven. Check out

some of the best desserts you can order online and have delivered to your door. Yum! › By Cynthia McFarland

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

FEB’17

Ocala

A FOODIE FEST: THE FIRST ANNUAL OCALA CULINARY FESTIVAL p.36

2017 SCHOOL REFERENCE GUIDE

Cover courtesy Golden Ocala

Golden Ocala Redefines The Equestrian Experience

FEB ’17 ›

011

Ocala Magazine PUBLISHER

Kathy Johnson kathy@ocalastyle.com

OFFICE/PRODUCTION MANAGER

Cynthia Brown

cynthia@ocalastyle.com Editorial EXECUTIVE EDITOR MANAGING EDITOR

Karin Fabry-Cushenbery Melissa Peterson

karin@ocalastyle.com melissa@ocalastyle.com ASSOCIATE EDITOR & SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST

Cealia Athanason

cealia@ocalastyle.com SOCIAL SCENE EDITOR

Ronald W. Wetherington ronald@ocalastyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angelique Anacleto Brett Ballantini Kevin Christian Jim Gibson Laurel Gillum

JoAnn Guidry Bonnie Kretchik Cynthia McFarland Katie McPherson Judge Steven Rogers

Art CREATIVE DIRECTOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Jessi Miller Castro Jason Fugate jessi@ocalastyle.com Christina Geiger Kristy Taylor PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ralph Demilio Sheila Hartley

sheila@ocalastyle.com

John Jernigan

jernigan@ocalastyle.com

Crys Williams fotolia.com Sales

DIRECTOR OF SALES

Dean Johnson

deanjohnson@ocalastyle.com SALES MANAGER

Sharon Morgan

sharon@ocalastyle.com SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Lori Tani

lori@ocalastyle.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Dawn Anderson

dawn@ocalastyle.com

Liza Fritz

liza@ocalastyle.com

Skip Linderman

skip@ocalastyle.com

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peggysue@healthylivingmagazines.com

Cecilia Sarco

cecilia@ocalastyle.com

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tammy@healthylivingmagazines.com DISTRIBUTION

Dave Adams

dave@ocalastyle.com

Debra McQueen Rick Shaw

OCALA PUBLICATIONS, LLC.

o: 352.732.0073 › f: 352.732.0226 1007 E. Fort King St., Ocala, FL 34471 ocalastyle.com OCALA STYLE MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2017 / VOL. 19, NO. 2

Published monthly by Ocala Publications, LLC. All contents © 2017 by Ocala Publications LLC. All rights reserved.

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

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FEB ’17 ›

013

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

Weather Or Not

You know you live in Florida when midFebruary temperatures can leave you in flip flops and a tank top one week and boots and jackets the next.

As Floridians, we know that 80-degree weather is not out of sorts for this month— nor is weather that calls for a hot cup of chili. In February 1969, the temperature in Fort Myers, Florida, rose to a summer-like 92°F. On the other end of the spectrum, it dropped to -2°F on February 13, 1899 in Tallahassee during an Arctic outbreak. So how exactly are we supposed to complete our winter look-book? Thankfully, we have some averages to guide us through February: a low of 48°F and a high of 75°F. Scarf shopping commence. But don’t pack away the summer clothes—just in case!

the

B U Z Z page

Sources: almanac.com, weather.com

15

UNITED FOR CHANGE

016

5 K W H I LE AWAY

018

THE WORST OF THE BEST

020

THE

Buzz

GIVING BACK

United Through Diversity

West Port High School celebrates, mentors and prepares students of every kind. › By Cealia Athanason

016

› Ocala

.com

good friends. Regina not only spends time with Madisun, but she’s also friends with Madisun’s friends. One thing Madisun loves about getting to know Regina is “just seeing how happy she is.”

That same day, in the school’s technical theater, West Port High School senior Jordan Laib met with his mentee, Paris, right on stage. Paris loves theater and enjoys watching clips of Broadway shows. He also practices monologues and often hangs out with Jordan and his friends. They sat on set and talked about the fun they’d had on a recent game day.

Jordan is the theater troupe’s president and, just like Madisun, sees the big picture of Wolf Pack United’s purpose and vision.

“I thought it was an interesting and effective way to take up an important issue in our culture,” Jordan says, describing how he felt when he was first approached about Wolf Pack United. “It’s a big stepping stone for the school, showing students that the stigma is not real.”

Paris and Jordan spoke about upcoming theater productions, including one that Jordan would be playing a part in.

“I might come and watch you,” Paris jokes with Jordan.

Fast-forward to January 12 when West Port High School brought all these aspects together.

The school’s Autism Spectrum Disorder Unit, MCCA Theater Department and Wolf Pack United All photos courtesy of Sarah Richmond

W

est Port High School is pioneering a program with multiple goals. Helping special needs students with their studies and social development are two of them. Another is narrowing the social gap at West Port High and setting an example for the community. But the main point of the Wolf Pack United program involves helping the school’s special needs students develop the necessary skills to be job-ready by graduation.

“We’re already starting to see the benefits,” says autism spectrum disorder teacher Norma Barnes.

Before Wolf Pack United, Norma worked to promote inclusion and provide opportunities for special needs students unofficially. She would recruit students from the general education population to befriend her students and help teach them social skills. After an autism awareness event at the school last April featuring guest speaker Dr. Temple Grandin, Norma was approached by West Port High’s theater director, Janet Shelley, about encouraging her theater students to mentor Norma’s students. With the collaboration between these groups of students, in addition to a relationship with PEPSA (Partnership for Effective Programs for Students with Autism), Wolf Pack United was formed.

Since then, the program has also united students from the school’s FFA chapter with special needs students. Each mentor and mentee meet up once or twice a week to hang out over lunch, do homework or engage in other team-building activities. Janet, Norma and Cacee Ford, the school’s FFA advisor, work together to handpick the students and match them up based on interests.

Madisun Murphy is a 10th-grader involved in the Marion County Center for the Arts program at West Port High School. When she was approached about being a mentor in Wolf Pack United, she was all for it.

“I immediately jumped on board with it,” she says.

“This is something every school needs.”

Regina, Madisun’s mentee, likes to read, dance and sing. On one particular November afternoon, they read through the script for an upcoming play called The Invisible. The play was written by a West Port High School alumnus, Harry Perales, and focuses on autism. Madisun was to play the role of the girl in the play, and Regina read through the script with her, taking a few breaks to eat lunch.

Madisun and Regina have connected and become

“I thought it was an interesting and effective way to take up an important issue in our culture. It’s a big stepping stone for the school, showing students that the stigma is not real.” — Jordan Laib joined forces to throw a neurodiversity event called “Different Is Beautiful: Celebrating Neurodiversity.”

The dinner and guest speaker were sponsored by the Village Angels Autism Support Group, a group of seniors dedicated to raising awareness for autism who also sponsor Wolf Pack United. Guests in attendance enjoyed a student performance of The Invisible—the play that Madisun and Regina read through together. Playwright Harry Perales came all the way from New York to see it, and the performance brought him to tears.

“It was my first time seeing it performed by West Port High School’s theater troupe,” he says.

“It was amazing.”

Wolf Pack United helps special needs students enjoy the same high-school experience as their peers.

Harry has two brothers with special needs, and his play demonstrates the kinds of things that go on inside an autistic person’s mind. The main character’s name is Harry, and three supporting characters act as Harry’s thoughts and emotions.

Conflict in the story arises when Harry takes the girl he likes––played by Madisun––out on a date. His thoughts and emotions constantly tell him how he should be acting, overwhelming him and eventually scaring off the girl.

At the conclusion, Harry gives the girl his journal, promising it will explain everything. As the girl reads from his journal, the students acting as Harry’s thoughts and emotions put together a giant puzzle

of Harry’s face. The completed puzzle represents the many parts of autism.

Norma explains that Wolf Pack United helps special needs students enjoy the same high-school experience as their peers.

“This program is truly uniting this school,” Norma says.

Principal Ken McAteer describes the community of students at West Port High as an already close-knit one, despite the school’s large size. More than fixing any social gap at the school, he says it’s about making a statement and bringing awareness to the issue.

“It’s especially important that the kids are doing it—and not the adults,” he says.

To conclude the already powerful event, Dennis and Tucker Mashue of Tuck’s Tooques (their business is selling Himalayan sherpa hats) shared their story and pro-autism business model that took them all over the country last year. Dennis spoke about his life raising and advocating for his son, Tucker, who was diagnosed with autism at a young age.

“We developed a following, and we have a platform to talk about neurodiversity as well as have a little company,” Dennis says of their Facebook page.

Now, Dennis has received several speaking invitations.

Following Dennis and Tucker’s story, Norma highlighted one of the students who acted in the play.

As part of both Wolf Pack United and theater, he’s been very successful. Norma introduced her student, Tyler, to an already applauding audience.

Through Wolf Pack United, West Port High School is creating an even closer community of students, and it’s setting the bar pretty high for other local schools.

LEARN MORE: WEST PORT HIGH SCHOOL › 3733 SW 80 Ave., Ocala › (352) 291-4000 › marionschools.net/wph

FEB ’17 ›

017

THE

Buzz

GRE AT OUTDOORS

A Charming Challenge…

With A Twist!

The Big Hammock Race Series’ Lucky Charm Challenge will offer runners a virtual racing option for those who can’t make it to the line on race day. › By Bonnie Kretchik

W

hen two local runners set out to organize the running community in Ocala, they never expected their newly titled Big Hammock Race Series would have such a far-reaching effect.

“Our initial goal was to simply bring together the local running community and inspire runners of all ability levels to get involved in the area’s local races,” says Karen Donnelly, who, along with Tina Banner, another running enthusiast, has been instrumental in the success of the series.

The first season (2015/2016) introduced the world of road racing to many self-proclaimed “joggers” while also offering incentive for both newbies and seasoned veterans alike to lace up their running shoes for the chance to bring home some pretty hefty race bling.

Fast-forward to Season Two, presented by the Prime Mortgage Group, and runners have been lining up race after race to take part in the event.

“We’ve had tremendous feedback from the community,” says Karen.

“Our goal at the end of the day is to encourage participation, so we listen to what participants have to say.

Recently, people have been asking for one thing in particular—virtual races,” she says, noting the idea seemed a far reach at first. But the series organizers listened, and the next two races in the series will have a virtual option.

“Too often people want to earn one of our medals but know they will

018

› Ocala

.com

miss an important required race in the series and throw in the towel,” says Karen. “So we came up with a way for people to earn our new Lucky Charm Medal even if they can’t physically make it to the starting line,” she says.

The Lucky Charm Challenge is a new addition to the series this year and is comprised of the Blueberry Horseshoe 5K on February 19 and the St. Paddy’s Day 5K on March 18.

Runners who complete both races will earn the much-coveted Lucky Charm Challenge medal. However, while physical participation is ideal, it isn’t always possible. The virtual option allows anyone willing to complete both 5K runs (or walks) to earn the medal.

“Virtual races are perfect for those who just can’t make it to the starting line on race day but have the incentive to log their miles and assist the charities supported by each race,” explains Karen.

Virtual participants can sign up through Virtual Strides, preview the medal and submit their workout data from a GPS watch, Fitbit or other tracking device. Based on participant feedback, next year’s series may include more virtual options and more opportunities for earning race bling.

LEARN MORE › For more

information, visit

bighammockraceseries.com

DAY & DAY, PA

rog PlaIdRESFOUR CES CRE ATIV E

Virtual Racing 101

Virtual races have been sweeping the country as more people are getting off the couch to log their miles in an effort to earn some mighty fine medals. Simply visit virtualstrides.com, sign up for your race, pay the registration fee and complete the virtual race distance before the designated deadline. Enter your completed miles on your Virtual Strides account, and a medal will be mailed to you directly.

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FEB ’17 ›

019

THE

Buzz

Kid-(In) appropriate

Ocala was ranked “not for kids,” but one committee might be changing those stats. › By Cealia Athanason

S

martAsset. com recently released its ratings of the best places to raise children in the United States. Of the top 200 metropolitan areas, Ocala ranked last for the second year in a row.

Things like median home values, the percentage of uninsured children and overall opportunity—socially and career-wise—were taken into account for a total of 13 different criteria measured. Overall, Iowa’s at the top, Florida’s at the bottom and Ocala’s at the very bottom.

“We focused on metrics that would affect a child’s quality of life, including water quality, air quality, intergenerational mobility and access to schools with high graduation rates

and high rates of proficiency in math and reading,” SmartAsset explains.

Not only did Ocala come in 200th place, but of the 10 worst places to raise kids, seven of them were in Florida. Melbourne ranked highest in our state at the slightly less depressing place of 157th. Indeed, it’s easy to see these rankings as depressing. But before you blame Ocala for anything, consider local resident Jennifer McBride’s thoughts. She is a Child Find Specialist at the Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resource System, and she’s also part of the Improving Children’s Lives in Marion County Committee, the committee that formed in response to the study with the goal of bettering Ocala for our kids.

“Today, there are so many great things about this community,” Jennifer says, referencing improvements downtown, the upcoming concert series and the Reilly Arts Center.

“I remember growing up, and it was always ‘there’s nothing to do.’

I really think this community is trying to be the best it can be. I feel like our community shares a lot of togetherness.”

When the study first came out, Roseann Fricks, the executive director of the Early Learning Coalition of Marion County, called on the community to attend an Early Learning Summit that was held on October 13. She pulled Jennifer into the mix, and the resulting group split into two workshops—one to tackle poverty and the other to handle parent education—that have since combined into one committee.

“We determined that poverty and parent education were the two main factors affecting the study,” Jennifer said after the committee looked over

the criteria the study addressed.

“Our goal is to find a way to use the resources we already have to help parents who need it.”

The committee worked out two actions to start with. The first is a parents’ needs survey, which is available online and will be open through the end of March. The next involves beefing up United Way of Marion County’s 2-1-1 services.

Jennifer brought in Day Harvey, Marion County’s resource at United Way, to help build up that service.

The plan is to find what’s missing by looking at the data and then to add those resources. Subsequent data will show the committee if they’re making a difference.

A future step would be getting that resource out to parents. Jennifer says filling in other community organizations will help. The committee will continue to meet monthly, and interested persons are always welcome to join.

Not only did Ocala come in 200th place, but of the 10 worst places to raise kids, seven of them were in Florida.

TAKE THE SURVEY: surveymonkey.com/r/PQFX5VT GET INVOLVED: CONTACT JENNIFER MCBRIDE AT jennifer.mcbride@marion.k12.fl.us

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PRO M OTI O N AL FE ATU R E

Redefining Ocala’s

EQUESTRIAN EXPERIENCE The Best of Equestrian Sport and Country Club Living Combine at THE new World Equestrian Center at Golden Ocala

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ith an opening set for fall of 2017, the World Equestrian Center at Golden Ocala will redefine the equestrian experience in Ocala. Welcome to the new “Horse Capital of the World.”

Indeed, the new center is sure to be a game changer as far as equine events are concerned, offering a large climate-controlled arena among many other amenities. Having this type of facility will mean equine events can be held there year-round, whether rain, cold or hot Florida summer sun.

While all the details of the facility have not yet been released, it will be located on 1,000 acres adjacent to Golden Ocala. Once complete, the property will also feature three- to five-acre residential lots that will be available for equestrians so they can combine the best of equestrian sports and country club living.

“MONDAYS ARE USUALLY MY Off days, and I spend most mondays at Golden ocala. I call it my happy place.” › Amanda Steege, Golden Ocala Equestrian Lifestyle Ambassador

Amanda Steege, Professional Hunter Rider and Owner/Operator of Ashmeadow Farm with Reveille, Owner: Patti Hooker

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learning to provide students with the business and science skills needed for success at the “hundreds of different jobs” its graduates can pursue.

Live Like The Locals

Relaxing by the Pool Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club

The equestrian industry and community has embraced Ocala and Marion County for many years now. It’s currently home to more than 700 horse farms that represent nearly every discipline of the horse industry, from thoroughbred racing to jumpers, driving and more. A new equestrian facility and residential development like this is sure to draw even more from the equine industry into Ocala.

Horse Lovers Love Ocala “If you love horses, you love Ocala,” said Amanda Steege, the new Equestrian Lifestyle Ambassador at Golden Ocala Golf and Equestrian Club. “I love seeing all the open land, pastures and baby thoroughbreds running around. It’s heaven if horses are your passion.”

As the equine industry has grown in Ocala and Marion County, so have all the supporting and ancillary businesses.

This makes it even more attractive for those who work in this industry. What you’ll discover is not just one of any type of specialty business or equine veterinary practice, but multiples, including feed and tack stores, farriers, horse transportation and so much more. And nearby in Gainesville is the University of Florida, offering the best in animal care and scientific research.

“You’ve got high-level professionals who are easily accessible,” Steege said, referring to the many equine specialists here.

“Sometimes you can take that for granted here, but you don’t find that same level of services so easily available to you elsewhere.”

That is certainly a draw for those in the industry. Florida’s friendly tax laws also make Ocala a very attractive place to start a business. With its central location and close proximity to interstate highways and major airports, Ocala makes an ideal location for those who want to base their business in an equinefriendly community that offers beautiful weather year-round.

And then there’s the Equine Studies Program at the College of Central Florida, which continues to provide a highly educated and experienced workforce to support the growing equine industry in Ocala. The program offers classroom and hands-on

Ocala is also family friendly, which is important to equestrian competitors and business owners alike who typically bring spouses, children and significant others with them as they travel to compete and conduct business.

It has a great small-town feel and a growing downtown scene. Anyone who has seen downtown Ocala all decked out during the holidays with thousands of lights can attest to what a draw it is for this community. It includes multiple outdoor concert venues, a twice-a-week farmers market, award-winning restaurants and the brand-new Reilly Arts Center. And then there’s the thriving arts community, including the Ocala Civic Theatre, the Appleton Museum of Art, Ocala Symphony Orchestra and the new Magnolia Art Xchange, which is working to establish an artist-in-residency program.

Ecotourism is also a big part of the Marion County scene and a big draw for horse enthusiasts who love the outdoors. Trail-riding opportunities are abundant here and include the Ocala National Forest, the Florida Greenway, the Florida Horse Park, Silver Springs State Park and the Land Bridge trailhead, which actually crosses Interstate 75.

Parents looking to move their families to Marion County are sure to be impressed with the local school system. All seven of its public high schools made the “Most Challenging High Schools” list for 2016 from the Washington Post. The newspaper ranks schools based on how they challenge students and factors in tests for such magnet programs as Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and Advanced International Certificate of Education.

US News & World Report also listed two Ocala high schools — Forest and West Port — on its 2016 “Best High Schools” rankings, awarding them both silver medals, their best scores yet.

Ocala’s great central location in Florida also adds to its appeal. You’re less than 90 minutes away from anyplace you’d like to go, whether it’s the beaches, Walt Disney World, St. Augustine or watching such professional sports as the Orlando Magic, Tampa Bay Buccaneers or Tampa Bay Rays. It’s all just a short drive away.

Location, Location, Location With its prime location right next to Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club, the World Equestrian Center at Golden Ocala is sure to be a hit with competitors and spectators alike. The waiting in between events at horse shows is what most people dread the most.

But imagine having a Golden Ocala membership that gives you access to its many amenities nearby.

These include the 18-hole championship golf course, six Har-Tru Hydro Grid® tennis courts, three exclusive restaurants, a salon and spa for pampering, a stateof-the-art fitness center and resort-style pool and of course, its Equestrian Center featuring an all-weather

Golden Ocala

AMENITIES

Explore the heart of luxury at Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club. With its full line of rich amenities, it’s everything you’d expect from country club living and so much more.

• The Golf Club’s 18hole Ron Garl-designed championship course has eight recreated tribute holes from the world’s finest: Augusta, Royal Troon, Baltusrol, Muirfield and St. Andrews.

• The Tennis Club’s six Har-Tru Hydro-Grid® courts lay on the finest clay surface, with private lessons taught by pros and day leagues available.

• The Fitness Center’s Italian exercise equipment with Technogym and expert trainers help put you on track to your health goals.

• Approximately 6.5 miles of private, carriage-wide riding trails surround the state-of-the-art Equestrian Center, which has private barn suites.

• The Salon and Spa offers the ultimate in pampering services, from massages and spa body treatments to pedicures, facials and more.

• Three exclusive signature restaurants offering a variety of options from casual poolside meals to elegant dining experiences.

• A sprawling resortstyle pool featuring a shallow entry area.

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ring and six miles of picturesque, private riding trails.

The dreaded waiting periods in between events can instead be seen as opportunities at nearby Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club for:

• A round of golf or a game of tennis • A manicure and massage at the spa • Swimming and sunning by the pool • Meeting a friend for lunch • Working out at the fitness center, and more “Mondays are usually my off days, and I spend most Mondays at Golden Ocala,” Steege said of her current training routine. “I call it my happy place. I go there on Mondays for the spa, tennis or golf, for manicures, pedicures and massages. I love having the amenities and restaurants there.”

Golden Ocala’s restaurants serve as a great place for Steege to take her clients on the weekend. Because they often don’t finish up until 6 or 6:30pm, it can be difficult to get to a restaurant in downtown Ocala or elsewhere for a great meal without a long wait.

“Instead we can just head to Golden Ocala and have an excellent meal with excellent service,” she said. “And we can go in our boots and breeches here. They welcome us here.”

And although the amenities and other benefits of membership would indeed be a plus, imagine also living at Golden Ocala in one of its 10 unique neighborhoods, each conceived and designed to provide distinctive options.

Choose from townhomes and completely furnished residences to luxury estates and more.

Looking Ahead While all the particulars have not been released about the World Equestrian Center at Golden Ocala, a look up north to the World Equestrian Center in Wilmington, Ohio may offer details about what we can expect here.

The goal for World Equestrian Center is to return horse showing to its former grandeur while incorporating an element of fun reminiscent of the horse shows of the past, according to owner Roby Roberts, a member of the family who owns Golden Ocala.

Roberts wants to make horse shows fun for the whole family. At World Equestrian Center in Ohio, the family-friendly after-hours social and sporting events have become a hallmark. Once horses are back in their stalls, show rings transform into beach soccer, volleyball or dodge ball courts. Popular movies headline Drive-In Movie nights where families can park golf carts full of kids and dogs to watch movies and enjoy fresh popcorn and snacks.

Through his partnership with Golden Ocala, Roby Roberts has plans to create a welcoming place for all equestrians at the new World Equestrian Center at Golden Ocala. He hopes it will be the “Disneyland of the horse world,” a magical place that will make people smile. “There’s an amazing opportunity in Golden Ocala,” he said. v

Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club

› 8300 NW 31st Lane Rd., Ocala › (352) 629-6229 › goldenocala.com

World Equestrian Center Wilmington, Ohio

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

Sleeping Standards

Source: cnn.com

Listen up, all you new and expectant parents out there.

The American Academy of Pediatrics now recommends that parents sleep in the same room as their baby as a preventative measure against the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and other forms of infant death that can occur while an infant is sleeping. The AAP does not, however, endorse co-sleeping in the same bed as your infant or on the same surface. An infant 6 months or under should be placed to sleep on their backs in a bassinet or crib, and someone should be present in the room throughout the night. The new AAP report shows a reduced risk of SIDS by 50 percent when these guidelines are followed. When taking into consideration the estimated 3,500 deaths from SIDS in the United States each year, these suggestions are worth noting.

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Kid Vs. Bully

Bullies are not just antagonists in movies. They exist in every city and at every grade level. Nearly 80 percent of teens use cell phones linked to social media sites on a regular basis, allowing the opportunity for bullying to make an appearance more frequently.

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yberbullying is different from traditional bullying—it happens when kids bully each other through electronic technology.

Whether that be through mean text messages or rumors spread on social media sites, this form of bullying is considered unescapable. Kids who are cyberbullied have a harder time fleeing the behavior.

It can happen 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and reach any kid with access to a phone, laptop or tablet. Worse yet, the bully is often hard to trace, and their negative messages spread quickly.

The National Center for Education Statistics and Bureau of Justice Statistics found that 7 percent of students in grades six through 12 experienced cyberbullying in 2013 as well as 15 percent of high school students. That percentage easily could include your child. Look for these red flags to determine whether your child might be being bullied online or your child might be a bully.

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What To Do If You Suspect Bullying

THE VICTIM › Your child suddenly spends more or much less

time on their phone or computer. › After using their phone, they seem upset

or withdrawn. › Your child shuts down their social

media accounts. › In general, they act frustrated or impatient. › Others have opened social media (Facebook,

Twitter, Snapchat, etc.) accounts in your child’s name.

THE BULLY › Your child has a history of bullying or has been a

target of bullying. › He or she avoids conversations about their

computer and cell phone activities. › You find out your child has multiple online

accounts or accounts under different names. › Your child switches screens or closes programs

when you are nearby. › You notice your child using the computer or cell

phone excessively. › Your child becomes overly upset if access to the

computer or cellphone is restricted.

Odds are your child won’t come to you directly to let you know what problems they are facing with cyberbullying. They consider it an embarrassing conversation and don’t believe the situation can be handled.

Sameer Hinduja, Ph.D., co-director of the Cyberbullying Research Center, says to help their kids, “Parents must demonstrate to their children through words and actions that they both desire the same result: that the cyberbullying stop and that life does not become even more difficult.” With this reassurance, your child will hopefully feel comfortable to converse openly.

Know your school’s policy on bullying. While most schools have protocols that aim to stop bullies, others may not. In these instances, you may have to go up the chain and contact the superintendent and school board members. If the bullying continues or worsens, it is OK to contact the police. Keep a printout or record of the bully’s actions, and always contact the police if physical threats have been issued, says Hinduja.

Most cases, however, have been resolved through parent-to-parent communication. Facing the problem directly can benefit your child greatly.

It is important that parents educate their children about appropriate online behavior and what effects negative words and actions can have on someone else.

If you have spoken to everyone you can on behalf of your child and still feel like they could use more encouragement, there are local counselors or other mental health services readily available in the area.

If your child conveys any feelings of hopelessness or thoughts of suicide, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-TALK (8255).

Sources: nbcnews.com, sheknows.com, stopbullying.gov, cnn.com, stompoutbullying.org

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

Savannah, 8 months, with parents at The Pickin' Patch

Jackson, 5, Carter, 6, Lorren, 5, & Abigail, 8, pose for a holiday photo

Leena Marie, 6, at the Paddock Mall going to see Santa

Kooper, 4, poses before his t-ball game

Zhenn, 4, ready for church

Kinley, 5, & Braylee, 5, at Marion Ballet Theatre's The Nutcracker

Kiara Lynne, 9, at the Paddock Mall going to see Santa

German Exchange student Laura Poehn (center), 15, with her softball team

Solianna, 4, Ivelisse, 6, Krystian, 5, and Olivia 1, enjoying a trip to the Ocala Drive-In

Lachlan, 6, & Anya, 5, at the New Year's Eve magic show at the Marion County Public Library

Shady Hill Elementary's 4-H Club celebrating its steer and heifer's first birthdays

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

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Abby, 1, enjoying her first lollipop

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

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Visit us at: www.ChildrensHealthofOcala.com FEB ’17 ›

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› CLASS ACTS

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

Golden Apples Awarded

Five teachers are vying to become Marion County’s Teacher of the Year. All five received Golden Apples during recent surprise visits to their classrooms.

The overall winner will be featured here next month. Finalists include:

› › › › ›

Belleview Middle’s Jennifer Thomas Marion Technical College’s Smokie West Dr. NH Jones Elementary’s Annie Shepherd Hillcrest School’s Diego Fuentes, and West Port High’s Cacee Ford

Meanwhile, Marion County’s Rookie Teacher of the Year is John Liquori from Stanton-Weirsdale Elementary. This is his first year teaching in Marion County.

Cacee Ford

Annie Shepherd

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Appreciating First Responders

To mark Florida’s First Responder Recognition Week, local schools honored firstresponding agencies with hand-written notes of thanks, cards filled with student art and other forms of appreciation. Recipients included Belleview Police Department’s Chief Terry Holland, Cpl. Michael Morales, Pfc. Dominic Licciardello and Sgt. Ray Dwyer at Belleview Elementary, and Dunnellon Police Chief Mike McQuaig and Officer Megan Feliciani at Dunnellon Middle. Other appreciated agencies included Dunnellon Fire, Marion County Fire Rescue, Marion County Sheriff ’s Office, Ocala Fire Rescue, Ocala Police and Florida Highway Patrol.

Jennifer

Thomas

John Liquor

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Community Conversations

Superintendent Dr. Heidi Maier is meeting local citizens face to face in a series of five meetings throughout Marion County. Dubbed “Community Conversations,” these interactions give taxpayers direct access to ask whatever questions they’d like to the district’s new superintendent. The first two meetings took place in January, and upcoming meetings include North Marion High (Feb. 5), Dunnellon High (Feb. 6) and East Marion Elementary (Feb. 12).

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Students Meet Miss Florida

Ocala Springs Elementary fourth-graders met Miss Florida 2016 Courtney Sexton recently. The Starke native stopped by to teach students about preserving Florida’s Everglades and the importance of setting and pursuing high goals.

Students listened intently and then asked lots of questions. Sexton also posed for pictures with students and even took some with her own phone.

Nancy Porter

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ST. JOHN LUTHERAN SCHOOL A Tradition of Excellence K3-12th Grades • Comprehensive Athletic Program (beginning in 5th Grade) Arts, Music & Drama • Leadership and Service Opportunities

Mark your calendar for these events to learn more about the SAINTS! OPEN HOUSE - FEBRUARY 16, 2017 Elementary (4-5:30pm) Middle School Preview Night (5:45pm in Grace Place)

Spend the day on campus! Schedule to be a “Saint for a Day” To learn more, please email saints@stjohnocala.org or call 352-622-7275

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

Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock. ~Isaiah 26:4

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Lifelong Learning The Ocala Style 2017 education, school & day care guide

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Whether it’s day care, preschool, high school or college, choosing the right educational path for your children is a common anxiety among most parents.

So to make the process a little easier, we’ve compiled a list of Ocala and Marion County’s education options to help guide your way.

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

— NELSON MANDELA

Achieve Learning Center

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

Alphabet Land Learning Center

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

Ambleside School of Ocala

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

Angels in Arms

33 SW 16th Pl., Ocala / (352) 622-6167 / angelsinarms.com Open since 1988, Angels in Arms is sponsored by Blessed Trinity Church and offers care for children 4 weeks through 5 years of age between 7am and 6pm. Angels in Arms offers learning centers and group

activities, which give children the opportunity to play, experiment and discover, plus a summer kindergarten readiness program.

Saturday night care and a fun summer program.

Belleview Christian Academy

3731 NE 7th St., Ocala / (352) 694-7440 or (352) 694-3501 bbopreschool.net

6107 SE Agnew Rd., Belleview / (352) 245-6151 / bcaknights.com Belleview Christian Academy offers a private, Christian education for students in pre-K3 through eighth grade. The school offers an 18:1 student-teacher ratio, chapel services, and music, computer and art classes.

Blessed Trinity Catholic School

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

Bright Beginnings Learning Center

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

Building Blocks of Ocala Preschool

Certified teachers and staff at BBO Preschool offer a nurturing atmosphere for children 2 months through 12 years of age. The school offers a free VPK program, after-school care for school-age students and partand full-time programs as well as fun extracurricular activities.

Building Blocks West

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

Capstone Child Care Academy

7794 SW 60th Ave., Ocala / (352) 3513777 / capstonechildcare.com Capstone welcomes children ages 1 through 5 for their preschool education, including a free VPK program. The school also offers an after-school program for school-age children up to 12 years of age and picks up at Hammett Bowen Elementary.

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Carousel Early Learning Center

1842 SE 11th Ave., Ocala / (352) 3512369 / carousel-elc.com

“Education is the kindling of a flame, not the filling of a vessel.”

Carousel offers care for children 6 weeks of age through pre-K, including free VPK classes from 8:30-11:30am.

All classrooms have cameras that can be viewed live over the internet.

Wraparound care and after care are also available.

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

The College of Central Florida offers a variety of certificates, diplomas and degrees through on-campus and online classes. CF offers bachelor degrees in nursing, early childhood education, agribusiness managements, health care managements and more. The CF Financial Aid Office can help students plan for college expenses.

Marion Technical College

1014 SW 7th Rd., Ocala / (352) 671-7200 / mariontc.edu CTAE offers adult education in a variety of fields, including commercial culinary, cosmetology, firefighting, massage therapy, medical billing, nursing assistant, phlebotomy and welding.

The school also offers continuing education courses as well as GED and ESOL programs and leisure classes in photography, sewing and language.

Counts Early Learning Academy

244 W Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala / (352) 351-4738 / countsacademy.com Counts provides child care and education for children ages 12 months through pre-kindergarten, including a free VPK program 9am to 12pm with aftercare available. Part- or full-time child care is offered for younger kids.

“Intelligence plus characterthat is the goal of true education.”

— MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.

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— SOCRATES

Creative Beginnings Preschool

5870 SE 85th Ln., Ocala / (352) 245-2416 Creative Beginnings offers care for infants and children through 5 years of age, including a free VPK program for 4 year olds. The 6,000-squarefoot facility offers 10 classrooms, a library, a computer room and three playgrounds. Beyond the classroom, the preschool offers a weekly chapel and dance and soccer.

Creative Kids Preschool

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

Crossroads Academy

3681 NE 7th St., Ocala / (352) 694-4466 / crossroadsacademyocala.com Crossroads is a private school that specializes in helping third- through 12th-grade students who have dyslexia, hyperlexia, auditory processing disorders and dysgraphia. The program accepts McKay Scholarships and uses several LindamoodBell programs.

Dunnellon Christian Academy

20831 Powell Rd., Dunnellon / (352) 489-7716 / dcaeagles.com Affiliated with the First Baptist Church of Dunnellon, this school offers a private, Christian education for infants through 8th-graders, plus a 4-year-old VPK program. Dunnellon Christian Academy offers a scholarship awarded through its school and also accepts the McKay and Step Up For Students scholarships.

Family Ties Child Center

5285 SW 1st Ln., Ocala / (352) 854-3998 3230 SE 58th Ave., Ocala / (352) 694-4554 familytieschildcenter.com Offering a free VPK program as well as a structured preschool curriculum for children ages 2 through 5, Family Ties takes pride in its staff-to-child ratio and certified and CPR/first aid-trained teaching staff. The center also offers holiday, summer and vacation care for children up to 12 years.

First Assembly Christian School & Daycare

1827 NE 14th St., Ocala / (352) 351-1913 / facs.ocalafirst.org First Assembly is a Christian educational program for infants and preschoolers as well as schoolage students through 12th grade, including a free VPK program. The school accepts the Step Up For Students scholarship.

First Steps Preschool

Grace Episcopal Early Learning Center VPK

514 SE Broadway St., Ocala / (352) 3685618 / graceocala.org Offered through the Grace Episcopal Church of Ocala, this VPK program is free to any child who is 4 years of age by Sept. 1. Early care, extended programs and wraparound care are available until 4pm, five days a week. Plus Stretch & Grow, music and computers are part of the weekly curriculum.

GraceWay Academy and Preschool

2255 SE 38th St., Ocala / (352) 6294523 / gracewayacademy.org

First Steps is affiliated with the First Baptist Church of Ocala and offers care to infants and children through age 4.

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

Associated with Grace Presbyterian Church, GraceWay offers care for children ages 2 through fifth grade, including a free VPK program. The school accepts Step Up For Students scholarships and offers weekly Bible lessons and chapel as well as afterschool care, gymnastics classes, music, Spanish and more.

Grace Christian School

Happy Hearts Preschool

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

A weekly Anglican church service is held in the outdoor courtyard, and the school offers a great selection of extracurricular activities.

Open since 1946, Happy Hearts is a nondenominational preschool offering halfday classes for children beginning at 18 months of age and extending through age 6 for children whose parents wish to delay kindergarten enrollment.

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

2801 SE Maricamp Rd., Ocala / (352) 629-5683 / fbcocala.org

4410 SE 3rd Ave., Ocala / (352) 3873090 / gcsocala.com

208 SE Tuscawilla Ave., Ocala / (352) 622-7636 / www.happyheartsocala.org

Blessed Trinity Catholic School

Spiritual Vitality and Academic Excellence Since 1927

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

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OPEN HOUSE Come have a seat in our flight simulator!

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Montessori House of Ocala, Inc.

9880 SW 84th Ct., Ocala / (352) 2820195 / montessorihouseofocala.com Montessori House offers education for infants through 6 years old. Computers are present in preschool and elementary classrooms, daily Spanish classes are offered in every classroom and students enjoy extracurricular activities, including art, music, science and sign language.

“The mind once enlightened cannot again become dark.”

— THOMAS PAINE

Montessori Preparatory School of Ocala

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

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

Highlands Baptist Learning Center

3530 E Fort King St., Ocala / (352) 6942194 / hbclearningcenterocala.org Affiliated with Highlands Baptist Church, this center offers care and education to children 8 weeks through 12 years of age, including a free VPK program. Opened in 1972, the school offers bus transportation from Ward Highlands and Maplewood Elementary for children enrolled in afterschool care.

Kinderoo Children’s Academy

5180 SW 60th Ave., Ocala / (352) 2755343 / (352) 854-3800 / Find them on Facebook Kinderoo offers child care and preschool for children beginning at age 1 and a free VPK program for children who are 4 before Sept. 1. Full- and part-time programs are available as well as drop-in care and summer and winter camps.

Liberty Christian Preparatory Academy

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

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Marion Technical Institute

Ocala Christian Academy

MTI is a public high school offering technical and classroom education for junior and senior high school students.

Students earn a high school diploma while also receiving practical career experience in automotive technology, building sciences, business and finance, culinary arts, logistics, law, IT and robotics.

Ocala Christian Academy offers a private, Christian education to children 3 years of age through 12th grade and accepts the Step Up For Students and McKay scholarships. The school offers a competitive athletic program for middle and high school boys and girls.

1614 E Fort King St., Ocala / (352) 6714765 / marionschools.net/mti

Meadowbrook Academy

4741 SW 20th St., Bldg. 1, Ocala / (352) 861-0700 / mbaocala.org Affiliated with Meadowbrook Church, this school offers a Christian education for children in grades kindergarten through 12th grade. The school offers both morning and afternoon care and accepts the Step Up For Students scholarship.

Meadowbrook College

4741 SW 20th St., Ocala / (352) 8733767 / mbcschoolofministry.com Meadowbrook College offers a four-year Bachelor of Science in Ministerial Leadership program and a two-year Associate of Ministerial Leadership program, both through Southeastern University. Financial aid is available, and students receive hands-on ministry experience through Meadowbrook’s Ministry Tracks.

The school also offers an accredited associate in arts degree.

1714 SE 36th Ave., Ocala / (352) 6944178 / ocacrusaders.org

Ocala First Preschool

1126 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala / (352) 620-0003 / ocalafirstpreschool.org Affiliated with the Ocala First United Methodist Church, this preschool welcomes 2 and 3 year olds and offers a free VPK and VPK with extended hours for 4 year olds. Half-day and two- and three-day programs are available for younger children, and early care is available starting at 7:30am.

Play Academy

4460 SE Maricamp Rd, Ocala / (850) 258-5828 / ocalaplayacademy.com Play Academy offers two afterschool options: general education with homework help or general fitness that rotates between various sports, including golf, gymnastics, cheerleading and more. The 10,000square-foot building also has a fulltime 2-4 year old space (7am-7pm) and will be adding a newborn/infant room in the spring. After-school programs are open to kids in kindergarten through 7th grade, and the facility is open until 7pm.

Grace Episcopal Church VPK Our FREE VPK program offers each child: Developmentally Appropriate Curriculum Kindergarten Readiness Activities Literacy and Math Centers Degreed Educators Weekly Chapel Time Before and After Care Small Classes

STUDENTS GROWING IN

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

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Promiseland Academy

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

Queen of Peace Children’s House Montessori 6455 SW SR 200, Ocala / (352) 8542181 / qopchildrenshouse.com

Queen of Peace Children’s House, affiliated with the Queen of Peace Catholic Church, is a Montessori school focused on educating children ages 3 to 5. This school offers a free VPK program, as well as after school and extended care, and daily Bible teaching and prayer.

Rasmussen College

4755 SW 46th Ct., Ocala / (352) 6291941 / rasmussen.edu Rasmussen College offers certificates and associate and bachelor’s degrees in programs such as business, graphic design, early childhood education, health sciences, justice studies, nursing and technology. Financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available.

Rasmussen College School of Nursing

Redeemer Christian School

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

Riverland Christian Academy

Souls Harbor Christian Academy

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

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

19455 SW 61st St., Dunnellon / (352) 489-6177 / riverlandbaptistchurch.com/ Riverland_Christian_Academy

St. John Lutheran School

Affiliated with Riverland Baptist Church, this school educates students in pre-K4 through 12th grade and accepts the Step Up For Students and McKay scholarships. The school utilizes the Accelerated Christian Education curriculum and offers volleyball, basketball and cheerleading.

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

Small Talk Educational Child Care

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

1227 SW 17th Avenue, Ocala / (352) 2918565 / rasmussen.edu Rasmussen’s School of Nursing is located on its own campus in Ocala and offers a reputable, fast-paced array of nursing programs. Programs offered include practical nursing, professional nursing, Bachelor of Science in nursing, Master of Science in nursing and an RN to BSN bridge option.

1915 SE Lake Weir Ave., Ocala / (352) 622-7275 / stjohnocala.org

Saint Leo University, Ocala Education Center

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

St. Paul’s Christian School 800 SE 41st Ave., Ocala / (352) 6944219 / stpaulschristianschool.org

Affiliated with St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, St. Paul’s Christian School welcomes children ages 2 through 4 and offers a free VPK program as well as an advanced K-4 program.

Step-by-Step Success, LLC

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

Some insurances are accepted, and private pay options, scholarship programs and finance options are available.

Sylvan Learning of Ocala

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

Taylor College

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

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

“You can never be overdressed or overeducated.”

— OSCAR WILDE

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A living education empowers students to

author lives that are full and free - rich in relationship to God, self, others, ideas, work, and creation.

OPEN ENROLLMENT BEGINS Wednesday, March 1,

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Grades K- 8th 507 SE Broadway Street, Ocala, Florida

AMBLESIDE OPEN ENROLLMENT

Need-based scholarships available through StepUpForStudents.org

(352)694-1635 | www.AmblesideOcala.com

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“The educated differ from the uneducated as much as the living differ from the dead.”

— ARISTOTLE

Triumphant Tots Inc Tiny Tykes Child Care

3111 NE 14th St., Ocala / (352) 629-5838 / Find them on Facebook

The Cornerstone School

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

The Reading Clinic

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

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

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Tiny Tykes Child Care welcomes infants and children through age 4 and offers a free VPK program. Tiny Tykes offers a fun-filled, educational curriculum. Children who have turned 4 years of age by Sept. 1 of the current school year are eligible for the free VPK program.

Trinity Catholic High School 2600 SW 42nd St., Ocala / (352) 6229025 / trinitycatholichs.org

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

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

1425 NE 63rd St., Ocala / (352) 3512470 / Find them on Facebook Triumphant Tots accepts children starting at 4 weeks of age through fifth grade. The center offers a free VPK program and before and after-school care for school-age children with pickup from nearby elementary schools.

Victory Academy

3401 SE Lake Weir Ave., Ocala / (352) 622-4410 / victoryacademyocala.com Victory Academy is a classical Christian college-preparatory school for children ages 3 and 4 through sixth grade (with a grade being added each year through 12th). The school offers a Christian education along with a classical curriculum, innovative programs and an environment that promotes independent thinkers.

Village View Christian Academy

8585 SE 147th Pl., Summerfield / (352) 307-2100 or (352) 693-5941 / villageviewchristianacademy.com The Early Education Center has programs available for children ages 6 weeks through 5 years, including a

free VPK curriculum. The school offers grades kindergarten through high school and a variety of extracurricular and sports programs. Village View accepts the Step-Up For Students and McKay scholarships and offers a church scholarship for members of the Village View Community Church.

Webster University

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

Editor’s Note: This is not a comprehensive list of education options.

Every effort was made to attempt to research and include as many schools as possible and to ensure accurate information was included. Specific details are subject to change at the school’s discretion. Please contact the school directly for the most up-to-date information.

G R AC E C H R I STIAN S C H O O L 60 Years of Academic Excellence

Our mission is to prepare our children for life, to honor and glorify God, in a Christ-centered environment of academic excellence.

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Accredited by Florida Council of Independent Schools and Florida Kindergarten Council since 1973

Open Enrollment for 2017-18 begins Feb. 13th Call to schedule a tour of our campus or visit our website at

www.gcsocala.com

GRAC E C H RI STIAN SC HOOL - (352) 387-3090 - 4410 S E 3RD AVE N U E - OCALA, FL 34480

Today’s Students, Tomorrow’s Leaders.

Grace Christian School does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion or gender.

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On View Through April 2

Frida-by-Moonlight Party

Friday, February 10, 6:30–8:30 p.m.

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AppletonMuseum.org | 352-291-4455 | 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd.

–an equal opportunity college–

FEB ’17 ›

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e to be a pa1rewnot.rld, m ti g in g n lle a ch It’s a anging, post-9/1 In our rapidlyrbching headlines and the with its distusence of 24/7 news and invasive pre , kids are bombarded withn’t social mediawe’d often rather they did information t least, not so soon. know—or, ang as it may be to ignore As tempti tickier” topics, experts some of the “s not the answpear.rents need agree that’s re than ever ir children and “Now mo lis ten to the to be there toe tough issues, because ys talk about tha very stressful place,” sa e the world is is, M.D., a psychiatrist at thare Marcia Morrf Florida Student Health C e University oainesville, who is also a wif Center in G of two children. and mother

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Death

This discussion can’t be avoided because, while terrorism is far less likely to strike close to home, at some point a relative or someone your child knows will die.

“You don’t have to bring this topic up; it’s going to come up,” says Morris. “They need to know death is part of the cycle of life.”

Encourage expression of emotions. A great time to talk about death is when a pet dies.

“You want your child to express sadness and talk about it, not hold it in. Don’t tell them to stop crying,” Morris advises. Explain that they might feel sad and even angry so they understand what they’re feeling is normal. Making a memory scrapbook can help a child gain comfort and closure.

Talk about it. “It’s very important to let your child know it’s OK to let out their feelings and to reassure them that the sadness gets less with time, even though they’ll always have memories of that person,” she notes. “Encourage them to talk about the person who died and why they miss them. You can also talk about how the person who died would want them to live their life.

Talking about their values helps keep their memory alive. When an older person dies, it’s natural, but it’s hard to explain when a younger person dies.

Don’t be afraid of saying it’s sad and hard to understand.”

Avoid the “sleep” word. Don’t tell your child the person “went to sleep and won’t wake up again,” which can deeply frighten young children. If your child asks if you will die or if he or she will die, tell the truth that everyone dies, but that this shouldn’t happen to them for a long time.

Honor the person. Rituals can help comfort and deal with loss, as well as memorialize the loved one. If you have religious faith, talk openly with your child about this. If your child wants to attend the funeral, follow your instincts. As the parent, you are the only one who can judge your child’s maturity level.

“You want your child

to express

sadness and

talk about it,

not hold it in.”

Terrorism

Talking to your kids about acts of terrorism is especially difficult when you don’t really know what’s happening yourself, but don’t let that prevent conversation.

Limit media exposure. Research shows that children who had repeated and prolonged exposure to media images after the September 11 attacks suffered more anxiety than those with less exposure. After recent attacks in France, François Dufour, editor in chief of three daily French newspapers for youth, encouraged parents not to show children images or footage of the violence but to start a discussion based on their children’s questions.

Find out what they know. Let their questions guide the conversation, keeping your answers age appropriate.

“They might ask why it’s happening,” says Morris. “One answer that works for all ages is saying that, although most people are nice, there are evil people in the world. Kids have to understand that there are bad people. The topic of evil is going to come up—not just about terrorism but in everyday life. Using literature is a good way to do this. You can relate it to villains in a movie or book they know, like Harry Potter.”

Reassure them. Ask if they are worried. Emphasize all the people—law enforcement, first responders, military—working to keep us safe. Keeping family routines consistent will go a long way toward instilling a sense of normalcy.

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Provide support. Remind your child that we need to comfort people who are suffering loss.

“If someone is sick in your family and has a terminal illness, a support group can be very helpful so the child doesn’t feel helpless,” adds Morris.

Sex

“It can be uncomfortable to talk about, but it’s essential that parents have frank conversations with their children about sex because they’re going to get all kinds of wrong information,” says Morris, who recommends using an age-appropriate book with illustrations that covers the basics of anatomy, the sex act and when it’s appropriate to have sex. Parents will have different answers for that last one, but although it’s important to impart your values, don’t stick your head in the sand.

“Parents need to understand one important fact: 60 percent of high school students will have had sex by the time they graduate, so you have to deal with reality. You need to talk with your kids about condoms and safe sex. This is a matter of health. You don’t want them to deal with pregnancy or sexually transmitted disease.”

Start young. Teach toddlers the correct anatomical terms for private body parts. Don’t use slang, which can convey shame or guilt. Young children also need to be told about boundaries (wrong touching) and that they should let you know if someone is touching or hurting them.

Begin with basics. Your 6 year old doesn’t need a full-blown discussion about reproduction, just a general understanding. An explanation of intercourse for a young child can be as simple as saying male and female body parts were made to fit together like puzzle pieces. Increase the details in subsequent conversations as your child gets older. You can talk about values and beliefs about sex, but keep in mind the child’s age.

Emphasize health and safety. “It’s easier to talk about sex if you emphasize the safety part,” says Morris.

“If you take a judgmental approach, kids

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will often tune you out. You can share your values and morals and give them a strong message about why you want them to wait to have sex, but they still need information on how to stay safe. Explain that casual sex (‘hooking up’) often leads to people getting hurt emotionally and that it’s always safer if you know the person well.”

Use statistics. One way to make the conversation more comfortable is to use statistics; kids will listen to facts.

“There are 20 million cases of new STDs in the United States each year, and over half the new cases were in young adults ages 15 to 24,” says Morris, adding that cdc.gov and floridahealth.gov are good sources for stats.

Outline parameters. “After Fifty Shades of Grey came out, I heard more from my clients about violence in intimate relationships,” says Morris.

“Teach your children that there should never be any physical dominance, pain or violence in any relationship. Tell them that if anyone hits them ever, even just once, that should be the end of the relationship. Encourage them not to have sex if they’ve been drinking alcohol. Talk about date rape and sexual assault. Teach boys that it is never acceptable to push someone to have sex (no means no!), and that verbal consent should clearly be stated by both parties.”

Bullying

Bullying is defined as “intentionally aggressive, usually repeated” verbal, social or physical behavior aimed at a specific person or group of people. It may not include physical contact but always involves aggression and an imbalance of power. From a mental health perspective, being bullied increases the risk of depression and even suicidal behavior.

Middle school is prime time for bullying, so you want your child prepared beforehand. Build your child’s self-esteem, teach them how they should be treated and be aware of signs they may be being

bullied, such as:

• Unexplained bruises or injuries • Frequent headaches and/or stomachaches, nightmares • Excuses to avoid school, social situations or family times • Anger, depression or withdrawal • Declining grades, loss of interest in school or extracurricular activities • Sudden loss of friends • Destructive behavior; hurting themselves in any way • Talk of suicide Be a good role model. Take into consideration your own behavior. Do you consistently treat others with respect and kindness? No matter what you tell children, your actions speak louder than words.

Never excuse aggressive, dominating behavior. “I think some parents overlook bullying behaviors in their kids if they’re getting good grades,” Morris observes. “You need to talk with your kids about what is unacceptable behavior and also let them know they shouldn’t hang out with bullies.”

Give your child freedom to talk openly. “If your child thinks you’re going to be upset, they may not tell you they’re being bullied,” cautions Morris.

“React in a calm manner, which is easier said than done. Check in with your kids on a regular basis, and make sure they know they can come to you if anything’s bothering them. Urge them to tell you about any type of bullying and that they should tell the person to stop and then walk away. Encourage them to tell a teacher if the actions continue.”

Don’t hesitate to intervene. “It’s always best if the child can resolve it, but if not, parents may need to go talk to the school administrator,” says Morris.

“There’s a lot of criticism about ‘helicopter parents,’ but school administrators are overloaded and may not be aware of how serious a situation is.”

EXERCISE YOUR HEART IN MORE WAYS THAN ONE My husband, Mike, and I have been members of the YMCA for several years, but have not always utilized the facility on a consistent basis. In fact, there would be months or years at a time that we didn’t make it. We were too busy with work or with the kids, and regular exercise wasn’t a top priority.

Then, at 39 years old, I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Colitis. A diagnosis of a chronic illness with no cure came as a complete shock.

From the beginning, I made up my mind that my fate would not be IV infusions every six weeks, or possibly even surgery. For months, I researched nutrition and made gradual changes. I knew the key to healing would be to reduce inflammation, and with proper nutrition and exercise I could begin to achieve that. But in the meantime, I was also dealing with arthritis, swelling, exhaustion, and a multitude of other “ancillary” health issues which affected my everyday life.

After a total of 16 weeks of steroids over the course of about 14 months (and a lot of weight gain), it took almost 2 years of diligence before I felt well enough or had the energy to start going to the Y. I knew I would be more motivated by taking classes, so I started with a few cardio classes per week. I always took the same classes because I was in my “comfort zone.” But after about six months, I hadn’t seen the results I wanted to and started trying some different classes, such as Yoga, Pilates, and Strength Training. I pushed past my insecurities and started taking up to two classes per day and quickly starting seeing changes in the shape of my body.

This was extremely motivating and my perseverance finally started paying off. All the while, I had already made some new friends that I would see nearly every day. I began to learn about some of their health struggles, their families…their stories. I quickly realized that they motivated me just as much, or more, as I motivated myself.

For more than a year now, I’ve been taking as many as 12 classes per week and have met most of my fitness goals. I’ve lost the 50 pounds I had gained and have gotten off my Crohn’s Colitis medication. I continue to go to the YMCA almost every day of the week. I have a new found commitment to myself and to a healthy lifestyle. I am in better shape and have more energy to do things with my family than I have in many years, and my overall quality of life has drastically improved. All of my aforementioned issues are gone. I continue to stay motivated by the wonderful staff and other members and truly look forward to seeing them every day.

And, I love that the Y is always adding new classes or programs and constantly looking for ways to improve and serve their community. I am so grateful to a part of the YMCA family!

—Pepper Kinzer, YMCA Member

INTRODUCING THE INTAKEOUT CAFÉ FOR FUELING YOUR HEART-HEALTHY LIFESTYLE At the Y, we understand that there is more to healthy living than exercise. The food you eat plays a big role in helping you stay heart healthy. That’s why our new InTakeOut Café focuses on fast, healthy options so that you can eat clean even when you are on the go.

Patrice Perron, owner and co-founder of La Cuisine Restaurant in Ocala, is a chef passionate about simple, healthy habits that positively impact daily life. His family has a strong focus on healthy eating, as Patrice balances his training requirements with the needs of his two children.

SALMON FILET AND WATERCRESS SAUCE Ingredients 4 wild salmon filets, about 5 oz each 2 teaspoons lemon juice

Salt and pepper

“Healthy eating habits are not as restrictive as many people think. Limiting highly processed food is the key because they’re often high in sodium, which is the enemy of your blood pressure and heart,” Patrice says. “Instead, enjoy vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, and lean meat and fish.”

Watercress Sauce

The vision of InTakeOut is to make your healthy lifestyle even more effortless with grab-and-go options, as well as a variety of fresh pre– or post-workout meals. You’ll find only real, wholesome ingredients—free of artificial additives—on the menu. Plus, keep an eye out for gluten-free and vegan options.

1 tablespoon fresh chives

1 cup cottage cheese 1/4 cup plain yogurt 1/4 cup watercress 2 teaspoons parsley

TWO-DAY GUEST PASS This TWO-DAY pass gives you the chance to try the NEW YMCA, including programs that are designed to help you and your family grow stronger together.

One guest pass per year.

Offer expires 2/28/2017

FRANK DELUCA YMCA

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2 teaspoons shaved parmesan cheese Preparation

1. Align your salmon filets on a big foil paper sheet, add salt, pepper, fresh lemon juice and olive oil.

2. Fold the edges to create a pouch (air-tight seal) and cook for about 15 minutes at 400F. 3. In the meantime, in your mixer, blend the cottage cheese, yogurt, watercress, parsley, chives and parmesan until you have a very smooth result. Heat sauce in a saucepan and continue to stir until it’s warm enough to serve.

COURTESY OF CHEF PATRICE PERRON, INTAKE OUT CAFE

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2017 HOME SCHEDULE FEB 25 vs. ORIOLES (SPLIT SQUAD) FEB 28 vs. BLUE JAYS MAR 3 vs. ORIOLES MAR 4 vs. RED SOX MAR 6 vs. YANKEES MAR 7 vs. BRAVES MAR 8 vs. DOMINICAN REPUBLIC MAR 10 vs. RAYS MAR 12 vs. TWINS MAR 15 vs. ORIOLES MAR 17 vs. ORIOLES MAR 19 vs. BLUE JAYS MAR 21 vs. RAYS MAR 24 vs. RAYS MAR 25 vs. TIGERS MAR 27 vs. TWINS (6:05PM) MAR 28 vs. RED SOX (6:05PM) MAR 29 vs. PHILLIES

Bradenton Attractions: McKechnie Field is right downtown, convenient to the South Florida Museum, ArtCenter Manatee, Manatee Players Theatre and the bohemian Village of the Arts neighborhood.

By Brett Ballantini Although there’s no substitute for a major league game, Florida’s Grapefruit League (the original spring training for baseball teams, dating back to the 19th century) provides a unique experience for fans.

By attending free, open workouts available at most facilities—yep, the actual spring training that’s talked about every year—fans get closer to the game than is possible in a bustling, rock-blaring, big-league park. You can overhear instruction from coaches and possibly even have a conversation with players (or at least get an autograph).

It’s possible to circle the state—from Port St. Lucie clockwise or Kissimmee counterclockwise—

and catch a game at a new park almost every day, with close to no skipping or backtracking. And if you’re more apt to plop down in one spot and take in a weekend of games, several teams/venues offer a three-day weekend block of home games (best bet: the dual-team venues of Roger Dean Stadium and the Ballpark of the Palm Beaches, the two venues closest to Miami, which host a game nearly every day of spring training).

What follows below are the vitals for the 15 teams playing in the Grapefruit League this February/March, in 13 unique venues. See you out there at the fields!

Nearest Spring Training Site: Ed Smith Stadium, Sarasota (Orioles), 13 miles south The most recent McKechnie Field renovations gave fans a 360-degree view of the field, as an outfield boardwalk was added. New, covered outfield bleachers will pump capacity up to 8,500, and permanent roofing replaces temporary shade cover along the baselines for sun protection.

The park also prides itself on affordability, with grandstand seats going for $15 and premium boxes just $28.

Did You Know? McKechnie Field was built in 1922 and has been home to spring training baseball since 1923 (and home to the Pirates since 1969).

The Pirates have committed to McKechnie Field for spring training through 2038.

FEB ’17 ›

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121 Mil es fro m oc al a TICKET INFO #GAMES S TA R T AT $ 1 8 M O R E F O R INFORMATION CALL

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ALL START TIMES 1:05PM UNLESS NOTED

2017 HOME SCHEDULE

Clearwater Attractions: Less than 10 miles west of the park are Clearwater’s famous beaches, two state parks and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. To the east, the park is just a mile from the waters of Old Tampa Bay and the renowned Ruth Eckerd Hall, a performing arts venue.

Did You Know? The Phillies can claim responsibility for establishing Florida as a permanent spring training site. The team trained in St. Petersburg in 1915 and then won 14 of its first 15 regular season games en route to the National League pennant, “proving” Florida’s merit as a training ground.

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ALL START TIMES 1:07PM UNLESS

NOTED

2017 HOME SCHEDULE

FEB 23 vs. UNIVERSITY OF TAMPA FEB 25 vs. YANKEES FEB 27 vs. RAYS FEB 28 vs. ORIOLES MAR 3 vs. TWINS MAR 4 vs. BRAVES MAR 5 vs. TIGERS (SPLIT SQUAD) MAR 9 vs. BLUE JAYS MAR 10 vs. YANKEES MAR 12 vs. RED SOX MAR 14 vs. BRAVES MAR 17 vs. BLUE JAYS MAR 18 vs. PIRATES MAR 22 vs. YANKEES MAR 23 vs. TWINS MAR 26 vs. PIRATES MAR 28 vs. BLUE JAYS (6:35PM) MAR 30 vs. YANKEES MAR 31 vs. RAYS

Nearest Spring Training Site: Dunedin Stadium, Dunedin (Blue Jays), seven miles northwest The 2017 season will mark 70 years of the Phillies training in Clearwater, and Spectrum is an incredible place to carry on the tradition. The main entrance is on the third-base side, which funnels fans past dozens of tall palm trees. The end of the entry spills out onto a concourse that circles the park, with unvarnished sightlines from every stop. Angled seating lends intimacy to the 8,500-seat venue. Outside the left-field fence is the Tiki Bar, much like that found at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Pirate Ship at Raymond James Stadium. The park has the smallest foul territory in Florida, meaning fans are closer to the action than anywhere else. And, well, philly cheese-steaks!

18

FEB 26 vs. PHILLIES (SPLIT SQUAD) FEB 27 vs. PIRATES MAR 1 vs. TIGERS MAR 2 vs. PHILLIES MAR 3 vs. YANKEES MAR 5 vs. RAYS MAR 7 vs. TEAM CANADA MAR 11 vs. PHILLIES MAR 13 vs. RED SOX MAR 16 vs. YANKEES MAR 18 vs. RAYS MAR 20 vs. TWINS MAR 22 vs. TIGERS MAR 24 vs. RED SOX MAR 25 vs. CANADIAN JUNIORS (SPLIT) MAR 26 vs. ORIOLES (SPLIT SQUAD) MAR 27 vs. PHILLIES (6:07PM) MAR 29 vs. YANKEES

Dunedin Attractions: The stadium is just a quarter-mile from the Gulf of Mexico and a 15-minute drive from Clearwater Beach.

Nearest Spring Training Site: Spectrum Field, Clearwater (Philadelphia Phillies), eight miles southeast The one word that most often pops up with Florida Auto Exchange Stadium is charm, stemming from its residential location and use as a community park: The Dunedin High School Falcons, Toronto Blue Jays and Dunedin Blue Jays earn equal billing on the stadium marquee. A sense of history and reverence is highlighted with the day’s lineups appearing on a large scorecard behind home plate, as well as memorabilia from Toronto’s greatest teams scattered in displays around the park.

Did You Know? The Blue Jays were established in 1977, and 2017 marks the 51st year the team has trained in Dunedin.

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MES

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ALL START TIMES 1:05PM UNLE

SS NOTED

2017 HOME SCHEDULE FEB 23 vs. NORTHEASTERN FEB 24 vs. METS FEB 25 vs. TWINS FEB 27 vs. CARDINALS FEB 28 vs. YANKEES MAR 2 vs. RAYS MAR 5 vs. BRAVES MAR 9 vs. TEAM USA MAR 10 vs. ORIOLES (6:05PM) MAR 11 vs. RAYS (SPLIT SQUAD) MAR 14 vs. BLUE JAYS MAR 16 vs. PIRATES (6:05PM) MAR 17 vs. ASTROS MAR 19 vs. TWINS MAR 20 vs. ORIOLES MAR 23 vs. PIRATES MAR 25 vs. PHILLIES (SPLIT SQUAD) MAR 29 vs. TWINS MAR 30 vs. NATIONALS

Jet Blue/Fort Myers Attractions: The sprawling Jet Blue complex is a bit isolated (although located just a mile north of Southwest Florida International Airport).

About 20 miles west, however, is Sanibel Island, Fort Myers Beach and Estero Island.

Nearest Spring Training Site: Hammond Stadium (Minnesota Twins), five miles west If you’re looking for Fenway Park South, you’ll find it at Jet Blue Park, with a Green Monster and manual scoreboard. The park seats 11,000 and incorporates a touch of South Florida with seashells in the park foundation and a white roof to provide shade.

Did You Know? Red Sox legend Ted Williams spent his final years in Inverness, about three hours north of Fort Myers. It was there, in 1994, that he built the Ted Williams Hitters Museum, which has since been relocated to Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg.

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2017 HOME SCHEDULE FEB 24 vs. RAYS (7:05PM) FEB 26 vs. NATIONALS FEB 27 vs. MARLINS MAR 1 vs. PIRATES MAR 4 vs. BLUE JAYS MAR 6 vs. CARDINALS MAR 8 vs. TEAM USA (7:05PM) MAR 9 vs. TEAM COLUMBIA MAR 11 vs. RED SOX MAR 12 vs. ORIOLES MAR 13 vs. RAYS MAR 15 vs. CARDINALS MAR 18 vs. RED SOX MAR 21 vs. PHILLIES MAR 24 vs. ORIOLES (7:05PM) MAR 26 vs. RED SOX MAR 28 vs. RAYS MAR 31 vs. ROCHESTER RED WINGS (12:05PM)

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ALL START TIMES 1:05PM UNLESS NOTED

2017 HOME SCHEDULE FEB 25 vs. CARDINALS FEB 28 vs. METS MAR 3 vs. NATIONALS MAR 5 vs. ASTROS MAR 6 vs. METS MAR 10 vs. TWINS MAR 12 vs. CARDINALS MAR 14 vs. TIGERS MAR 15 vs. METS MAR 17 vs. NATIONALS MAR 19 vs. NATIONALS MAR 21 vs. ASTROS MAR 24 vs. NATIONALS MAR 25 vs. CARDINALS MAR 27 vs. METS MAR 31 vs. TIGERS (7:05PM) APR 1 vs. TIGERS (12:05PM)

Hammond/Fort Myers Attractions: Hammond, like Jet Blue, is a sprawling training complex, but one that is located about five miles closer to shopping, restaurants and the Gulf of Mexico.

Nearest Spring Training Site: Jet Blue Park, Fort Myers (Red Sox), five miles east Recently renovated Hammond Stadium boasts a 360-degree boardwalk around the outfield, more and better concessions and restrooms, and a new retail store. The stadium façade was designed to evoke Churchill Downs. Be sure to catch the Beer Garden and Bullpen Picnic Pavilion inside the park as well as the palm-lined Fountain Plaza as you enter the gates. During the regular season, Hammond is the home park of the Fort Myers Miracle, the Twins’ Class A Florida State League (minors) affiliate.

Did You Know? Beginning back in 1936 (as the then-Washington Senators) up through 1990, the Twins trained in Orlando and played their games at Tinker Field.

MA IN STR EE T 223 Mile s fro m oca la TICKET INFO #GAMES

561.630.1828 16

S TA R T AT $ 2 4 M O R E F O R INFORMATION CALL

ALL START TIMES 1:05PM UNLESS NOTED

2017 HOME SCHEDULE FEB 26 vs. MARLINS FEB 27 vs. NATIONALS MAR 1 vs. METS MAR 2 vs. BRAVES MAR 4 vs. NATIONALS MAR 7 vs. MARLINS MAR 8 vs. NATIONALS MAR 9 vs. ASTROS MAR 11 vs. BRAVES MAR 13 vs. ASTROS MAR 16 vs. TWINS MAR 18 vs. METS MAR 22 vs. NATIONALS MAR 23 vs. MARLINS MAR 26 vs. MARLINS MAR 29 vs. NATIONALS (12:05PM)

Jupiter Attractions: Jupiter’s hip Abacoa downtown community is right across the street from the Roger Dean complex, where you’ll find the Hibel Museum of Art along with a bevy of restaurants (sports bars to Cuban or Caribbean, and French cuisine to sushi).

Nearest Spring Training Site: Ballpark of the Palm Beaches, West Palm Beach (Astros and Nationals), 12 miles south They call Roger Dean Stadium, home to both the Cardinals and Marlins, a “good mood” park. Perhaps that’s because it boasts a wonderful main plaza, with walkways crisscrossing beautiful flower and palm tree landscaping. The park is also uncommonly intimate; although being close to the action is a hallmark of spring training, it’s hard to get closer than the first- and third-base line seats at Roger Dean.

Did You Know? The 100-plus mph winds of Hurricanes Frances and Jeanne left Roger Dean Stadium badly damaged in 2004. Seven of eight light towers fell, including one landing on top of the press box and another on the Cardinals’ clubhouse roof. Ironically, the only structural damage to the ballpark building itself was one broken window.

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91 Mile s fro m oca la TICKET INFO GAMES # S TA R T AT $15

F O R M O R E INFORMATION CALL

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18

ALL START TIMES 1:05PM UNLESS NOTED

2017 HOME SCHEDULE FEB 25 vs. BLUE JAYS FEB 26 vs. ASTROS FEB 28 vs. CARDINALS MAR 3 vs. RED SOX MAR 4 vs. MARLINS (SPLIT SQUAD) MAR 8 vs. PHILLIES MAR 9 vs. YANKEES MAR 10 vs. METS MAR 13 vs. PIRATES MAR 16 vs. TIGERS MAR 18 vs. TIGERS MAR 19 vs. CARDINALS MAR 20 vs. MARLINS MAR 23 vs. TIGERS MAR 25 vs. METS MAR 27 vs. TIGERS (6:05PM) MAR 28 vs. ORIOLES MAR 29 vs. METS

Kissimmee Attractions: Um, are you kidding? Disney!

Nearest Spring Training Site: Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland (Tigers), 35 miles southwest Champion Stadium is one of the larger spring training venues (9,500 seats), with concessionaires dressed as Disney characters. It’s the 20th anniversary of the Braves at Champion Stadium.

Did You Know? Beginning in 1906 in Jacksonville to the present day in Lake Buena Vista, the Braves franchise has held its spring training in eight different Florida cities.

FEB ’17 ›

049

LA K E L A N D DETROIT TIGERS

2125

N O R TH L A K E AV EN U E

89 M il es fr om oc a la TICKET INFO #GAMES S TA R T ATO $R1 0 E

M F O R LL INFORMATION CA

863.686.8075 ALL START TIMES 1:0

18

5PM UNLESS NOTED

2017 HOME SCHEDULE TE COLLEGE FEB 23 vs. FLORIDA STA FEB 24 vs. ORIOLES FEB 25 vs. ASTROS FEB 27 vs. BRAVES (SPLIT SQUAD) MAR 1 vs. NATIONALS MAR 2 vs. PIRATES MAR 4 vs. YANKEES MAR 6 vs. ORIOLES 07PM) MAR 7 vs. PHILLIES (1: S JAY E BLU vs.

MAR 10 MAR 12 vs. METS MAR 15 vs. BRAVES MAR 17 vs. YANKEES (SPLIT SQUAD) MAR 18 vs. MARLINS MAR 20 vs. METS MAR 24 vs. BRAVES MAR 26 vs. BLUE JAYS MAR 29 vs. PHILLIES

Lakeland Attractions: Detroit’s original spring training ballpark, Henley Field, is just a mile-and-a-half from Joker Marchant. Although the Tigers left in 1965, the park has remained, with an original façade oozing history. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, having hosted Tiger greats from Hank Greenberg to Al Kaline. Florida Southern College, a Division II baseball juggernaut, calls Henley home today.

Nearest Spring Training Site: Champion Stadium (Braves), 35 miles northeast On the occasion of its 50th anniversary in 2016, Joker Marchant underwent a $40 million facelift: a year-round restaurant in right field, an air-conditioned stadium club, a covered party area for fan picnics, new shaded seats down the left-field line and a walkway encircling the entire Detroit spring training complex. Enjoy Motown classics played between innings of games as well as seats painted in Tigers orange-and-blue. During the regular season, Joker Marchant is home to Detroit’s Class A Florida State (Minor) League affiliate, the Lakeland Flying Tigers.

Did You Know? The Tigers trained in Lakeland in 1934 and have held their spring training in the town for 81 straight years now, giving the team the longest relationship with a single Grapefruit League city.

050

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PORT CHARLOTTE TAMPA BAY RAYS

EL JOBE AN ROAD 18 9 M il es fr o m o c a la TICKET INFO GAMES R M O R INFORMATION CA E LL

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#

13

1:05PM UNLESS NO

NEW YORK METS

52 5

2 300

S TA R T AT $ 1 0 F O

PORT ST. LUCIE

TED

2017 HOME SCHEDULE MAR 3 vs. TIGERS MAR 4 vs. ORIOLES MAR 9 vs. PIRATES MAR 12 vs. BLUE JAYS MAR 14 vs. YANKEES (SPLIT SQUAD) MAR 15 vs. RED SOX MAR 17 vs. TWINS MAR 19 vs. PHILLIES MAR 20 vs. PIRATES MAR 23 vs. YANKEES MAR 25 vs. RED SOX MAR 29 vs. ORIOLES MAR 30 vs. TWINS

Port Charlotte Attractions: The park is a mile from shopping at the Port Charlotte Center and the Charlotte Square mall and a 10-minute hop over the Peace River to Punta Gorda.

Nearest Spring Training Site: Jet Blue Park, Fort Myers (Red Sox), 35 miles south Charlotte Sports Park has it all, from intimate, 5,000-fan seating plus berm perches and party areas, to the 360-degree boardwalk and left field Tiki Bar. The Rays also provide an especially kid-friendly experience, with the Kids Clubhouse Zone offering separate play areas for different ages, as well as a kids-only concession stand.

The complex is also built with sustainability in mind, with features such as a green roof and Florida-friendly landscaping.

Did You Know? No team in the Grapefruit League trains closer to home than the Rays— Charlotte Sports Park is a mere 75 miles south of Tropicana Field.

NW PEACOCK BLVD 194 Miles from ocal a TICKET INFO #GAMES S TA R T AT $ 1 5 M O R E F O R INFORMATION CALL

772. 871.2 115

18

ALL START TIMES 1:05PM UNLESS NOTED

2017 HOME SCHEDULE FEB 25 vs. NATIONALS FEB 26 vs. TIGERS FEB 27 vs. ASTROS MAR 2 vs. MARLINS MAR 3 vs. ASTROS MAR 5 vs. CARDINALS MAR 8 vs. RED SOX MAR 9 vs. TIGERS MAR 10 vs. ASTROS MAR 11 vs. NATIONALS MAR 13 vs. MARLINS MAR 17 vs. CARDINALS MAR 19 vs. MARLINS MAR 22 vs. MARLINS MAR 24 vs. ASTROS MAR 26 vs. BRAVES MAR 27 vs. NATIONALS (SPLIT SQUAD) MAR 28 vs. CARDINALS

Port St. Lucie Attractions: The ballpark complex sits about a mile north of typical shopping and eateries and 10 miles west of the Atlantic Ocean.

Nearest Spring Training Site: Roger Dean Stadium, Jupiter (Cardinals and Marlins), 41 miles south Tradition field is three decades old, but recent renovations have allowed the park to keep pace with some of the new facilities in Florida. Improvements include one of the Grapefruit League’s largest JumboTrons, sitting in left field, and a new picnic area. There’s also a souvenir shop accessible from outside the park, so you can grab some gear even on off days.

Did You Know? The most unique feature of any Grapefruit League ballpark is Tradition’s St. Lucie Bat House. Bats— the flying animals, not the wood sticks—had always been a nuisance at Tradition, but rather than bat-proof the park and leave thousands of bats dead or displaced, St. Lucie County created the Bat House. Accommodating up to 15,000 bats, the house is 14 feet off the ground with 160 chambers for bats to hang.

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17

ALL START TIMES 1:05PM UNLESS NOTED

2017 HOME SCHEDULE FEB 26 vs. PIRATES FEB 27 vs. YANKEES MAR 1 vs. RED SOX MAR 2 vs. TWINS (SPLIT) (7:05PM) MAR 5 vs. PHILLIES MAR 7 vs. DOMINICAN REPUBLIC MAR 8 vs. BLUE JAYS MAR 11 vs. PIRATES MAR 13 vs. PHILLIES MAR 14 vs. RAYS MAR 16 vs. PHILLIES (6:05PM) MAR 19 vs. TIGERS MAR 21 vs. BLUE JAYS MAR 22 vs. RAYS (7:05PM) MAR 25 vs. TWINS (7:05PM) MAR 27 vs. RED SOX MAR 30 vs. TIGERS

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F O R M O R E INFORMATION CALL

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FEB 24 vs. PHILLIES FEB 26 vs. BLUE JAYS FEB 28 vs. TIGERS (SPLIT SQUAD) MAR 1 vs. BRAVES MAR 2 vs. ORIOLES (6:35PM) MAR 5 vs. PIRATES MAR 7 vs. RAYS MAR 8 vs. TEAM CANADA MAR 11 vs. TIGERS MAR 12 vs. BRAVES MAR 15 vs. PHILLIES (6:35PM) MAR 18 vs. ORIOLES MAR 21 vs. RED SOX MAR 24 vs. PHILLIES MAR 26 vs. RAYS MAR 28 vs. TIGERS (6:35PM)

Did You Know? In 1914, Baltimore (then the St. Louis Browns) played in the first true “all-purpose training camp,” Sunshine Park. It boasted a 5,000seat grandstand, batting cages, sprinting lanes and sliding pits.

.com

16

2017 HOME SCHEDULE

Nearest Spring Training Site: McKechnie Field, Bradenton (Pirates), 13 miles north There’s no better entrance to a spring training park than walking up the home plate entrance to Ed Smith Stadium and immediately catching a glimpse of the entire field. Nearly every seat in the park is recycled from Baltimore’s big league field, Camden Yards.

› Ocala

#

ALL START TIMES 1:05PM UNLESS NOTED

Sarasota Attractions: The park itself is located in a fairly urban environment, but just a mile southwest is the exquisite outdoor mall setting of Bayfront Sarasota, right on Sarasota Bay.

052

5398

1

EST PAL PALMM BEA BEACCH WEST

HAVERHILL RD. NORTH

23 9 Mi le s fr om oc al a TICKET INFO #GAMES PRICES ARE TBD

M O R E F O R INFORMATION CALL

844.676.2017

15

ALL START TIMES 1:05PM UNL

ESS NOTED

2017 HOME SCHEDULE MAR 1 vs. MARLINS MAR 2 vs. NATIONALS MAR 4 vs. METS MAR 6 vs. RED SOX MAR 8 vs. METS MAR 11 vs. MARLINS MAR 14 vs. METS MAR 15 vs. NATIONALS MAR 17 vs. BRAVES (SPLIT SQUAD) MAR 19 vs. YANKEES MAR 20 vs. CARDINALS (6:05PM) MAR 22 vs. TWINS MAR 25 vs. NATIONALS MAR 27 vs. CARDINALS MAR 29 vs. MARLINS

Nearby Attractions: Steinbrenner Field sits in a bustling area near the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Raymond James Stadium. Right across the street is Al Lopez Park, which boasts 132 acres of Florida wildlife and two ponds, one that can be fished.

Nearest Spring Training Site: Spectrum Field, Clearwater (Phillies), 17 miles west With an 11,076 capacity, Steinbrenner Field is the largest park in the Grapefruit League. It pays homage to 15 Yankees legends (including Babe Ruth, Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Mantle) with a sort of Monument Park South. Like a big-league park, seats are angled toward the field, making every spot in the house a sweet one. Other amenities include the Dugout Club and the astounding, five-tiered entertainment area known as the Walgreens Party Deck.

Did You Know? The Chicago Cubs arrived for the Tampa area’s first spring training in 1913, just north of where the University of Tampa now stands. A year later, the St. Louis Browns, St. Louis Cardinals and Philadelphia A’s had joined the Cubs in the Tampa-St. Pete area, forming Florida’s first Grapefruit League.

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Nearby Attractions: About five miles southeast are the terrific art and nightlife offerings of Palm Beach, including the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum.

Nearest Spring Training Site: Roger Dean Stadium, Jupiter (Cardinals and Marlins), 12 miles north This brand-new facility hosts both the Houston Astros and Washington Nationals and surely has the most pretentious-sounding ballpark name in the Grapefruit League. No matter, when it comes to baseball, the ballpark is without peer: Capitalizing on the growing trend of spring training workouts melded with games, fans walk through training fields and workout facilities en route to the park itself.

Did You Know? In 1888, The Nationals (then a different franchise) became the first team to train in Florida, holding spring training in Jacksonville. Washington finished 37 1/2 games out of first place that season, which convinced other teams that Florida spring training was a bad idea. No baseball team returned to Florida to train until 1903.

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GRAND OPENING SPECIAL NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC: SPECIAL TEST MARKET The firm of Cohen, Ashton & Miller will be holding a product test market event in your area. In order to introduce the latest technology in the field of digital hearing devices, during this event only, all hearing devices will be offered at tremendous discounts—making them affordable to the people who need them most.

In addition, to further demonstrate the incredible performance of these devices, we will be conducting a 3-day demonstration performed by trained representatives specializing in the latest in hearing technology. Receive a FREE Fiber Optic Otoscope Exam—a completely painless procedure that reveals and evaluates common hearing problems such as excessive wax buildup and damage to the ear drum, as well as a variety of other common hearing deficiencies.

An audiometric hearing screening will also be performed, which is helpful to identify any other hearing difficulties and enables our technicians to determine if the newest personalized digital hearing devices will effectively correct such conditions.

During this 3-day demonstration and test market event, these representatives have been authorized to offer up to 50% off the manufacturers’ retail price during this event—serving to both increase product awareness in the marketplace and provide affordable devices to people with hearing difficulties.

It is the desire of NuTech Hearing to introduce these digital hearing devices to as many people as possible. We feel that this test market and introduction event is the perfect way to introduce these devices to people who otherwise may not know of the incredible technological advances being made today in the area of hearing correction. People could greatly improve their quality of life by having a special screening—free of charge—to experience for themselves what these devices can do for them.

As our way of saying “thanks” for stopping by and allowing us to introduce these new devices to you, you will receive a $10 GIFT CARD! If you currently wear hearing aids or have difficulty hearing, you owe it to yourself to see what these products can do for you. Upgrades or trade-ins of your current device will be accepted, making this one of the best opportunities to affordably get the device that you need.

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ulinary Community

C I

FOR THE

The first annual Ocala Culinary Festival has palate-pleasing plans.

t all started at La Cuisine French Restaurant. Once the restaurant opened in downtown Ocala, Jennifer Murty and her husband found themselves there almost every week. A few years later, Jennifer and Elodie Perron, co-owner of La Cuisine, had developed a friendship.

Fast-forward to March 2016 when Elodie and Jennifer attended the Charleston Food & Wine Festival together. There, they both thought: Ocala could do this. A food festival could boost the economy, provide a cultural opportunity for area visitors and expand the community’s palate. They looked at the economic impact alone that the Charleston Food & Wine Festival had on that community, and the decision was made. Elodie and Jennifer teamed up to make plans for an Ocala food festival in April 2016— not even a year out from the projected festival date. As the exclusive print media sponsor, Ocala Style got a behind-the-scenes look at how everything worked out.

“The main reason we were able to pull it together was because we have a very strong board,” Jennifer says.

The seven people who make up the board— Rondo Fernandez, Patrice Perron, Albert Barrett, Stacy Atsides, Paula King, Sarah

By Cealia Athanason Moeller and Heather McCleaf—are experts in their respective fields, including the food and restaurant industry, which has allowed them to make plans and decisions efficiently.

“We only like what we’ve been exposed to, foodwise,” Jennifer says. “Not everyone gets the opportunity to travel and experience different foods. We’re hoping [the festival] expands the community’s palate.”

The lineup for the festival’s first year makes quite the statement and sets an impressive standard. Outof-town talent as well as local chefs will be serving up creative and delicious multi-course meals. There are 16 events during the five-day festival, including educational seminars and over-the-top dinners. The local venues hosting the festival dinners were chosen because they highlight different aspects of Ocala— the Appleton Museum of Art, the Reilly Arts Center and Clear Creek Farm are a few of the community’s jewels, as Jennifer refers to them.

“Our standard is to over-deliver,” she says. “This will be an annual thing. We’re really passionate foodies.”

For the price of a ticket, guests will enjoy the cuisine and expertise of award-winning chefs. Teams of chefs will take on large dinners—which are part of the Marquee Dinner Series that represents the best the festival offers—to make it easier to serve six courses to a large group of people. The festival’s board selected participating chefs based on reputation and

an ability to work together as a team—a concept that requires pushing competition aside.

“All dinners are definitely planned. It takes real dedication,” Jennifer says. “They’re absolutely artists.”

The chefs work together to create the festival menu, and Jennifer says it took two months to plan and finalize. This menu won’t just please those in attendance; it’s also sure to delight Chris Moon, the vice president of the James Beard Foundation, who will be in Ocala for the first two days of the festival.

“It is a huge honor to have him here,” Jennifer says.

Additionally, some of the proceeds from the Ocala Culinary Festival will be given in support of different organizations. From the Friend of the James Beard Foundation Dinner—the festival’s first dinner—$7,500 will be put toward a chef scholarship program. Proceeds from the original artwork for the festival’s poster, created by Maggie Weakley, will support the Marion Cultural Alliance, and a commissioned art piece at the Appleton Museum of Art dinner will support membership at the museum. And finally, proceeds from the Grand Tasting will benefit the Food 4 Kids program at Interfaith Emergency Services.

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Schedule Of Events Bring your appetites. Here’s a rundown of the events coming to the Ocala Culinary Festival—and as the festival’s print media sponsor, Ocala Style has the inside scoop!

FRIEND OF THE JAMES BEARD FOUNDATION DINNER March 1, 6:30pm at La Cuisine French Restaurant

Four chefs prepare a six-course dinner, highlighting the best of French cuisine.

THREE CHEFS & A MAESTRO March 2, 6:30pm at the Reilly Arts Center

Maestro Matthew Wardell provides the musical inspiration, and three award-winning chefs present the unique representation. Each musical number gets paired with a delicious food, and guests dine right on the stage.

HAIL TO THE ALE March 2, 6:30pm at Infinite Ale Works

This multi-course dinner, prepared by two up-and-coming chefs, will be paired with specialty beers and enjoyed over conversation.

CHEFS AT THE MUSEUM March 3, 6:30pm at the Appleton Museum of Art

When art inspires, great food is created. That’s the goal of this dinner with one of Tampa’s finest chefs. In the end, one giant piece of art will be completed and gifted to one of the guests who signs up or renews their Director Circle Membership before the event.

ITALY’S MAGNIFICENT THREE March 3 and 4, 2 to 3:30pm at Feta Mediterranean Cuisine

One wine connoisseur will share Italian winemaking methods, and guests will enjoy tasting several wines. There will be time for questions, as well.

THE ART OF COCKTAILS March 3 and 4, 3:30 to 5pm at La Cuisine French Restaurant

The festival’s official mixologist from Tampa’s Edison: Food + Drink Lab will share the art of mixing the perfect cocktail in these small-group workshops.

FEAST AT THE FARM March 4, 5pm at Clear Creek Farm Farm-to-table dining at its finest, this is a feast where guests will enjoy a multi-course meal showcasing the region’s signature flavors at this farm that actively produces olive oil and wagyu beef.

GOSPEL BRUNCH March 5, 9 and 11am at Brick City Center for the Arts

A brunch buffet served out on the patio, complete with Bloody Marys and mimosas.

GRILL CLINIC WITH JOSE JUAREZ

GRAND TASTING

March 3 and 4, 11am to 1pm, at Brick City Center for the Arts

March 5, 3 to 6pm at Tuscawilla Park

FRENCH WINE SEMINAR

Celebrate With Style

Grilling secrets from our local grill star, the BarbaCuban, will be told over tastings at these clinics.

March 3 and 4, 1:30 to 3pm at Brick City Center for the Arts All the way from France, two winemakers––one each seminar—will demonstrate their winemaking methods, and you’ll taste the difference.

The festival’s final dinner will be a grand affair where guests will eat and drink alongside winemakers, chefs, culinary vendors, neighbors and friends.

Stop by the Ocala Style tent at the Grand Tasting event to try our signature drink and relax for a few minutes with friends. Snap a photo while you’re there, and tag it with #SipWithStyle.

WANT TO GO? › Ocala Culinary Festival › March 1-5 › ocalaculinaryfestival.com

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Chefs Of The Fest

When the planning is finished and the menu’s finalized, chefs from all over the world will bring their expertise to the table. But, along with the out-of-town talent, this festival highlights our own local talent. Here’s an exclusive look at these food artists who call Ocala home.

Chef Patrice Perron: Born and raised in Lyon, France, Chef Perron’s dream was fulfilled when he opened up his own restaurant, La Cuisine French Restaurant, here in the United States. He will host the Friend of the James Beard Foundation Dinner and participate in the Grand Tasting.

Chef Randal White: Executive chef at Mark’s Prime Steakhouse is not Chef White’s only title—he’s also an author and television personality but is primarily known for his innovative Southern-fusion style of cooking. He will be part of the Grand Tasting event.

Chef Loring Felix: At a young age, Chef Felix started cooking for his siblings because his mom worked the night shift at a hospital. He landed his first cooking job at Long John Silvers when he was 15, and since then, he has opened several restaurants in Ocala. He will be participating in Three Chefs and a Maestro.

Chef Stephanie Harrison: An Ocala native, Chef Harrison followed her passion and checked out of law school to go to culinary school. Following school, she started a catering business and farm to grow her own ingredients. Now, she works at Stella’s Modern Pantry.

She will be part of the Hail to the Ale, Chefs at the Museum and Grand Tasting events.

Chef Jeremy Zajac: With 23 years of professional cooking under his belt, Chef Zajac is mostly self-taught and spent time learning from and assisting chefs in his early culinary days. Now, Chef Zajac uses his creativity and talent to create memorable experiences as the executive chef of Brooklyn’s Backyard. You can find him at the Grand Tasting event.

Chef Adam Volpe: Chef Volpe’s culinary journey began in New York City before he came to Ocala and worked at Sky Asian Fusion. He is now the managing partner and chef at Pi On Broadway and will be joining forces with Chef Stephanie Harrison for the Hail to the Ale event and cooking with beer at the Grand Tasting.

Chef Albert Barrett: Ocala’s best pastry chef is the owner of Stella’s Modern Pantry in downtown Ocala, and he will be preparing dessert for the Friend of the James Beard Foundation dinner, Three Chefs and a Maestro and the Grand Tasting. “Excellence is our standard!” is his famed mantra.

Chef Chad Karp: Entirely self-taught, Chef Karp shares the reason he chose this profession, “Initially, it allowed me to satisfy my wanderlust… No matter where I traveled, there is always a job for a good cook.”

After cooking all over the United States, he came back to Ocala and works at La Cuisine French Restaurant.

He will be involved in the Friend of the James Beard Foundation Dinner and the Gospel Brunch event.

Chef Victor Luzaragga: Growing up in the kitchen of his father’s restaurant, Chef Luzaragga learned the culinary traditions of his Latin heritage, sparking his interest in the culinary field. Once in Ocala, he worked at the Hilton and then became the executive chef at several private country clubs. He will participate in the Grand Tasting.

Chef Dimitri Pomakis: The owner of Feta Mediterranean Cuisine, Chef Pomakis started cooking while attending college in England. He eventually agreed to work at his uncle’s diners in the United States until opening his own restaurant. He will be participating at the Feast at the Farm dinner and plans to roast a whole lamb, Greek style, at the Grand Tasting.

Grill Star Jose Juarez: The BarbaCuban is our own local grill star, winning America’s New Grill Star by the Live with Kelly and Michael show in August 2015.

The Cuban Missile burger with his special 455 Sauce is his winning dish. He’ll be holding two grill clinics during the festival and will also participate in the Grand Tasting.

Chef Jeremiah Goodrich: Chef Goodrich graduated from the Florida Culinary Institute in West Palm Beach in 2003, and he’s been working at Trilogy since 2015.

He prefers the fusion style of cooking and enjoys interacting with his guests. He will be one of the chefs in the Three Chefs and a Maestro dinner.

FEB ’17 ›

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Photo courtesy of Batter & Cream

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Photo courtesy of Good Karmal

BATTER & CREAM

When I opened the FedEx box that arrived from Batter & Cream, all I could smell was chocolate and sweet goodness. As I unwrapped the beautifully presented package containing these delectable handmade whoopie pies, I fully intended to save a couple (OK, maybe one) for my husband to sample when he got home.

Unfortunately (for him), once I started, I proceeded to eat Every. Single. One. In my defense, it was a sampler size.

I didn’t even think I liked whoopie pies, but these aren’t your ordinaries.

Elizabeth Fife, founder and CEO of Manhattan’s Batter & Cream, has created an array of gourmet flavors, including chocolate peanut butter pretzel, banana

salted caramel, lemon sage, carrot cake, coffee mocha, strawberry basil, cookie dough, s’mores and many more.

The cake portion is tender and perfectly baked, while the cream filling is delicately light and fluffy; the proportions are perfectly balanced. When your order arrives, hopefully, you won’t eat the entire package in one sitting. But I won’t blame you if you do.

GOOD KARMAL

For caramel lovers, these are a must-order.

Rich, buttery and made fresh from allnatural ingredients, with no additives or preservatives, these tasty caramels are the real deal. (They’re even Kosher and gluten free.) Try the sampler featuring all six flavors: vanilla, sea salt, chocolate sea salt, butter rum, café caramel and caramel apple.

(My absolute favorite?

Sea salt.)

batterandcream.com (646) 598-6156

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DŌ, COOKIE DOUGH CONFECTIONS

Photo courtesy of Good Karmal

To all my fellow cookie dough fanatics who love eating the dough as much—ormore—than the cookies themselves, your wish has been granted. Company founder Kristen Tomlan, based in NYC, invented a cookie dough recipe that is completely safe to eat raw, thanks to the use of a pasteurized egg product and heat-treated flour that eliminates any chance of salmonella or food-borne illness. Every order of DŌ is freshly made and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three weeks and up to three months in the freezer. And if you do decide to bake it, that works, too!

I recommend their Best Seller 4-Pack, which includes 8-ounce containers of the following flavors:

1. SIGNATURE CHOCOLATE CHIP 2. CAKE BATTER: CAKE BATTER + SPRINKLES + WHITE CHIPS + CHOCOLATE CHIPS 3. HEAVENLY: SUGAR COOKIE + NUTELLA + CHOCOLATE CHIPS + CARAMEL BITS + SEA SALT 4. CONFETTI: SIGNATURE + SPRINKLES + WHITE CHIPS + CHOCOLATE CHIPS DISCOUNT CODE FOR 10 PERCENT OFF: OCALA10 VALID THROUGH MARCH 31, 2017

Each hand-crafted morsel is individually wrapped with an inspirational quote.

The presentation is classy and elegant, making these perfect for giving. They also handle custom orders; talk about a great wedding favor! You can feel good about the fact that Good Karmal (created by siblings Patty Triplett West and Stephen Triplet in Bozeman, Montana), donates a portion of all sales to environmental charities, or you can just feel good about the fact that they are incredibly delicious.

FLOURLESS CHOCOLATE & COFFEE TORTE

Sometimes life calls for a little extravagance. This torte rises to the occasion. Classic flavors come together in a dense marriage of quality chocolates, espresso and Kahlua coffee liqueur. It’s also gluten free.

Rich as it is, this 8-inch diameter torte is supposed to serve 14 to 16, but I prefer bigger slices than that. It’s shipped frozen, so just pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve it. The torte is best served chilled or after sitting at room temperature for 15 or 20 minutes. It’s excellent with a cup of good coffee after dinner or for breakfast. neimanmarcus.com (888) 888-4757

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KERMIT’S KEY LIME PIE

I make a mean key lime pie, right down to the hand-squeezed limes and homemade graham cracker crust. But, alas, I am not in the business of selling pies, so if you don’t want to make one yourself and want the absolute best, order yours from Kermit’s Key West Lime Shoppe. It’s been named the “Best-Tasting Key Lime Pie” by Food Network’s Keith Famie’s Adventures. And, they’re based in Key West, Florida.

Made with tart key limes, topped with fluffy whipped cream and nestled in a graham cracker crust, this sweet, rich delight arrives ready to eat. Pies are baked fresh daily and shipped overnight packed with dry ice. Choose from original or strawberry key lime pie—or get both. keylimeshop.com (800) 376-0806

Photo courtesy of Cookie Do

goodkarmal.com orders@goodkarmal.com

cookiedonyc.com (646) 892-3600

Photo courtesy of Kermit’s Key West Lime Shoppe

Photo courtesy of Neiman Marcus

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FEB ’17 ›

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If some of your favorite childhood memories include snack cakes, Cake Monkey Bakery will be right up your alley. Los Angeles-based Lisa J. Olin (owner/cake lover) and Elizabeth Belkind (executive pastry chef/partner/cake lover) teamed up to offer upscale versions of classic snacks made with all-natural, gourmet ingredients. With plenty of flavors, you’re sure to find your perfect combination of cake, filling and frosting. You can even customize your order.

Try their best-selling “Cakewich Collection,” a 12-piece or 16-piece assortment, featuring the following (each treat is individually wrapped):

Sure, you could make your own, but will you? And will it look and taste like this? Little Pie Company delivers fresh homemade pies made from locally sourced ingredients poured into hand-pinched crusts and baked in smallbatch steel ovens.

Their signature pie, the best-selling Sour Cream Apple Walnut Pie, is chockfull of thinly sliced Granny Smith apples and sour cream and topped with a rich golden brown sugar, cinnamon and walnut streusel. Rachael Ray Every Day named it a “Blue Ribbon Winner” and the NY Daily News’s Best of New York declared it the “Best Apple Pie in New York.”

Little Pie Company makes numerous other must-try choices, including an uber chocolately Mississippi Mud Pie, featuring imported Belgian chocolate, brownie streusel and a chocolate glaze in a chocolate cookie crust.

1. BLACK & WHITE CAKEWICH: CHOCOLATE CAKE SANDWICH FILLED WITH VANILLA BUTTERCREAM, CHOCOLATE CRUNCHY PEARLS AND HAND DIPPED IN SEMI-SWEET CHOCOLATE 2. RASPBERRY RED VELVET CAKEWICH: RED VELVET CAKE SANDWICH FILLED WITH RASPBERRY BUTTERCREAM, HAND DIPPED IN SEMISWEET CHOCOLATE 3. PEANUT BUTTER/MARSHMALLOW CAKEWICH: VANILLA CAKE SANDWICH FILLED WITH PEANUT BUTTER BUTTERCREAM, HOUSE-MADE MARSHMALLOW AND HAND DIPPED IN SEMI-SWEET CHOCOLATE 4. PEPPERMINT CAKEWICH: CHOCOLATE CAKE SANDWICH FILLED WITH PINK MINT BUTTERCREAM, CRUSHED PEPPERMINT CANDIES AND HAND DIPPED IN SEMI-SWEET CHOCOLATE cakemonkey.com (877) 640-CAKE (2253)

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littlepiecompany.com (877) 872-7437

AUNT SALLY’S PRALINES

Photos courtesy of Little Pie Company

LITTLE PIE COMPANY

Photo by Sara Essex Bradley

Photo courtesy of Cake Monkey

THE CAKEWICH COLLECTION

If you’re from Louisiana, you pronounce it “prawleen,” but most everywhere else people say, “prayleen.” It doesn’t really matter how you say it once you put this sweet delicacy in your mouth.

Aunt Sally’s has two locations in New Orleans and has been making pralines the traditional Creole way since 1935. From the first sugary, pecan-laden nibble, these authentic pralines taste like the South, which they should, as they’re made with fresh cream, cane sugar and Louisiana pecans. For the record, they’re 100 percent gluten free and Kosher.

Billed as New Orleans’ “most famous praline,” these delightful candies come in creamy and original. As an equal opportunity praline fan, I loved both. auntsallys.com (800) 642-7257

e desserts mor

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CRISPYCAKE GOURMET MARSHMALLOW CRISPY TREATS

Since 1995, The Crispery, owned by Steven and Judy Soldinger in Virginia, has been satisfying sweet cravings with their upscale version of a beloved childhood treat—the marshmallow rice crispy treat.

Gooey and sweet, with a perfect crunch, Crispycakes are individually wrapped and come in more than 20 flavors. One of their best sellers is Cookies & Cream, a 3.5-inch by 3.5-inch by 2-inch-high treat featuring America’s favorite cookie on top and filled with cookies and cream chunks in the middle. Their other top seller is Rainbow Sprinkles, a colorful Crispycake topped with colorful sprinkles.

You can get holiday and special occasion Crispycakes, too, as well as sampler gift boxes and corporate gifts.

WICKED GOOD CUPCAKES

It’s true. These truly are wicked good. These amazingly tasty cupcakes-in-jars were created when the Massachusetts-based mother-daughter team of Tracey Noonan and Danielle Vilagie were besieged with requests to ship their delicious cupcakes from their shop.

Because traditional cupcakes don’t ship well, Tracey and Danielle came up with the idea of filling jars with layers of fresh-baked cake, frosting and filling. When their product debuted on ABC’s popular reality show Shark Tank in April 2013, the duo struck a deal with Kevin O’Leary.

Their National (Security) Velvet is a best seller, and after one taste of the red velvet cake layered with homemade cream cheese buttercream frosting, I can see why. Chocolate lovers will appreciate the incredibly decadent Chocolate Lab, featuring chocolate cake with rich chocolate ganache and chocolate buttercream.

There are numerous other favorites, plus seasonal flavors, so your sweet choices are almost endless. wickedgoodcupcakes.com (781) 924-2200

thecrispery.com (757) 673-5234

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HARRY & DAVID’S SIGNATURE BAKLAVA Photo courtesy of Harry & David

When you’re craving authentic baklava, you don’t have to find a Greek bakery or go through the trouble of trying to make it yourself. Harry & David, the gourmet food and fruit gifts company, makes a winner.

This customer favorite is the result of years of perfecting the just-right recipe. This melt-in-yourmouth treat is created with 60 (yes, 60!) delicate phyllo pastry leaves layered with minced walnuts, butter, cinnamon, honey and a dash of lemon.

Harry & David (named for the Rosenberg brothers from Southern Oregon) was one of the country’s earliest catalog mail order companies, and its reputation remains stellar. The Signature Baklava is one of the reasons why. harryanddavid.com (877) 322-1200

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BUTTER & SCOTCH BOURBON GINGER PECAN PIE

Keavy Landreth and Allison Kave teamed up to develop Butter & Scotch, a bar and bakery in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, where you can indulge in cocktails as well as dreamy desserts. Fortunately for us, they also ship one of their most popular items—the Bourbon Ginger Pecan Pie. Winner of the annual Brooklyn Pie Bake-Off, this killer creation

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

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Country Club of Ocala

Devonshire

This extraordinary 4/4 home is the perfect blend of luxury & sophistication w/formal living & dining, spacious kitchen island & custom cabinets, 2 downstairs guest rooms & a 2nd level w/club room w/ media area & wet bar along w/guest suite w/private bath. Master wing includes study w/extensive built-ins, bedroom w/custom moldings & exquisite bath. Exceptional outdoor living w/pool, outdoor kitchen, & cabana w/fireplace.

Beautiful 3 bed/3 bath w/ study in close-in gated community. Great room w/built-in cabinetry. Kitchen has custom cabinets, quartz countertops, double ovens w/warming drawer, gas cooktop, & breakfast nook. Split bedroom plan w/spacious master.

Master bath has jetted tub & walk-in shower. Nicely landscaped backyard. Screened-in patio w/pavers.

$388,000. ML#438376

$1,600,000. ML#510085

Additional changes after the third proof will incur a $40 charge per proof. Failure to respond by proof correction deadline will be deemed as acceptance of ad, and the publisher reserves the right to publish the provided proof as is. Once an approval is received, any further changes are subject to the publisher’s discretion. Ad designs © 2016 Ocala Publications.

Dr. Jay Panchal, MD Sherri Morrison, RN BSN

MEDICALLY SUPERVISED

BEYOND WEIGHT LOSS

Before

During

One-On-One Weekly Counseling

Now

JERRY MARTIN

WE ALSO OFFER: Appetite Suppressants (Prescription & Natural) B12/LIPO Injections Fat-Burning Amino Acids - Vitamin B Injections Sclerotherapy (for Spider veins/Varicose Veins) Botox/Restylane Latisse Juvederm/Radiesse (Dermal Filler) High Quality Isotonix Health Supplements

Hablamos Español • Visit us on Facebook

90lbs lost & still losing 2654 SW 32nd Place, Suite 100, Ocala

352.387.0090 FEB ’17 ›

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Photo courtesy of Junior’s Cheesecake

JUNIOR’S CHEESECAKES

You don’t have to visit New York to enjoy the city’s best cheesecake. Founded by Harry Rosen in 1950, Junior’s Restaurant became known for the best New Yorkstyle cheesecake. They use the same recipe today, combining premium cream cheese, fresh heavy cream, eggs and a touch of vanilla. Ingredients are handblended in small batches and mixed for over 40 minutes.

Can’t make up your mind? Order the Best of Juniors Four-Flavor Sampler, with one quarter cake each of Original New York Plain, Raspberry Swirl, Brownie Marble Swirl and Apple Crumb for approximately three pounds of cheesecake goodness. juniorscheesecake.com (800) 958-6467

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This NYC-based company calls itself “Generation Y’s answer to the old-American bake shop.” Launched by Zachary “Schmackary” Schmahl in 2011, Schmackary’s offers a remarkable assortment of reimagined classics and innovative seasonal flavors. These “Lip Schmakin’ good” cookies can be ordered in predesigned cookie “flights,” or you can customize your own. They also offer “schmalls,” which are bite-sized versions of the original cookies.

You can’t go wrong with the best-selling Funfetti, a sugar cookie base with rainbow sprinkles and vanilla cream cheese frosting, or the Classic Chocolate Chip, made with semi-sweet chocolate chips and topped with sea salt.

’s

SCHMACKARY’S COOKIES

schmackarys.com (646) 801-9866

Photo courtesy of Butter & Scotch

BOSTON CREAM PIE COMPANY

boasts a flaky all-butter crust filled with maple custard, organic Texas pecans, a hefty shot of bourbon and three types of ginger: fresh, dried and candied.

This pie has garnered rave reviews from virtually every food expert in the Big Apple, so it’s only fitting that you treat yourself or someone you love.

When you’re searching for the best, go to the source. For Boston Cream Pie, that means Boston.

Boston Cream Pie Company offers a half-dozen pie options. Purists will love their famous classic made with two layers of yellow sponge cake, filled with cream and covered in rich chocolate.

Another best seller is the Peanut Butter Cup BCPC, featuring the classic made even richer by covering it with broken Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.

All pies are frozen before shipping and sent with an ice pack; your pie arrives ready to eat.

butterandscotch.com (347) 350-8899

http://eatbcpc.com (617) 319-0856 Photo courtesy of Boston Cream Pie Company

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OCALA FAMILY MEDICAL CENTER For over 25 years, Ocala’s ORIGINAL one-stop for your medical needs!

2230 SW 19th Ave Rd Ocala, FL 34471

Monday - Friday 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Carlos Rodriguez, MD

Robert Panzer, DO

Mark Monical, DO

James London, MD

Robert Williams, MD

Douglas Rogers, DO

Brian Pecoraro, DO

Mimi Balch, MD

Todd Panzer, ARNP-C

Anne Moyer, PA-C

Laurel Bryant, ARNP-C Karen Larsen, ARNP-C Brittani Losapio, ARNP-C Tyler Lindsey, PA-C

Salesia Alvarado, MD

Adam Alpers, DO

Stacey Graham, ARNP-C Linda Bellows, ARNP-C

Corey West, ARNP-C Amber Starling, ARNP-C

Family Practice Internal Medicine Cardiology Preventative Medicine Geriatrics Auto Accidents Full Service Lab Digital X-Ray Ultrasound 64 Slice CT 1.5 Open Bore MRI Stress Testing

352-237-4133 www.ocalafmc.com

WE ACCEPT MOST MAJOR INSURANCES

OFMC Wellness Center 2131 SW 20th Place Ocala, FL 34471

352-237-4133

• Physiatry/Physical Medicine • Interventional Spine • Sports Medicine Eduardo Cruz, MD

(outside referrals accepted)

• Physical Therapy • Balance & Gait Training • Vertigo & Incontinence

Nick Machupa, PT, OCS Deborah Main, DPT

Joseph Javier, DPT

(outside referrals accepted)

OFMC Dermatology, Aesthetics & Women’s Health Center 2121 SW 22nd Place Ocala, FL 34471

352-237-4133

• Dermatology

(outside referrals accepted)

• Mohs’ Skin Cancer Surgery

• Aesthetics & Laser • Facials, IPL Laser, Botox & Fillers • Pharmaceutical Grade Products FREE CONSULTATIONS

Kenneth A. Wallace, MD

Deb Scott, LPN, LE

• Women’s Health • Well Woman Exams & Pap Smears • IUD Insertion & Removal Barbara Ellis, ARNP

FEBRUARY SPECIAL: Buy 1 IPL Package, Receive 2 FREE IPL Hand Treatments! *Ocala Family Medical Center, Inc. complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.*

FEBRUARY rebates $

Are you getting a tax refund this year? Do you want to apply it toward more savings?

Ocala Electric Utility can save you money on home energy upgrades with our Energy Star Rebate Program.

With Energy Star Rebates, customers can receive an incentive to install qualifying Energy Star equipment and appliances. Benefits include savings on your utility bills, as well as environmental stewardship and more. As a result, Ocala Electric Utility benefits by reducing peak demand and reliance on power production from fossil fuels.

These rebates are only available to current Ocala Electric Utility customers. For a full list of eligible appliances or to complete your rebate application, visit www.ocalaelectric.org. The rebate application and other required documentation must be submitted to Ocala Electric Utility within 90 days of the appliance purchase.

ELIGIBLE APPLIANCES INCLUDE: • • • •

Solar Water Heater Refrigerator Programmable Thermostat Freezer

• • • •

Dishwasher Clothes Washer Attic Insulation Air Conditioner / Heat Pump

• Heat Pump Water Heater • Package Terminal AC or Heat Pump • Commercial Lighting

For information on Federal Tax Credits on energy efficient home improvements and additional savings,

visit www.ocalaelectric.org

“Ocala Electric Utility provides electrical services to nearly 50,000 homes and businesses in the City of Ocala and surrounding areas. As a locally owned and operated utility, we are dedicated to providing safe, reliable and affordable power to you and your families. We are delighted to be your hometown public power utility and look forward to serving you!”

–Mike Poucher, Director, Ocala Electric Utility

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Organic Options

Source: eatingwell.com, ewg.org, cnn.com

Have you vowed to eat more fruit and veggies this year? Great plan, right?

Unfortunately, you may be getting a heaping dose of chemicals along with your vitamins and minerals if you’re not buying organic. Don’t know where to start?

The following five fruits, according to the Environmental Working Group, are the most contaminated with pesticides and other chemicals. Seems like a great place to start to us. Once you’ve switched over to organic with the favorites listed below, you can start adding other organic products to your grocery list as well. Check out ewg.org and eatingwell.com for tons of information on which foods to purchase organic and which aren’t necessary.

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

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Strawberries > Apples > Nectarines > Peaches > Grapes

THE YEAR IN FOOD BREAKFAST BASICS

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2017 In Food COCONUT. It’s no secret that coconut oil is the

answer to even the hardest of questions—including “What’s on the 2017 trending foods list?” Coconut flour tortillas, coconut chips and other unusual coconut-inspired food will be seen in-store this year.

PURPLE FOODS. 2017 took it very

literal when health experts gave the advice to “eat your colors.” Purple cauliflower, sweet potatoes, corn, bread, asparagus and a plethora of other purple foods will see a rise in demand.

ALTERNATIVE PASTA. Pasta made

from alternative grains, such as quinoa, lentils and chickpeas could be menu options at a restaurant near you.

CAULIFLOWER RICE. Gluten free? You got it!

Touted as a viable alternative to rice, pasta and dough, you’d better make way to the store and grab a few heads while they’re fresh.

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JAPANESE FOOD. Sushi was just the beginning.

would never go out of style—look at us now. Quoting Whole Foods’ expert opinion, “Tonics and wellness drinks with botanicals that have roots in alternative medicine will be popular in 2017.”

POKE. A new Hawaiian specialty has sailed to the mainland. Pronounced “po-kay,” this cubed, fresh, raw seafood dish—typically made with tuna or octopus and mixed with soy sauce, scallions and sesame oil, served over rice—is one to try.

YOGURT. Bountiful in options like low fat to no fat, the yogurt aisle may be shaking things up this year. Research shows the importance of good fat in our diets; therefore, suppliers are bending the rules to match their studies. Brands will now offer full-fat varieties.

Go figure.

Ponzu, miso, mirin, sesame oil, seaweed, Japanesestyle pickles and plum vinegar are ingredients in Japanese food becoming both widely available and appreciated.

FAUX MEAT. Vegetarians, listen up. Meatless burgers, meatballs, sausages and ribs are apparently all the rage this year. Veggie burgers have taken over.

CONDIMENTS. Ketchup or mustard? It’s not that simple. Your choices this year will range from black sesame tahini or habanero jam to ghee or pomegranate molasses.

HEALTH DRINKS. And they said pumpkin spice lattes

GO GREEN. 2017 greens rankings

are in and kale placed third. Seaweed was runner up, with some new contenders taking the lead. Leftover beet, turnip, mustard greens, chard and carrot tops have previously been disqualified. Now, these extras will be popping up in pastas, sauces and even special condiments.

Sources: bonappetit.com, thefiscaltimes.com, forbes.com, consumeraffairs.com

Umami, kale, acai? These food trends are last year’s news.

Grab a fork and bring your appetite—it’s time your taste buds were better acquainted with the tastes of 2017.

› DINING GUIDE

Book your party at Tony’s today.

Gift cards available.

Tony’s Sushi & Steakhouse

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

We make the Spirits of Florida!

Fish Hawk Spirits

21 SW 2nd St., Gainesville › (352) 792-6699 › fishhawkspirits.com › Mon & Tues Private Tastings › Wed-Fri 4p-10p › Sat 1p-10p › Sun 4p-10p Craft spirits—what does that mean? At Fish Hawk Spirits, the philosophy is about doing business with their neighbors while pursuing quality in their finished spirits. Their spirits are made from locally sourced, all-natural raw materials. They consider themselves makers of fine, handcrafted spirits. They distill every drop, capturing the essence of Florida from the ingredients grown here. They source materials first from Marion County and then from Florida and, if necessary, from other U.S. producers. Every drop of their tangerine brandy, Marion Black 106, began as a blossom on a tangerine tree in a Florida grove—just like their blueberry products are made from the blueberries grown at Island Grove Winery and their whiskey from corn and oats grown in Florida.

Welcome HITS! Taking reservations for Valentine’s Day. For more information on catering, contact Waica Huggins or Evelyn Nussel at wmhivyhouse@yahoo.com Stop by our new bar and enjoy our specialty drinks!

The Ivy House Restaurant

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

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Blueberry Buckwheat Pancakes Recipe created by The Chef Next Door on behalf of Milk Means More

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Smart Start

Breakfast recipes for a healthy morning A nutrient-rich breakfast can set you up for success each and every day. Dairy foods like milk, cheese and yogurt are good sources of high-quality protein, which is an essential part of a healthy diet. Protein serves as the building block for cells throughout the body and may aid in managing weight by helping you feel full.

No matter your breakfast style, dairy foods can enhance your dish. These recipes show how—from sweet to savory and cold to hot—your breakfast can be unique while providing high-quality nutrition in each bite. Learn more about the role of dairy in a healthy diet at MilkMeansMore.org.

› Ocala

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In large bowl, whisk together flours, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. › In small bowl, beat eggs and then add milk, oil and vanilla; mix well. › Stir wet ingredients into dry ingredients, and mix to combine. › Heat griddle or large skillet over medium heat. › Using 1/4 measuring cup, pour batter onto griddle. Gently place several blueberries all over surface of pancakes. › Flip pancakes when bubbles start to form around edges and bottoms are golden brown. › Cook on other side until golden brown, about 2 minutes. › Remove to plate, and cover to keep warm. › Top pancakes with additional blueberries and syrup before serving, if desired.

White Pizza Frittata Recipe created by Rachel Cooks on behalf of Milk Means More

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tbsp extra-virgin olive oil large clove garlic, minced ounces frozen spinach, thawed and water pressed out large eggs cup skim milk tsp ground black pepper tsp dried oregano leaves cup part-skim ricotta cheese cup grated Parmesan cheese cup minced fresh basil cup shredded, part-skim mozzarella cheese

Heat oven to 325°F. › In oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. › Add garlic, and cook 2 minutes or until fragrant. › Once garlic is fragrant, add spinach; break up to incorporate, and heat. › In medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, pepper, oregano, ricotta, Parmesan and basil. › Add egg mixture to skillet, reduce heat to low and cook 1 minute, stirring gently. › Move to oven, and bake 25-30 minutes or until eggs are almost completely set. › Carefully remove from oven, and add mozzarella. › Return to oven, and bake until mozzarella is melted, about 5 minutes. › May be served hot, at room temperature or cold.

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cup buckwheat flour cup all-purpose flour tbsp sugar tsp baking powder tsp baking soda tsp salt eggs cups lactose-free, 2 percent milk tbsp vegetable oil tsp pure vanilla extract cups fresh blueberries, plus additional for topping (optional) syrup (optional)

Ricotta and Fig Oatmeal Recipe created by Foxes Love Lemons on behalf of Milk Means More

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cup milk cup old-fashioned rolled oats tsp kosher salt tbsp ricotta cheese figs (dried), halved tbsp sliced almonds tbsp honey

In microwave-safe bowl, stir together milk, oats and salt. › Microwave on high 2 1/2 minutes or until oats are tender and most liquid is absorbed. › Remove bowl from microwave; stir in ricotta. › To serve, top with figs and almonds and drizzle with honey.

› DINING GUIDE

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

Serving Ocala since 1986!

Ask about our lunch specials!

Kotobuki Japanese Restaurant

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

Get the VIP treatment. Check out our specials!

Opening this month!

Visit the website for information on our other locations.

Chefs of Napoli Ristorante Italiano 5400 SW College Rd, Ocala › thechefsofnapoli.com Mon-Thu 11a-9p › Fri 11a-10p › Sat 12-10p › Sun 12-9pm

Chefs of Napoli is now expanding to include a new location in Ocala and will be bringing authentic Neopolitan cuisine to the area. There’s no need to travel 9,000 miles to Italy to experience authentic Neopolitan dining, now there is a piece of Italy right here in Ocala. Patrons can dine in or take out, and catering is always available. Don’t forget to try a delectable dessert. The tiramisu, cannoli, cheesecake and limoncello cake are to die for. Don’t miss out! Try the homemade Neopolitan bread.

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

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

Crossroads Country Kitchen 7947 W Highway 40, Ocala › (352) 237-1250 Mon-Thur 6a-8:30p › Fri-Sat 6a-9p › Sun 7a-3p

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

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

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

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Mesa de Notte

2436 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala › (352) 732-4737 › mesaocala.com Mon-Thu 11a-9p › Fri & Sat 11a-10p › Closed Sun

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

Mesa de Notte uses only the freshest ingredients to prepare their unique, gourmet, Italian dishes. The menu features both lunch and dinner options and offers patrons an expanded, private dining room capable of accommodating up to 50 guests. It’s perfect for your next party or company meeting. The talented professionals at Mesa de Notte can also handle all of your catering needs — big or small. Don’t forget to make your reservations today for Valentine’s Day and experience their special menu on February 14 between 12pm and 10pm.

Full-service catering also available.

Additional parking in rear.

Brooklyn’s Backyard

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

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

Valentine’s Day is approaching fast. Bring your loved one on February 14 and enjoy a lovely Lobster Tail Pasta... twin lobster tails served over pasta in a sweet creamy sauce topped with a lemon zest! Relax every Sunday with our Bottomless Mimosas overlooking the water.

Join us on Wednesdays to see what our Fresh Catch of the Day is. No matter what takes the bait our chef is sure to make it yummy. Whole Maine Lobster and raw oyster lovers, Friday is your day to enjoy.

We offer daily specials and menu selections for all ages. We offer a gluten-free menu as well. For all the sports fans out there, we have seven flat-screen televisions for you to enjoy all sports all year round.

Every day at the Lighthouse Point Bar & Grille is a fun relaxing place to be. We are family owned, and everyone is treated as family.

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

Family owned & operated.

Brooklyn’s Backyard—Good beer, better food!

Happy Hour 3-6pm Every Day Check our website for a full menu and daily specials.

We also offer outside dining.

› DINING GUIDE

Catering is available for any size event.

Please call us for menu ideas and pricing.

Banquet room available!

Latinos Y Mas

2030 S. Pine Avenue, Ocala › (352) 622-4777 › latinosymas.com Mon-Thu 11a-9p › Fri-Sat 11a-10p › Closed Sun Happy Hour, Happy Hour, Happy Hour 4-7pm daily 2 for 1 Margaritas and House Wine $2.00 off any premium liquor Like us on Facebook and Instagram

Jersey Mike’s Subs

2602 SE 19th Ave Rd Ocala › (352) 236-6809 8075 SW SR 200 Suite 121 (Publix Plaza), Ocala › (352) 304-8781 Sun-Sat 10a-9p › jerseymikes.com At Jersey Mike’s Subs, our goal is to give back to the community, make the freshest sub—hot or cold—cut each time in front of you and provide a clean and friendly atmosphere in which to relax. Jersey Mike’s Subs in Ocala has partnered with several organizations and charities in Marion County, including Michelle-O-Gram, the College of Central Florida’s men’s basketball team and the CF swim club, to name just a few. Join us as we welcome our new location at On Top of the World, 8075 SW State Road 200, #121, in the Publix plaza. Be a sub above.

Beer and wine are available, and the Sandbar is just steps away for specialty drink orders.

Buy $100 in gift cards and receive a $25 bonus card for yourself, while supplies last.

Eaton’s Beach Sandbar & Steam Shack 15790 SE 134th Avenue, Weirsdale, FL (352) 259-2444 › eatonsbeach.com Mon-Sat 12-8pm, Sunday 12-7pm

The Steam Shack at Eaton’s Beach is all about casual dining, a beachside atmosphere and fresh, delicious food. Sure, they have tasty sandwiches and appetizers, but the main focus is on the steamed shrimp, crab legs, crawfish and other seafood offerings.

After spending a hot day on the beach or in the water at Lake Weir, guests can feel comfortable ordering in flip flops and a bathing suit.

Or are you headed to Eaton’s Beach for an evening out with friends after work? Stop at the Steam Shack first for a drink and appetizer while waiting for your table.

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Braised Onion Restaurant

754 NE 25th Ave, Ocala › (352) 620-9255 Tue-Thu 11a-9p › Fri & Sat 11a-10p › Sun 11a-8p › Closed Mon Treat the special ladies in your life like a queen for a day—make your reservations for Valentine’s Day dinner. They will be treated like royalty in a romantic setting at Braised Onion! Winner of Culinary Combat and Taste of Ocala for three years; the menu options are plentiful and guaranteed to make your taste buds explode with happiness. And don’t forget the dessert menu, which includes our prize-winning bread pudding and coconut pie. So call to make your reservation; she will love you for it! Visit our website at braisedonion.com.

Pavarotti’s Pizza & Restaurant

8075 SW HWY 200, Canopy Oaks Center, Ocala › (352) 291-9424 Mon-Thu 11a-9p › Fri-Sat 11a-10p › Sun 11a-8p

Pavarotti’s Pizza and Restaurant in Ocala is known for its famous, old-fashioned pizzas, hand-tossed and baked on a stone deck oven. Try the array of classic Italian entrées, fresh salads and subs, and hearty pasta dinners. Veal or chicken is served Parmigiana, Marsala or picatta style, and the seafood dishes are served fresh over linguini. Pizza lovers can’t get enough of the homemade pies, and don’t forget about the subs, stromboli and calzones!

Join us for live jazz each week, Friday evenings from 6-9p. Open Valentine’s Day February 14th for lunch and dinner.

Be sure to visit us at the Canopy Oaks Center.

Pavarotti’s also caters.

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

PAVAROTTI’S Pizza & Restaurant

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille

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

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

Happy Hour all day long!

Mardi Gras Parade of FlavorsFebruary 1st- March 1st

› DINING GUIDE

Happy Hour Tue-Fri 5-7p. $3 house wine, 2 for 1 beer and $5 most call liquors.

Ipanema Brazilian Steak House

2023 South Pine Avenue, Ocala › (352) 622-1741 › ipanemaocala.com Lunch: Wed-Fri 11a-2:30p › Dinner: Tue-Thu 5-9p Fri & Sat 5-10p, Sun 4-9p › Brunch: Sun 12-3p › Happy Hour Tue-Fri 5-7p › Closed Monday A Churrascaria (Portuguese for barbecue) is a dining experience where roaming Gauchos slice and serve fire-roasted meats from skewers in a continual fashion. Ipanema Brazilian Steak House boasts 12 of the finest cuts of meat complemented by an opulent salad and vegetable bar, delectable desserts and delicious wines, beers and cocktails. Brazilian native and Executive Chef Ortencia DeAlmeida invites you to embrace the flavors of her homeland and experience the magnetism of Ipanema for yourself. Become a fan of Ipanema on Facebook at facebook.com/ipanemasteakhouse.

Trivia Night every Thursday, 7-9pm (Silver Springs Blvd. location) Mariachi band every Thursday at the 200 location, 6-9pm Happy Valentine’s Day! Feliz dia de San Valentin!

El Toreo

3790 E Silver Springs Boulevard, Ocala › (352) 694-1401 › 7 Days 11a-10p SR 200, Ocala › (352) 291-2121 › 7 Days 11a-11p New lunch specials include Taco Salad on Mondays, $4.45; Speedy Gonzalez on Tuesdays, $4.95; Quesadillas on Wednesdays, $6.45; Chimichangas on Thursdays, $5.95; and Burrito Supreme on Fridays, $4.95. New dinner options include Fajita Mondays, $8.95; Chimichanga Tuesdays, $7.95; Alambre Wednesdays, $7.95 and Tacos de Bistec Thursdays, $7.95. Plus $1.95 margaritas on Mondays. On Sunday, kids 12 and under can enjoy 99¢ children’s meals (takeout not included). Wednesday is Special Margarita Day, 99¢ all day. Saturday is 2-for-1 margaritas all day. Happy Hour daily, 3-7pm. Everything is 2-4-1 (exceptions may apply).

THE BEST MEXICAN FOOD

Locations in The Villages at 1041 Lakeshore Drive at Lake Sumter Landing and our newest location at Brownwood in The Villages.

Cody’s Original Roadhouse

2505 SW College Road, Ocala › (352) 237-8182 › codysamerican.com Doors Open at 11a › Serving lunch and dinner daily “Where Quality and Value Come Together!” Hand-cut, USDA Choice steaks, rotisserie chicken, BBQ baby back ribs, chops, fresh fish, burgers, salads and more! Kids eat free Mondays and Tuesdays. Buy-1-get-1-free Fajita Wednesdays, $12.98. Daily 2-4-1 happy hour, 11am-7pm, includes draft beer, wine and all liquors (top shelf, too). Lunch from 11a-3p. Try our mouthwatering Valentine’s Day specials with all the fixins’ on February 14th: Bacon Wrapped Petite Filet Mignon with Lobster Tail $25.98, Twin Lobster Tail Dinner $27.98, Seafood Trio (Fresh Grilled Sea Scallops, Fresh Grilled Gulf Shrimp & Fresh Grilled Grouper)$23.98 and our Salmon Oscar $19.98.

FEB ’17 ›

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A Fruity Festival MAR

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Celebrate the sweet succulence of the ruby red strawberry at the Fourth Annual Habitat Strawberry Festival held at the McPherson Complex from 9am-5pm.

Aside from bushels of the sweetest berries around, the festival will host a number of fan favorites including the Wag, Wiggle and Walk Pet Contest, pieeating contest, car show and much more! New this year will be a BMX bike show performing three times throughout the day, lip-sync competition and an appearance by the nationally ranked Elvis tribute artist, Cote Deonath, who will be performing live. Plus, in an effort to promote a healthy lifestyle, the festival will host a kids’ health fair and the inaugural Strawberry Jam 5K, which will start and end at the McPherson Complex just before the kick off to the festival.

FOR A LIST OF ACTIVITIES OR TO REGISTER FOR THE PET CONTEST OR 5K, VISIT facebook.com/HFHMCStrawberryFestival OR habitatocala.org/strawberry-festival.

ALL ABOUT OCT

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The annual HITS Horse Show Series is heralding in equine athletes from around the world. This year’s event features 10 consecutive weeks of competition from the best of the best in the equestrian world. Over $4 million in prize money will be awarded over the course of the circuit with the premier event, the Great American $1 Million Grand Prix, taking place March 28. Competition runs Wednesday through Sunday each week with a number of special events happening throughout the winter. hitsshows.com.

Countdown To The Carnival!

A Ball On Bourbon Street

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Come dressed to impress for a night of music and more at the Night on Bourbon Street Masquerade Ball. Held at the Livestock Pavilion banquet hall, this Mardi Gras-inspired event features music, dancing, dining and a live auction all to benefit and celebrate the success of the Boys and Girls Club of Marion County. The evening begins at 6pm, and tickets can be purchased through the Boys and Girls Club. bgcofmarion.com or (352) 690-7519.

FEB

23-26

The Trinity Catholic High School Winter Carnival features a number of rides, games, activities and entertainment for the whole family. Pre-sale and VIP tickets are now available, and special raffle tickets will be sold for $1 each or 12 for $10 for a chance to win $1,000 cash or a $500 gas card. trinitycatholichs.org or (352) 622-9025 ext. 6047.

FEB

FEB

Lambs, Steer & Goats Galore!

18-25 Come see the top-notch junior wranglers, steer handlers, BBQ wizards and

more as they demonstrate their agricultural skills at the 2017 Southeastern Youth Fair. Held each year at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, the fair highlights the talents of both 4-H and FFA members as they present their projects for judging and critique. The fair consists of rabbit, chicken, steer, equine, hog and canine competitions, plus a tasty BBQ contest on February 20. For a complete schedule, visit seyfair.com or (352) 629-1255.

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Hoofin’ It For The Horseshoe

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The Blueberry Horseshoe 5K will lead runners through breathtaking views on a premier equestrian estate. Participants’ swag includes a shirt, arm sleeves, a gear bag and a gift certificate to Blueberry Hill Farm for free U-pick blueberries. The first 550 who cross the finish line will also earn the hefty Blue Champion medal. And stick around after the run for some post-race fun for the entire family with live music, games, a picnic and more. Proceeds benefit NAMI FL. The Blueberry Horseshoe 5K is the sixth race and final Super Medal race in the Big Hammock Race Series, as well as one of two Lucky Charm Challenge races. Complete this race and the St. Paddy’s Day 5K in March to be eligible to earn the swoon-worthy Big Hammock Race Series Lucky Charm Challenge medal, featuring a spinner, stained glass and Velcro ribbon closure. bighammockraceseries.com.

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PlaIdRESFOUroRCEgS CRE ATI VE

A Festival With Fabulous Fare

The best of the culinary world will convene in Ocala this March, bringing with them a range of delectable dining options. The first annual Ocala Culinary Festival will consist of numerous events throughout the community, each highlighting a different aspect of cooking, wine pairing and dining.

Each event has a limited amount of tickets available, so be sure to check the website or Facebook page often for more information. ocalaculinaryfestival.com.

Turn to page 56 for more festival highlights and to meet the local chefs who will be involved in this premiere event.

CITY OF

OCALA

Rotary Discovery Fest Cracker Cattle Drive and Cowboy Round Up Saturday | Feb. 11 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Downtown Ocala to Tuscawilla Park Round up the kids, break out your Stetsons and join us as we celebrate our ranching heritage.

Follow the cattle drive from downtown Ocala to Tuscawilla Park where the festivities will begin! Live entertainment by Hayfire, Crazy Daysies, Cowboy Tom, The Pistolero and Cameron Cato. Authentic cow camp and vendors, vittles, waterin’ hole, kid’s corral, stick horse races, antique chuck wagon and more!

Thank you to our sponsors, Adena/Sleepy Creek Lands, LLC, KCountry 93.7, Marion County Cattleman’s Association, Ocala Star Banner/Ocala.com, Ocala Utility Services, Rasmussen College, Roger’s Engineering, Rotary’s of Marion County, Seminole Feed and The Martial Arts Center.

For details, please call 352-368-5517 or visit www.ocalafl.org/ recreationandparks/events

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Arts, Crafts and Culture Upcoming Exhibits At The Appleton › Power and Piety:

Spanish Colonial Art will feature art dating from the late 17th century through the 1820s. The exhibit runs through February 26. Diversity in Cultures Through African Insights features textile pattern designs and themes of West African folk tales and myths. The exhibit runs through April 2. Hallowed Absurditites: Work By Theodore Waddell raises the issue of the use of guns in our society. The exhibit runs through May 7. Frida Kahlo: Through the Lens of Nickolas Muray provides an intimate look at Frida Kahlo. The exhibit runs through April 2. appletonmuseum.org or (352) 291-4455.

A Quick Q & A

With Mary Britt

Interview by Bonnie Kretchik

A Talented Troupe The Ocala Civic Theatre has been entertaining audiences for decades, producing a number of comedies, dramas and musicals each season. Executive Director Mary Britt took some time to share some of the history of the theater along with some behind-the-scenes details as to what’s involved in staging a production.

Tell us a little about the history of the theater.

The organization was founded in 1950 as The Marion Players, Inc. We changed our name to Ocala Civic Theatre in the 1970s. We didn’t have a home of our own, and performances were held at what is now Osceola Middle School. Later, we leased the Osborne Theatre on Silver Springs Boulevard. In the mid-1980s, the theater conducted a capital campaign to build a new performing arts theater, which opened in 1988 and is our current home.

How do you select which shows you will put on?

We have a play selection committee that includes volunteers and staff. They meet throughout the year to read and evaluate

dozens of plays and recommend a slate to the board of directors for approval.

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host an after hours event featuring live entertainment and dancing, special displays of artwork by the Ocala Art Group and tasty samplings from Mojo Grill with a cash bar available. Doors open at 5pm, and music begins at 5:30. The event is free for members and $10 for nonmembers. appletonmuseum.org or (352) 291-4455.

How long does it typically take to stage an entire production?

The first step is securing the rights to the show. Then, I start to line up directors and designers for each show. Auditions begin seven weeks before opening. The directors and designers get to work a couple of months earlier. Construction of the sets and costumes usually starts about three weeks before opening.

Which shows are you putting on this season?

We are in the middle of our 2016-2017 season. The remaining shows include The Fantasticks, a classic musical running February 2-26; The Affections of May, a hilarious comedy about the only single woman in a small New England town; Crowns, a gospel musical; and Shrek The Musical, a stage version based on the animated movies.

Any hints as to what to expect for next season?

I’d love to tell you because we are going to have a big announcement about a new release. It’s a show that ran 12 years on Broadway and has toured extensively throughout the United States and the world. It is finally available for licensing to community theaters, and we are one of the first to be granted the rights. But I can’t make an official announcement until we have the rights secured for all the shows. So, stay tuned!

FIND OUT MORE › Ocala Civic Theatre › 4337 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala › ocalacivictheatre.com or (352) 236-2274 084

Appleton After Hours (February 2) › The Appleton Museum will

Fine Arts Show (February 11) › The Visual Arts Association will host their Winter Fine Arts Show at the Laurel Manor Recreation Center from 9am-3pm. Admission is free. visualartsassociation.com or (352) 408-6291.

Winterfest Arts and Crafts Faire (February 11) › The Villages

Polo Club will host the 2nd annual Winterfest Arts and Crafts Faire. The event will include over 65 vendors, live music, drawings for prizes, food trucks and more. The faire will run 10am-4pm, and admission and parking are free. crossroadsocala.com or (352) 360-3616.

CF International Film Series (February 14, 28) › The CF

International Film Series will present The Prince and the Showgirl on February 14 and Phoenix on February 28 at the Appleton Museum at 2pm. Films are free for Appleton and film series members and are included in the price of admission for nonmembers. appletonmuseum.com or (352) 291-4455.

Gourd Workshop (February 18) › The Marion County Gourd Artist

Association will host a gourd art workshop at Cherokee Park in Belleview at 9:30am. Dues are $16 per person for the year and $25 for a family. marioncountygourdartists.com or (352) 871-3786.

Trips ’N’ Tours (February 22) › The program will take guests to

Tampa Bay Downs for a day of live thoroughbred racing. Registration is $65 for members and $75 for nonmembers. appletonmuseum.org or (352) 291-4455.

Outdoor & Athletic Endeavors Group Bike Rides (Ongoing) › Brick City Bicycles offers group bike rides throughout the week and weekend. brickcitybicycles.com or (352) 369-9400.

Continued on p.86

s s a l g n u S y e l l A 000 OVER 10, ND A READING ES S SUNGLAS

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Performing Arts Blue Man Group

Blue Man Group Theatre at Universal CityWalk, Orlando

Cirque du Soleil: La Nouba

Disney Springs, Orlando

Vienna Boys Choir The Fantasticks Rockabilly at the Reilly: A Tribute to the Music of Buddy Holly Dance Alive National Ballet Presents: Robin Hood Beginnings: The Ultimate Tribute to Chicago Daytona Beach Society Presents: Bamberg Symphony Steve Martin The Orient Express presented by the Ocala Symphony Orchestra The Accidental Hero

by Patrick Dewane George Lopez Classic Albums Live Presents Fleetwood Mac: Rumors Mark Trammell Quartet Don Quixote Russian National Ballet Theatre 7 Bridges: The Ultimate Eagles Experience Cinderella Russian National Ballet Theatre Jerry Seinfeld Becky’s New Car Don’t Tell Nonnie – Open Mic & Cabaret Night

Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Gainesville Ocala Civic Theatre

Kayak Outings (Ongoing) › The Marion County Parks and

Recreation Department will host several kayak outings for children and adults. marioncountyfl.org or call (352) 671-8560.

Feb. 1Apr. 30 Feb. 1Mar. 11 Feb. 2

Feb. 4

Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Gainesville

Feb. 4-5

Circle Square Cultural Center, Ocala

Feb. 10

The Peabody, Daytona Beach

Feb. 10

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Sarasota

Feb. 10

Reilly Arts Center, Ocala

Feb. 11

FEB

Family Campout (February 25) › The Marion County Parks and

Recreation Department will host a family campout at Carney Island.

Registration is $70 for a family of 4 and $15 for extra members.

Children must be 8 years of age or older. marioncountyfl.org or (352) 671-8560.

Pro-Am Golf Tournament (March 14) › Candler Hills Golf

Club will host the Ocala Open, a Pro-Am golf tournament to benefit Hospice of Marion County and Interfaith Emergency Services. A shotgun start will take place at 9:30am, and a BBQ with awards presentation will take place at 2pm. The deadline to enter is March 6. candlerhillsgolfclub.com or (352) 861-9712.

Feb. 17-18 Feb. 18 Feb. 18

Christ’s Church of Marion County The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center, The Villages Circle Square Cultural Center, Ocala The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center, The Villages Hard Rock Live At The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Hollywood The Hippodrome State Theatre, Gainesville

Feb. 18

FEB

10

Feb. 21-23

Other Fun Stuff!

Feb. 24

Father Daughter Dance (February 3, 4) › The 11th annual Father

Feb. 24-25

Daughter Dance will be held at the Circle Square Cultural Center.

Three dances are available: February 3 at 6pm and February 4 at 4pm or 7pm. Tickets are $45 for a couple and $15 for additional daughter tickets. father-daughterdance.com.

Feb. 24-25 Feb. 24Mar. 19 Feb. 27

Six Gun Territory’s Wild West Weekend (February 3-5) › FEB

21-23

A 5-Minute Film Festival (March 19) › Feel like dabbling in the film

industry but don’t want to quit your day job just yet? The upcoming JUMP/ CUT Film Challenge hosted by the Ocala Film Foundation will put teams of amateur film-makers against each other as they pitch, write, cast, shoot, edit and screen a five- to seven-minute film all in just 72 hours. Teams will be mentored by seasoned veterans in the business, and all films will be presented at the historic Marion Theatre in Downtown Ocala on March 19. Registration is still available for interested teams. The official competition will begin on March 16. jumpcutchallenge.com.

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The 5th Annual Cracker Cattle Drive and Cowboy Roundup will take place at Tuscawilla Park from 10am-4pm. The event includes historic re-enactments, demonstrations, food, activities and more. A cattle drive will also take place through downtown Ocala and end at the park. Admission is free. mydiscoverycenter.org or (352) 368-5517.

4

Reilly Arts Center, Ocala

The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center, The Villages

Cracker Cattle Drive and Cowboy Roundup (February 11) ›

Feb. 2-26

Reilly Arts Center, Ocala

Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Gainesville Amway Arena

TLC 5K (February 4) › The Transitions Life Center will host an inaugural 5K to raise funds for Phase 1 of building a community center and campus serving the special needs community of Marion County.

The race will be held at the Transitions Life Center in Ocala at 8am. tlcocala.org or (352) 476-2704.

Kirby Family Farm will host this annual event from 10am-4pm daily, featuring original Six Gun Territory gunfights, train rides, live entertainment and amusement rides. February 3 is set aside for education day. kirbyfarm.com or (352) 812-7435.

Coronation Ceremony (February 4) › Miss Rodeo Florida Keri

Sheffield invites the public to attend her coronation ceremony at the Hilton Ocala from 6-9pm, featuring food, live and silent auctions, great music and much more. Event supports her journey toward the Miss Rodeo America Pageant. Tickets are $30 for adults and $10 for children 5 and under and can be purchased online at the Miss Rodeo Florida Association Facebook page, at the door the day of the event or in advance at Ford of Ocala or Russell’s Western Wear.

(772) 834-5207.

Continued on p.88

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Home Improvement Expo (February 25) › Representatives

Parents’ Night Out (February 17) › Brick City Adventure Park will

Fun At The Park (February 26) › Sholom Park in Ocala will

Harriet Tubman: Abolitionist and Conductor on the Underground Railroad (February 23) › This Silver River Museum

presentation will include a talk by Mary Fears, an expert on the abolition of slavery, the Underground Railroad and the contributions of African Americans during the Civil War. Open house will take place from 4-6pm and the program from 6-7pm. Free to the public. silverrivermuseum.com or (352) 236-5401.

Greek Festival (February 24-26) › The St. Mark Greek Orthodox

Church in Belleview will hold its 17th annual Greek festival. The festival will celebrate the Greek culture through food, music and more. greekfestivalocala.com or (352) 245-3324.

› Ocala

Continued from p.86

Fondue Fundraiser (February 16) › Pay It Forward Outreach Corp is hosting a fondue fundraiser from 7-10pm. The event will take place at the Elks Club of Ocala and will benefit families in Marion County.

Choose from dinner and fondue for $50 or fondue only for $25. payitforwardoutreach.com.

host a Parents’ Night Out for children ages 6-13 from 5-9pm. The evening will include indoor and outdoor games and activities as well as snacks and drinks. Registration is $15 per child. marioncountyfl.org or (352) 454-6251.

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from many different fields of the home improvement industry will be on hand to display their services and answer questions about the latest trends. Event is free and takes place from 9am-1pm. csculturalcenter.com or (352) 854-3670.

host a family-friendly event focused on improving literacy. Classic characters such as the Berenstain Bears, Cat in the Hat, Curious George and Mother Goose will be on-site reading and providing books to attendees. The event runs from 1-4pm and is free to the public. sholompark.org or (352) 875-4428.

Free Lecture (February 26) › Countryside Presbyterian Church in Ocala will host a free lecture presented by Graham Black III. The lecture is titled, “My Contact with Martin Luther King, Jr,” and will begin at 3pm followed by a question-and-answer period. (352) 237-4633.

To have an event considered for Ocala Style Magazine’s The Scene, send a short description (and a color photo, if possible) 60 days in advance to calendar@ocalastyle.com, fax us at (352) 732-0226 or by mail: Ocala Style Magazine, The Scene, 1007 E. Fort King St., Ocala, FL 34471

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Kingdom Of The Sun’s Veteran’s Snowflake Ball › Written And Photographed By Ronald W. Wetherington

P

Larry and Tina Fagan

atriotism is back in fashion in America, but it never went out of style in Ocala.

Nowhere was this more apparent than at the recent Kingdom of the Sun’s Veteran’s Snowflake Ball. Patriotic veterans proudly wore their medals and ribbons as they dined and danced the night away at the local Elks Hall. In attendance were colonels, lieutenant colonels, majors and other notable veterans. All that was missing was snow in Florida.

Following welcoming comments

by Chapter President Lieutenant Colonel Arlo Janssen, an invocation and honors to the flag, attendees dined on roasted premium prime rib au jus and horseradish accompanied by a tossed green salad, baked potato, green beans almandine and a chef’s specialty dessert. Lieutenant Colonel Carol Walker is the chapter’s second vice president who organized the event and oversaw the decorations.

Chapter president Arlo Janssen says, “The Veteran’s Snowflake Ball is always a special event for me and other chapter members. We all enjoy the playing of the service songs by the NOVA band for the different branches of the

military. The playing of Taps at the end of the ball had a special feeling, as we lost two KOS chapter members in December.”

Current officers of KOS, besides President Janssen, include First Vice President Colonel Robert Schlegel, Second Vice President Lieutenant Colonel Carol Walker, Secretary Betty Hayes, Treasurer Linda Byrd and immediate past-president Lieutenant Colonel Sharon Murry. Chapter officers and members assist veterans in career transition, military benefits counseling, educational assistance to children of military families and strong involvement in military professionalism activities.

The bond that unites these veterans goes beyond mere friendship.

Lieutenant Colonel Frank Rasbury says, “Military men and women enjoy a unique brand of fellowship. We are very familiar with the need to always function at our highest levels because what we did in training paid off when we were on the battlefield. We learned to trust each other and even how to think like each other because we became so close. We were comrades in arms, and our own survival was dependent on our ability to assure the survival of others. But war does exact its toll. While we all gave some, some of us gave all.”

Ocala’s Kingdom of the Sun is a chapter of the Military Officers Association of America. MOAA is open to all military officers and primarily lobbies Congress in the best interest of the military as a whole. The passage of time has severely diminished the ranks of the KOS, and many of its members are no longer able to participate in the ball due to ill health and infirmities.

Recognizing this trend, in 2013, the board of directors decided to open participation in this annual event to non-officer veterans who might enjoy an activity of this kind, and thus the Veteran’s Snowflake Ball was born.

The Snowflake Ball originated in 1992 and has a storied history. The recent Veteran’s Snowflake Ball further embellished the legends of this social event.

Lt. Col. Edward and Lois Johnson

Mervin Miller and Laverne Hope

Ronald W. Wetherington SOCIAL SCENE EDITOR

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Kay and Commander Jim Chandler

Grace and George Raymond, Lillie Upton and Arlo Janssen

Patricia and David Sokol

Marilyn Ross and Bob Buerger

Paul Estock, Linda Byrd, Clara Ward and Bill Alters

Wayne and Marty Brown

Suzanne and Bud Smith, Erika Dailey

Grace Raymond, Dennis Rose and Carol Walker

Aster and Gorham Black III

Arlo Janssen

Barbara and Commander Tom Dann

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VIEW MORE SOCIAL SCENE PHOTOS AND PURCHASE PRINTS OF YOUR FAVORITES AT OCALASTYLE.COM

Marion County Chili Cook Off Photos by Crys Williams @ The Southeastern Livestock Pavilion

Local businesses and organizations formed teams and brought their best chili to compete in one of Ocala’s beloved traditions, the Marion County Chili Cook Off. Thousands of people came out to taste the different chili recipes, and all proceeds benefited The Cornerstone School.

Haley and Nick Collier, Tony Lopex and Richard Croteau

Jeremy Diaz, Amanda Steckman, Matt Steckman, Jared Sieg and Walter Conrad

Jodie Sniegowski and Billy Woods

Bryan Rincon, Joe Contino, Pat Feagle and John Villella

Kelly Owen and Kim Calvin

David Waters and Liza Fritz

Paige and Dennis McFatten

Justin Kenzior and Brian Richards

Jahn West and Turista Fugate

092

› Ocala

.com

Trevor Shawley, Kevin Diamond, Jen Clements and Mallory Sieg

The E C O R AT E D M O D , DE EW N LS 0 !

1

Saturday, February 25 10am - 4pm

On Top of the World, Ocala’s Premier Active Adult community is debuting 10 new, decorated models.

Five models from our Premier collection and five from our Estate collection, all in one new, magnificent model center! Mark your calendars…this is one Model Grand Opening you don’t want to miss.

All the lifestyle amenities you want are right here!

Enjoy over 300,000 square feet of air-conditioned recreational fun!

Plus, over 181 acres of outdoor amenities.

• 54 holes of golf on three golf courses • Fitness centers, health club, spa & swimming pools • Tennis, pickleball and bocce courts • 16 miles of walking trails, 2 dog parks & much more

Call us at 866.228.5878 OnTopoftheWorld.com

Come see us at: 8447 SW 99th St. Rd., Ocala, Florida 34481 Take Turnpike North to I-75.

Take SR 200 west 6 miles.

Turn right on SW 80th Ave. Community is ahead one mile on the right.

On Top of the World Communities Inc., Ocala, Florida a 55+ community. On Top of the World Communities reserves the right to change or withdraw any offer at any time. Prices, features and specifications are subject to change without notice.

Michelle Zimmerman, Robert Branch, Bob Moore and Matt Gross Ashley Sisk, Angie Finley and Rosa Flis

Chais Stewart, Tawny Davis, Brooklyn Price and Josh LiVigni

Art and Traci Lang

Adrienne Hartzell and Christina Russell

Sarah Siebrandt and Matt Daniels

Charlie and Mackenzie Williams

Lacy Cruz, Jackie Johnson, Jessica Phillips, Wendy Giselbach and Elizabeth Allequez

Tj Nichols and Jeff Jarrett

Ashley Shryock, Phil Schwab and Douglas Palancia

094

› Ocala

.com

Nicole Stein, Glenn and Hannah Stein

Joe Methvin, Lauren DeCastro, Jennifer O’Donnell, Courtney Deem and Chelsea Sweazy

Paul Atwood and Robert Rieder

!

E

TA O Y O T

H T S E MAK

ES K A AM C U L .. DE

E C N E FER

IF D E TH

CAR.

V

0 0 6 ES TO L C I H E SE CHOOM! FRO

DRIVE A NEW 2017 COROLLA

AND LOWER YOUR MONTHLY PAYMENT! SEE DELUCA TOYOTA FOR COMPLETE DETAILS

“TREATING CUSTOMERS WITH HONESTY AND INTEGRITY FOR OVER 39 YEARS! STOP BY TODAY AND EXPERIENCE THE DELUCA DIFFERENCE.” – FRANK DELUCA, PRESIDENT/OWNER

ONE OF FLORIDA’S LARGEST AND MOST LUXURIOUS TOYOTA DEALERSHIPS.

OVER 94,500 TOYOTAS SOLD SINCE 1978! WITH A STATE-OF-THE-ART SERVICE DEPARTMENT, A FULL-SERVICE SALON AND A CAFÉ.

WE’RE JUST A SHORT DRIVE FROM THE VILLAGES. PLEASE CALL FOR DIRECTIONS.

DELUCATOYOTA.COM 352.732.0770 / 1719 SW COLLEGE RD. OCALA Featuring a no cost maintenance plan with roadside assistance.

WWW.

BMW OF OCALA

BMW of Ocala

BMWinOcala.com

The Ultimate Driving Machine®

Your Choice New 2017 BMW 320i

Or New 2017 BMW X1 sDrive28i

$

399

Per Month

$

0

Down

PRESENT THIS ADVERTISEMENT AND WE’LL MAKE YOUR FIRST MONTH’S PAYMENT. Some restrictions apply. Payment up to $500, not redeemable for cash. See dealer for details.

BMW Ultimate Care Program®

$ up to

0 Maintenance

3 Years / 36,000 Miles**

Unlimited-Mileage Roadside Assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Offers with approved credit. 36 month leases with $0 due at signing and $0 security deposit. 10K miles per year, 20¢ per mile thereafter. Excludes tax, tag, title fee, $899 pre-delivery service fee and $185 electronic tag registration fee. **For maintenance terms and conditions, see BMWUSA.com/Ultimatecare_ maintenance. Prior sales excluded, see dealer for details. Expires month end.

BMW of Ocala

Like No Other 5145 S.W. College Road • Ocala

352-861-0234

BMWinOcala.com

©2016 Porsche Cars North America, Inc. Porsche recommends seat belt usage and observance of all traffic laws at all times. Optional equipment shown extra.

The daily grind.

Without the last letter.

The new Macan.

$

699

*/MONTH

36 MTHS

$3999 due at signing Excludes tax, title, and license fees.

No security deposit required.

Porsche of Ocala

5155 S.W. College Road • Ocala

352-861-0234

PorscheOfOcala.com

*Lease for 36 months with $3999 due at signing including $0 security deposit with approved credit. 10K miles per year, 30¢ per mile thereafter.

Plus tax, tag, title fee, $899 pre-delivery service fee and $185 electronic tag registration service fee. In-stock units only. Expires month end.