Ocala Style Mar'12

you!

NEW YEAR NEW

VISIT US AT ADVANCED AESTHETICS!

Pictured L-R:

VANESSA W. THOMAS, RN, BSN, CE, CME RUTHANN NETTLETON, PA-C, Clinical Injector BETH ALTENBURGER-CASSE, Certified Medical Aesthetician Not Pictured: STEVE TIECHE, MD

S E RV I C E S LASER SKIN REJUVENATION JUVEDERM RADIESSE BOTOX LASER HAIR REMOVAL VELASHAPE™ TREATMENT TREATMENT OF ACNE SCARS VI PEEL VEIN TREATMENT WRINKLE REDUCTION MEDICAL CORRECTIVE FACIAL TREATMENTS PRESCRIPTION STRENGTH SKIN CARE PRODUCTS WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM

PHOTOFACIAL

MON T HLY S PEC I AL

ALL LASER PACKAGES BUY ONE, GET ONE OF EQUAL OR LESSER VALUE HALF OFF! VELASHAPE LASER HAIR REMOVAL FRACTIONAL PHOTOFACIAL Offer expires 3/31/12

We Proudly Carry CHEST BEFORE

CHEST AFTER

ASK ABOUT OUR MEDICALLY SUPERVISED WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM! All services and procedures performed on-site under a boardcertified physician's supervision.

All consultations are free and confidential.

DEDICATED TO THE ART AND SCIENCE OF RESTORING YOUR SKIN

352.620.2566

1920 SW 20th Place, Ste 201, Ocala www.AdvancedAestheticsOcala.com

Located in Cala Hills, next to Chandra Smiles. Financing available with little or no interest. Most credit cards accepted.

MARCH IS COLON CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

BOARD CERTIFIED

in Colon & Rectal Surgery Are you 50 or older?

Have you had your colon cancer screening colonoscopy?

Don’t wait for symptoms.

Now is the time.

COLON & RECTAL SURGERY • Hemorrhoid Procedures Infrared Coagulation (in office) Banding (in office) • Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy • Hemorrhoidectomy • Rectal Prolapse Repair

• Laparoscopic Colon Cancer Surgery • Anal Fistula • Anal Fissure • Fecal Incontinence

GENERAL SURGERY

• • • • •

• • • •

Gall Bladder Disease Appendicitis Colon Resection Colostomies and Reversal of Colostomies Hernia Repairs

- Christian O. Oraedu, M.D.

1329 SE 25th Loop, Suite 102, Ocala

Rectocele Ulcerative Colitis Crohn’s Disease Diverticulitis Colon and Rectal Cancer Colonoscopies

LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY

“The greatest honor one human can bestow on another is to entrust them with their life in their greatest moment of need (illness). The least a surgeon can do in return is exhibit diligence, skill and, above all, compassion.”

OCALA OFFICE

• • • • • •

Breast Cancer and Other Breast conditions Bowel Obstruction Peptic Ulcer Disease Removal of Lesions

CHRISTIAN O. ORAEDU, M.D., FACS, FRCS (Edin), FRCSI

Board-Certified Colon and Rectal Surgeon Board Certified in General Surgery by the American Board of Surgery Board Certified in Colon and Rectal Surgery by the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery Fellow of the American College of Surgeons Member of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons

352-690-6000 www.ocalasurgery.com

THE VILLAGES OFFICE

The Oaks at 138th 8550 NE 138th Lane Building 400, Lady Lake

Welcome HITS! Sovereign Oaks Farm - 118+/-Acres $4,200,000

Golden Ocala - $1,795,000 - Magnificent Home, Pool & Views

Bellechase - Tremendous Home! Expansive lot features extra detached garage - $1,295,000

Gated Community - Overlooks Lake 24.45 Acres - $900,000

Exquisite - 55 Acres - Millionaires Row Motivated Seller!

62.92 Acres in Gated Community with Guest Home & Equestrian Facilities - $4,599,000

Ready For Your Home! 16 Acres with 2 barns - Close to Greenway

For the Perfectionist! Stable, Residence, Guest Home, rights to 3/4 mile track - $1,500,000

Open Houses Open House March 18, 2012 12-4pm

A

SE 52nd St.

B 5 Bedrooms, 5 Full Baths, 2 Half Baths, 4.23 Acres - 6,500 Sq Ft. - $950,000 1880 SW 76th Lane, Ocala - Shady Grove

Hwy 475

A

SW 16th Ave.

B

. ve Rd 9th A

SW 27th Ave/Hwy 475A

SW 66th St.

SW 1

Enjoy Great Views & Pool - 1.25 Acres $495,000 Adjoining 10 or 20 acres available 2350 SW 80th Street, Ocala

D

SW 80th St.

C

C

D

Great Location - 10 Acres - Zoned Agricultural Horses, cattle, garden. Enjoy your hilltop views - $750,000 8363 SW 16th Avenue, Ocala

Bellechase - 4 Bed, 3 Bath, Overlooks Trails $510,000 4103 SE 6th Avenue, Ocala

Visit Joanpletcher.com for additional listings and information.

Joan Pletcher LICENSED REAL ESTATE BROKER 352.347.1777 | Cell: 352.266.9100 | 352.804.8989 www.joanpletcher.com | joanpletcher@aol.com

a beautiful smile begins here

featuring cosmetic restorative zoom! whitening crowns bridges dentures sedation dentistry

veneers periodontics digital smile makeovers cosmetic fillings implants tmj disorder

botox + juvederm

Dr. Tina ChanDra

Call Sandy today at

Ginny Bawcom

Partners for a Substance-Free Citrus, Inc.

Five Things That Make Me Smile:

1. Being a US Army Veteran!

2. My husband, Chuck; son, Dustin, and daughter, Jessica!

3. Beautiful sunsets, especially on the water!

4. Good times with good friends!

5. My beautiful smile from Dr. Tina Chandra!

Ceramic Restorations by Dr. Tina Chandra

(352)861-1500 for your smile evaluation www.chandrasmiles.com

BEFOrE

aFTEr

Florida Pain Clinic

Treatment of Acute & Chronic Pain

Stephen T. Pyles, M.D. Board Certified Nationally Known Speaker and Innovator of Treatment of Chronic Pain Dr. Pyles’ Florida Pain Clinic, founded in 1985, offers patients and their families a relaxed atmosphere in which to receive state-of-the-art treatment for their acute and chronic pain.

Hospital Staff Privileges Ocala Regional Medical Center West Marion Community Hospital Munroe Regional Medical Center Kindred Hospital Leesburg Medical Center The Villages Regional Hospital

Specializing in the diagnosis & treatments of patients for difficult chronic pain syndromes PERSISTENT PAIN FOLLOWING NECK OR BACK SURGERY PAIN IN UPPER/LOWER EXTREMITIES INCLUDING PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY CHRONIC ABDOMINAL PELVIC PAIN NECK | BACK | SACRAL PAIN CHRONIC FOOT AND ANKLE PAIN CHEST PAIN | SHINGLES | CHRONIC ANGINA

IV Sedation Available for Procedures

Florida Pain Clinic We have moved to 2300 S. Pine Ave., Suite B | Ocala, Florida 34471

352.861.4600

THE NEW LEADER “Thank you for your patronage over the last 31 years. In the coming months, construction will be completed on our new state-of-the-art facility, at the corner of 17th Street and Highway 200. Currently, we are right next door.

We promise to provide you a most professional and enjoyable carbuying experience.

Come see us.”

—Ted Lindsay

NEW 2012 NISSANS

ARRIVING DAILY 5-YEAR ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE SMART KEY REPLACEMENT » Huge selection of ‘other make’ cars, trucks and SUVs » Price and payment in 10 minutes » Courteous, well-trained sales staff will be respectful of your time

» All new vehicles two-year maintenance package » Roadside assistance » Nitro-filled tires » Smart key replacement

O C A L A N I S S A N

THE NEW LEADER

I N C U S TO M E R S E R V I C E Scan here with your smartphone to view our 30-second TV commercial

2200 SW College Rd

352.622.4111

ocalanissan.com

NO MORE EXCUSES!

Choose Your Size

Affordable Hearing Devices Now Available

E-Series

$

Our Most Popular INVISIBLE SoundLens is Still Available...

1295 (reg. $1,995)

Lifetime FREE hearing aid care to all patients—established or not!

Trade-in Those Old Hearing Aids for $500!

Medicare Provider - All Insurances Accepted

DOCTOR

Softest ear wax removal in town!

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

352.732.EARS (3277)

Over 10 Years Experience

www.HearingBalance.net

Audiology

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

Financial aid available to those who qualify!

Fully Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education

5190 SE 125th Street, Belleview, FL 34420 • Phone: 352-245-4119 *Effective November 9th, 2011, Taylor College has been granted Candidate for Accreditation status by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (1111 North Fairfax Street, Alexandria, VA, 22314; phone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org). Candidate for Accreditation is a pre-accreditation status of affiliation with the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education that indicates that the program may matriculate students in technical/professional courses and that the program is progressing toward accreditation. Candidate for Accreditation is not an accreditation status nor does it assure eventual accreditation.

For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website at, www.taylorcollege.edu/consumercontent.

Scan for more information:

AT THE SLEEP CENTER

Exclusively at The Sleep Center

You can see the difference with your eyes closed!

3055 SW College Rd Ocala, FL 34474

2255-A Parr Dr The Villages, FL 32162

(across from mall, next to AAA travel)

(466, near Bob Evans by Walgreens)

352.690.2339

352.753.0672

11250 SW 93rd Ct Rd Ocala, FL 34481

17950 US 441 Summerfield, FL 34491

(SR200 & 484, next to Chili’s)

(across from Wal-mart)

352.732.3100

352.245.0025

We have the area's largest mattress selection, including some of the highest quality innerspring, memory foam and latex mattresses.

We also have a large selection of futons, daybeds, headboards, sheets, pillows and more. So come on by and take a nap.

Visit www.TheSleepCenter.biz for extra money-saving offers and to read our testimonials.

Scan here with your smartphone using Microsoft Tag app. Also visit us on Facebook.

Join us Saturday, March 31, 2012, from 10 am to 5 pm at the Florida Horse Park.

Event sanctioned by the Florida BBQ Association and includes professional and amateur “BBQ’ers”. Tickets are $3.00, kids 12 and under are free. Parking is also free. Tickets can be purchased at the gate. All proceeds will benefit the community projects of the The Junior League of Ocala. There will be family entertainment, including a ribeating contest, local food vendors, and LOTS of BBQ... tasting tickets can be purchased at the event. Information can be obtained by calling (352) 494-3463 or by email at jlobbq@gmail.com.

Scan here with your smartphone and visit www. juniorleagueofocala

AD SPONSORED BY THE SLEEP CENTER OCALA

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“Just ask your neighbors.”

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You Pick Color & Style Dozens of Leather Styles & Options Available!

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10651 SE Hwy 441 Belleview, FL 34420

Scan for more information

Your Crew is Ready The early 1960s witnessed the construction of Interstate 4 meandering through Orlando.

At the same time, a group of enterprising teenagers coincidentally decided to build a houseboat. Thus began a collaborative effort: the State of Florida/US Government would provide the materials, and the high schoolers would provide the labor. To minimize confusion and obvious questions, the supplies were “purchased” at night. The dad of Robert Boissoneault unknowingly provided a trailer whose bounty was pulled by hand in the moonlight to the lake’s edge for assembly.

www.acr.org

In reality, remnants of construction trash became the young pirates’ treasure.

The houseboat evolved into a three-story hodgepodge of used empty drums for buoyancy, nails of various length, as well as sheets of plywood with

adherent dried concrete from prior use. Paint was rejected in favor of preserving a more rustic appearance. The only thing every resident on the lake agreed upon was the “ship’s” unequivocal ugliness.

With the assistance from a fivehorsepower motor, the multi-ton barge could maintain a slow half mph forward speed.

It worked… because we were a team devoted to a goal bigger than any one person.

In contrast, today’s medical houseboat of cancer care is recognized nationally for its unequaled excellence, capturing years later the same ageless commitment. We are, together, able to accomplish for your health so much more than could ever be achieved alone.

You always have a choice of which boat to board. If needed, your place on ours is waiting.

Ocala Office 2020 SE 17th St. Ocala FL 34471 352-732-0277 TimberRidge Office 9401 SW Hwy. 200, Bldg. 800 Ocala FL 34481 352-861-2400

The Villages Office 1540 Clemente Court The Villages FL 32159 352-259-2200

Lecanto Office 522 N. Lecanto Hwy. Lecanto FL 34461 352-527-0106

Inverness Office 605 W. Highland Blvd.

Inverness FL 34452 352-726-3400

www.rboi.com

Accredited by the American College of Radiology since August 1998

Good jeans...

it’s in our DNA.

Hudson

Paige

Joe’s Jeans

Level 99

Reuse

NYDJ

405 E Silver Springs Blvd. Suite D | Ocala, FL 34470 www.HerKlosetOcala.com | (352) 629-3211

March2012

Vol14 No3

Features 384 Tiles, One Gargantuan Gift p36

Home Pros Who Know p48 Local home professionals share their expertise.

Marion County’s fourthgraders make a tremendous artistic contribution to the new courthouse annex.

Be Your Own Handyman p63

7 how-to’s to improve your humble abode.

BY AMANDA FURRER

Buy Local, Eat Fresh p40

BY BONNIE KRETCHIK

At SugarTree Farms in northeast Ocala, Bill and Kenne Wells have turned a small plot of land into an abundant producer of vegetables, fruit and herbs.

BY CYNTHIA MCFARLAND

One Man’s Trash… p72

‘Tis the season for yard sales, so why not pick up a few extra bucks? After all, your trash may be someone else’s treasure.

BY MARY ANN DESANTIS

An Ounce of Prevention p88

ON THE COVER

Photo shot on location at Sugar by John Jernigan.

Your Green House p44

When it comes to colon cancer, awareness and taking proven preventive action are the keys to remaining healthy.

Many people think maintaining a green lifestyle is only for those who bring home a big paycheck, but there are several ways you can green your home without having to spend a fortune or make major renovations.

BY BONNIE KRETCHIK

BY JOANN GUIDRY

Cakes on Parade p110

The 2012 ICED competition’s theme, “Masquerade Ball,” will present spectators with a fun and festive parade of cakes decorated in avantgarde and carnival fashion.

BY AMANDA FURRER

mar’12

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March2012 Vol14 No3

Departments The Publisher p20

An inside look at this month’s issue.

p78

The Buzz p23

The real people, places and events that shape our community

BY KEVIN CHRISTIAN, AMANDA FURRER AND BONNIE KRETCHIK

GOINGPLACES p24

Get up to speed at Gainesville’s Gatornationals.

ATHOME p30

Check out the “Net Zero” home in this year’s Parade of Homes.

CLASSACTS p32

A supportive person is recognized and StantonWeirsdale gets an A.

p100

The Pulse p77

Ideas to keep you fit and healthy all year long

BY JOANN GUIDRY & BONNIE KRETCHIK

LOOKINGWELL p78

Fitness made functional.

FEELINGWELL p80

The perils of “no pain, no gain.”

BEINGWELL p84

p32

Recognizing eating disorders and how to seek help.

The Dish p97

Our best recipes, restaurant news and culinary quick bites

p115

BY AMANDA FURRER, BONNIE KRETCHIK & CYNTHIA MCFARLAND

QUICKBITES p98

The Schnitzel Factory cooks up authenticity and Margarita Republic is happenin’.

DININGGUIDE p99

Our area’s finest dining establishments.

p120

The Scene p113

Fishing with family and getting muddy at the Warrior Dash.

BY AMANDA FURRER & BONNIE KRETCHIK

AQUICKQ&A & p115 &A

Behind the scenes at Live Oak International with Chester Weber.

THESCENE:AFTERDARK p126

Up all night at the Insomniac Theatre.

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p84

You can afford the best Marion County has to offer!

Leading the industry with our award-winning designs and dedicated services since 1978, family-owned and operated Armstrong Homes sets the benchmark of quality, beauty and, best of all, personal choice. We Build It Your Way, with features other builders call upgrades, using the finest materials, technologies and labor at every level, so you know that every element of your home will fulfill your highest standards.

Whether you build on your own lot or choose from any of our beautiful communities – from affordable family homes to luxury estates to active adult living – Armstrong Homes has something for everyone in our amazing selection of affordable custom homes from the $90,000s to over $1 million. It’s your family, your lifestyle, your choice.

Call us to make your dream home become a reality.

Brokers are protected with Armstrong Homes’ unique registration system and competitive commission plan.

Corporate Office • 1415 S.W. 17th Street • Ocala, FL 34471 • 352-624-0120 #CBC052226

www.armstronghomes.net

• Extensive treatment of chronic medical problems.

• Personalized treatment programs with appropriate follow-up care.

• A whole-person approach and lifestyle education.

Dr. McEachrane-Gross Board Certified in Family and Preventive Medicine

• Narcotic alternatives for managing long-term pain.

• After-hours house calls upon request.

5850 SE 5th St, Unit 102, Ocala | PepperTreePrimaryCare.com | 352-350-5012 Mon, Tue, Wed: 10am - 7pm • Thu, Fri: 8am - 3pm

urc e: T he M 1 edia Audit 201

MA

Still

E

Why choose Dr. McEachrane-Gross?

COUNT ON Y’ RI

1 MAGAZIN S#

Medicine with a personal touch.

So

March2012

Vol14 No3

ocalastyle.com

PUBLISHER

KATHY JOHNSON / kathy@ocalastyle.com OFFICE/PRODUCTION MANAGER CYNTHIA BROWN / cynthia@ocalastyle.com

EXECUTIVE EDITOR KARIN FABRY-CUSHENBERY karin@ocalastyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR MELISSA PETERSON melissa@ocalastyle.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR JASON FUGATE jason@ocalastyle.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS KRISTEN NETHEN kristen@ocalastyle.com

FOOD EDITOR AMANDA FURRER

JOHN TRIPODI

amanda@ocalastyle.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS SHEILA HARTLEY

HEALTH EDITOR BONNIE KRETCHIK

john@ocalastyle.com

sheila@ocalastyle.com

bonnie@ocalastyle.com

JOHN JERNIGAN

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS KEVIN CHRISTIAN

BRANDON SCRAMBLING

jernigan@ocalastyle.com art@ocalastyle.com

kevin@ocalastyle.com

MARY ANN DESANTIS maryann@ocalastyle.com

JOANN GUIDRY

DIRECTOR OF SALES DEAN JOHNSON

joann@ocalastyle.com

deanjohnson@ocalastyle.com

DEBBIE INGRAM debbie@ocalastyle.com

CYNTHIA MCFARLAND cmcfarland@ocalastyle.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES VICKI BAKER vicki@ocalastyle.com

LORI TANI

FLOORMASTERS WHOLESALE TO THE PUBLIC

We Buy the Truckload So We Can Sell it For Less!

352-748-7444 / US 301 in Wildwood (Between CR 466 & 466A)

ACCOUNTING DOREEN ROCKWELL doreen@ocalastyle.com

DISTRIBUTION DAVE ADAMS dave@ocalastyle.com

OFFICE PHONE 352.732.0073

lori@ocalastyle.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES MICHELLE CHASE michelle@ocalastyle.com

TANYA JONES tanya@ocalastyle.com

SHARON MORGAN sharon@ocalastyle.com

GREG MOSLEY greg@ocalastyle.com

MITZI WELCH mitzi@ocalastyle.com

VISIT OUR NEW SHOWROOM AT FLOORBIZ 14,000 Sq.Ft. Mega-Showroom & Liquidation Center Over 50 - Wood Laminate Specials / Over 300 - Carpet Remnants

9917 Hwy 441, Leesburg WE POWER BUY: SHAW, ARMSTRONG, MOHAWK-UNILIN & QUICKSTEP 18

ocalastyle.com

mar’12

Ocala Style Magazine, March 2012. Published monthly by Ocala Publications Inc., 1007 E. Fort King Street, Ocala, FL 34471. (352) 732-0073.

All contents copyright 2012 by Ocala Publications Inc. All rights reserved. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. For back issues or advertising information, call (352) 732-0073. Return postage must accompany all unsolicited manuscripts and artwork if they are to be returned. Manuscripts are welcomed, but no responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited materials.

“Promotional” and “Promotional Feature” denote a paid advertising feature. Publisher is not responsible for claims and content of advertisements.

N K SHOW OF DES IL A T E D

the

Publisher

KATHYJOHNSON

There’s No Place Like Home

H

ome. For many, it’s a place of refuge from the everyday stresses of work, school and life in general. And for awhile now, due to an ever-changing economy, people have found themselves spending more time at home, whether by choice or necessity.

I consider myself somewhat of a homebody, feeling a great sense of comfort in my surroundings. But lately, spending so much time there, I’ve been noticing things I’d like to fix or replace; giving it kind of a fresh home makeover. Perhaps you’ve experienced something similar.

If an upgrade or home repair is on your to-do list, check out our seven how-to’s on page 63. From installing a dimmer switch to draining your hot water tank, we break it down step by step for those novice do-it-yourself types.

Perhaps you’re not ready to attempt some of the bigger jobs and can use a helping hand, then turn to page 48 for our first ever Home Pros Who Know promotional feature. We’re featuring some of the areas best home industry professionals with great advice on how you can improve your home or office space.

Maybe “greening” your home is what’s on your agenda. Simple steps like collecting rain water to water plants or using chemical-free cleaners to tidy up your space can help keep not only your home safe but the environment safe as well. For even more suggestions, turn to page 44.

Sometimes just replacing accessories can liven up a room. As a fun and inexpensive idea, instead of buying new, try a neighborhood yard sale. As writer Mary Ann DeSantis points out, you never know what you might find. As they say, one man’s trash... Besides, if you realize the green vase just isn’t your style after all, no harm done. Add it to your next yard sale and pass it on to someone else.

If you find you are in need of some inspiration, head to the Marion County Building Industry Association’s Parade of Homes. Running from March 3-18, the parade features some of the newest technology and design ideas for home construction and renovation. It’s a great way to boost our local housing industry, too.

Finally, as our way of giving our readers a great reason to love their homes even more, Ocala Style Magazine, along with sponsor Bud Light, has a special gift for 40 families this month—we’re giving away 40 brand-new, 19inch, LCD televisions.

For details on how to enter and win, turn to page 70.

FOLLOW US @ facebook.com/ocalastyle twitter.com/ocalastyle

Win 1 of 40 TVs! SEE PAGE 70.

We’re Mobile!

Heading out but have to leave the magazine put? Scan this tag and take us with you!

Works with Android phones, iPhones and iPads, too!

How To Use Microsoft Tags Throughout this issue, you will find Microsoft Tags, like the one you see above. Follow these easy directions to get started and join in the scanning fun!

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1.

Using the browser on your smartphone, go to gettag.mobi.

2.

Follow the steps to download the free Microsoft Tag Reader application.

3.

Open the app and scan the tags!

I knew right away Pure Energy Solar was the company of choice!

“Pure Energy provided us with all of the necessary information to make an informed decision and then handled all aspects of the job from start to finish. The project was fast and easy, and we are very pleased with the results!” - Tami Tomlinson, Tomlinson Motor Company (Gainesville) 100% US Made Systems • System Upgrades Available Commercial

Residential

Turnkey Solar Installations by our Pure Energy Solar Team CALL TODAY FOR A FREE SITE ASSESSMENT! - 352-377-6527 • Pay Yourself Instead of the Utility Company • Turn Your Tax Dollars Into Equity for Your Home or Business • 30% Federal Tax Credit (unlimited!)

• 5-year Accelerated Depreciation • Power Outage Protection • Bonus Depreciation • No Hidden Costs Tap into the Sun with Pure Energy Solar!

• Highest Quality Equipment in the Industry

www.PureEnergySolar.com • 352-377-6527 • Fully Insured • Solar License # CVC56695 • Pure Energy Solar International, Inc.

DISABLED?

Is your insurance company denying your claim?

Don’t fight alone. Let us help you.

Former Registered Nurse & Prosecutor

Partnering with Your Healthcare Provider to Get Your Disability Benefits Approved!

Practice areas include: • Long Term Disability Insurance Claims • ERISA (Group) Disability Claims • Appeal of Denied Claims • OTR Truck Driver’s Insurance Claims • Negotiation of Lump Sum Settlements

FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION SCAN HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

1531 SE 36th Avenue, Ocala, FL 34471 352.304.5300 | www.cjhenrylaw.com | info@cjhenrylaw.com

ETING…. ITS ABOUT MAKING HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE CHOICES!

Lose Weight & Live Life Now! Physician-Directed Weight Management Programs Medical Spa Botox & Restylane Laser Photofacials Laser Hair Removal Smoothshapes Laser Cellulite Treatments Microdermabrasion Chemical Peels & the new VI Peel Massage Permanent Make-Up

Diets Don’t Work.

It’s about making healthier lifestyle choices.

Michael Holloway, M.D.

MEDICARE ACCEPTED

Weight Management HCG & HGH Injection Programs Other fat-burning injections and prescription appetite suppressants also available.

Lifestyle Solutions Beauty Through Health

2139-B NE 2nd Street, Ocala 22

ocalastyle.com

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352-368-2148 lsmedspa.com

Fast & Furious

Buzz

the

Gearing up for Gator Nationals p24

Julia’s Journey p28

Nettin’ Zero p30

Arbor Day @ 8th Street p32

Ocala Goes Green I Did you know?..

Paper products make up 40 percent of our garbage.

Each ton of recycled paper saves 17 trees, 380 gallons of oil and 3 cubic yards of landfill space.

In a lifetime, the average adult throws away 600 times their weight in garbage.

Recycling one aluminum can saves enough energy to run a TV set for three hours.

A glass bottle can be recycled repeatedly without any loss of quality.

f you haven’t already heard, the city of Ocala will introduce curbside recycling, a project that has been in the works for quite some time, beginning April 2.“ We wanted to do it right. We’ve been trying to do this for years but have been waiting until we could arrange for single-stream recycling, which will make it much easier for residents,” says Jeannine Robbins, manager of the Office of Public Communications for the City of Ocala.

Residents inside city limits will soon be given their new recycling containers along with a second container for trash, as pickup will be

Incubating New Ideas p34

reduced to once a week. The singlestream system means no more sorting through bottles and jars—everything can go in one bin and be placed on the curb, making the whole process as easy as taking out the trash. Here’s a breakdown of what can go into the recycling bin:

and more!

» All cardboard, including cereal boxes and clean pizza boxes

» Newsprint (including inserts), magazines and catalogs

» Junk mail and telephone books » Paper and plastic bags » Chipboard, paperboard and a variety of different papers

» » » »

Plastics numbered 1-7 Glass (clear, green, amber) Aluminum Bi-metal containers and cans, including aerosol cans

» Plastic buckets, tubs and toys

Source: marioncountyfl.org

mar’12

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Buzz

the

GOINGPLACES

SLIP INTO THE DRIVER’S SEAT JACK BECKMAN drives for Don Schumacher Racing and is one of the top nitro Funny Car drivers in the sport, having won the Super Comp national championship in the Lucas Oil Series and the Division 7 Super Comp championship.

He holds the all-time fastest speed at 333.66mph on the 1/4-mile run and hit 318.99mph on the 1,000-foot track. He took some time to educate us on this intense four seconds.

How did you get involved in drag racing?

I went to my first race at 7 years old and have been hooked ever since.

REV YOUR ENGINES

H

ow many events can you think of that have been going strong for over 40 years and have been the site of several record-setting performances?

If you’ve managed to name a few, then you obviously get out more than most of us. But for those of you still stumped, here’s the answer: the TIRE KINGDOM NHRA GATORNATIONALS! The 43rd Annual Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals, held just 50 miles north near Gainesville, is the traditional east coast opener and the first of 16 Pro Stock Motorcycle and 10 Pro Mod races on the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series tour. Every year diehard fans stock up on earplugs and forego spring break beach destinations to see these amped-up autos reach record-breaking speeds.

This year celebrates the 20th anniversary of Kenny Bernstein’s epic 300mph pass in 1992. And with a history of record setting—and shattering—at the Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals, fans can expect to see plenty of heart-pounding excitement!

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Why drag racing?

I love all motorsports. If it has an engine, I love it.

But I took my first run at 19 and just kept going.

There’s something about it that I can’t describe. The sound, the smell, the way you feel when the car accelerates—it’s the rock concert of motorsports.

How many events do you go to during a competition season?

We hit 23 events all over the country.

Who travels with you?

Each team consists of 10 guys, including the driver.

Why so many people on the team?

Every time the car makes a run, either in practice or the race, the entire engine needs to be taken apart and put back together.

How often do you practice?

Every time the car makes a run it costs between $10,000 and $20,000, so we don’t practice often.

A lot of it is visualization. You have to visualize the experience. For the audience, it’s only four seconds—to us it’s a lot longer.

Describe what it feels like to go 300mph.

It’s hard to put into words; it’s unbelievable.

Picture being on the fastest roller coaster you can imagine only you’ve got 5G force against your body. It’s very intense.

Picture being on the fastest roller coaster you can imagine only you’ve got 5G force against your body. It’s very intense.

—KENNY BERNSTEIN

Mar

8-11

Set A Record!

Notable records achieved at Gatornationals include: » » » »

First 260mph Top Fuel and Funny Car runs in 1984 First 270mph Top Fuel pass in 1986 First 300mph Top Fuel pass in 1992 2011 saw the top 14 speeds in pro stock history and the five quickest speeds in pro stock motorcycle history.

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Getting To Know Your Government The March 22 application deadline for the 2012 OCALA CITIZENS ACADEMY is fast approaching.

This free, seven-week program will address virtually every facet of city government. When the course is completed, participants not only will have a good overall view of city operations but also an understanding of the challenges that face the community.

Attendees will learn what is being done to promote economic development, hear from top

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Do you need to accumulate some community service hours? If so, the OCALA RECREATION & PARKS DEPARTMENT has plenty of opportunities for you.

Youth sports instructors, golf assistants, citizen rangers, event assistants and art ambassadors are but a few of the volunteer opportunities available on a regular basis.

For additional information, visit ocalafl.org/recpark or mydiscoverycenter.org and click on the volunteer tab.

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city administrators and elected officials, visit a fire station, police department, water treatment plant and other sites, and learn the challenges that face the city’s budget.

Classes are 6-8pm every Thursday from April 5 through May 17.

If interested, visit the city’s website at ocalafl.org to register or contact Sonny Allen at (352) 401-3978 or sallen@ocalafl.org.

Those who travel through or visit the downtown area cannot help but notice all the work going on along Fort King Street. The street is being repaved, sidewalks are being revamped, water mains are being replaced, new storm piping is being installed, curbing is being added… come on, don’t tell us you haven’t noticed!

Well, perhaps what you have not noticed is that this $1.6-million project is more than replacing and upgrading infrastructure, as important as that is. While at it, the city is using the opportunity to improve the aesthetics and ambiance of the street. Such touches as brick paver street crossings, decorative street lighting, landscaping and underground electrical wiring will make the street more attractive and functional and will be similar to those recently made along Broadway. Hopefully, the improvements will entice more businesses to locate downtown.

Mar

17

AGREEN Event

Mark your calendars now for the March 17 O’cala’s St. Patrick’s Day Festival on the downtown square. The event takes place from 4-9pm and will feature live music, food and family-friendly activities. Wear your green and bring a friend!

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GIVINGBACK

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Julia’s Journey

By Amanda Furrer

A local family copes with a daughter’s extremely rare diease.

worldwide. NPC is diagnosed when a person ulia Kain cites playing with her cousins lacks a proficient protein that processes cholesand camping as her favorite pastimes. terol in the cells. The cholesterol buildup results But her most favorite hobby, Julia feels, in the clogging of neuro-pathways and eventually requires a demonstration. leaves the patient robbed of mobility, memory “I like counting money,” says the plucky 12 and speech, requiring a feeding tube for nourishyear old. ment. Children diagnosed with NPC rarely make She whips out a wad of green bills, then it to age 20 and many die before age 10. counts them aloud in concentration. When There are only two NPC specialists in the finished, she fans her cash for all to see before U.S. Every year, Julia visits the Mayo Clinic zipping it back inside her pink change purse. in Minnesota, where NPC specialist Dr. Her parents, Jason and Tonya Kain, are Marc Patterson monitors her condition. Julia perplexed by Julia’s fascination with counting also visits The National Institute of Health money but are accustomed to their daughter’s in Maryland every six surprises. months to participate in Born on February 29, an NPC study.

2000, the Kains describe To slow the progrestheir Julia as a prankster, sion of NPC, Julia takes always full of laughter with an appetite for tacos. It’s difficult Zavesca, which costs over to fathom that only this past $33,000 per month. The medicine comes in two October, Julia was diagnosed movie theater candy-sized with an incurable disease.

L-R: Rebecka, Jason, Julia & Tonya Kain boxes.

At 7 months, Julia had a “We joke that slightly enlarged spleen after Julia’s medicine is equivalent to the cost of getting over a cold. Julia’s pediatrician said her my Camaro,” says Jason. “You’re taking my condition was normal. Clumsy and a restless Camaro!” he says to Julia. sleeper, when 3-year-old Julia did forward rolls While insurance covers some expenses, on the rug, her eyes would stay rolled back in Jason and Tonya estimate combined costs will her head when she righted herself. Though the exceed $8,500 a year. To raise money, The Julia Kains’ concerns were dismissed by doctors, Marie Kain Trust sells wristbands and will they knew deep down her condition was be holding upcoming fundraising events on anything but ordinary. From kindergarten to March 3 and 31. third grade her IQ seemed to be declining.

As a leap year baby, Julia finally turned “Doctors kept saying, ‘Give her this drug,’ 3 this year. It’ll be four years until Julia’s next ‘She has ADD,’ ‘She has ADHD,’” says Tonya, “birthday.” In four years, anything can happen.

“But my gut just told me there was something “She’s handled this extremely well,” Jason different.” says, “It’s a huge emotional rollercoaster, but In October 2011, Julia’s problems equated to we’ve been fortunate. We’ve been surrounded a devastating diagnosis: Niemann-Pick Disease by really great people. You appreciate every Type C (NPC), an extremely rare neurodemoment you have.” generative disease with only 500 cases known

WANT TO HELP? Help Julia by making a donation at juliasjourney.net.

Promote NPC awareness by wearing a wristband, which can be purchased for $5 at any of the fundraising events listed to the right. To learn more about NPC, visit the National Niemann-Pick Disease Foundation’s website at nnpdf.org.

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The OCALA FOREST EAGLES CLUB will hold a yard sale at 8am, serving smoked chicken, baked beans and potato salad for $8 and pork ribs for $15.

Enjoy live music and fun-filled activities. Table space is $5. Food will be served 11am-6pm.

Mar

3

JULIA’S JOURNEY POKER RUN AND SPAGHETTI DINNER will take place at the Ocala Shrine Club. Visit juliasjourney.net or email hope@juliajourney.net for more details.

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ATHOME

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L-R: Jeanne Krebs, Dr. Girard Krebs, Palmira Bennett, Jim Bennett

D

uring this year’s Marion County Building Industry Association’s PARADE OF HOMES, you’ll get to see some of the latest designs and trends in home building. And while some ideas may knock your socks off, others may leave you less than inspired—depending on your preferences.

But one idea that should intrigue even the toughest of critics is Dr. Girard Krebs’ home, known as the “Net Zero” home. Dr. Krebs, a former professor of ecology at Ohio University, and Jim Bennett of Bennett Construction Services Inc. have designed and built a home in hope of achieving net zero energy usage.

“It took eight months of research with some of the top experts in multiple fields to select the proper building materials and techniques,” says Dr. Krebs. His home, fitted with highly reflective shingles and windows, a geothermal system for heating and cooling and energy-efficient insulation among many other energy-saving components, is located in the Lexington Downs subdivision in Ocala.

“One of the most interesting things about this house is that it just looks like a house, but the design and techniques implemented make it so much more,” says Jim. The house was not designed to be ornate or over the top but to be as efficient as possible.

“We chose the materials that would give us the best rate of return,” explains Jim, which is calculated based on each energy-saving feature of the house.

“The solar panels on the barn roof wouldn’t save nearly as much energy if the house weren’t as insulated as it is,” says Dr. Krebs regarding the southward-facing panels

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on his roof. The panels collect energy and pump it back into the power grid during daylight hours. At night, his home will, in effect, run on the energy that has been collected throughout the day.

And while the solar panels are an impressive feature, Jim explains that it is the envelope of the home that is the most important in terms of efficiency. The walls are made from foam-injected block and are ¾-inch thicker than standard walls to prevent air exchange.

The insulation in the attic is sprayed on the underside of the roof deck, resulting in an attic temperature that only differs from the living space’s by a few degrees.

Consequently, the air conditioning ducts only have to pump air through an 80˚F attic versus a 130˚F attic in the summer.

Another energy-saving feature is the home’s geothermal system. The system works by pulling heat from or injecting it into the ground, which is a constant 70˚F in Florida, to heat or cool the house. Traditional HVAC units utilize the outside air, which can be up to 100˚F in the summer or in the 30s in the winter, making it far more costly to regulate these air temperatures.

“Sure, you have to put money into these techniques up front, but they will eventually pay for themselves,” says Dr. Krebs regarding the cost of implementing such green measures.

And both Dr. Krebs and Jim stress that you don’t have to do all of these renovations to make your home more efficient. Just one or two improvements can make a big difference.

Mar

3-18

WANT TO SEE THE HOME? This home, along with many others, will be available to view during the PARADE OF HOMES, which takes place March 3-18. For more information, visit mcbia.org or call (352) 694-4133.

For more information on the Net Zero home, visit Bennett Construction Service’s website at bennettconstr.com.

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CLASSACTS

Student achievements and district news that shape Marion County public schools.

By Kevin Christian

Eighth Street Palms

Not Just Cereal for South Ocala

Know those Box Tops for Education? The ones on top of cereal boxes and other grocery products? They’re worth money. And for South Ocala Elementary, they’re worth $1,000!

The school received a giant check from the local Ford dealer, which participates in the program as a national sponsor. Principal Laura Burgess and students graciously accepted the generous donation, which will help provide “Wii Time” for kids showing great behavior and respect on campus.

Staying Calm Under Pressure

Arbor Day at Eighth Street Elementary means a palm seedling for dozens of fourth-graders in the school’s forestry program. Students learned about the sabal palm (or cabbage palm) and its importance in Florida and then received a tiny tree to plant at home. Special thanks to Scott Cameron, a State Farm agent in Ocala, for donating 55 seedlings.

STEPHEN FLANNER, an 8-year-old thirdgrader at Harbour View Elementary,

looks right at home with his fire helmet and Marion County Fire Rescue Engine 30.

Local firefighters honored Stephen recently for his actions during a family emergency.

His mother lost consciousness, so he dialed 911, provided his address and gave firefighters other important information—all while staying calm and cool under pressure.

Support Person of the Year MARQUITA JONES, Fessenden Elementary’s receptionist, is this year’s School-Related Employee of the Year. Jones serves as the school’s first contact with the public. Her colleagues describe her as respected, cheerful and professional. She attended Fessenden as a child and graduated from Florida State University with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance. Nearly 50 other contenders vied for the district’s highest non-teaching honor.

Vets Vested in Schools

These veterans, and dozens of others in our community, play major roles in helping our students learn about history, the world and patriotic pride. This group, recently recognized at a Marion County School Board meeting, includes JEFFREY ASKEW (third from left), who oversees all veterans services for Marion County.

Askew and his colleagues bring life to programs like Veterans in the Classroom and the annual Veterans Day program put on by the school district each year.

Other finalists included (l-r): Timothy Cooke (Lake Weir High), Maribel Lopez-Cuevas (Marion Oaks Elementary), Lori Reese (Shady Hill Elementary), Heather Tedder (Stanton-Weirsdale Elementary), and Liz Mannino (Sunrise Elementary).

Class Acts = Best of Show Superintendent JIM YANCEY presented a “Best of Show” award to KEVIN CHRISTIAN, the public relations officer for Marion County Public Schools. “Class Acts,” which Christian writes each month for Ocala Style Magazine, won a “2012 Best of Show” from SUNSPRA, the Sunshine State Public Relations Association.

“Class Acts” has repeatedly captured state and national awards since it started 10 years ago.

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A+ For Achievement

You’re looking at students and staff members at Stanton-Weirsdale Elementary, all lined up to show their latest school grade! Earning an “A” from Florida’s Department of Education is no easy task, and keeping an “A” is even harder! The school has earned an “A” twice in the last three years.

Here’s hoping they earn another “A” this year.

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BUSINESSBRIEFS BRIEFS

New Portal for Entrepreneurialism

A

remarkable and innovative project initiated by Ocala’s CHAMBER OF COMMERCE and supported by the City of Ocala and Marion County is getting the community abuzz with its prospects to strengthen our local economy. The Power Plant Business Accelerator Program is the community’s first business incubator that will provide on-site office space and an array of services to support local entrepreneurs.

The Power Plant’s name derives from its home base in the 1916 Electric Generation Plant, a sizable facility with multiple offices where startup and existing businesses will be provided with rental space, conference rooms, mentors, fiber-Internet services and technical support. The non-profit organization will produce more jobs and opportunities for recruitment.

A community’s success with its business incubator is built on the nurturing of ideas and the synergy of existing businesses. Power Plant Manager Kevin Reed stresses that a local economy’s success depends on three key components: great ideas, a broad range of skillsets and access to capital. The Power Plant’s clients will be able to access capital through the First Step Fund, Fund ONE (Fund Ocala’s New Entrepreneur) and/or through the SBA or area banks.

Business incubators have been proven to have a positive impact for local economies. According to the University of Central Florida’s economic impact study, $5.25 is returned to the government via property and sales tax for every $1 invested into incubators. The study also shows that with every job created by the incubator, another job is created in the Central Florida region. Power Plant CEO Jaye Baillie sees the organization as an economic development strategy that will energize the entrepreneurs in our community.

Clinic Erected for Families in Need The new medical center LANGLEY HEALTH SERVICES, a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), will open fall 2012 in Silver Spring Shores. The new clinic will accept all major insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, Tri-Care and a sliding scale option for anyone completely uninsured. Services provided will include adult and pediatric care needs, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy and radiology.

Local Physician Takes on State-Level Role

Career Move for a New Year

In December 2011, Gainesville plastic and reconstructive surgeon DR. JASON ROSENBERG of The Orthopedic Institute was elected as the 2012 chairman of the Florida Board of Medicine, a 15-member panel appointed by the governor to oversee the state’s medical doctors. Dr. Rosenberg is board certified in plastic and reconstructive surgery and specializes in microsurgical breast reconstruction for women with breast cancer.

As of this past January, ANN SPANG, former vice president of corporate relations of the Ocala/Marion County Economic Development Corporation (EDC), has taken up her new position as assistant director for community relations at the Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition’s Ocala facility. She served as the EDC’s vice president of corporate relations for 17 years.

A Diamond in the Rough Last November, the QUARRY AT BLACK DIAMOND RANCH was ranked No. 15 on Golfweek’s annual list of the “Best Residential Courses” in America. This prestigious honor makes The Quarry the highest-ranked residential course out of the more than 1,200 courses in Florida and puts Black Diamond Ranch in the upper echelon of U.S. golf communities.

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MRMC = Top 5% HealthGrades, the nation’s leading independent health care ratings organization recently named Munroe Regional Medical Center a Distinguished Hospital for Clinical Excellence™, an accolade that’s reserved for only the top 5 percent of hospitals nationwide.

To be named a Distinguished Hospital for Clinical Excellence, a hospital must show that it is among the best overall for clinical performance across 26 medical diagnoses and procedures that the organization rates.

“Munroe Regional Medical Center can be proud of the contributions of its physicians, nurses and staff in achieving outstanding patient care,” says Kristin Reed, MPH, HealthGrades vice president of hospital ratings and author of the study. “The Marion County community is fortunate to have access to some of the highest quality hospital care in the nation.”

“Providing our patients and the communities we serve with high-quality health care is at the forefront of everything we do at Munroe Regional,” adds Steve Purves, president and CEO of Munroe Regional. “We are proud to be the only hospital in Marion, Lake, Sumter, Citrus and Alachua counties to receive this prestigious distinction from HealthGrades.”

A Gift From The Irish Last month, a delegation traveled from Newbridge, Ireland, Ocala’s twin town, to help promote an exchange of ideas related to areas such as culture, economic development, tourism and education. During the delegation’s week-long excursion in Ocala, the group toured many local businesses and visited with dignitaries.

During the February 21 City Council meeting, the IRISH DELEGATION received a proclamation from Mayor Kent Guinn and a framed print of Ocala’s famed horse “Needles.”

The Irish delegation presented a gift of an exquisite rug featuring their champion horse to the city of Ocala. The rug was made in Ireland by Curragh Carpet.

Featured in the photo from left to right are: Councillor Mick Deely, Gerry Cash, Councillor Fiona O’Loughlin, Ocala Mayor Kent Guinn, Councillor Murty Aspell, Newbridge Mayor Damian Molyneaux, Dan O’Donovan, Marian Deely, Ciara Daffey, Tony O’Halloran, Cristina Alferez and Donna Delahunty.

A Night Of Honors

On February 17, in a crowded ballroom at the Hilton Ocala, MELISSA BUMBACH, a chorus teacher from Howard Middle School, was named Marion County’s 2012 Golden Apple Teacher of the Year. Melissa has four years of teaching experience on her résumé, two of which were in Marion County. She has a bachelor’s degree in music education from Palm Beach Atlantic University and a master’s in choral conducting from the University of South Florida. This year, Bumbach led her school’s efforts to win $10,000 in the “Glee Give A Note Foundation” grant competition.

Congratulations, Melissa!

The other finalists for Marion County’s teacher of the year included Allison Briggs, a fifth-grade social studies and reading teacher at Shady Hill Elementary; Lori Conrad, a kindergarten and first-grade teacher at Dr. N.H. Jones Elementary; Stephanie DeVilling, an eighthgrade advanced language arts teacher at Fort King Middle; and Joe Moses, a fifth-grade science teacher at Wyomina Park Elementary.

Also honored was Marion County’s Rookie Teacher of the Year, Rebecca Sirolli, a first-grade teacher at South Ocala Elementary. Rebecca has a bachelor’s in elementary education from the University of Central Florida.

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384 TILES,ONE GIFT

GARGANTUAN

By Amanda Furrer Photos by Brandon Scrambling

S

ecurity guards, metal detectors, an X-ray machine; entering the Marion County Judicial Center is far from a comforting experience. Though not as dramatic as a Law and Order episode, I find the judicial center’s atmosphere more somber than inviting. But as my heels continue clacking on the cool tile floor, I soon see splashes of color and familiar places. I stop and marvel at a gorgeous quilt displayed on the wall. And look, isn’t that a painting of The Orange Shop on SR 200?

Each piece of artwork has a story behind it, and the pieces hanging in the courthouse share personal stories related to our home, its residents and landmarks. The newest piece is a contribution from our future leaders of tomorrow: Marion County’s fourth-grade students.

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In Photo: Ruth Ann Dexheimer, Dr. Joanne Cornell-Ohlman, David Ellspermann and Katie Glynn

A Proposal

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In Photo: Faith & Hope Runyon In Photo: Essence Rodriquez & Dylan Menard

ack in fall 2009, Judge of County Court R. James McCune, Jr. was approached by Marion County Administrator Lee Niblock to head a subcommittee to collect local art for the new annex of the judicial center.

During my visit, Judge McCune taps into his office computer, sifting through two years of emails. “The Courthouse Art Project – A Proposal” was sent on October 30, 2009 to initiate a plan to organize artwork for the judicial center. The goal was to gather enough artwork before the new courthouse addition was completed in January 2010. The Marion Courthouse Art Selection Subcommittee, or MaCASSo, broke off into separate sections to acquire pieces for different areas of the new annex that would reflect the community’s history, residents and culture.

“We worked together to engage different parts of Marion

County’s demography and geography,” says Judge McCune.

A broad-based invitation for art was sent out with a quick response date. Soon, patrons of art and local artists got involved. With 100 responses, MaCASSo was faced with the task of reviewing artwork to feature in the courthouse.

No taxpayer money was used to obtain artwork. Instead, the Marion County Bar Association and Fine Arts For Ocala, or FAFO, financially supported the project and all pieces were gifted. Because of the abundant influx of pieces artists wanted to showcase in the center, a catalog was created for bar members to browse through and choose which pieces they would like to donate.

Gradually, the new annex was furbished with a diverse collection of artwork alluding to old Marion County, pastoral scenes of horse country and moving portraits. As the walls became less bare, however, a puzzle piece seemed to be missing.

With the desire to represent all groups, the inclusion of children’s artwork was soon brought up.

Beauty in a Scary Place

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n a visit to Shands at the University of Florida at the end of 2009, child psychologist Dr. Joanne Cornell-Ohlman became inspired when she saw painted tiles as a part of Shands’ collection of artwork.

Every year, fourth-grade classes are taught about state hishis tory as a part of their curriculum.

What if Marion County’s fourthgraders could contribute to the courthouse art project by painting tiles of their own while incorporatincorporat ing what they have learned about Florida’s history?

“What a great way to involve children,” says Dr. Cornell-Ohlman in her office on SW 27th Avenue, “especially in a place that can be so scary for them to visit.”

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The cozy atmosphere of her room where she sees her patients (couch included) is worlds away from the authoritative manner of the judicial center. I myself become a little nervous inside the courthouse. Dr. Cornell-Ohlman nods in agreement.

“It’s a scary place for anybody,” she says. Involving children in the courthouse art project would show the community how much the judicial center values their artwork.

Not everyone, however, was quick to give the go ahead. Judge McCune addresses the dilemma.

“Some didn’t consider it fine art,” says Judge McCune. “We’re not trying to create a gallery; we are trying to create a collection to celebrate our community. There’s

no finer reflector of who we are than the kids themselves.”

There was also the concern of acquiring materials. The tiles called for a substantial amount of clay and glazes, as well as kilns. Many of these resources weren’t accessible to Marion County’s art teachers.

Fortunately, the Bar Association and C and R Ceramics sponsored the project. Susan Hunter of C and R Ceramics gifted all the needed materials at her cost.

After approval was finally given for children to participate in the courthouse art project, teachers and students worked over the course of two years to create a tremendous gift for our community.

Art Lessons

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o work out the kinks before other schools hopped on board, Madison Street Academy of Visual and Performing Arts became the “test pilot” school. Art teacher Ruth Ann Dexheimer assigned each of her fourth-graders a different subject relating to what they learned in their Florida history lessons. After they sketched out their assignment, the students transferred the image to the clay, cut it out and attached it to a tile. The tiles were then fired in a kiln, painted with under-glazes and fired again.

“I think the students were excited to connect clay, drawing, social studies and Florida history all together,” says Ruth Ann. “Patience, hard work and deep learning developed an appreciation of the arts that will long be remembered in their minds and in the community.”

Ruth Ann, Paulette Millhorn and Dr. Cornell-Ohlman collaborated on seeing the project come through. Alongside the students was Dr. Cornell-Ohlman herself, helping out with painting and snapping photos.

“Joanne (Dr. Cornell-Ohlman) was a very important community leader in the whole project,” says Ruth Ann. In fall 2010, Ruth Ann led a workshop for the elementary art teachers, who were enthusiastic to take part. Of the 28 elementary schools in Marion County 19 participated in the student tile project.

In Photo: Jagger Johnson

A Mosaic of Florida History

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wenty-four boards, each weighing about 20 pounds and holding 16 tiles, are hung together on a wall of the judicial center’s atrium opposite the seating area.

The bright colors and animated images capture wandering eyes and give off cheer.

I stand before the students’ work with Clerk of the Circuit Court David Ellspermann, chairman of MaCASSo, and Staff Attorney Katherine “Katie” Glynn, a MaCASSo coordinator. We admire the artwork, pointing out familiar state symbols.

“Chief Osceola is here somewhere,” says Katie, scanning the tiles. There are flags with the state’s seal, manatees, horses, oranges and a reference to Fort Clinch. The students seem to have covered everything about Florida’s history, including its wildlife and agriculture. Panthers and Plant City strawberries can be spotted next to renditions of the space shuttle. Together, the 384 tiles create one big piece of artwork.

After two years in the making, the students’ art project came to fruition this year with a public ceremony on January 26, attended by the fourth-graders,

their families and all of the people who collaborated to see this vision come true.

“The tiles tell stories of Florida and Marion County through the eyes of kids,” says Judge McCune.

“They’ll diffuse people’s angst when they come for cases, giving them an uplifting moment and a better handle on the situation.

What a beautiful gift that is!”

“It’ll become a landmark for the kids,” says Dr. CornellOhlman. The tiles will definitely be a source of comfort and relieve tension for people who enter the courthouse under dire circumstances. But perhaps the judicial center will see a different kind of visitor with the induction of the students’ tiles. Maybe several years from now, a college student will be studying the court system and visit the judicial center. Maybe he’ll pause before the tiles and remember the special ceremony he went to when he was a fourth-grader.

Smiling, he’ll recall the moment he pulled his mother through the crowd, proudly pointing out his tile on the wall, the one that was a clever portrayal of Chief Osceola.

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BUY LOCAL, EAT

FRESH

BY CYNTHIA MCFARLAND / PHOTOS BY JOHN JERNIGAN It’s a rare occasion when one gets kissed by an alpaca and eats ripe strawberries plucked fresh from the vine all in the same day. Yet, that’s exactly how I started a recent morning.

A cool sunny day found me at SugarTree Farms in northeast Ocala where

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Bill and Kenne (pronounced “Kenny”) Wells have turned a small plot of land into an abundant producer of vegetables, fruit and herbs. A large greenhouse enclosed by protective fabric walls shelters the plants from frosty nights, while additional rows of produce are covered as necessary.

“Precious,” the farm’s personable kitty, strolls along the weed-cloth covered paths, pausing to rub affectionately against Kenne’s leg. As she sprawls in the sunshine to groom herself, I am struck by the sight of a totally satisfied cat sitting beneath a tower of lush green strawberry plants laden with enormous scarlet berries.

“Go ahead, pick one,” Kenne urges.

“Just be sure to get one that’s totally ripe.”

She doesn’t have to tell me twice; my mouth is already watering. I pluck an especially plump berry and savor the explosion of sweet strawberry-ness on

my tongue. I love strawberries, but I’ve never tasted such perfect flavor.

There’s a reason for that, Kenne explains.

“Everything here is totally fresh.

Nothing is picked before it’s ripe, and it hasn’t been on a truck for a week when it gets to you. We like to say it’s

‘THOUSANDS OF MILES FRESHER.’ ”

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he farm currently has about 4,000 strawberry plants; the fruit is a customer favorite.

Florida is second only to California as the country’s largest strawberry-growing area. But those luscious berries are also joined by tomatoes, peppers, broccoli, turnips, cauliflower, Swiss chard, spinach, beets, carrots, onions and more. Basil, rosemary and other herbs burst from the tiered containers, as well SugarTree Farms utilizes hydroponics, a gardening practice that is not limited to growing in water but basically means growing without soil. Bill and Kenne use the patented Verti-Gro® system, featuring “towers” of stacked, rotating Styrofoam pots on an automated watering system. Instead of soil, plants grow in a mixture of coconut fiber and perlite.

“Soil can introduce pests, such as nematodes and fungus,” notes Kenne. “With the coconut fiber and perlite, it’s like starting with a clean slate. Plus, they are all natural and hold moisture better.”

Bill and Kenne start all plants from seeds except for strawberries.

Those are shipped as young plants from Canada and are diseaseresistant varieties especially created for commercial growers.

“We’re not certified organic, but we follow organic practices and use about one-tenth the

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chemicals used in row farming.

There’s no pesticide residue,” adds Bill. “It’s also very minimal water consumption.”

THE ENTHUSIASM OF BILL AND KENNE WELLS is music to the ears

of Tim Carpenter, inventor of the Verti-Gro® system. Growing things is nothing new to Tim, who was raised in Florida and began working in a hydroponic greenhouse in 1958 while attending high school in Tarpon Springs.

Tim learned early on that gardening is all about making the most of space, energy and water.

“By doing it vertically, we did all this in one swoop,” he explains.

After operating a successful hydroponics business in Colorado for 30 years, Tim returned to Florida. In the mid-1990s, he began growing strawberries on a research basis in Plant City using his Verti-Gro® system. The unique vertical growing system was wellreceived; it went on the market in 1996 and has partnered with Epcot for the past 15 years.

“We branched out from there. We mostly do systems for commercial growers, but there’s also a demand by home growers for small units. We build the system to fit budget and size of operation,” says Tim, whose company now has manufacturing plants in the U.S., France, Puerto Rico and South Africa. In Florida, they’ve built systems for 25 hydroponics farmers across the state, including SugarTree Farms.

“They’re doing super in their first year of start-up,” says Tim of Bill and Kenne Wells. “Everybody wants healthy food that’s grown local and tastes good. That’s what we do.”

USING THE VERTI-GRO® SYSTEM

allows SugarTree Farms to produce in 1/4 acre what would require 3 to 4 acres with conventional row farming.

Because the garden occupies a

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smaller footprint, the Wells can protect plants from cold in the winter and use shade cloth in the summer, which means they’ll have specific vegetables when other farms don’t.

Bill and Kenne launched their hydroponics farming venture last year, and the business has been growing (pun intended!) by the proverbial leaps and bounds.

“The big movement lately is ‘buy local, eat fresh.’ Once you start eating fresh produce and taste the flavors, it’s hard to go back to buying grocery store produce,” notes Kenne.

“We looked at the economy and wanted something we could do with the land. We wanted to give back to the community and our neighbors and to offer something fresh and local. Not only is it

fresh, but it didn’t cost fuel to get it to market.”

Bill takes some items to the farmers market in downtown Ocala each Saturday, but the bulk of their produce is sold straight off the farm, which is open to the public on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 5pm.

Everything is harvested and neatly displayed for purchase, so you don’t need time to walk the rows or pick anything yourself. Prices vary, but tend to fall somewhere between “regular” store produce and organic.

Along with their top-selling strawberries, tomatoes are hugely popular with SugarTree Farms’ customers.

“The joke is that people are ‘addicted’ to our tomatoes. I think I’m going to have to start a group,”

“ONCE YOU START EATING FRESH PRODUCE AND TASTE THE FLAVORS, IT’S HARD TO GO BACK TO BUYING GROCERY STORE PRODUCE.” —KENNE WELLS

says Kenne with a laugh. “They just have the best flavor.”

I can testify to that. The tomatoes I took home were divine; you can practically taste the sunshine in each bite.

BEFORE MY VISIT TO SUGARTREE FARMS, I couldn’t have told you

how brussels sprouts grew or what a broccoli plant looked like, and I sure couldn’t have identified Swiss chard. Nor did I realize that Florida strawberry plants can produce as early as October.

That all changed with one visit.

“We don’t want to just sell produce but to educate people so they can be more self-sustaining.

We try to get the kids involved, too; you never know who you’ll touch and what spark you’ll get started,” says Kenne, who is happy to give advice to people who purchase their own Verti-Gro® kits.

While most people love fresh produce, not everyone wants to put forth the effort of growing their own. This is where SugarTree Farms’ “Farm to Family” program comes in handy.

I’d heard about communitysupported agriculture (CSA) before but didn’t realize it was available right here in Marion County. CSA is an ideal way to keep your family in fresh, seasonal food by purchasing directly from a farm without the “middle man” of the grocery store. SugarTree Farms offers a 10-week CSA season membership for just $250. (Pay in full prior to first-week pickup and you’ll get a 10 percent discount.)

“Basically, we’re contract growing for our customers. You really become part of the farm,” Kenne explains. “Each week, we provide a box of fresh produce, enough for a family of four for one week. You just come pick it up (during farm hours) when it’s ready. If I put in something unusual, like rutabaga or turnips, I’ll include a recipe on how to use it.

It encourages people to learn about different things and try them.”

Another benefit of the Farm to Family membership is that you also get a 10 percent discount if you buy something else, such as the homemade jams or relishes Kenne and Donna have cooked up.

She doesn’t want anything to go to waste. For example, if tomatoes have a nick or blemish that makes them unsuitable for selling whole, but doesn’t diminish their quality, they may be turned into preserves. Try slathering some of that onto a hunk of fresh foccacia bread and

adding a thick slice of cheese… instant farm-fresh sandwich!

SUGARTREE FARMS IS LOCATED ON THE SAME 10 ACRES as Fountain

Oaks Alpacas, which is owned by Donna Thurman-Maloney, who partners with Bill and Kenne in the produce venture.

The alpaca side of the business, which offers sales, breeding and boarding, is where I ended up being kissed by a baby alpaca. Some 65 alpacas—many with champion bloodlines—call the farm home, and yes, they all have names. A contented alpaca makes a soft humming sound, something I never realized until I walked through the herd.

“Alpacas are herd animals and must have a companion. They are interesting to watch, gentle, inquisitive and easy to handle,” says Donna, who appreciates the fact that alpacas offer a no-kill way to be part of the livestock industry.

Because of the shape of their two-toed feet and their light weight (adults typically weigh between 100 to 200 pounds), they are much easier on the land than horses or cattle and don’t pull up the grass roots as they forage.

Along with their hay and grain, the alpacas eat the produce scraps and trimmings, so nothing is wasted. These alpacas are show quality, but they also make excellent pets, with prices starting at $350.

Members of the camelid family (along with camels and llamas), alpacas are bred for their fiber, which is spun into yarn and used to make knitted and woven goods, such as blankets, sweaters, socks, gloves, hats, scarves and more. Naturally water repellent, alpaca fleece is warmer than sheep’s wool and doesn’t have wool’s annoying “prickly” characteristic. Because it has

no lanolin, alpaca fleece wins points with consumers who have sensitive skin.

Although there are two types of alpacas (huacava, pronounced “wa-kee-a” and suri, pronounced “sur-ee”), most of the alpacas at Fountain Oaks are suris. Huacava fiber is short, dense and “teddy bear like,” and suri fiber is luxuriously silky and clings together in “pencillike” locks. Each alpaca produces anywhere from 5 to 15 pounds of fiber per year, and colors run the gamut, from jet black to white, silver-gray, fawn, brown and more.

This provides beautiful natural colors for creating items without the use of dyes.

Visitors to the farm can find objects made from alpaca fiber offered for sale, along with the fresh produce. The farm also has chickens and sells fresh eggs.

Tempting as it was, I didn’t go home that day with an alpaca, but I did leave well-stocked with fresh veggies and those delectable strawberries.

Bill and Kenne Wells hit a homerun when they decided to launch a home-grown business that gives back to their community. They’ve also made it a lot easier (and tastier!) for people who have vowed to eat healthier this year. Tomato, anyone?

WANT TO LEARN MORE? SUGARTREE-FARMS.COM / FOUNTAINOAKSALPACAS.COM / VERTIGRO.COM

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N E E R G K TCHI E R K NNIE

BY BO

Americans have always strived to achieve greatness. With our emphasis on bigger and better, we’ve designed everything from grand structures to miniscule music players. And let’s not even begin to discuss what our handheld devices are capable of!

But with advancements in science and technology have also come a great amount of energy expenditure and waste.

Over the past decade, an emphasis on “green” or “sustainable” living has been infiltrating our way of thinking. It’s now the norm to use recyclable grocery bags, and quite a bit of paper mail is now delivered via email instead. Within the last few years, maintaining a green home has become increasingly popular.

Unfortunately, many people want to get in on the green home craze but still think this lifestyle is only for those who bring home a big paycheck.

“There are several steps anyone can do to make their home more green or sustainable,” says founding member of the Marion County Branch of the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) Charlie Thoman. The USGBC specializes in advocating and educating people about energy-saving techniques in their homes and businesses. Charlie is the senior project manager at K.P. Studio Architect in Ocala and is a LEED-accredited (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) professional.

He stresses that there are ways people can be more green without having to spend a fortune or make major renovations.

And more and more companies and manufacturers are offering energy-efficient and green products. Couple that with the fact that you can get rebates and credits once you do go green and it doesn’t make sense not to.

RE E H YW R E V E

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uring one of Florida’s famous summer downpours, it’s easy to overlook the need to conserve water. Unfortunately, not all of Florida’s water is usable, and, while you may never leave home without an umbrella in July, during the winter, you may not see a drop of rain for weeks.

“We are lucky to have an abundance of water around us, but it’s quickly becoming a rare commodity,” says Charlie.

One of the simplest things you can do outside your home to reduce water usage is to check your current irrigation system for any leaks. It’s also important to know the watering restrictions in your area.

If you have purchased a new home or are planning to re-landscape your current home, consider native plants. Drought-resistant plants that are native to Central Florida won’t need to be watered as often, thus saving on your water usage. Or, consider replacing greenery altogether with something unique like a rock garden or patio.

“Something else to consider with elaborate landscaping is the fertilizers and products used on your plants,” says Charlie. “Chemicals in fertilizers wash off and wind up back in our water supply. If you use native plants that can easily grow here, you won’t need fertilizers." Of course, Charlie says, if you have to use fertilizer, the best option is organic.

If your landscaping does require consistent watering, consider rain harvesting. Water from your gutters can be stored in rain barrels and used to water plants. It’s inexpensive and doesn’t only conserve water but will also save you money on your next utility bill.

OTHER WATER SAVING TECHNIQUES • Don’t let water run while you are brushing your teeth.

• Don’t rinse dishes before loading them in the dishwasher. Newer models can handle grimier dishes.

• Only run the washing machine or dishwasher when you have a full load.

• Use a broom to clean your driveway instead of a hose.

• Replace showerheads in your home with water-efficient ones.

• Make sure all faucets, inside and out, are not leaking, and turn them all the way off when not in use.

ES N I H MAC

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ppliances such as washing machines and dishwashers have made household chores a no-brainer. With the flick of a switch, you’re good to go. But would you feel so apt to freely run these miracle machines if they ran on money? That is basically what they are doing. Older versions of appliances utilize a great amount of energy that shows up on your electric bill every month.

Refrigerators and air conditioning units are the biggest culprits.

“The best option is to go with an Energy Star-rated appliance,” says Charlie. Energy Star is the joint program between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy.

Appliances achieve an Energy Star rating when they pass energyefficient guidelines set by these two groups.

“It’s worth the initial extra money for a couple of reasons,” says Charlie. He explains that electric companies often offer rebates for homes with Energy Star-rated appliances, and the product uses much less energy than traditional appliances, so there is a savings on the utility bill.

And newer models are of a higher quality, meaning they won’t need to be replaced as quickly.

If new appliances aren’t in your near future, there are plenty of other energy-saving techniques that will add up in the long run.

Implementing just a few of these

can save you hundreds of dollars a year on your utility bill and are also better practices for the environment.

• Check your ductwork. If there are leaks in the heating and cooling ducts in your home, you may as well just open a door or a window while the unit is running. Properly sealing and insulating all ducts can improve the efficiency of your system by 20 percent.

• Be sure to change air filters regularly to improve airflow efficiency. Filters should be changed every three months but should be checked every month. If they are dirty, change them sooner.

• Install a programmable thermostat.

The City of Ocala offers a $25

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N O I T SOLU rebate for homes with programmable units and claims that they can save customers up to $180 a year on their electric bills.

• Put a timer on your water heater if you are not going to need hot water throughout the day. There’s no reason to keep heating water that won’t be needed for several hours.

• Consider a windmill. Small windmills can generate enough energy to run an outlet or two and are also great green selling features.

For a complete list of rebates from the City of Ocala and many other energy-saving tips, visit ocalafl.org. Check your electricity company’s website for rebates and tax incentives.

FOR SELFPROCLAIMED “GREEN GEEKS,” check out some of the apps available on your smartphones that can control your home thermostats even when you are not there, ensuring that you will come home to just the right temperature every time. Also check out “The Nest,” a smart thermostat that learns your patterns and adjusts itself to your liking. For more information, visit nest.com.

E

veryone loves the look of sparkling silverware and the fresh scent of just-laundered clothes.

However, though your intentions are admirable, you may be making your home a more harmful environment every time you clean. Many cleaning products contain chemicals and fragrances that are toxic if ingested or inhaled. According to the Organic Consumers Association, cleaning products were associated with nearly 10 percent of calls to the U.S. Poison Control Centers, most of them relating to children who accidentally ingested these products.

A number of symptoms are related to exposure to cleaning chemicals, including skin irritations, watery or

itchy eyes, respiratory problems or even mild burns. And while these symptoms may go unnoticed or be ignored, the long-term effects of this type of chemical exposure can lead to more serious chronic issues.

And don’t think that if you don’t experience symptoms that you are safe. Once you pour that cleaner down the drain or your washing machine empties after a cycle, those chemicals are sent to a water treatment plant before being released back into the environment via waterways. Many chemicals do break down to harmless substances; however, some, such as alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEs), which are used in some detergents and cleaning products, do not readily

break down in water or soil. APEs mimic the hormone estrogen and can lead to a whole host of problems for the fish that swim in these waters and the humans who consume them.

With a recent push for more green products by consumers, many manufacturers have introduced green versions of their regular products, and many organic and health food stores carry a wide variety of organic cleaning products.

“Green versions of cleaning products are a great alternative,” says Charlie. But another, somewhat less-expensive option, is to make cleaning products yourself out of everyday solutions you probably already have.

“Everyone’s got baking soda, vinegar and water,” he says. “You can make perfectly adequate cleaners that are better for the environment and you and your family.”

MAKE YOUR OWN GREEN CLEANERS • Use baking soda and a • Two tablespoons of white in a blender until foamy. wet sponge on bathroom vinegar combined with Spray on the stain and tile, porcelain surfaces a gallon of water can rinse with vinegar. and kitchen counters. replace window cleaners.

• Mop hardwood floors Sprinkle in some kosher Use newspaper instead with a solution of ¼ cup salt for grimier surfaces. of paper towels to avoid white vinegar and 30 streaking.

• Mildew, stains and streaks ounces of warm water. can be fought off with • Use club soda on stains.

• Oven cleaners contain lemon juice or vinegar The carbonation brings some of the most toxic and some elbow grease! the spill to the surface, ingredients. Make and the salt in the soda • Combine 2 cups of water, a paste of baking helps avoid staining.

3 tablespoons liquid soap soda and water and 20 to 30 drops of tea • For a green “spot cleaner” and let sit tree oil for a homemade combine ¼ cup liquid overnight. disinfectant. soap with 1⁄3 cup water

Scrub thoroughly the next day.

• For clogged drains, pour ½ cup baking soda followed by ½ cup vinegar down the problem drain and cover tightly. The vinegar and baking soda will react and begin to fizz. This should help break up the clog. Follow by flushing the drain with a gallon of boiling water. water

For more homemade cleaning solutions, visit thedailygreen.com.

Interested in going “green?” Check out some of these websites for home renovation ideas and tips and tricks for protecting the environment.

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T! LIGH

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very child has heard their mother remind them to shut off the lights when they leave a room. If it’s not standard practice at this point, make it one! One of the easiest energy-saving techniques is to simply shut off lights when they’re not in use.

Charlie recommends another energy-efficient modification: upgrading to incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescents (CFL).

“Upgrading your light bulbs is something easy to do and can save money and energy,” says Charlie. “They used to be much more expensive when they first came out, but they are much less expensive now. They last longer and don’t drain as much power,” he says.

LED lights are also a great alternative. They are a little more expensive, but the savings is definitely noticeable.

Another option is to put dimmer switches on your bulbs and to keep them lit only as much as you need.

Of course, you can also use the most powerful light source at our disposal: the sun! Installing solar panels on the roof can not only save money on the electricity bill, but it also adds value to your home.

“Solar panels used to be expensive, but the cost has come down tremendously, and newer technology has made them stronger, requiring less maintenance,” says Charlie. And while you can spend the extra money for panels that can actually rotate to capture the maximum amount of sunlight, Charlie stresses that that is not the only option.

“You don’t have to power your whole house, you can purchase small ones that are on the ground and are capable of powering an outlet or the water heater,” he says.

But what about when you want to keep the sun’s heat out? If you are building a new home, Charlie recommends investing the extra money for low-E (low emissivity) windows that will reflect heat.

Applying window films is another great technique to block the sun’s heat and keep cooling costs down, which, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, comprises 45 to 50 percent of the average home’s electric bill.

“New window films, such as the 3M™ Window Films, dramatically reduce cooling costs up to 30 percent,” says David Taylor, president and CEO of Solar Controllers in Ocala. “The installation is easy and performed in less than a day and reduces infrared heat up to 97 percent,” he says.

One of the original concerns about applying window films was that they were tinted, but the 3M™ Window Films are clear, thus providing in-home comfort with a dramatic cut in cooling costs.

“It’s a very realistic payback,” says David. “Not just for your cooling costs but to preserve your floors, drapes and carpets from fading.”

Going green in your home does not mean you have to completely remodel. Most professionals recommend looking at your budget and investing a small amount each year into something different.

“Of course, the more you invest, the quicker your rate of return, but it’s not only about the money, it’s about your health and the environment, too,” says Charlie. He stresses that every little thing you do makes a difference both to your wallet and Mother Earth.

U.S. Green Building Council

Central Florida Chapter of USGBC

Regreen

Energy Star

usgbc.org

usgbcheartfl.org

regreenprogram.org

energystar.gov

Sources: thedailygreen.com, organicconsumers.org, ocalafl.org

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

HOME PROS

Who Know At the end of a long day, there’s nothing quite like the comforts of home.

Sometimes, though, we find ourselves studying our spaces and thinking “I wish I could change that,” or “This would look so much better there.”

So in honor of building, remodeling, renovating and decorating your home, we bring to you our first-ever Home Pros Who Know feature. The professionals featured on the following pages are some of the best in the business when it comes to matters of the home. Whether you are in need of a full kitchen remodel or a closet makeover, or just need some helpful advice on obtaining a mortgage, these experts know their stuff.

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Home Pros Who Know

What is the difference between a designer and a decorator?

Interior Design

Roger BILLS OWNER

ROGER BILLS INTERIORS How would you describe your interiors?

Who can afford a designer?

I address each project individually and approach it as a creative challenge that requires its own concept and solutions.

My interiors stress architectural awareness and must reflect the aspirations and personalities of each individual client. Meticulous craftsmanship and scrupulous attention to detail is our trademark. I’ve heard my work described as bold but unpretentious while maintaining a clean, comfortable reflection of my clients.

Almost anyone. I order directly from all of the major manufacturers. My low overhead allows me to work on a cost-plus basis with a much smaller profit margin than the competition.

My hands-on approach to construction allows me to actually save my clients money and headaches by eliminating costly mistakes.

An interior designer is a professional who is qualified by education, experience and state licensure to identify, research and creatively solve problems relative to the function and quality of a client’s environment. We manage proper allocation of space, traffic flow, activity planning and the relationship of scale of furnishings to the interior space. We often generate blueprints for both new construction and renovation.

As a result, more technical issues such as HVAC, lighting, acoustics and window and wall placement are addressed.

ROGER BILLS INTERIORS 1507 SE 14th Street, Ocala (352) 351-2888

Home Pros Who Know

Choosing an Apartment Community

Laura SMITH EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

CARLTON ARMS OF OCALA Why choose Carlton Arms?

Carlton Arms is the premier apartment community in Ocala. Our on-site management team and staff are here to provide carefree living for all of our residents; we treat everyone like family! Enjoy our beautiful grounds, heated pool with free Wi-Fi, fitness center with steam showers and tennis and basketball courts.

What various apartment sizes do you offer?

We have 27 spacious floor plans with sizes ranging

from efficiency or studio apartments to one-, two-, or three-bedroom apartments, all at affordable rates.

What is included in the rent?

Our affordable rental rates include monthly water utilities, rapid response maintenance, free valet trash removal, basic cable TV, free pest control and much more. There are also washers and dryers in most apartments and huge garden patios.

CARLTON ARMS OF OCALA 5001 Southwest 20th Street, Ocala (352) 861-9222 carltonarmsofocala.com

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Home Pros Who Know

Residential & Commercial Real Estate

Nick ROBINSON REALTOR

COLDWELL BANKER/ELLISON REALTY, INC. How is the local real estate to make the current market doing as a whole? mortgage payment?

Owners and real estate professionals are working through short sales much faster than they were two years ago when the average time under contract was approximately seven to 10 months. On the commercial side, vacant land and multifamily sales are on the rise. Retail lease space is seeing a surge right now.

What should homeowners do if they’re considering short selling their home because they can no longer afford

The ability to sell a property through a short sale is ultimately up to the discretion of the lender who holds the mortgage on the property.

If the owners qualify for a short sale they can often get a portion of the deficiency reduced. Through the end of 2012 the Mortgage Debt Relief Act of 2007 generally allows taxpayers to exclude debt forgiven on their principal residence from their taxable income. By completing a short sale the seller can one day

qualify to purchase another home, sometimes in as little as three years. This is a much better alternative to foreclosure.

Is now the right time to purchase or lease commercial property so I can expand?

Commercial values are down, so buying something now should save you some money. The real difference in leasing now is that landlords are more flexible when it comes to rent and tenant improvements than they might have been a few years ago when the market was hot.

COLDWELL BANKER/ ELLISON REALTY, INC. 2226 E Silver Springs Boulevard, Ocala (352) 547-2688 ellisonrealty.com/nickrobinson

Home Pros Who Know

Active Adult Communities

John & Annette WARE HOMEBUYERS AT

ON TOP OF THE WORLD COMMUNITIES Why did you choose On Top of the World?

We were looking for a community that was extremely active. At On Top of the World, we saw that there were people everywhere (walking, exercising, etc.), and that was exciting to us. Also, the people were so friendly; they acted like they had known us forever.

During our visit to On Top of the World, we stayed in a villa on the property. We were given a golf cart to go around and really check out the community.

We met the people who live here, and everyone had good

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things to say about On Top of the World.

Do you have any last thoughts?

Something we can look forward to in the future, by being in this community, is that our home will hold its value. You really need to come and look for yourself because we’d love to have you as our neighbors.

What sets On Top of the World apart?

We don’t have to worry whether this company will be around in the future; On Top of the World has a reputation of building quality homes for over 60 years.

Also, everything about the construction of their homes was equal to or greater than any other place we went, and they have the ENERGY STAR® rating on each new home. The sales professionals were very knowledgeable and cared about our wants and needs.

Scan to view video

ON TOP OF THE WORLD COMMUNITIES 8445 SW 80th St., Ocala (352) 854-3600 ontopoftheworld.com

Home Pros Who Know

Energy Savings

Dave TAYLOR PRESIDENT / SOLAR CONTROLLERS

D

ave Taylor, President of Solar Controllers, has been in the business of residential and commercial window tinting in Ocala since 1985. Over the years, he has offered home and business owners the latest, most technologically advanced methods and innovative products for energy efficiency. The goal of Solar Controllers is to protect their customers’ largest investment and save them money on cooling costs and utility bills by dramatically reducing the amount of solar radiant energy entering their homes. Dave took some time to explain why Solar Controllers far exceeds the competition.

What makes Solar Controllers stand out from other companies?

Solar Controllers is the only authorized 3M Window Film dealer in Ocala and the surrounding area and offers a full line of ultra energy-efficient home improvement products. We believe in supreme customer service and gladly offer complimentary inhome consultations and estimates.

What are 3M Window Films?

3M is an industry leader in film technologies. The new Prestige Series of sun control window films are invisible, high-performance film coatings that we install to your existing windows. Prestige films offer greater heat-reducing capabilities than traditional dark or reflective window films, yet 3M Prestige Window Films are virtually clear. This means they

will not change the appearance of your windows from the interior or exterior, and they still block up to 97 percent of the sun’s infrared heat rays.

What are the benefits of installing 3M Window Films in homes or businesses?

These window films reduce up to 99.9 percent of the sun’s ultra violet rays that come through the windows and up to 93 percent of the glare, which preserves and reduces fading of furnishings or merchandise.

Furthermore, the Safety and Security series of window films help protect your home and family from shattered glass due to human or natural causes.

What other products does Solar Controllers offer that can provide energy savings?

Our Radiant Barrier is an aluminum coating that is sprayed to the underside of your roof. It blocks 75 percent of the radiant heat transfer from your roof into your attic, reducing the temperature by 50 degrees or more. By decreasing the duct temperature in your attic, your air conditioning system will run more efficiently, reducing your cooling costs by 30 percent. It can pay for itself in two to three years.

What if window tinting isn’t something that would work because the windows are too old?

Solar Controllers has an answer for that! We can replace your old windows with new windows. We offer the newest innovation in Windows: triple low-E coated double-pane/ double-strength glass filled with a 1-inch airspace of argon gas. This is the ultimate in solar heat control and offers year-round energy savings.

SOLAR CONTROLLERS 5612 SE Abshier Blvd., Belleview Marion County: (352) 245-8208 Orlando: (407) 740-0679 Lake/Sumter County: (352) 753-4550 solarcontrollers.com

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Home Pros Who Know

Custom Closet Design

Jared KEUNTJES OWNER / PRO CLOSET DESIGNS

T

he possibilities are endless when it comes to revamping a storage closet or kitchen pantry. Whether it’s the need for organization or the desire for a closet makeover, the process can be stressful when you don’t know where to begin. The experts at Pro Closet Designs have you covered from planning to installation. Pro Closet Designs can simplify your space so you won’t be in a frenzy looking for tools and supplies. The closet is designed around your needs and preferences, and you can personalize your space with finishing touches.

What services does Pro Closet Designs provide?

Pro Closet Designs is a full-service company providing custom closets, pantries, home offices, garages, playrooms and much more. We offer in-house design, manufacturing and installation that best fits our clients’ needs.

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You can expect a complete custom project, built with the most dependable products in the industry!

What is your company motto?

Our goal is to honor God by building quality relationships using

superior ethics and craftsmanship, with integrity.

What is the design process like?

We start off by meeting with our clients and discussing their wants and needs for the space. We then work on a set of plans and 3D drawings along with a quote until they are completely satisfied.

After the design is complete, manufacturing begins in our state-of-the-art facility. Finally, the product is installed by our trustworthy professionals.

What accessories and color options do you provide?

We offer a wide range of storage options including drawers, baskets and hampers, truly maximizing one’s space. For finishing touches, we offer the finest in accent lighting, custom crown molding, raised panel drawer and door fronts, velvet-lined jewelry trays, belt and tie racks, valet rods and other accessories to create a

beautiful and functional addition to our client’s home. We have several color options spanning from solid colors to luxurious wood grains. Our designers can help match any existing décor.

How long does it take to receive a custom closet?

Depending on the job size, we can install your closet a week after the design has been finalized. A job is not considered “finished” to us until the client is completely satisfied with the finished product.

We guarantee the most durable products in the industry and will repair any damages down the road.

PRO CLOSET DESIGNS 1921 SW 15th Ave, Ocala (352) 694-9900 proclosetdesigns.com

Home Pros Who Know

Mortgage Brokerages What kind of experience do you offer clients?

Amber BALL MANAGING PARTNER

SOUTHERN ALLIANCE MORTGAGE GROUP

Why use a mortgage broker instead of a bank?

Ease and speed of operation.

We’re locally owned and operated, and you get to talk to a real, live person instead of a customer service representative or automated recording.

Because we broker to several large lenders, our turnaround times are much faster than that of banks, enabling buyers to close more quickly. We have more lenient underwriting guidelines than a bank and more program offerings.

How does your brokerage differ from that of others?

In that we are an actual brokerage—not a bank and not a branch of a larger lending institution as many brokers have switched to. We do business with many different lenders that offer different programs with different requirements.

Often, we are able to do loans that banks and lending branches cannot do due to stricter criteria.

We offer warm, friendly and personal customer service. We explain programs and options upfront to our buyers and grant a quick turnaround on preapprovals for our Realtor clients, so their time isn’t wasted showing homes to those who may not qualify. You will not have to wait days for a returned phone call. We don’t charge an application fee to get prequalified.

SOUTHERN ALLIANCE MORTGAGE GROUP 117 SE 22nd Pl., Ocala (352) 368-5622

Home Pros Who Know

Electrical Services

Brian WALLACE Craig WALLACE

, OWNER/MASTER ELECTRICIAN , CO-OWNER

WALLACE ELECTRIC OF MARION COUNTY

ER 13013853

What services does Wallace Electric offer?

Our slogan is “no job too big, no job too small.” Our company offers wiring generators, barns, pools, residential remodels and new construction. Specializing in commercial projects, we also make house calls for simple projects and offer 24-hour emergency services to all our customers.

Due to the local economy, are there any

preventative measures that can be taken to deter copper thefts?

Yes. We install alarm systems on air handlers and air conditioners. They can be integrated into your existing alarm panel with an exterior siren or can be a stand-alone siren if you do not own an alarm system. The alarm will activate if any part of the AC system has been breached.

This system has proven to stop thefts.

What makes Wallace Electric stand out from other companies?

We have served Marion County residents for 35+ years. We provide upfront pricing with no hidden fees or surprises. We warranty all parts for a full year and guarantee all labor for life. Our employees are thoroughly trained and state certified, so you can feel confident your electrical work will be done right.

WALLACE ELECTRIC OF MARION COUNTY 150 SE 62nd Ave., Ocala (352) 484-5690

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Home Pros Who Know

Landscape Architecture

Jim BAILEY

What does it mean to be LEED certified, and how does it affect your landscape projects?

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards are focused on sustainability. This means materials and form to enhance that a sustainable landscape is experiences for both residential designed to be both attractive and commercial projects. and in balance with the local climate and environment. The design must be functional, What is involved in the cost efficient, visually pleasing, landscape architecture environmentally friendly process? and maintainable. These Landscape architects conceive the overall concept and prepare characteristics are directly a master plan from which design related to the Nine Principals of Florida Friendly Landscaping. drawings are prepared. The design process includes concept development based on the needs TILLMAN AND and desires of the client, design ASSOCIATES development, which applies 1720 SE 16th Ave., materials, colors, dimensions Bldg 100, Ocala and plant selection, and the final (352) 307-1947 construction drawings. tillmaneng.com

REGISTERED LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT, LEED ACCREDITED PROFESSIONAL

TILLMAN AND ASSOCIATES What is the difference between landscaping and landscape architecture?

Landscape architecture is a multi-disciplinary design field, incorporating aspects of botany, horticulture, art, architecture, geology and earth sciences.

Landscape architects work on the design of all types of structures and outdoor spaces while integrating ecological sustainability. Landscape architects generate ideas with technical understanding and creativity for the design, organization and use of spaces. Our approach is to use

Home Pros Who Know

Custom Projects

Chris WILKENS LEAD CAD DESIGNER

ABSHIER FAMILY OF COMPANIES SHOWROOM AND DESIGN CENTER

CBC1250971 & CRC1327114

What is Abshier Family of Companies?

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Abshier Family of Companies is a family-based organization that consists of four divisions: the Showroom and Design Center, designs custom closets, wall beds, garage storage and media centers; Abshier Insulation and Acoustical installs both batt and blown insulation, spray foam and radiant barrier; the Shelving and Mirror Department installs Rubbermaid shelving, wire shelving, vanity mirrors and custom shower enclosures; and the Construction Department

specializes in lanai enclosures, screen rooms and additions.

How do I get a custom-designed closet in my home?

Our closets start off with an inhome consultation to find out your exact needs. Next, your information is loaded into our state-of-the-art design program to maximize your storage. Our program will show a 3D design of your future closet so there is no guesswork involved in what the final product will be.

What are the benefits of a Murphy Bed system?

Murphy Beds are a wonderful space-saving system. With many individuals looking to convert spare bedrooms into dens or offices, the Murphy Bed system is a logical answer.

The beds come in several sizes and dimensions, and the beautiful cabinetry allows for elegant in-room organization.

ABSHIER FAMILY OF COMPANIES SHOWROOM AND DESIGN CENTER 1065 Canal St., Lady Lake (352) 350-6381 abshierfamilyofcompanies.com

CGC 059606

Home Pros Who Know

Custom-Built Homes

Terry CARLSON OWNER / T.L. CARLSON CONSTRUCTION CO.

T

.L. Carlson Construction knows that customers have a dream house circulating in their minds, waiting to be built and called home. They also understand how designing a custom-built house is a stressful process. Their team will help you realize your vision by offering guidance and attention to detail. With skilled craftsmen and the highest-quality materials, T.L. Carlson Construction will make your dream a reality, tile by tile and brick by brick.

What sets T.L. Carlson Construction apart from other construction companies?

Our customers—we love to see them happy, and we work very hard to make that happen. Terry and Jackie, contractor and owner, are always available on the job site or by phone.

No question goes unanswered.

What are the first steps to custom building a home?

Putting together the right team. We carefully select the subcontractors and suppliers, making sure that they share the same philosophy as T.L. Carlson when it comes to pride in the job, timeliness, quality and customer care.

What is the process from conception to completion?

T.L. Carlson has a design team that will take the customers ideas and make them into a beautiful, functional and personal plan. We visit the building site, take tours of other homes and visit supply showrooms—anything that will help us understand the needs and desires of our customers. Once the construction begins, we continue to incorporate the ideas of the design team and the customer to ensure that everyone is on the same page. T.L. Carlson also provides professional decorating assistance to help the customer put all their favorite colors together so that the completed home is one they are proud to show off.

How can clients get help when it comes to financing?

By knowing who to call; T.L. Carlson has a good working relationship with several lending

institutions and will help their customers pick the one that suits their needs.

What other services does the company offer?

We offer any type of construction need. Over many years, T.L. Carlson has built homes, office buildings, restaurants, garages, barns, even doghouses. We also love to do remodeling. So if there is a project that needs TLC, we are the ones to call.

TL CARLSON CONSTRUCTION CO. P.O. Box 4833 Ocala, FL 34478 (352) 867-8558 tlcarlson-homes.com

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Home Pros Who Know

How does buying wholesale compare with buying retail?

Plumbing Supplies

Darrin JOHN

, BRANCH MANAGER,

DEE

, SHOWROOM SALES

, CUSTOMER SALES

MORGAN BROTHERS SUPPLY In a tight economic market, what sets your business apart from other plumbing supply companies?

What are some of the pros and cons of purchasing supplies online?

Sometimes you can find a lower price online, but price is where the benefits end. You Customer service is our No. 1 priority. Consumers want value are not buying direct from the manufacturer, so you risk and service. They want to be buying products with defects sure their time and money is well spent. We provide excellent or missing parts, such as faucets without valves or sinks customer service along with without drains. Purchasing outstanding quality. Whether these defective products costs you are fixing a leaky faucet or time and money. Furthermore, replacing a water heater, our certain warranties issued now staff is ready to help you. may not be available years later.

Home Pros Who Know

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MORGAN BROTHERS SUPPLY 1620 NE 8th Ave., Ocala (352) 629-8191 morganbros.com

to lowering your energy bill, the powerful UV light Residential & Commercial Well Services eliminates the need to have harmful chemicals poured into your drinking water, , OWNER which also helps to preserve the , MARKETING & MEDIA Florida aquifers. This month, we are donating 10 percent of SUNSHINE WELL AND PUMP, INC. all of the proceeds from sales of these systems to welldone. org, a partner and 501(c)3 operate with the best and most What does being a water organization that supports energy-effi cient equipment, and guy entail? sustainable clean water solutions our company is a proud Key Sunshine Well and Pump for communities in need. We’re Dealer of all Franklin Electric specializes in providing highexcited to have our own comquality, affordable water service Products. We offer 24/7 emerto both residential and commer- gency service to the entire North munity involved in helping this wonderful project, as well. cial clients. We offer an extensive Central Florida region, as well. list of contract water services, ranging from installation and What’s your best advice for maintenance of wells and irriga- improving my well water? tion systems for horse farms and Currently, I recommend stateresidential subdivisions, to your of-the-art Ultraviolet (UV) Waeveryday backyard water source. ter Purification Systems. These SUNSHINE WELL AND systems use very little energy PUMP, INC. and are low-maintenance, with What sets you apart?

82 Locust Dr., Ocala With 30 years of experience, the only once-annual checkups for (352) 484-4552 bulb replacement. In addition sky really is the limit for us. We sunshinewellandpump.com

Steve HUNT Matt HUNT

L to R: Steve, Kim and AJ Hunt

Buying retail is good for a quick repair or replacement, but for long-term and professionalgrade products, buying from a wholesaler is the better option.

With a wholesaler, you get licensed, professional help with all warranty issues. And best of all, there is a professional and personal relationship between plumbers, builders and manufacturers of the products when buying from wholesalers that you don’t get when buying from retailers.

Home Pros Who Know

Contracting Services

Toby A. YOUNG OWNER

TOBY YOUNG CONTRACTING LLC What sets you apart from All of my sub-contractors have been with me for a long other builders here in time. Some of them are 2nd Marion County?

My integrity. I have built my name and reputation on this and will go to great lengths to make sure it is upheld. We also build all types of projects— from small remodels and additions to commercial offices and industrial warehouses.

CBC1255590

Who will be working on my project?

I have put together a team of professionals that see my vision and believe in the direction that I am heading.

and 3rd generations. I use the same sub-contractors on every project. This allows me to maintain my quality and service to every client.

How should a person choose their contractor?

Choosing a contractor is a difficult decision. I tell each of my clients to pick the contractor that they feel most comfortable with. This is the person that is going to be building your home. You will

Home Pros Who Know

Farm Sales

Greg & Carla LORD REALTORS

HOMES TO RANCHES REALTY INC.

Why has Homes To Ranches been so successful in farm sales?

Our success is based upon our knowledge and experience.

Greg, my husband and business partner, is a retired farrier and has been in Marion County since 1985. I have had my real estate license since 1991 and come from a family of Realtors. We both grew up showing horses, myself in the hunter and jumpers and Greg showing Saddlebreds. We now own a pair of driving horses, and Greg team ropes.

spend a great deal of time with each other throughout the process. Make sure it’s someone that you can communicate with. I have one simple rule and it’s the basis of my quality: If I wouldn’t accept it in my house, I wouldn’t expect my clients to accept it in theirs!

What do you do differently than other Realtors when it comes to selling horse properties?

We like to spend time getting to know our clients so we can find the perfect property for them.

The real estate market has changed with the involvement of the Internet. Many buyers will call us regarding a particular property they have seen online. After getting to know our buyers, we are able to “zone in” on what horse farm will really work for them.

TOBY YOUNG CONTRACTING LLC 1 NE 1st Ave., Ste. 201., Ocala (352) 427-5825 tobyyoungcontracting.com

What is some of the feedback you have received from your clients?

Caroline Sykes recently purchased a farm close to the HITS show grounds. She described the experience as “incredibly easy.”

“Greg and Carla have an unparalleled level of knowledge when it comes to the equine real estate market in Ocala. Greg and Carla took their time to make sure we only looked at farms that suited us. That personal touch is not something you get from everyone.” – Caroline Sykes

HOMES TO RANCHES REALTY INC. 2455 NW 44th Ave., Ocala (352) 732-3276 homestoranches.com

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Home Pros Who Know

Credit Unions

Shelly CALHOUN

REAL ESTATE LOAN MANAGER / CAMPUS USA CREDIT UNION

S

ince 1935, CAMPUS USA Credit Union has served thousands of members with their no- and low-fee financial services. Originally the Gainesville Florida Campus Federal Credit Union, CAMPUS now serves over 65,000 members from all over the world. Real Estate Loan Manager, Shelly Calhoun, answers questions on why you need to become a member of CAMPUS and how CAMPUS can help you during these economic times.

What is your favorite thing about working at CAMPUS USA Credit Union?

What is one thing you wish everyone knew about CAMPUS USA Credit Union?

The people and the culture; CAMPUS members are our owners. That creates a very unique member-centric environment. We strive to deliver excellent service to surpass the standards of our marketplace so our memberowners will fall in love with us every time they transact with us.

I wish everyone was aware of the range of products we offer. CAMPUS offers an array of financial products, including checking accounts, credit cards, mortgage and home equity loans, commercial loans and credit cards, financial planning through our partner CAMPUS Investment Services, and even auto, home and flood insurance through our affiliate Quorum Insurance.

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What do you feel separates CAMPUS USA Credit Union from other financial institutions?

Our members own the credit union, so they are treated with a different level of respect. CAMPUS opened its doors under the premise that by each of us doing our fair share, we can empower one another to reach our financial goals and provide for our families. We’ve always had the same mission: to empower our members to reach their full financial potential.

What should a first-time homebuyer know before they make the leap into home ownership?

Getting your mortgage through a credit union benefits you in many ways. Because we are a non-profit cooperative, you will save on your closing costs by not having to pay the county’s intangible tax at closing.

What advice can CAMPUS give regarding the real estate market crash?

Most people don’t want to walk away or foreclose on their home.

They want to pay their debt, but they are looking for a light at the end of the tunnel. That’s why CAMPUS created our 5- and 10year mortgage refinance product.

This product has low closing costs, only $199, and accelerates their payoff to get them out from under the debt. It also features a very low interest rate, much lower than traditional mortgages.

CAMPUS USA CREDIT UNION Four Marion County Locations Hwy 200 Service Center, across from Paddock Mall Silver Spring Blvd Service Center, on the corner of 25th Ave & Silver Springs Blvd West Marion Service Center, on Hwy 200, just east of Super Walmart Summerfield Service Center, on Hwy 441, across from Super Walmart (352) 237-9060 campuscu.com *This Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration

Home Pros Who Know

Audio/Visual Systems

Frank VOCALE OWNER

AUDIO EXCELLENCE How can I view my home or business on my iPhone or Android phone from wherever I am?

We install a large assortment of surveillance camera systems, from single cameras to multiple cameras. Once we have installed any of these systems, they come with a very userfriendly app that is downloaded for free to your phone. Once this setup is complete, you can view the location from anywhere you can use your phone. You can even use your home computer or laptop to view your camera system.

We can remove existing old-style lighting switches and replace them with wirelessly controlled dimmers, no reYes. We have universal remotes wiring necessary. It is simple that will simplify control of all plug and play. Don’t want to come home to a dark house? We your audio and video devices.

We can program these remotes can also add lighting control to your phone for easy control. to work with any type of A/V equipment. Even if your equipment is hidden in a closet or behind solid doors, our system will still work; no more keeping the door open so your remote can be used. We can AUDIO EXCELLENCE even add simple light control 2201 SW 19th Ave. Rd., to these remotes.

Ocala (352) 873-6269 aeocala.com

Can I control all of my audio/video equipment with one remote?

Home Pros Who Know

Home Renovations/Remodeling

World HOME IMPROVEMENTS trades, all applicable permitting with the Marion County Building Department and staying in World Home Improvements is touch with the customer every an extension of the exclusive step of the process. We do all builder of new homes at On Top of the World Communities. size jobs: kitchen remodeling, lanai enclosure, room addition, With many years’ experience bathroom renovation, home building ENERGY STAR®extension, outdoor kitchen, qualified homes in Ocala, home office, fireplace addition our company focuses on high-quality craftsmanship and and more. If you can dream it, more than likely we can do it. outstanding customer service.

Who is World Home Improvements?

Before

What services do you provide?

After

We handle everything in a remodeling job, including project design and drafting, job scheduling with the local

How can I install remote lighting controls in my home?

Tell us more about the March Home Improvement Expo.

The Home Improvement Expo is on Saturday, March 17, from 9am-1pm. Over 60 contractors

and home improvement specialists will be on hand to answer questions about remodeling, windows, flooring, home security, insurance, plumbing, home entertainment, solar power and much more. This expo, being held at Circle Square Cultural Center (8395 SW 80th St., Ocala), is presented

by World Home Improvements and sponsored by TECO Gas.

WORLD HOME IMPROVEMENTS (352) 387-7450 worldhomeimprovements.com remodeling@otowfl.com

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Home Pros Who Know

What types of products do you have available?

Home Remodeling

We offer several different lines of quality cabinetry to fit any budget. From custom to , INSTALLATION SPECIALIST unassembled, we offer a style ABC CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING OF FLORIDA, LLC for every need. Our countertop selection is a wonderful variety of granite, quartz, solid surface What services does ABC What is featured in your and laminate in many color choices. We also offer many have to offer? showroom? choices of sinks for both Our company is family owned In our showroom, we have kitchen and bath, including and has trained professionals complete kitchen and bath in every area of the remodeling displays of cabinetry, moldings Karran sinks that can be industry to include drywall, and countertops. Our displays under mounted into laminate, for a unique alternative to plumbing, electrical, painting allow customers to view solid surface. ABC can provide and flooring. ABC has certified and explore options that are windows, doors and other kitchen designers (CKD) on available in the cabinet line related items as well. staff to create your dream they select. Being able to see kitchen or bath. We have expe- the different combinations in rienced cabinet and countertop our showroom makes choosABC CONSTRUCTION installers, qualified to install all ing the perfect selection for the & REMODELING OF the aspects of a simple kitchen customer’s needs and personal FLORIDA, LLC or bath, to the most intricate style a breeze.

1115 NW 4th Ave., Ocala detailed design features.

(352) 629-9227 abcconstructionandremodeling.com

Elayne & Darrel VARNEY Camron VARNEY

L to R: Elayne, Camron and Darrel

CGC 1515562

, OWNERS

Home Pros Who Know

Realty Services

April FONTANA OWNER

FONTANA REALTY

Do you offer the same services as some of the larger realty companies in Marion County?

Yes! We offer many of the same services of much larger corporations. We utilize the latest technologies, including the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), syndication on over 900 websites, real estate publications, etc. We are a fullservice office assisting in real estate sales, foreclosures, short sales, rentals and property management.

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What makes Fontana Realty unique?

In today’s electronic age, more and more business can be handled from smartphones, tablets, laptops, e-faxes, etc.; often making a large office unnecessary. We choose to keep our office buildings small, and our overhead low, so we can use our resources to invest in getting our customers’ homes sold! Our goal is to establish several satellite offices throughout Marion County simply to provide a meeting place for our agents and clients to conduct business.

What can clients expect from Fontana Realty?

As “Your Neighborhood Realtor,” we understand that people do business with those they know and trust.

Therefore, we are dedicated to making new relationships and getting to know our customers one on one by being involved in the community. At Fontana Realty, we want to meet and exceed your expectations and provide a hassle-free real estate experience.

FONTANA REALTY 915 SE 17th St., Ocala (352) 817-3574 fontana4you@gmail.com fontana4you.com

Home Pros Who Know

Interior and Exterior Design Center

Laura HOWARD OWNER / DECORATIVE DESIGNS

D

ecorative Designs is the place to go for the most creative and unique home improvement products and ideas. Decorative Designs services residential and commercial clients, helping them with their projects every step of the way. From concept to completion, no job is too small or too large for Decorative Designs to handle. Come in and work with this talented team and let them assist you in turning your vision into a reality.

What makes Decorative Designs so unique?

We are a one-stop design center.

We offer our clients everything they need for a remodel or a new construction project. Our team of experts will help and advise on all phases of design—from concept to completion, we have it all.

What is your business model based on?

I wanted to own and run a business built on expertise, quality, and, most of all, choices. Expertise is essential in every aspect of this business. Whether it is design, paint or a faux finish, the members

of the Decorative Designs team are all trained professionals in their fields. Quality is achieved by offering our clients products and services that we have researched, tested and stand behind. Choices come from putting expertise and quality together. We have something for everyone in every style and budget. You are limited only by your imagination.

coatings. Why carry four lines?

Choices. One product is not the right choice for every project.

Having four lines gives us the ability to help select the right product for you based on the application and the results you want to achieve.

Make sure you ask about our money-saving rewards program.

What products do you offer?

What can you offer someone who wants to tackle a project on their own?

We have over 6,000 square feet of showroom space. We offer interior and exterior lighting, flooring, new cabinets, countertop and cabinet refinishing, backsplashes, hardware, area rugs, wallpaper, window treatments, upholstery, faux finishes, murals and so much more.

We are here to assist you in making your project a complete success.

We have DIY product choices available in everything from faux finishing to lighting to cabinet refinishing and backsplashes. We can help a little or a lot. The choice is yours. We even offer classes!

Decorative Designs has a full paint store; why do you have four lines of paint and not just one?

We carry Color Wheel, Pratt and Lambert, Ralph Lauren and Modern Masters paints as well as a full line of sundries and concrete

DECORATIVE DESIGNS 1839 SW College Rd., Ocala (352) 624-1074 decorativedesignsocala.com

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Home Pros Who Know

Flooding and Water Damage

Mike & Rob SOBIESKI Joe REICHEL OWNERS

DAMAGE CONTROL SERVICES

CGC 1518128 & CRC 1327066

What causes flooding and water damage?

Flooding can be caused by plumbing leaks above and below ground level, frozen pipes and water lines in attics, water heater failure, washing machine overflows and sewer backups, as well as from the elements, such as storms and trees falling on homes.

How does Damage Control Services fix flooding and water damage?

Like other restoration service companies, we offer 24-hour

emergency services to begin the cleanup process and stop further damage from happening to the home or business owner’s property.

Then, we begin the process of working with the insurance company to begin the rebuilding process. What sets us apart is our service. As the owners of the company, we are the ones who work with the client from the very start to the project’s completion. We guide them through what can be a very traumatic and confusing process, making it easier for

Home Pros Who Know

Terry NOELL & Rick DEELEY OWNERS

AMERICA’S BEST CHOICE

CRCD15064 or 1506-1

Before

After

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The installation materials used by America’s Best Choice during the window replacement process are the best in the industry. We fully expect each installer to answer any of your questions before, during and after the installation. We demand timeliness, quality and respect.

Why vinyl replacement windows?

There are many reasons to choose vinyl replacement windows for your home. Vinyl

What other services do you offer?

We are a family-owned, full-service construction and restoration company that is able to care for all residential and commercial building needs. This includes new construction, remodeling and additions, as well as doing repairs from all insurancerelated disasters such as floods, fires, tree and storm damage, automobiles in buildings and structure repairs from sinkhole damage and mold.

DAMAGE CONTROL SERVICES 1551 NE 32nd Ave., Ocala (352) 817-6574 Toll Free: (877) 401-6525 damageflorida.com

What products do you sell?

Window Installation

Why choose America’s Best Choice?

them in order to get their lives and homes back to normal as fast as possible.

is inexpensive, durable and extremely energy efficient.

Vinyl replacement windows offer superior versatility and strength. They are the easiest type of window to maintain and suffer little or no daily wear and tear.

Vinyl replacement windows are primarily constructed of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is an excellent temperature, allowing less warm air to escape your home in the winter months and less hot air to enter during the summer months.

We offer a Go Green Package, which includes low-E coating, argon gas and Intercept Ultra Spacer, which can increase the efficiency of windows by 35-40 percent.

All window and door styles are available using the highest quality line, Anderson Window Company Silver Line.

We guarantee to match or beat anyone’s prices. America’s Best Choice provides one of the strongest warranties in the window replacement industry, guaranteeing that each homeowner will be satisfied with their window replacement purchase for many years to come.

AMERICA’S BEST CHOICE 7048 Midway Terr., Ste. 102, Ocala (352) 857-7350 abcwinocala.com

BE YOUR OWN HANDYMAN

How-To’s To Improve Your Humble Abode

S

pring is in the air, and it’s time once again to kick out the cobwebs, take on the challenge of spring cleaning and focus your attention on your home. With plenty of home shows and tours taking place this month, you may begin to see your abode in a new light… a less-than-flattering light, that is. But if tackling major projects just isn’t in your budget, fear not. There are plenty of do-it-yourself projects that, believe it or not, you can actually do yourself! And you don’t have to have a master’s degree in building and architecture to manage these projects.

BY BONNIE KRETCHIK

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Say Bye Bye To

Patterns & Prints

A

C

B

Before you think about hiring a contractor and begin knocking out walls, listen up! A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for giving your home a much-needed facelift. But first, you’ll have to remove the wallpaper—yikes!

What You’ll Need:

» Drop cloth

» A tool to perforate the wallpaper

Don’t Murder the

Myrtles!

Ever heard of the term “crape murder?” Nothing looks worse than a crape myrtle that’s been over pruned.

Here’s how to delicately trim back this beautiful tree to ensure elegant blooms next year.

The best time to trim crape myrtles is late spring, following the last freeze of the season. For smaller trees, you can prune with bypass pruners, but for the larger varieties, you’ll need lopper pruners.

1. Atop each stem, locate the seedpods A that developed after last year’s blooms.

4. The stub that remains should be strong enough to support the new stems that will develop beneath your cut.

5. Repeat the process on all remaining stems.

6. Clean up the bottom of the tree by cutting back any extra growth that developed around the tree base or removing wayward twigs.

2. Trace down from the seedpod to where the stem meets the branch B .

3. Using your pruners, make a cut six to 12 inches above the intersection C , never below it.

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Source gardenality.com

» Wallpaper glue remover (either your own mixture or a product such as DIF by Zinsser) » Spray bottle » Scraper

Procedure: 1. Lay down a drop cloth to protect your floor and baseboards.

2. Use the perforator to open holes in the wallpaper by slicing through the paper.

3. Add glue remover to a spray bottle, and spray generously on the wallpaper.

Tip: If you don’t have a perforator, you must apply more glue remover to the paper for it to soak in.

4. Allow the mixture to soak the wall for 30 minutes to allow the glue remover to take effect.

5. Attempt to peel the wallpaper very slowly from one corner. If the wallpaper was properly laid, it should be able to come off in one sheet.

This isn’t always the case, though, especially if the wallpaper is old.

6. Use the scraper to help loosen any sticky spots. If the wallpaper is not coming off easily, apply more glue remover.

7. Remember to work slowly to avoid any damage to the drywall.

Source: removingwallpaper.org

D.I.Y. Wallpaper glue remover can be found at most hardware stores, but it’s easy to make your own and save a few dollars. Simply mix about one cup of vinegar in a medium-sized bucket of warm water and you’ll have a homemade glue remover solution.

1. Prepare The Wall Remove the outlet covers, and hand sand where the backsplash will be placed with sandpaper.

Mark where the central focal point of the backsplash will be.

2. Apply The Mastic Using a trowel, apply mastic to the wall in a sweeping motion.

Tip: Only apply enough mastic for eight or so tiles, and work with this area before moving on to another one.

18”

3. Set The Border Tile Locate your center point and place the first tile just below this point. Firmly press the tile into place, and continue laying tiles, working out from the center to create the border.

22”

Who Doesn’t Love A

Splash of Color?

Now that you have mastered wallpaper removal, how about adding some pizzazz to your kitchen? A tile backsplash can bring new life to a once dull room. And, better yet, it’s something you can easily do yourself if you are willing to dedicate a little time and patience.

Tip: If the mastic forms a skin, scrape it off and apply a new coat before laying tiles.

4. Cut Tiles To Fit Cabinets When you reach a cabinet, measure and mark on the tile where it needs to be cut for a proper fit. Using a score-and-snap tile cutter, score the tile once, and snap off unnecessary tile to fit.

Tip: If you don’t own a tile cutter, you can rent one for $10 to $20 a day.

5. Set Any Decorative Tiles And Finish Laying Backsplash If you have any decorative tiles or want to create a geometric design, dry fit them first inside of your border tiles, and make any cuts before you begin to set them.

6. Grout The Tiles Once all your tiles are placed on the wall, allow them to set overnight.

The next day, apply an unsanded grout using a rubber grout float across the tiles in a diagonal motion. Make sure grout is packed tightly and there are no holes in the grout between the tiles. Clean off tiles using a damp sponge.

7. Apply Caulk Apply a thin bead of tub and tile caulk around the edges of the tiles and cabinets and in the corners to seal the edges. Use a wet finger to smooth the caulk. Allow grout to set for 45 minutes before applying caulk, and make sure caulk is the same color as the grout or clear.

Source: thisoldhouse.com

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Muck & Mire Master

There is nothing worse than spilling or splashing something on to your clothes or furniture. Let’s face it though, it’s bound to happen. But before you rub and scrub, keep reading for some sound advice on how to remove some of the most typical— and stubborn—stain culprits.

JUICE Soak fabric in cool water. Rub bar soap into the stain and launder with detergent in hot water.

DYE FROM OTHER ITEMS Immediately relaunder affected items with detergent. Repeat a few times to remove as much of the dye as possible.

CRAYON Place the fabric stain-side down on a few paper towels. Spray with WD-40, and let stand for a few minutes. Apply WD-40 to other side of fabric. Follow up by rubbing dishwasher detergent into the stain. Apply paper towels, replacing them as they begin to soak up the stain. Wash in hot water and detergent on the “heavily soiled” setting on the machine for about 12 minutes. Rinse with warm water.

INK Immediately apply rubbing alcohol.

Next, apply either bleach or color-safe bleach directly to the stain and launder using the hottest water recommended for the fabric. Repeat process if necessary.

CANDLE WAX Apply ice to the wax or place garment in the freezer to harden wax. Scrape off as much frozen wax as possible and launder with detergent in hot water. Repeat until all wax coloring is gone.

POLLEN Do not attempt to brush pollen off fabric.

Vacuum as much as possible off first. Launder with color-safe bleach.

Tips To Remember » Work quickly! The longer a stain sits, the harder it is to remove. » Heat will set stains. Avoid machine drying and ironing until

1. Turn Off The Water Supply If your water heater is electric, turn off the power at the breaker box. If the water heater is gas, switch the thermostat to the “pilot” setting.

Don’t Get Left

In The Cold!

Imagine this scenario: On a cold evening, you decide to take a hot shower. You turn the hot water all the way up, step inside and are immediately pummeled with icy cold water! Avoid this bath-time nightmare by annually draining your hot water heater. Here’s how:

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2. Connect Hose Locate the drain valve, and connect a hose. Leave the valve closed, and make sure that the other end of the hose is in a safe place to drain hot water.

3. Drain the Hot Water To prevent a vacuum from forming in the pipelines, open a hot water faucet in one of your sinks or tubs. Turn off the water supply to the tank. Now, open the drain valve on the water heater.

4. Rinse The Tank When the water stops flowing from the hose, turn the water supply back on to the tank. This

COFFEE, SODA, WINE Apply color-safe bleach or detergent directly to stain.

Do not rub in!

Immediately launder with detergent in hottest water recommended for fabric.

you’ve attempted to remove the stain several times. » Stain removers like Stain Out or Tide to Go will help break up the stain before laundering.

Source: textileaffairs.com

will rinse out any sediment that may have formed on the bottom of the tank. When the water begins to run clear, close the drain valve on the tank and turn off the hot water faucet on your sink or tub.

Tip: Remember to close the hot water faucet or you can risk damage to the heating element in the tank.

5. Restore Power To The Tank Once the tank has filled with water, restore power to the tank.

You may want to test the pressure relief valve once the water has been heated again. This valve is designed to prevent over-heating and pressure build up. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for testing the valve.

Tip: If the pressure relief valve is faulty, you will need a professional plumber to replace it.

Source: diynetwork.com

HERE Get the free SCAN mobile app at FOR MORE

http:/ / gettag.mobi INFORMATION

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Who Let The

Dogs Out?

Allowing man’s best friend the freedom to roam the yard is ideal to keep him well exercised as well as divert any potential intruders. However, don’t let Fido shake and shiver during the winter or get caught in one of Florida’s famous summer downpours.

Installing a doggie door is a simple task that will keep your pet safe from the elements when you are not home.

4. Frame It Up Lay the frame without the flap along the exterior of the door, and screw it into place. Do the same for the frame with the flap along the interior of the door.

1. Most Important: Measure Your Dog Correctly!

Doggie doors come in all shapes and sizes. The opening width should be 2 inches wider than the widest part of your dog and the opening height should be 2 inches taller than the length from the top of the shoulders to the chest.

5. Practice Makes Perfect Once you’ve installed your doggie’s new door, you need to teach him how to use it! It may be useful to leave the flap off and allow your pet to go through the hole a few times first. Remember to praise him lavishly when he makes it through. Once he is comfortable going through the hole, add the flap and help him push through it a few times. Every pet learns at his own pace, but once he understands, he—and you—will love his newfound freedom.

Tip: Applying caulk along the outer frame will prevent air leaks.

2. “X” Marks the Spot Included with the doggie door should be a template to help you center the door. Trace the template onto your door with a pencil before you begin cutting any holes. Mark any drill holes on the door as well.

Source: lowes.com

Tip: It will be easiest if you remove the door from its hinges.

3. Stay Inside the Lines!

Using a drill, drill through any marked drill holes. Cut your opening using a jigsaw (or comparable saw) beginning at the corner of your choice.

Follow along your traced lines.

Dim It Down A Little Sometimes, you just want to tone the lights down a touch but don’t want to be left entirely in the dark. Installing a dimmer switch is easy to do and can help create the perfect ambiance.

1. You’ll need to purchase a dimmer switch from a hardware store of your choice. These switches vary in price but generally range between $30 to $50.

2. Turn off the power. Be sure to turn the power off at the breaker box and check the switch a few times to make sure the power really is turned off.

3. Using a screwdriver, remove the current switch and electrical box from the wall.

4. Disconnect the current wiring.

Tip: The ground wire may be bare copper or wrapped in green. Disconnect the ground wire last.

13”

1 2”

5. Rewire the dimmer. You will see three wires: a white, a black and the ground wire. Connect the corresponding wires of the dimmer to the wires in the wall, and use pliers to gently twist the wire ends together.

Secure the wires with a wire nut.

6. Carefully place the wires back into the wall and secure the electrical box.

7. Screw the new dimmer switch plate back onto the wall.

8. Enjoy your new light!

Source: diynetwork.com

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We love bugs

No Job too Big or too Small

Mr.

“

In Business in Ocala for over 13 years

FixIt FIX

”

We BUILD do i!t REPAIR all

to death.

With over 30 years experience, Brick City Pest Control serves Ocala and Marion County.

Whether your problem is with termites, ants, chinch bugs, bed bugs, or just garden-variety bugs, we’ll protect your home and family… guaranteed.

Call (352) 732-4244 for your free inspection, and we’ll love your bugs to death.

INSTALL Call402-0555

Rand Hollon Owner

License # CBC 1251662 Specializing in:

Residential & Commercial Remodeling & Additions ( 3 5 2 ) 7 3 2- 4 2 4 4 • w w w. b ri c kc i t y p e s t . c o m

Giving Your Concrete the finished look of stone, tile, wood & more

Durable Coating & Design To Any Concrete

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• Slip Resistant Surface Oil, Rust & Mildew Resistant DECO • Bonds to Concrete IS AD H T N O I • Any Color & Custom Design MEN T • Rich, Textured Effect • Sealing & Resealing Pavers or Painted Driveways • Commerical & Residential EW E R! YOUR NNC RE TE OR D CO RA TIVE 31/12 Expires

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CALL FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE!

PHOTOS OF COMPLETED WORK BY MODERN EDGE

352.207.5879 mar’12

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Take Home A

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Sisters Erica Jones and Brandie Bennett have established a top-shelf title insurance agency, forming lasting relationships along the way.

L to R: Erica P. Jones, Brandie P. Bennett, Erin A. Jones and Gina Preston

Erica and Brandie are also proud of the fact that they were both born and raised in Ocala.

“We are a local business, independently owned and operated,” Erica says. “This is our community, and we know the area.

Whether the transaction is one thousand dollars or one million dollars, it’s important to us,” she says, reiterating that she and Brandie don’t want to necessarily be the biggest but the best.

As a result of Erica and Brandie’s dedication to their clients, was a big step, we knew we could an opportunity to expand has make a go of it,” says Brandie. And presented itself in two ways. Joining those relationships grew as word the Brick City Title family is Erica’s spread and more and more people sister-in-law, Erin Jones, who adds began calling Brandie and Erica to a marketing aspect to handle their real the team. They will estate transactions.

We are a also be opening an “Even though we are local business, additional location on Highway the owners of the independently Southwest 200. company, we are owned and “We want to directly involved be able to offer the in the day-to-day operated. convenience of our operations of our —ERICA JONES services to people on agency,” Brandie both sides of town,” adds. “In order says Erica, adding that they remain to maintain the one-on-one determined to maintain personal personal attention that keeps the relationships with all of their clients. relationships strong, we have the “Without our family support, support of our loyal and dedicated we could never have accomplished employee of nine years, Gina so much,” says Erica. Erica’s Preston,” she says.

Smart Business, PERSONAL TOUCH

W

hen you walk into Brick City Title Insurance Agency, you immediately feel like you are a welcome guest at someone’s home. There are no bare walls or impersonal cubicles in the quaint building. Instead, you’ll find a reassuring and calming atmosphere.

Ocala-born sisters Brandie Bennett and Erica Jones have been in the title insurance business for over 15 years. After working for other title insurance agencies for a few years, learning the ropes and developing a passion for the business, the women decided to go into business for themselves.

“We developed a lot of relationships with people who were very loyal to us, so even though it

husband Eric, who is also a local business owner, and Brandie’s husband Ryan, an elementary school principal, both provide tremendous support by caring for their children. Erica and Eric have two sons, Cooper and Tucker, and Brandie and Ryan have two girls, Hannah and Ainsley. Erica and Brandie’s support doesn’t stop with their husbands and children. Their parents, Donnie and Julia Peavy, have supported and encouraged them throughout their journey. Gina has the support of her husband Kevin and two sons, Kalen and Ryan, while Erin’s support comes from her “kids,” her two dogs Bella and Ivy. The Brick City Title family offers professional services with the added touch of a personal relationship. Their experience in the business means clients get top priority, but a small-town setup means you can count on them to be your “Simple Solution to a Positive Closing Experience.”

Brick City Title Insurance Agency 2303 SE. Fort King Street (352) 622-8732 brickcitytitle.net

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Photos by Tony DeSantis

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Y

ou’ve done your spring cleaning, now what are you going to do with all that junk you don’t want anymore? ‘Tis the season for garage and yard sales, so why not pick up a few extra bucks?

After all, your trash may be someone else’s treasure.

Flowers aren’t the only things blooming in the spring. Profusions of yard sale signs sprout every Saturday morning throughout local neighborhoods, attracting shoppers looking for bargains, collectors searching for rare finds and curious neighbors being nosy.

Weekendtreasure.com, a website devoted to tracking yard sales across the nation, recorded more than 11,000 sales on a single day last May. Making sure your sale stands out from the competition requires a little elbow grease and some simple organizational skills. Packing away tons of items that didn’t sell can be quite depressing, especially if you got up early and waited all day for customers.

“Start organizing the things you want to sell at least three weeks in advance,” says Laura McCormack, who held her first garage sale in 1977 and has hosted many more since. “You can’t wait until the night before to get ready.”

A Villages resident since 2004, Laura believes displaying items properly is crucial for a successful sale. “Make sure everything is clean and tagged before the sale,” she says. “Organize items by their use and have similar items in the same area. For example, place all your glassware together.”

Indeed walking into a garage sale where everything is dumped into piles is a turn-off

and not just because it’s harder for buyers to sift through the goods before finding what they want.

“If the sellers don’t display with care, they probably didn’t take care of the items very well, or at least that’s the perception a buyer will have,” says Laura, who has made as much as $800 on one garage sale.

Once you decide on a date to have a sale, you must advertise. Don’t think setting out balloons and signs will draw in enough crowds to make the trouble worth your while.

Local newspapers’ classified ads have a garage sale section, but those cost money to purchase. Take advantage of the free postings on sites such as Craigslist, Ocala4sale and yardsalequeen. com. Regular garage sale hunters turn to LAURA McCORMACK electronic lists because they contain more information about the sales and specific directions with some sites, even plotting sale routes using Google Maps technology.

More and more people are also taking advantage of social media to broadcast their upcoming sales, including Facebook and Twitter. Try sending an email to your friends and ask them to send it to their friends. Word of mouth is very powerful!

Be sure to describe some of the highlights of your sale, especially for items that are unusual and hard to find or may have a limited target market. A few years ago, a friend wanted to sell scrapbooking and rubber stamp supplies. Getting an email into the hands of the local club president devoted to the hobby turned out to be quite fortuitous.

Scrapbook aficionados lined the driveway as soon as the clock struck 8am and most of the merchandise was gone by 10.

Begin advertising your sale a few days before the actual event because many enthusiasts plan their routes ahead of time so they can hit as many sales as possible in one day. Craigslist has garage sales sorted by dates, and many are listed a week or two in advance.

Some sellers offer to send photos of items in advance, while others are adamant that they will not let folks in early.

Pick your poison, and stick to your decision—you may sell more to the early birds, but they can also be quite annoying if you are still tagging and setting up items as they are browsing and asking questions.

When the sale day arrives, the first thing you’ll need to do is set out legible and durable signs—the brighter the color, the better. Plain white poster board isn’t always visible on busy

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Tips for Getting Rid of the Trash » Clean items and display them neatly. » Advertise! Take advantage of free listing services on garage sale websites. » Make sure signs are readable and visible. » Wear a carpenter’s apron and keep money on you, not in a box. » Have plenty of bills in small denominations for making change.

roads and will fall apart in a sudden rain shower. Balloons at the end of the driveway prevent people from wandering into a neighbor’s open garage by mistake.

“Make sure you have an address on the sign and an arrow pointing in the right direction,” advises Judy Biebeshiemer, a garage sale enthusiast who has shopped at sales around the country. “If your garage sale is in an out-of-the way area or culde-sac, have several signs leading the way to reassure drivers they are headed in the right direction.”

Two schools of thought abound concerning pricing and tagging items.

Some say that price tags deter buyers who want to negotiate; others believe the price tags are a starting point for bartering. If an item is tagged too high, some buyers may walk away; if items aren’t tagged at all, it can be hard to remember what you wanted for an item when the busy moments come.

If you are not sure how to price an item, enlist a friend’s help. He or she can be more objective about items that may have sentimental attachments for you.

Shoppers are looking for bargains, and they don’t care what you paid for an item originally. You must decide if your sale’s priority is to make money or to get rid of things. Visiting other yard sales can help you determine what the market will bear

in your own neighborhood. Remember, not every location is the same. An item you sold for $5 in a previous location may only fetch $2 here or vice versa.

“I prefer Ocala garage sales,” says Judy, who lives in The Villages. “The people have been in their homes longer and are more willing to sell at reasonable prices because they need to get rid of years of accumulation. Villagers have already emptied one, maybe even two houses elsewhere.”

Laura agrees that The Villages isn’t always the best place to look.

“A lot of us all have the same kinds of things to sell.”

Kathi Hall Vincent, a ninthgeneration Floridian who grew up in Ocala, looks for antique and vintage pieces that will fit into her businesses. When she was a young mom, she shopped at yard sales out of necessity. Today, she is a successful business woman who says she still prefers the “hunt and chase” of a yard sale where one-of-a-kind items quickly catch her eye.

“One of my favorite pieces is an old oak barrel with the words “Ocala Creamery” painted on the front, says Kathi, who caters vintage weddings and has been featured in Southern Weddings magazine. “I have used it at several

Tips for Finding the Treasure » Check electronic listings for the most up-to-date information on sales.

» Be an early bird. The really good stuff goes first. » Bring a recyclable bag in case the garage sale host doesn’t provide bags. » Learn the lingo. Words such as “moving,” “cleaning out” and “liquidation” indicate a deal is more likely than sales where “antiques” or “collectibles” are advertised.

Source: yardsalequeen.com, weekendtreasure.com

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KATHI VINCENT

» Bring cash in small denominations.

weddings with a bowl in the top filled with coffee creamers.”

Kathi also loves looking through old books at yard sales. A recent find had a deeprooted connection to her own family.

“I recognized the name in the front cover,” she says. “I went into my genealogy file, and it indeed had belonged to a distant family member in Savannah, Georgia.”

While yard sales can be fun and you can meet a lot of interesting people, don’t forget the No. 1 rule of all: to keep yourself safe.

Never host a yard sale alone. Make sure a friend or spouse is nearby—even if just inside the house. Wear an apron with pockets or a fanny pack and keep your money with you.

Don’t be tempted to use cash boxes, which can disappear quickly if you are distracted even momentarily. Also, experienced garage sale enthusiasts say to avoid letting strangers into your home, whether to use a restroom or to try on clothing.

“I learned on my first sale not to let people in my home,” says Laura. “Two ladies asked if they could go inside the door to try on some clothing. I found them wandering throughout my house.”

If you are selling a large amount of clothing, make a private area in one corner of your garage and hang curtains or sheets around it so people can try on items. In most cases, shoppers will slip on an article of clothing over what they are wearing. An inexpensive full-length mirror may be all they need, and at the end of the day, you can sell the mirror. As for restrooms, direct buyers to the nearest shopping center or service station.

Yard sales seem to be busiest when they first open. If you have a large sale or a multiple family sale, chances are it’s going to be chaotic throughout the day. Be prepared.

Have lots of small denominations on hand as well as coins.

JUDY BIBESHEIMER

Chris Heiska, who runs the website yardsalequeen.com, recommends starting the day with at least 25 $1 bills, two $10 bills, four $5 bills, a roll of quarters and $5 in nickels and dimes. When making change, it’s a good idea to lay the bill on a table in front of you while you count out the change. That way, there is no confusion as to whether the buyer handed you a $10 or a $20 bill. Also, don’t forget to have a calculator handy. Nobody wants to be doing subtraction with a line of customers.

You’ll also want to have plenty of plastic bags or boxes on hand for people who buy multiple items and need to carry them out.

Also, old newspapers are useful to wrap the breakable items.

Finally, don’t forget good customer service skills. Smiling and greeting visitors goes a long way when they are trying to decide whether to buy an item. Some veteran garage sale hosts even offer coffee or water.

Most importantly, have fun and get to know your neighbors from down the road who inevitably will drop by.

“In the end, it’s not all about the money,” says Laura, who still remembers selling her son’s outgrown clothing and discarded toys at her first sale to a new mom who had just moved into the neighborhood. “It’s just nice to know someone can really use your stuff and to see them walking away happy.”

The World’s Longest Yard Sale: 675 miles of Bargains This past year, I couldn’t resist visiting America’s ultimate yard sale. Always up for a road trip, I wanted to see for myself whether the bargains really stretched for 675 miles along the Highway 127 Corridor from Alabama to Michigan.

On the first Thursday in August every year, cars begin snaking along the mostly two-lane highway and don’t stop until the following Sunday. Known both as the World’s Longest Yard Sale or the 127 Corridor Sale, the event began in 1987 in Jamestown, Tennessee, where the former Fentress County Chamber of Commerce director was simply looking for a way to get folks off the interstates. He thought a county-wide yard sale might do the trick.

Today, the route stretches from Gadsden, Alabama, to Hudson, Michigan, and the World’s Longest Yard Sale is the ultimate shopping expedition for yard sale enthusiasts.

Families, entire neighborhoods, churches and antique dealers sell every imaginable item during the four-day extravaganza.

Current Fentress County Chamber of Commerce Director Walt Page, a former Floridian, says even serious shoppers can’t complete the entire 675-mile trek in one weekend, but they have fun trying.

“People just keep coming back,” he says.

“We get thousands of visitors every year, which brings in thousands of dollars in revenue for hotels and restaurants.”

If you plan to drive this year’s event, which is scheduled for August 2-5, don’t delay making hotel reservations. By June of last year, I had to make reservations 40 miles off the 127 corridor. By July, most hotels were booked. Also, be sure to watch the 127 Sale Facebook page because other travelers will provide helpful hints throughout the journey— like where to find the best deals or, more importantly, where to find public restrooms.

For more information, visit 127sale.com.

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Exercise Overload p80 Header Unhealthy pXX Header HabitspXX p84 Header Breast Cancer pXX Header Bullies pXX p86

Go The Distance!

and more!

Mar

24,25

E

ver wanted to test your endurance? A new triathlon series with stops all across the U.S. is hosting an event right here in Ocala. The HITS TRIATHLON SERIES—yes, the same HITS that puts on the HITS horse show series—will host an event at Carney Island Park March 24-25. The HITS Triathlon Series promotes “a distance for everyone” and features sprint, Olympic, half ironman and full ironman distances, as well as a short open triathlon for first timers. A fitness festival will take place Friday through Sunday and includes speakers, demonstrations, product samples and some of the top athletes in the sport sharing their success secrets. There are 12 events throughout the year scattered all over the country. The championships will take place in December in Palm Springs, California.

With a variety of distances offered, this is the perfect time to try your first tri!

Triathlon Distances: Open 100m swim 3mi bike 1 mi run

Sprint 750m swim 12.4mi bike 3.1mi run

Half Ironman 1.2 mi swim 56mi bike 13.1mi run

Olympic 1500m swim 24.8mi bike 6.2mi run

Ironman 2.4m swim 112mi bike 26.2mi run

Want To Give It A Go? HITS Ocala Triathlon March 24-25 Carney Island Park hitstriathlonseries.com (845) 246-8833

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LOOKINGWELL

Think Functional Fitness

J

ust because you’re not into going to the gym doesn’t mean you can’t be fit. Functional fitness, which is what our body requires to perform everyday activities, can be done anywhere, and as for equipment, all you really need is you. More specifically, you use your own body weight when doing a series of simple exercises that incorporate strength, flexibility and cardio.

“Functional fitness is a good balance of strength,

endurance and flexibility training,” says Hartley Sheila Hartley, an Ocala-based personal trainer who teaches indoor cycling and group strength exercise classes at All Pro Fitness. “Those high school gym class calisthenics with some modifications are good examples of simple functional fitness exercises you can do at home or even in your office during your lunch break.”

D.I.Y. TONING PUSH-UPS: Facing a wall, raise your arms to shoulder height, then place your hands palms down on the wall with arms straight, lean halfway toward the wall and then gently push off until your arms are straight again. Repeat six times and gradually work up to 15-20 push-ups. You can also use a kitchen counter to do push-ups and then progress to doing push-ups on the floor.

Push-ups strengthen your arms, chest, abs and back.

CHAIR SQUATS: Sit down on the edge of a sturdy chair at a height where your legs are bent at a 90-degree angle and your feet are shoulder-width apart. Reach forward with your arms and push up off your heels to stand up. Squat back down to almost sitting, then repeat six times. Squats help strengthen your gluteals (butt muscles), hamstrings (back of thigh) and quadriceps (front of thighs) as well as improve balance and stability.

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SHOULDER WORKOUT: Raise your arms up to shoulder height to your sides, move them around in small circular motions for 30 seconds, then circle them back in the opposite direction for 30 seconds. Now move your arms out to the front and repeat circular motion with each arm. Repeat whole circuit three times. This exercise will strengthen your arms and shoulders and increase flexibility.

DEAD-LIFTS:

If you don’t have dumbbells, improvise by using a household item like a 10-lb bag of pet food or maybe a large textbook. Now, holding the weight out in front of you, stand with your knees just slightly bent and your core held in tight. Lower your weight down to your feet or as low as you can get it, and hold this stretch for about five seconds to warm up, then stand up. Move slowly at a three-count pace: up two three, down two three. Try for 10 reps, then stretch again for five seconds. Dead-lifts strengthen your upper and lower back.

BEAR CRAWL: Get on the floor on your hands and knees with both hands in front of you. Lift your knees so that you’re balanced on your toes and hands with hips nearly even with your shoulders.

While keeping your back and arms straight, crawl forward using left foot and right hand, then right foot and left hand. Start by crawling across a room then back at least once, adding more reps as you get stronger. This exercise strengthens your arms, shoulders, legs and chest while stretching your hips.

Sources: experiencelife.com and Sheila Hartley.

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FEELINGWELL

SIGNS YOU NEED TO

ARE YOU OVERTRAINING?

O

K, you made and stuck to a New Year’s resolution to exercise more and get fit. Maybe you joined a gym or started jogging a couple times a week. Jogging became running every day, and you even ran a 5K, then a 10K. Now, you’ve been training for a half-marathon and going to the gym three times a week. But lately there’s less spring in your stride, and your strength workout is leaving you drained. Chances are you’ve got a case of overtraining, which can lead to illness and injury if not addressed. But there’s no reason to let things get that out of hand and erase all your efforts. The key is to know the signs of overtraining and what to do to avoid the worst-case scenario. Then, in no time at all, you’ll be crossing the finish line all smiles!

IT DOWN

» Fatigue » Sudden inability to complete workouts

» Elevated morning pulse » Resting heartbeat increases

Training too much without enough recovery Not varying exercise routine Poor nutrition

» » »

Ignoring signs of fatigue/injury

»

Treating OverOvertraining

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»

5 beats per minute Lack of motivation Loss of appetite Sudden weight loss Increased susceptibility to colds, sore throats, other illnesses Increased irritability, anger, depression Headaches Insomnia Muscle/joint aches and pains Decrease in performance

Get enough rest between workouts.

Eat a wellbalanced diet.

Train every other day.

Cross train.

Schedule recovery days.

Get enough sleep.

Talk with a coach/ personal trainer about your exercise routine.

Take a one- to four-week break from exercising.

Sources: exercise.about.com; National Association of Sports Medicine (nasm.org)

Causes Of Overtraining

» » » »

S P E C I A L

A D V E R T I S I N G

F E A T U R E

Back pain?

Not ready for surgery?

See Dr. Zhou and Associates.

Every patient with back pain wants to avoid surgery or use surgery as a last resort. How can you do it? The answer is right here in Ocala!

Dr. Zhou of the Florida Pain and Rehabilitation Center recently published an invited expert review article titled “Back Pain, How to Avoid Surgery” in the British Journal of Medical Practitioner. This article summarized the current scientific evidence regarding the subject and Dr. Zhou’s daily practice in an attempt to help thousands of patients relieve their back pain without surgery. Dr. Zhou was also recently interviewed on Care Generation, a public health education radio show. You can hear his interview and learn how to avoid surgery by visiting thecaringgeneration.com, clicking on the “As Heard On” tab and listening to the October 16, 2011 show.

Dr. Zhou combines scientific research and clinical practice. His research on “How to Obtain a Clear Fluoroscopic Lateral View for Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection” was featured in Pain Medicine News last year. His most recent book chapter “Principle of Pain Management” in Neurology in Clinical Practice, 6th edition will be released worldwide in May 2012. This book provides guidance for neurologists.

Many of Dr. Zhou’s patients feel very lucky to have such a top-notch scholar and practitioner in Ocala. Traditionally, people need three epidural steroid injections to feel sciatica relief. You may only need one or two from Dr. Zhou. With his accurate diagnostic skills, high moral ethics and high success rate, Dr. Zhou always tells his patients after treatment, “You do not have to come back if you do not have pain,” and many of his patients find there really is no need to return again because they are pain free. However, they refer their closest family and friends to his practice.

This is why Florida Pain and Rehabilitation Center has been growing at 20-30 percent annually over the last seven years. Because of this rapid growth, Dr. Zhou has recently added two new associates, Dr. Warycha and Dr. Vu, to his team.

YiLi Zhou, MD, PhD.

Harvard Trained Pain Specialist

BOARD CERTIFIED BY: American Board of Pain Medicine American Board of Interventional Pain Physician American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology Former Director of Jackson Memorial Hospital Pain Clinic University of Miami Physician Recognition Award by American Medical Association 2003 Distinguished Physician Award by Florida Medical Association 2004, 2006

Dr. Warycha is a board-certified physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist. His areas of expertise include nerve function study. He excels at using ultrasound-guided joint injections. “This technique is more accurate and allows me to treat the exact pain site instead of the general area,” he says.

Dr. Vu is a board-certified physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist and pain specialist.

Together with other team members, Dr. Vu offers a comprehensive approach to treating pain using minimally invasive non-surgical treatment.

The Florida Pain and Rehabilitation Center has had an outstanding record in treating and eliminating pain. Dr. Zhou and his staff offer an honest and compassionate approach to pain management and have become one of the most popular groups of practitioners in the area.

Just listen to what some of his patients have to say.

“Dr. Zhou has offered various treatments to me, giving me a quality of life unattainable with other medications.”

“Dr. Zhou is extremely knowledgeable, while remaining friendly, courteous and, very importantly, on time for appointments. He displays a “we can help you” caring attitude, not often seen in this fast-paced world.”

Consult with this outstanding team today, and learn how you can begin leading a pain-free life without surgery!

Florida Pain and Rehabilitation Center Formerly Comprehensive Pain Management of North Florida

Locations in Ocala, Gainesville, & Lake City 1910 SW 18th Court, Ocala L to R: Angela Luo, PA-C, MS; Matthew Barnes, PA-C; Bohdan Warycha, MD; Yili Zhou, MD, Ph.D.; Hoang T. Vu, DO; Asha Vishnagara, PA-C, MMS, MS

352.629.7011 | cpmnf.com mar’12

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EATINGWELL

PORTION

packaged foods—and you really should— you’ll know how many servings, along with the nutritional value, are included.

Now, a portion is the amount of food or serving that we choose to eat, and this is where we get in trouble. Of course, one way is to actually use measuring cups, spoons, a food scale and even those special food-group divided plates. Easy enough to do when at home, but because it’s not exactly convenient to carry that kitchen stuff around, here’s another solution. Play a little visual game with yourself, matching up a portion of food with everyday common objects.

Soon, you’ll know that a medium baked potato is about the size of your computer mouse! Here are some other examples to help you regain some portion perspective.

Perspective

I

n our supersize-me, all-you-can-eat buffet world, we’ve lost sight of exactly what is a healthy amount of food to eat at a meal or for a snack. No wonder we have a major obesity problem in this country. And most diet experts will tell you that portion control is the key to a healthy way of eating. Sure, we’ve had the USDA pyramid and now the plate to guide us, but we still seem to be confused about the difference between a serving and a portion.

OK, a serving is the recommended amount of each food group we should be eating.

Think six to nine servings of veggies and fruits each day. And if you read labels on

Golf Ball ¼ cup dried fruit

Compact Disc One serving of pancake/ waffle

Ping Pong Ball 2 tablespoons of peanut butter

Light Bulb Two portions of cooked rice

Tennis Ball 1 small muffin

Stack of 4 Dimes Teaspoon of fats/oils

Hockey Puck ½ medium bagel

Checkbook 3-oz serving of fish

Baseball 8 oz yogurt/1 cup dry cereal

Deck of Cards/ Palm of Hand: 3-oz serving of meat; 10 chips or french fries

Rounded Handful ½ cup of veggies/ fruits, cooked rice, pasta; pretzels & chips

PORTION CONTROL TIPS At Home

» » » »

Eat from smaller plates.

Measure out portions.

Don’t have seconds.

Store leftovers in portion-controlled containers.

Eating Out

» » » » »

Ask about ½-portion entrées.

Order from the child’s menu if allowed.

Box up ½ of full entrée before eating.

Share entrées with dining companions.

Eat a healthy appetizer with soup/salad instead of an entrée.

Sources: abouteating.com; webmd.com

Pulse

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With our minimally invasive surgical weight loss options, you’ll gain more than you ever thought possible.

For so many people who have struggled with dieting, bariatric surgery is as much about gain as it is loss. At Ocala Health, our minimally invasive surgical weight loss options have a proven track record of results. With the benefits of weight loss surgery, you may have less risk for diabetes, heart disease and less dependence on medication … and, of course, long-term weight loss. The question is – what do you have to gain?

Join us for our free monthly seminars on the third Wednesday of each month.

To find out if weight loss surgery is right for you, join us at our next free monthly seminar.

Take the first step and call us to register at 1-800-530-1188 or visit us on the web at: ocalahealthsystem.com

What do you have to gain?

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BEINGWELL

Making Peace With Ourselves &

EATING

According to the NATIONAL EATING DISORDER ASSOCIATION, as many as 10 million females and 1 million males in the United States are affected by an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia. Eating disorders involve serious psychological and physical problems that can lead to life-threatening consequences.

All eating disorders require professional medical help on both the psychological and physical level.

T H E

D I S O R D E R S

ANOREXIA NERVOSA

BULIMIA NERVOSA

Characterized by self-starvation and excessive weight loss. Symptoms can include intense fear of weight gain or being fat; extreme concern with body weight and shape; loss of menstrual period; feeling overweight or fat despite dramatic weight loss; avoiding mealtimes with others; exercising excessively.

Characterized by secretive cycle of binge eating followed by purging through vomiting, laxatives or extreme exercising.

Symptoms include frequent, often unnecessary dieting; eating large amounts of food in one meal or over a short period of time, then purging; scarred knuckles from frequent induced vomiting; using gum, mouthwash, mints excessively to mask smell of vomiting.

80 40

% % % %

30 6

BY THE NUMBERS American women dissatisfied with their appearance Newly identified cases of anorexia in girls 15-19 years of age People with anorexia in a community who receive mental health care People with bulimia who receive mental health care

Deadly Fact:

Anorexia nervosa has the highest premature fatality rate of any mental illness.

BINGE EATING DISORDER/ COMPULSIVE OVEREATING Characterized by periods of impulsive, uncontrolled and/or continuous eating but with no purging. Symptoms include hoarding food; skipping meals with others; dieting but rarely losing weight. Body weight can vary from normal to obese.

When Help Is Needed Psychological counseling is of the utmost importance to address eating disorder causes and symptoms. Inpatient or outpatient care usually involves a coordinated team effort, possibly overseen by a social worker or licensed health care professionals, including a psychologist/psychiatrist, nutritionist and medical doctor. Anti-depressants and anti-anxiety drugs are sometimes used in treatment.

What’s Your Cause?

low self-esteem / perfectionism / depression, anxiety, anger, loneliness / sports ideal body type / history of physical and/or sexual abuse / cultural pressures about ideal body type / biochemical imbalances / genetic factors

THERE IS HELP The University of Florida and Shands Hospital recently opened the state’s first university inpatient treatment program for adults and adolescents suffering from eating disorders. The University of Florida Eating Disorder Recovery Center will offer around-the-clock evaluation and therapy. Other services include meal coaching, structured exercise and stretching therapy. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL (352) 265-3372.

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Sources: National Eating Disorders Association, webmd.com, mayoclinic.com

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THEDOCTORSAREIN

New Advice For Preventing Breast Cancer

By Michael Roizen, M.D., and Mehmet Oz, M.D.

Y

ou wouldn’t take a bath in paint thinner or breathe gas fumes for fun, but small “everyday” doses aren’t OK either.

A big new report on breast cancer and environmental toxins has terrific advice. You didn’t get to read all 300 pages? No problem. Here’s the key stuff on protecting you and yours from environmental chemicals that promote breast cancer.

The news must have been tough reading for reporters on deadline, because plenty of media accounts got this important story wrong, concluding, “It’s too soon to tell;” it’s not. The Institute of Medicine’s concise message: “Limit About 34,000 or eliminate your exposure to chemicals that are plausible contributors to breast cancer risk.” cancer Sure, there’s a lot we don’t know yet. Cancer can deaths a year take decades to develop, and over decades, we’re all are due to exposed to thousands of compounds. Connecting the dots isn’t easy. But here’s what we do know: environmental About 34,000 cancer deaths a year are due to pollutants. environmental pollutants.

The report found the strongest evidence for a) secondhand smoke; b) chemicals in gas fumes, car exhaust and some work environments; and c) solvents in dry cleaning, paint and paint thinners.

Hormone-like chemicals in plastics, pesticides and elsewhere could also be a problem.

Don’t shrug off these warnings. Instead, take these five steps. They’ll lower your exposure to many toxins that threaten breasts most.

1. Don’t breathe in this gunk: tobacco smoke, gasoline fumes, car exhaust. They have the strongest links to breast cancer risk. So steer totally clear of other people’s tobacco smoke. (You don’t smoke, right?) Avoid inhaling gas fumes when you fill up at the pump.

Open garage or storage shed doors for a few minutes before going in.

Fumes build up in closed spaces where you keep cars, mowers, blowers and other gas-powered equipment. Avoid vehicle exhaust.

2. Keep and try to use this stuff outside: organic solvents in paints, paint strippers, glues. Air out fresh

dry cleaning in the garage or on a porch before bringing it into the house. Try to find a “green” dry cleaner who doesn’t use trichloroethylene or perchloroethylene; both solvents are health worries. If solvents are reported in your local water supply, add a carbon filter to your taps.

3. Sidestep hormone disturbers. The most famous one, BPA, is linked to a protein found in up to 30 percent of women with breast cancer. Fortunately, BPA has been removed from virtually all hard plastic bottles, glasses and pitchers, but most tinned foods still come in cans lined with BPA-laced material (it excels at blocking spoilage and can contaminates). Also, most thermal receipts from places like fast-food restaurants and gas stations are BPA laden. No widely available substitute has been found for can liners or receipts, but the hunt is on. Meanwhile, try to buy fresh or frozen foods, look for BPA-free cans—about 20 percent are (usually from organic lines)—and don’t take thermal receipts you don’t need. If you do, stash ‘em, and wash your hands before touching food.

4. Be choosy about personal-care and household products. Choose nontoxic cleaners—the Green Seal is one good guide (greenseal.org); try baking soda and vinegar, too.

There’s plenty of carcinogen controversy about certain chemicals in cosmetics, soaps, shampoos and more. The Environmental Working Group (ewg.org) has a cosmetics database of worry-free products.

5. Start early. Take steps 1-4 when you’re conceiving, breast feeding and raising kids to protect young tissue during vulnerable development periods.

It’s not just toxins. To really cut your breast cancer risk, keep your weight healthy and your waist under 33 inches. Stay active. Stick to one alcoholic drink daily; if you’re at above-average risk, don’t drink alcohol at all. Consider hormone replacement therapy for tough menopausal symptoms if you’re not at extra risk for breast cancer and heart disease. We believe taking bioidentical estrogen, micronized progesterone and two low-dose aspirin daily both cools hot flashes and lowers breast cancer odds. Even without menopausal issues, talk to your doc about low-dose aspirin to counter breast cancer, colon cancer and stroke. Take aspirin with half a glass of warm water before and after. Got it?

The YOU Docs, Mehmet Oz, host of The Dr. Oz Show and Mike Roizen of Cleveland Clinic, are authors of YOU: Losing Weight. For more information go to RealAge.com. (c) 2012 Michael Roizen, M.D. and Mehmet Oz, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

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Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Breast Augmentation A Q&A with Dr. James Rogers, D.M.D., M.D.

If I have implants, will I have to get them replaced every 10 years?

No. Breast implants do not have a fixed lifespan; although, like all medical devices, they should not be expected to last forever.

Generally speaking, if there is no implant failure (i.e. leakage) and a woman’s breasts don’t change, they can be left in indefinitely.

Does it matter how large an implant I choose, and are there limits as to how large they should be?

Board Certification:

American Board of Plastic Surgery

Organizations/Affiliations:

A number of factors determine how large an implant a patient should have. As a general rule, the more breast tissue and body fat covering an implant, the better. Many of the problems associated with implants, including implant visibility, rippling or wrinkling, tend to increase with the size of the implants.

American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons

Do breast implants increase the risk of getting breast cancer?

Florida Medical Association

There is no evidence that suggests breast implants increase the risk of breast cancer or delay the detection of early breast cancer. All women 35 years or older should have a mammogram prior to having breast augmentation and practice routine self-examination as well as have annual exams by their physician.

Do I have to go to the hospital to have my surgery?

No. Most of our outpatient procedures are done in our own ambulatory surgery center, Paddock Park Surgery Center. The center is certified by the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) and is a fully staffed and equipped surgical facility.

Are silicone implants safe? Are they better than saline implants?

Both silicone and saline filled implants are safe. Which implant is better for a particular patient depends on a number of factors.

Generally speaking, if a patient has very little breast tissue and body fat, silicone implants may be softer and less likely to “ripple” or “wrinkle.” This advantage diminishes with increased breast tissue.

Silicone implants are generally more expensive, and leakage may be more difficult to detect. In addition, silicone implants are not available to women under 21 years of age.

American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons Florida Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Marion County Medical Society

Dr. James Rogers Education: Medical Degree, University of Florida, D.M.D., M.D. In Practice: 21 years Gainesville, Florida Plastic Surgery Fellowship, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana Oshner Clinic, New Orleans, Louisiana General Surgery Residency, Shands Hospital, Gainesville, Florida Spartanburg Regional Medical Center, Spartanburg, South Carolina

Ocala Plastic Surgery 3320 S.W. 34th Circle, Ocala, FL 34474

Villages Plastic Surgery Building 1000 Suite 1001 1501 US Hwy 27-441, The Vilages, FL 32159

AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION WHEN IT COMES TO COLON CANCER, AWARENESS AND TAKING PROVEN PREVENTIVE ACTION ARE THE KEYS TO REMAINING HEALTHY.

BY JOANN GUIDRY

S

ay colonoscopy and watch people cringe. Mention colon cancer and more than likely, they will quickly change the subject. For most of us, neither topic makes for good conversation. But considering that colon cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second-leading cause of death in men and women combined in the United States, maybe we should be talking about it more. The National Cancer Institute estimates that there will be more than 140,000 new

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diagnosed cases of colon cancer and more than 50,000 deaths from the disease in 2012. Taking into account those sobering statistics and with March being National Colon Cancer Awareness Month, now is as good a time as any to initiate a discussion.

Ocala Style recently talked with Dr. Christian O. Oraedu, a board-certified colon and rectal surgeon with Ocala-based Surgical Consultants of Central Florida, about the health topic most people prefer not to talk about.

“IT’S BETTER NOT TO TAKE A RISK AND HAVE A COLONOSCOPY EVEN IF YOU THINK THERE IS NO COLON CANCER IN YOUR FAMILY.” —DR. CHRISTIAN O. ORAEDU

OS: WHEN IT COMES TO COLON CANCER, WHY IS GETTING A COLONOSCOPY SO IMPORTANT?

COLON CANCER FYI

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT COLON CANCER Almost all cases of colon cancer, also called colorectal cancer, begin in the glands in the lining of the colon and rectum, manifesting as benign polyps that, if not removed, slowly develop into cancer. For men, colon cancer is the third most common cancer after prostate and lung cancer. For women, colon cancer is the third most common cancer after breast and lung cancer.

Treatments for colon cancer, depending on the stage of the disease, include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Colon cancer is considered one of the most treatable cancers—if caught in the early stages.

“Over the past 20 years, the incidence and death rate from colorectal cancer in the United States is declining,” says Dr. Thomas H. Cartwright, an oncologist with Ocala Oncology. “This is due to a combination of both earlier diagnosis and more effective therapy.”

ORAEDU: There is no better alternative

to a colonoscopy when it comes to colon cancer detection and prevention.

Only through a colonoscopy can polyps in the colon be detected, and more than 90 percent of colon cancer cases begin with polyps. Removing the polyps in a benign state before the colon cancer develops is the best way to prevent the disease.

OS: BUT PEOPLE OFTEN DON’T GET A COLONOSCOPY BECAUSE OF THE UNPLEASANT NATURE OF BOTH THE PREPARATION AND THE ACTUAL PROCEDURE. HAVE THINGS CHANGED WHEN IT COMES TO THESE MATTERS? ORAEDU: Yes. The bowel preparation

drink now has a better, less chalky taste, and you also need to drink less of it than previously. As for the colonoscopy itself, we now use a quick-acting intravenous anesthetic.

People wake up and are surprised the procedure is over.

OS: WHEN SHOULD PEOPLE FIRST HAVE A COLONOSCOPY? ORAEDU: For people with no family

history of colon cancer, you should

have your first colonoscopy at age 50. If no polyps are found, then one every 10 years. If polyps are detected, then another in three years. If there is a first-generation family history of colon cancer, have a colonoscopy either 10 years before the age that the relative was diagnosed or no later than 40 years old.

OS: IS A FAMILY HISTORY OF COLON CANCER THE TOP RISK FOR DEVELOPING THE DISEASE? ORAEDU: Yes, family history

and genetics are the most direct cause. But many people have an incomplete family history when it comes to health risks, so there may be colon cancer in their family that they are not even aware of. Also, the colon cancer gene may be dormant in one family member and then manifest itself in another. So it’s better not to take a risk and have a colonoscopy even if you think there is no colon cancer in your family.

OS: ARE THERE OTHER HIGH-RISK FACTORS FOR COLON CANCER? ORAEDU: Yes, there is a strong

correlation between people who suffer from an inflammatory bowel

Dr. Christian O. Oraedu

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disease, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or Crohn’s disease, and developing colon cancer.

ARE YOU AT RISK?

» Family history of colon cancer » Older than 60 » Of African American/Eastern European descent

OS: HOW ABOUT LIFESTYLE RISK FACTORS?

» Eat a low-fiber diet high in red or processed meats

ORAEDU: There are some studies

» Have inflammatory bowel disease (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease)

that show a lower incidence of colon cancer in cultures where there is a high-fiber diet and a low consumption of red meat. But keep in mind that while that is a good lifestyle to adopt, it doesn’t mean you will not be at risk for colon cancer, especially with a family history.

OS: DO GENDER AND AGE MATTER AS RISK FACTORS?

» Have colorectal polyps

» Smoking/drinking alcohol » Have cancer elsewhere in the body

REDUCE YOUR RISK

» Eat a mainly plant-based, high-fiber diet » Reduce intake of red and processed meats » Eat oily fish like salmon, mackerel and sardines » Drink alcohol in moderation » Stop smoking » Exercise most days of the week » Maintain a healthy weight

ORAEDU: There are higher

incidences in people older than 50, but I am beginning to see colon cancer in people as young as their 30s. This could be because of a combination of genetics, diet and also people getting screened earlier. As for gender, colon cancer affects men and women about equally.

OS: WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE ABOUT COLON CANCER? ORAEDU: In the early stages

of the disease, when it is the most curable, there are often no symptoms. By the time you get symptoms like abdominal pain or blood in the stool, the colon cancer may have advanced to another stage.

OS: HOW CURABLE IS COLON CANCER? very curable, at a rate well over 90 percent, if detected early. That’s why having a colonoscopy is so important.

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» Blood in stool » Changes in bowel habits/ diarrhea/constipation » Narrow stools » Weight loss with no known reason *Note: Often, there are no symptoms in the earliest stages of colon cancer

STAGES OF COLON CANCER STAGE STAGE STAGE STAGE

ORAEDU: Colon cancer is

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KNOW THE SIGNS

» Abdominal pain/tenderness in lower abdomen

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STAGE

0 I II III IV

Very early cancer on the innermost layer of the intestine Cancer is in the inner layers of the colon Cancer has spread through the muscle wall of the colon Cancer has spread to the lymph nodes Cancer has spread to other organs

A LIFE LESSON

J

acques Bernard had always been a robust, active man right up until he had his first colonoscopy at 59. That’s when everything changed.

“All my life I had been very healthy,” says Jacques, who in his native Haiti was a military pilot.

“I played league soccer as a young man and, for the most part, always ate a good diet.”

recently had a colonoscopy asked Jacques if he had ever had one.

“I told him that I never had one,” says Jacques matter-of-factly.

“There was no cancer in my family.

Both my parents had lived long lives and died of what I call old age. But when I asked my doctor about a colonoscopy, he thought it was probably a good idea to go on and have one.”

For Jacques, the colonoscopy results were shocking—he had

“I WAS IN SHOCK. I HAD NO SIGNS, NO SYMPTOMS AT ALL THAT ANYTHING WAS WRONG.” —JACQUES BERNARD Jacques and his wife Jocelyne moved to New York City in 1985, where he was a transit bus driver while attending Farmingdale College. The couple retired to Ocala 10 years ago. But retirement didn’t mean slowing down much for Jacques, who kept busy with homebuilding projects and church activities. Then, a friend who had

stage III colon cancer. At that stage, the cancer is not only in the colon but has also spread to nearby lymph nodes.

“I was in shock,” says Jacques.

“I had no signs, no symptoms at all that anything was wrong.”

Sent quickly to Dr. Christian Oraedu at Ocala-based Surgical Consultants of Central Florida,

TREATMENTS/PROCEDURES SURGERY: Stage 0 colon cancer may be treated by removing the cancer cells, often during a colonoscopy. If the cancer is stage I, II or III, then more extensive surgery is needed to remove the part of the colon that is cancerous.

CHEMOTHERAPY: There is some

debate whether patients with stage II colon cancer should receive chemotherapy after surgery; this should be discussed with an oncologist.

Nearly all patients with stage III colon cancer receive chemotherapy following surgery for six to eight months.

Chemotherapy is also used to improve symptoms and increase survival rates in those with stage IV colon cancer.

RADIATION: Occasionally used Jacques underwent a colectomy.

The cancerous part of his colon was surgically removed, and the healthy ends of the large intestine were reattached. And then, because Jacques would have to undergo intensive chemotherapy, a chest port was also inserted.

“Everything went well with the surgery and the recovery after it,” says Jacques, who then began chemotherapy three weeks later.

“But once I began the chemo, I realized the surgery had been the easy part. The chemo was pure misery.”

It was a misery that lasted for eight months. Jacques would go to oncologist Dr. M.K. Kamal to have the chemo drugs injected into his chest port and then go home. There he would be “very sick, deathly sick, for days.” Before receiving more chemotherapy, Jacques would have to undergo blood tests to check his immune system’s strength. If his body’s resistance was low, the chemo would be delayed for a few days before the cycle would begin again.

“There were days during chemo that I thought I wouldn’t make it,” says Jacques. “And most of the men I met at the clinic who were having chemo for colon cancer at the same time as me didn’t make it. Most of them died.”

But Jacques survived.

“I have been cancer free for four years now,” says Jacques, who is now 63 and pursuing a foreign language degree at the University of Florida. “I see Dr. Oraedu in July, and if all goes well, that will make it five years. I don’t dwell on the cancer. I just try to enjoy every day of my life.”

In addition to going back to college and spending time with his family, which now includes three grandchildren, Jacques shares his cancer story, mainly through his church.

“I tell people how important it is to get a colonoscopy,” says Jacques. “I don’t want people to wait until it’s almost too late like I did.”

in colon cancer patients but more commonly used in combination with chemotherapy for stage III rectal cancer patients.

COLONOSCOPY: The gold

standard in colon cancer prevention. Using a colonoscope, which has a small camera attached to a flexible tube, this is an internal examination of the entire length of the colon to detect abnormalities, particularly the presence of polyps.

COLECTOMY: Surgery, performed

either laproscopically or by traditional open surgery, during which all or part of the diseased colon is removed. If there is enough healthy large intestine left, the surgeon will sew/staple the healthy ends back together. If there isn’t enough healthy large intestine to reconnect, then a short-term or permanent colostomy will be necessary.

80 95 20

Percentage of deaths from colon cancer that could be prevented by early colonoscopy screenings

Percentage of colon cancer deaths that occur in people over 50

Percentage of colon cancer found after the disease has spread to other organs

FACT VS. FICTION MYTH:

Colon cancer is a man’s disease.

TRUTH: According to the American

Cancer Society, the risk of developing colon cancer is almost equal in men (1 in 19) and women (1 in 20).

MYTH:

Colon cancer is most common in Caucasians.

TRUTH: According to the Centers for

Disease Control, African Americans have the highest incidences of colon cancer, followed by Caucasians and then Hispanics.

COLOSTOMY:

Surgical procedure that brings one end of the large intestine out through the abdominal wall. Stools moving through the intestine drain into a bag attached to the abdomen. A colostomy may be short term or permanent.

Sources: Colon Cancer Alliance (ccalliance.org); National Institutes of Health/U.S. Library of Medicine (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth); Colon Cancer Foundation (coloncancerfoundation.org); mayoclinic.com; webmd.com

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Best friends Derek Farr, D.O., and Nirav Gupta, D.O., of Twin Palm Orthopedics, restore active lifestyles to Marion County residents with cutting-edge procedures and a state-of-the-art facility.

L-R: Derek Farr, D.O. and Nirav Gupta, D.O.

Restoring

ACTIVE LIFESTYLES

to Marion County

P

hysical health is something we tend to take for granted.

Daily activities, such as walking, lifting and carrying, are often done without much thought.

But when joints start to deteriorate or traumatic events occur that limit mobility, what once was an easy task can become a source of great pain or anxiety. That’s why it’s important to find a team of orthopedic doctors who not only offer cutting-edge technology but also care about their patients’ recovery and return to daily activity.

Derek Farr, D.O., and Nirav Gupta, D.O., at Twin Palm Orthopedics have brought a comprehensive practice to Marion County, offering some of the

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latest procedures in orthopedic surgery. Both board-certified and fellowship-trained doctors studied at Michigan State’s Pontiac Osteopathic Hospital before settling in Ocala. Their brand-new state-of-the-art facility features 10 exam rooms, digital X-ray technology as well as onsite physical therapy.

“This building was built specifically for orthopedics,” says Dr. Farr of the new location for Twin Palm Orthopedics. The layout and design make the offices and exam rooms easily accessible for patients, and onsite physical therapy allows for the doctors and physical therapists to work closely on the patients’ rehabilitation.

“I put as much emphasis on the rehabilitation process as I do on the surgery,” says Dr. Farr, who feels that being able to control the physical therapy environment after surgery allows for an optimal outcome.

The facility is not the only aspect of Twin Palm Orthopedics that is cutting edge. Dr. Farr and Dr. Gupta have introduced a variety of procedures not commonly offered.

“Traditional procedures help alleviate pain, but newer procedures help patients regain function as well,” says Dr. Farr, who along with Dr. Gupta were the first surgeons in Marion County to offer the reverse total shoulder procedure.

“This procedure has restored the quality of life for so many people,” says Dr. Gupta. “We have many people in the community who want to stay active in their older age, and this procedure has allowed them to,” he says, recounting stories of patients who have returned to playing pickleball pain free after surgery.

Dr. Farr, who specializes in sports medicine, offers many other procedures, such as hip resurfacing, which places a metal cap over the femur and preserves the integrity of the bone.

“You don’t want to replace a hip in a younger person. This procedure allows me to treat younger people without having to resort to such extremes,” he says, emphasizing that he and Dr. Gupta exhaust all non-surgical options before resorting to surgery.

“We want the best for our patients,” says Dr. Gupta, whose close friendship with Dr. Farr is an advantage for patients.

“We have been friends since we met 12 years ago,” says Dr. Farr.

“We have the same philosophy. We are not afraid to ask each other for advice or consultation.”

“It’s an advantage to our patients to have both of us working for you,” says Dr. Gupta, who works in the operating room with Dr. Farr on more complex cases.

These doctors are more than just colleagues. Their families spend weekends and vacations together, and both watched as each other married and started families.

“We’ve wanted to work together since we met, so this is a dream come true for us,” says Dr. Farr.

The family-like atmosphere at Twin Palm Orthopedics is noticeable from the moment you walk in. The friendly staff and physical therapists, along with the doctors, are a team, and they work together to give their patients the best orthopedic care around.

Twin Palm Orthopedics 2640 SW 32nd Place Ocala, Fl 34471 (352) 369-1099 twinpalmortho.com

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

A SERVICE OF THE INSTITUTE OF CARDIOVASCULAR EXCELLENCE AND THE INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL EXCELLENCE

WE TAKE YOUR HEALTH

TO HEART

A SERVICE OF THE INSTITUTE OF CARDIOVASCULAR EXCELLENCE AND THE INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL EXCELLENCE

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Billy MCQUEEN,56 “Dr. Qamar’s a wonderful man. I met Dr. Qamar when I went to the hospital. I thought I had a cold, but my blood pressure was sky high. He checked my legs and everything else and found a whole lot of things wrong with me. I found out I had 20 percent heart damage.

“In 2004, I had my first pacemaker put in. The procedure was pretty standard. I got checked in the day before, had the surgery and then stayed overnight to make sure everything was working all right. I had a second pacemaker put in since then.

“Dr. Qamar’s been doing a good job.

If he can help you, he will help. He treats my family nicely, too. If it weren’t for him, I wouldn’t be here.”’

Alexander CHRISTIANO, 83 “Dr. Qamar is a great man. He’s probably the best doctor I’ve ever had, and I’ve had a lot of them. I was referred by my family physician 10 years ago, and Dr. Qamar has kept me alive.

I was diagnosed with heart failure and had a pacemaker put in. Right now, Dr. Qamar is treating me for neuropathy in both legs, and I’ve had eight stents put in.

“Dr. Qamar takes his time with each patient. He’ll explain everything and makes sure you are comfortable with the procedure. There

can be over 25 people in the waiting room, but he never rushes through a patient, which is really comforting. I’ve been nothing but extremely satisfied and can’t say enough good things about the man.”

StevenFESTA, 57

“I met Dr. Qamar two years ago, unfortunately, in an emergency. I was uninsured and rushed to West Marion Community Hospital, which fortunately is right across the street from my home.

I must have had a heart attack, but I never had any of the five symptoms you hear about. I was weak and nauseous and had no appetite—those were my symptoms. My body was taking on water. Thank goodness a friend called me out of the blue and rushed all the way from Gainesville to get me to the hospital. Dr. Qamar had to resuscitate me twice. I was almost gone. He used the defibrillator to restart my heart. At the hospital, everything was in slow motion. I never knew how bad I was. I was in the ICU for 14 days and in the hospital for a total of two months.

“Over the last two years, Dr. Qamar has performed countless procedures for congestive heart failure, probably close to 15 procedures, and I’m still there at least three times a month. Because I’m uninsured, the medical bills have totaled almost a half-million dollars. Every time I see him, he says not to worry about it and reassures me. He couldn’t have taken better care of me. I just can’t say enough good things about West Marion and Dr. Qamar and his staff. You could write 35 pages and not say enough about him. The fact that his office is packed from open to close is a testimonial to that. This guy is an angel; his whole staff is a miracle.”

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PatriciaNICKEY, 73 “I have CHF and have had both a pacemaker and a defibrillator implanted into my heart. I Curwent in at 10am, and I was home by 5pm. Cur rently, Dr. Qamar is working on opening some blockages in my legs. I’ve been in and out of the hospital many times, but these days, I’m feeling good. And it’s thanks to Dr. Qamar. I wouldn’t see any other doctor. He’s a personable, informative doctor, and he makes his patients feel comfortable and at ease. I fully trust Dr. Qamar and don’t second guess him. I know he has my best interests at heart. I also know that if I have a problem or question, I can count on anyone on staff at ICE.”

Shirley CASTLEBERRY, 49 “I became a patient of Dr. Qamar while my brother was seeing him. My brother had heart problems and died at 37. Dr. Qamar took great care of him. Because of my family history of heart conditions, he counseled me on taking care of myself and prescribed the right kind of medications to control my heart. I have atrial fibrillation, which causes my heart to beat fast.

The A-fib hasn’t bothered me since Dr. Qamar treated me during my hospital visit in 2010.

Dr. Qamar’s a very nice and wonderful doctor.

I just think the world of him.”

EdwinWIXSON, 86 “About 12 years ago, Dr. Qamar was referred to me by my family doctor. He told me that Dr. Qamar was the best cardiologist in Ocala and that I needed to see him. So, I scheduled an appointment and went. Dr. Qamar took his time and accurately diagnosed my condition and has kept my heart healthy these last 12 years.

KennethLOW, 51 “I was referred to Dr. Qamar by the Ocala Kidney Group. I was in heart failure, and only 8 percent of my heart was functioning. The rhythm of my heart was also not right. I was just about dead.

“To treat me, Dr. Qamar prescribed medication first. Then, for surgery, I had two ablations.

The veins in my leg collapsed, so a stent was put into my leg as well. Now, my heart is beating 100 percent—it’s beating perfect. I see Dr. Qamar for checkups every two months. I just think he’s wonderful, and the whole staff is very professional. He’s the best doctor I’ve ever had; he saved my life. I can’t really say anything else but that.”

“I have a heart condition, and Dr. Qamar has been treating me for peripheral artery disease through the use of catheterization and stents. I have been to several cardiologists in my life, and I can honestly say now that I agree with what my family doctor told me years ago. Dr. Qamar truly is the best cardiologist in Ocala. I can’t say enough about him and what he has done for me.”

THE VILLAGES 1950 Laurel Manor Dr. Bldg. 240 The Villages, FL 32162 352.509.9295 / Fax: 352.509.9296

OCALA 4600 S.W. 46th Ct. Suite 340 Ocala, FL 34474 352.854.0681 / Fax: 352.854.8031

THE VILLAGES 8489 S.E. 165th Mulberry Lane The Villages, FL 32162 352.359.7900 / Fax: 352.259.7966

WILLISTON 412 W. Noble Ave. Williston, FL 32696 352.528.3540 / Fax: 352.528.0721

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Get Back Into The

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A Smarter Slice

the

Is your pizza as healthy as it could be? p102

Sharpen Your Skills p98

Quick Bites p98

Strawberry Fields

I

n 1930, the first FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL was organized in Plant City by the Lions Club to celebrate the bounty of strawberries harvested that year.

Over the course of 80-plus years, the festival has evolved into an anticipated event in which people from all over the country come to taste shiny, luscious berries and enjoy live entertainment. To give you an idea of

Dish

Seeds For The Plantin’ p100

just how many berries are in Hillsborough County, more than 10,000 acres of strawberries are planted annually in the local area.

The festival runs from March 1-11, 10am-10pm. Performance headliners that range from $15 to $50 per ticket include GRETCHEN WILSON, DEMI LOVATO, HANK WILLIAMS, JR. and REBA. You can also enjoy free entertainment with your paid gate admission. Become bedazzled by the Sea Lion Splash Show or take center stage at the karaoke contest.

Read Before You Feed p104

and more!

Mar

1-11

For ticket information and event schedules, visit flstrawberryfestival.com.

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Dish

the

Say No to Knife Strife Not all of us are sous chefs, and some may channel their inner knife thrower when slicing and dicing. However, there’s an easier way to prepare meals and spare countertops and wallpaper from puncture wounds. Here’s a recipe to avoid disaster.

QUICK BITES

A SHARP POINT To sharpen non-serrated knives:

Hold knife firmly against coarse side of stone at a 20-degree angle with blade facing away from you.

Start at tip and grind in counterclockwise strokes. Continue grinding, gradually moving length of blade across stone.

Once a ridge forms along blade repeat grinding on other side using a clockwise motion.

When ridge forms use fine side of stone to smooth out blade.

Wash blade with hot, soapy water to remove residue.

Sharp Shopping Tips THE CUTTING EDGE

ESSENTIAL KNIVES EVERY KITCHEN SHOULD HAVE:

CHEF’S KNIFE: All-purpose knife that’s good for thicker cuts of vegetables, fruits and meats

UTILITY KNIFE: For items

PARING KNIFE: Use to peel and core or mince small items

BUTTER KNIFE: A dull

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too small for a chef ’s knife and too large for a paring knife blade for spreads

» Buy knives individually, as you may not need all knives included in a set. » Make sure to learn the knife’s functions to see if it’ll perform the kitchen tasks you’ll need it for. » Pick up a knife and see how it feels in your hand; it should be comfortable to grasp and well weighted. » Consider maintenance of knives. A serrated knife will require a professional to sharpen.

Source: recipetips.com, howstuffworks.com

Lightly moisten a sharpening stone (one with both a course side and fine side is recommended) with water.

The Schnitzel Factory cooks up authentic German food featuring the traditional Schnitzel (pan-fried veal cutlet) and a whole lot more. Patrons craving German cooking have made this quaint little eatery a popular dining spot for lunch and dinner. Beyond the “schnitzel” dishes, there are numerous “wursts” on the menu, steak, gulasch, specialty dishes and much more, along with German desserts, beer and wine.

German is spoken here, so if you’re missing the “old country,” plan a visit to The Schnitzel Factory. You may even have a German-speaking server! Open TuesdaySaturday 11am-8pm. Closed Sunday and Monday.

1053 NE 14th St. Rd. (14th Street Plaza), Ocala (352)433-2300 theschnitzelfactory.com

DININGGUIDE

Tony’s Sushi & Steakhouse 3405 SW College Road, Ocala / (352) 237-3151 Mon-Thu 11a-10p / Fri & Sat 11a-11p / Sun 3p-10p Tony’s Sushi brings scrumptious sushi favorites from New York and Miami to Ocala, served in a fun, family environment. All sushi dishes are made to order—choose from a variety of specialty rolls or create your own! Whether you prefer chicken, steak or seafood, talented chefs will prepare it with dazzling showmanship on the hot grill right at your table.

All entrées come with soup or salad and rice. In addition to the full Japanese kitchen, there is a full liquor bar and a beer selection, including imported Japanese beer and sake.

For the truly adventurous, try Tony’s famous Sake Bomb!

We also provide catering and host private parties.

Roberto’s Italian Eatery 22050 N Highway 441, McIntosh / (352) 591-1145 Wed & Thurs 11a-9p / Fri & Sat 11a-10p / Sun 11a-3p Closed Monday & Tues Roberto’s Italian Eatery offers a unique combination of Italian cuisine and affordable prices. Chef Antonio prepares every dish with a passion to preserve the integrity of Italian food traditions. Try our savory aged steaks and vibrantly colored dishes. Our signature red snapper is cooked whole and filleted right at your table. House-made tiramisu is a popular dessert that can be enjoyed with an Italian cappuccino after dinner. Other classic dishes, such as veal marsala, chicken Parmesan and fettuccine alfredo, are available for the diner’s choosing. Feast on a meal that is distinctively Italian when you visit Roberto’s Italian Eatery.

Located 1 mile north of McIntosh Village on Highway 441.

Check out the new menu and try our bestselling lasagna!

Mark’s Prime Steakhouse 30 S Magnolia Ave., Ocala / (352) 402-0097 Mon 5p-9p / Tue-Thur 5p-10p / Fri-Sat 5p-11p Mark’s Prime Steakhouse, located in Historic Downtown Ocala is known for its “Steaks with Passion.” Mark’s proudly serves the finest prime beef and freshest seafood, specially seasoned and cooked over a wood fire grill. Filet Mignon, Bone In Ribeye, Grouper Sante Fe, Pistachio Encrusted Tuna, and award-winning Crab Bisque are a few of the local favorites.

Mark’s complements its exquisite menu with one of the best wine lists in North Florida. Dessert highlights include Crème Brulee and a decadent Chocolate Paradise. Mark’s Prime Steakhouse is also located in historic downtown Gainesville.

We Welcome The HITS Horse Show! Now Open for Lunch Wed, Thurs, & Fri 11:30am - 2:30pm.

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Bring Your Buckets!

A Garden with Character

Give your kids green thumbs with a GROWUMS gardening kit.

Growums provides an educational and fun experience for children by combining reality with a virtual world. Each of the six garden kits— pizza, herb, salad, taco, ratatouille and stirfry—come with seeds, coco pellets and plant tags. As kids nurture their real life Growums, they can log onto growums.com and interact with characters and play games. Kids will gain points, win prizes and discover the reward of sowing a seed and watching it sprout. growums.com.

T

he spotlight’s always on citrus fruits until this time of year, when strawberries are ripe for the picking. Search for the plumpest, ripest and juiciest strawberry in the patch at these “u-pick” farms.

Ergle Farm 3325 Treiman Blvd., Dade City (352) 583-3647 ergletrees.com

SugarTree Farms 435 NE 63rd St., Ocala (352) 843-7908 sugartree-farms.com

Hancock Groves 31107 Blanton Rd., Dade City (352) 588-3801

JG Ranch 17200 Wiscon Rd., Brooksville (352) 799-0556 jgranch.com

MARCH OF THE SEEDLINGS March is the month to be green—and we’re not just talking about leprechauns. Make your garden grow by planting the following crops this spring.

Source: edis.ifas.ufl.edu

BEFORE YOU GO A-PICKING

A Berry Darling Dessert

Call before you go; strawberries are affected by weather, so make sure the farm has a good crop.

Strawberry shortcake, cream on top, serve up this treat to your sweetheart!

There may be a charge for containers, so call to ask or bring your own.

To prevent berries from bruising, don’t overfill your containers.

Be careful where you step so you won’t damage the plants the berries grow on.

CLASSIC STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE

Makes 6 servings 1

quart strawberries, sliced

¼ cup sugar 21⁄3 cups Original Bisquick mix

Only pick berries that are fully red.

½ cup milk

Avoid placing berries in direct sunlight.

3

tablespoons sugar

Don’t wash the berries until you are ready to eat them to prevent spoilage.

3

tablespoons butter, melted

½ cup whipping cream

Strawberries can be kept fresh in the refrigerator two to three days after picking.

Source: pickyourown.org

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1. Set oven 425°F. In large bowl, mix strawberries and 1/4 cup sugar, set aside.

2. In separate bowl, stir Bisquick

mix, milk, 3 tablespoons sugar and butter.

3. On greased cookie sheet, drop dough by six spoonfuls. Bake 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

4. Meanwhile, beat whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Cut shortcakes like a sandwich, fill and top with strawberries and whipped cream.

Source: bettycrocker.com

CROP Bush beans Pole beans Lima beans Beets Cantaloupes Sweet corn Cucumbers Eggplant Kohlrabi Lettuce Okra Green Onions Southern peas Peppers Sweet potatoes Pumpkins Radishes Summer squash Winter squash Tomatoes Turnips Watermelon

OUTDOOR PLANTING DAYS TO DATES HARVEST Feb-Apr Feb-Apr Feb-Apr Oct-Mar Feb-Apr Feb-Mar Feb-Mar Jan-Mar Oct-Mar Sep-Mar Mar-Aug Aug-Mar Mar-Sep Jan-Mar Feb-Jun Feb-Mar Sep-Mar Feb-Mar Feb-Mar Jan-Mar Jan-Mar Jan-Mar

50-60 55-70 65-75 50-65 75-90 60-95 50-65 90-110 70-80 50-90 50-75 50-75 60-90 80-100 120-140 90-120 20-30 40-55 80-110 90-110 40-60 85-95

DININGGUIDE

Atlantic Buffet 2167 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala / (352) 368-9888 Open Daily, Sun-Thu 11a-10p / Fri-Sat 11a-10:30p Feast your eyes on Atlantic Buffet’s banquet of Chinese, Japanese and American dining! A sushi bar and four oversized buffet tables rotate more than 150 items. Choose from appetizers, soups, entrées, dessert and more. You can order beer and wine with your meal as well. Senior citizens 65 and over receive 10 percent off, and children 2 years and under eat for free. The Banquet Room is available for more than 50 people for any occasion, including business meetings and birthday parties. Don’t forget to ask about buffet carry out!

All Beer: Buy 1 Get the 2nd Free!

All you can eat!

Lunch Buffet Mon-Sun 11am-3:30pm $6.99!

Dinner Buffet Mon-Thurs $9.99!

Fri, Sat, Sun $11.99!

Mention this ad and receive $1 off lunch and $2 off dinner.

Little Joey’s Pizza and Italian Restaurant Baylee Plaza: 16840 US Hwy 441, Summerfield / (352) 347-1800 Big Lots Shopping Center: 103rd Street Plaza, 8602 SW SR200, Ocala / (352) 873-0223 6998 N. Lecanto Hwy / (352) 465-0082 Mon-Thu 11a-8:30p / Fri & Sat 11a-9:30p / Closed Sun

After 20 years in business, Little Joey’s Pizza and Italian Restaurant has not lost its touch. The family-style dine-in or takeout Italian restaurant serves fabulous dishes that are prepared to order. Catering for various events can also be arranged. With quality as a top priority, chefs prepare authentic Italian dishes, from Chicken Marsala to Eggplant Rollitine, a vegetarian delight, and another favorite, the Linguine Pescatore, a seafood lover’s dream. And don’t forget about the hand-tossed pizza, stromboli and calzone with your choice of toppings. With quality as a top priority, our chefs put the utmost care into the preparation of each dish to provide the best dining experience.

Don’t forget to join us on Tuesday every week for a large pizza for only $6.95!!!

Little Joey’s Pizza & Italian Restaurant

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 Happy Hour Daily 4p-7p New lunch specials include Taco Salad on Monday, $3.95; Speedy Gonzalez on Tuesdays, $3.95; Quesadillas on Wednesday, $5.45; Chimichangas on Thursdays, $4.95; and Burrito Supreme on Fridays, $3.95. New dinner options include Fajita Mondays, $7.95; Chimichanga Tuesdays, $6.95; Alambre Wednesdays, $6.95; Tacos de Bistec Thursdays, $6.95; and Enchilada Fridays, $6.95. Don’t miss “Margarita Mondays” with $1.95 margaritas. On Tuesdays, kids 12 and under - 99¢ from the children’s menu (takeout not included).

Wednesday is 99¢ margaritas and $1.95 for domestic and imported beers. Saturday is 2-for-1 margaritas all day.

Join us every day for happy hour from 4-7pm and get 2-for-1 wells or drafts. Whether it’s delicious food, great drinks or a festive atmosphere, there are more reasons than ever to visit either El Toreo location today.

THE BEST MEXICAN FOOD

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What’s In That?

T

THE CRUST:

THE SAUCE:

THE CHEESE:

While there are many options when it comes to pizza crusts, the average thin pizza crust contains approximately:

This is one of the healthiest parts of the pizza. The lycopene in tomatoes, believed to have cancer-fighting and antioxidant properties, becomes much more readily available when processed, making pizza sauce an excellent source.

Sauce is also rich in vitamins A and C. A ¼ cup contains approximately:

Ooey, gooey, melty, delicious cheese. While cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, it is also high in fat and calories. A ¼ cup contains approximately:

160 calories per average-sized slice 25-35 grams of carbohydrates 4-5 grams of protein 1 gram of fiber 2-3 grams of fat

30-40 calories 5-7 grams carbohydrates 1 gram of protein 1 gram of fat

100 calories 7 grams of fat (4 grams saturated) 7 grams of protein 20 percent of the recommended amount of calcium (based on a 2,000-calorie-per-day diet)

MAKE IT BETTER

MAKE IT BETTER

Choose organic sauces, and look for those with added veggies.

Opt for reduced-fat cheese, and avoid slices with extra cheese.

BURN IT OFF

BURN IT OFF

BURN IT OFF

30 minutes of mopping floors

7 minutes of cleaning gutters

12 minutes of jumping jacks

MAKE IT BETTER Try crust made with whole grain flour, and choose thin crust to keep calorie counts low. Avoid crusts stuffed with meats and cheeses and deep-dish crusts.

The Final Numbers: EVERY PIZZA RESTAURANT IS GOING TO VARY, AND NO TWO SLICES ARE THE SAME, BUT YOU CAN COUNT ON ONE SLICE OF A 14-INCH PLAIN CHEESE PIZZA TO CONTAIN APPROXIMATELY:

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250-300 calories 30-35 grams of carbohydrates 10-15 grams of protein 8-10 grams of fat

THE GOOD: Good source of protein, carbohydrates, lycopene and calcium

MAKE IT BETTER

THE BAD: Fat and calories are high per serving.

Add lots of veggies, such as mushrooms and bell peppers and toppings like garlic and spinach for a boost in nutrients.

THE UGLY: Saturated fat in

BURN IT OFF

the cheese can be as high as 20 percent of the recommended daily value per slice and even more if meats are added.

45 minutes of golf without the golf cart

Note: Calorie burn estimates are based on a 150lb person / Sources: healthstatus.com, caloriecount.com

he earliest slices of pizza consisted of oil, tomatoes, herbs and even fish, making it a very healthy food. Fast forward to today: Some slices top off at over 400 calories!

Before you shun pizza from your diet altogether, take a look at the good, the bad and the ugly side of one of America’s favorite foods.

QUICK BITES

Blue Highway Pizza is definitely worth the drive north on 441 to Micanopy. In fact, it’s so popular, they even opened a second location in Tioga Town Center near Gainesville, but the quaint, quirky, hometown feel of the Micanopy eatery shouldn’t be missed. This pizzeria turns out incredible pizzas and calzones, but the rest of the menu is also delish, ranging from flatbread entrées and creative salads to hearty sandwiches made from Boar’s Head meats and cheeses.

Also, be sure not to miss the bruschetta. Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.

204 NE US Hwy 441, Micanopy / (352) 466-0062 bluehighwaypizza.com

DININGGUIDE

House of Japan 3410 SW College Rd., Ocala / (352) 304-5110 / houseofjapans.com Mon-Fri 11:30a-3p / 5p-10p Sat-Sun Noon-10p House of Japan is Ocala’s newest dining restaurant, the new gem of the town! House of Japan offers traditional and exotic Japanese cuisine, including sushi, teriyaki, tempura and hibachi food. The staff is committed to serving the highest quality fish available on the market. Try a variety of original house sushi rolls that are unlike anything in the area including Uni. Enjoy quality seafood, including Yellow Tail, Sea Bass and Lobster! Come enjoy your dining in a casual and comfortable atmosphere with great service.

Happy Hour 5-8pm daily.

New Lunch Menu!

Filet Mignon served daily.

2 for Tuesdays Specials!

Two private party rooms available for larger gatherings!

Get the free mobile app at

http:/ / gettag.mobi

Slyce Bistro 2515 NE 3rd St., Ocala / (352) 237-3151 / slycebistroandpizzeria.webs.com Tues-Sat 11a-9p / Closed Sun & Mon The concept for Slyce was born out of boredom. Same old places… same ten items on the menu. Food doesn’t start out boring. It starts out wonderful! Keeping it that way is an art.

So we’re starting with a great atmosphere, sort of an urban garden, where you can sit by the copper fountain and watch live webcams of cool places around the globe. As for the food, we’ve pared it back to its freshest form (cuz that’s where the flavor is), and made everything from scratch. This is not just another remix. Slyce is: better food, casual cool. Slyce’s goal is simple... to bring you fresh food that tastes delicious, hand-picked by Chef Morgan.

The only thing they put in your food is a non-traditional approach and passion to bring out the natural flavor of the foods they prepare!

SLYCE

Bistro & Pizzeria

McAlister’s Deli 3930 SW 42nd Street, Ocala / (352) 690-7783 / mcalistersdeli.com Located in the Berkshire Oaks Plaza on the south side of SR-200 across from Sam’s Club Sun-Thu 10:30a-10p / Fri-Sat 10:30a-10:30p As soon as you walk through the doors, you’ll be greeted by our massive menu filled with sandwiches, spuds, salads, soups and sweets—all made with high-quality, premium ingredients. And, you can feel free to be as choosy as you want, because everything at McAlister’s is made exactly the way you like it. Just don’t forget to add a tall glass of McAlister’s Famous Sweet Tea™ to your order. And if you don’t have time to come in and eat, McAlister’s makes it easy to call in orders to go. Find out more about us at www.mcalistersdeli.com or “Like” us on Facebook by searching “McAlister’s Deli – Ocala FL”.

Looking to feed a large group on a tight budget? We cater and will bring it to you!

Give us a call today.

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QUICK BITES

Wish you could decorate a cake like the professionals? Michael’s Arts & Crafts in Ocala and Jo-Ann Fabrics & Crafts in Lady Lake both offer classes taught by Wilton decorating instructors.

Learn the skills that turn a cake into a work of art. Classes are offered every month and are four sessions each. Classes include Wilton 101 Decorating Basics, Flowers and Cake Design, and Gum Paste & Fondant. Class times and prices vary, so call for details. Additional single-session classes are sometimes offered on different decorating topics, such as the Fondant Cupcake class at Jo-Ann Fabrics & Crafts.

Jo-Ann Fabrics (352) 259-6166 / joann.com

Put a Label On It While supermarket shelves offer a plethora of easy meal options, they often also offer high-fat, high-sodium, calorie-rich choices. Food labels began showing up on packaged items in the early 1990s and became mandatory in 1994. Yet many people still don’t understand how to read them. This guide offers food label features everyone should know.

Michael’s Arts & Crafts (352) 861-0103 / michaels.com

QUICK BITES

HEALTH CLAIMS The FDA restricts what companies can claim on food labels. Here is a breakdown of what the most common claims really mean.

Reduced: 25 percent less of the nutrient than in the original product. So, if it is a “reducedfat” item, it will contain 25 percent less fat than the original.

Calorie Free: Less than 5 calories per serving.

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Good Source Of: Means that the item contains at least 10 percent DV of the specified nutrient.

Fat Free/Sugar Free: Less than 1/2 gram of fat or sugar per serving.

Low Sodium: Less than 140mg of sodium per serving.

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IMPORTANT TIP:

Read the ingredients list! The first few ingredients are the most abundant in that particular packaged item. Look for real foods, like grains, fruits or meats, in the first few ingredients listed.

Source: eatright.org

Low Calorie: Fewer than 40 calories per serving.

Candler Hills Restaurant has become a go-to dining spot—and not just for residents of On Top of the World where the establishment is located. In addition to a packed menu featuring everything from salads, sandwiches, flatbreads and steak to meatloaf, crab cakes and more, Candler Hills also offers specialty menus for different holidays throughout the year.

For “early bird” prices, check out the Sundowner Menu from 4-6pm Monday-Thursday.

Prime rib dinner is available on Friday and Saturday evenings. Open for lunch and dinner 11am-7pm Monday-Thursday, until 8pm on Friday and Saturday, and on Sunday from 8am-6pm.

8139 SW 90th Terr. Rd., Ocala / (352) 861-9720 candlerhillsgolfclub.com

DININGGUIDE

Ipanema Brazilian Steak House 2023 South Pine Avenue, Ocala / (352) 622-1741 / www.ipanemaocala.com Lunch Tue-Fri 11a-2p / Dinner Tues-Thu 5p-9p, Fri & Sat 5p-10p, Sun 4p-9p Happy Hour Tue-Fri 5p-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 11 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 Alonso Esgaib invites you to embrace the flavors of his homeland and experience the magnetism of Ipanema for yourself.

Enjoy the weather and come dine on our new covered patio area! Become a fan of Ipanema on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ipanemaocala.

Come and celebrate Easter with us! Open Sunday from 12-9pm!

WELCOME HITS! Private rooms and candle light patio available for all your special gatherings!

The Attic’s Cafe 801 N. Magnolia Ave, Ocala / (352) 369-9300 Serving Lunch Mon-Sat 11a-3p Let’s talk about great food! Let’s talk about unique and fun! Let’s talk about the Attic’s Café! The Attic’s Café recently opened its doors inside of My Designer’s Attic. (You know, “The Not Your Average Furniture Consignment Store located downtown.”)

Chef Andrew Dickson uses his culinary skills to create some of the best-tasting food around! Specializing in scrumptious Galettes (savory crepes) and incredible dessert crepes, Chef Andrew also does a super job with his distinguished sandwiches, fresh salads and soups. Whether it’s his signature Roasted Veggi Galette with goat cheese, the Hot Night Club Sandwich or a fantastic lemon crepe, you can’t go wrong!

Located inside of My Designer’s Attic, in the heart of the old business district, 8 blocks north of the Historic Square! Don’t forget to explore the 8000 sq ft of My Designer’s Attic after lunch!

The

Attic’s Café

Blanca’s Café Ocala Palms Golf & Country Club / 5000 N US Hwy 27, Ocala / (352) 867-0001 Sun Breakfast Buffet 8a-Noon, Dinner 1p-7p / Mon-Sat Lunch & Dinner 10:30a-9p Tucked in among the rolling greens of the Ocala Palms Golf & Country Club, Blanca’s Café is a gem of a find for diners looking for excellent food served in a warm, friendly environment.

Italian dishes and delicious homemade desserts are the café’s specialty, with a popular breakfast buffet offered every Sunday.

Patrons enjoy a full service bar and live entertainment weekly as well as spacious seating for up to 150. Try one of the weekly dinner specials Blanca’s offers, or schedule catering for your next event through the café. Whether you’re a newcomer in town or a local looking for somewhere new to dine, Blanca’s Café offers something to please every palate.

Weekly entertainment, call for details. Homemade pizza served daily. Lunches now feature Beef on Weck & Monte Cristo Sandwiches. Every Friday, 1½ lb. Maine Lobster. Reservation required by Wednesday. Taking reservations for St. Patrick’s Day! Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner & Entertainment! Welcome HITS!

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PROMOTIONAL

QUICK BITES

St. Patrick’s Week: Why Celebrate for Only One Day?

C

up O’ The Irish has a week of festivities in store for every lad and lass with a taste for mischief who stops by March 11 through 18 for St. Patrick’s Week. Beginning with an “Irish Traditions” theme on Sunday, the plate o’ plenty Traditional Irish Breakfast will start your week off right and land you two raffle tickets and a free gift. The fun, festive food will keep coming all week with green mash, green smoothies and green beer every day.

True to Irish form, the Cup is getting the whole community involved with pot of gold treasure hunts. There will be children’s

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treasure hunts on the Sunday before and on St. Patrick’s Day and a Big Pot of Gold Hunt for everyone that will last all week. Find the pot of gold and win big! There will also be a comedy night, trivia night, live Irish music and an Irish disco jig, plus much more, during the week’s events. You don’t have to be lord of the dance to earn raffle tickets— but dancing a little jig on the floor may up your chances for winning gift certificates, electronics or weekend getaways. The big raffle will be held March 18, so make sure you accumulate lots of tickets throughout the week. You can earn tickets for every drink you order and by participating in weekly events, plus double the tickets for those Irish breakfasts on the weekends!

Authentic Irish cuisine will be available all week, along with scrumptious specials every day; order Four Leaf Lattes, corned beef and cabbage kabobs with green mash, Guinness “half and half’s,” Corny Irish brats and so much more.

UK sweets are also available for purchase, and you can top a premium ice cream with whipped cream, Flake chocolate bar pieces and Guinness poured all over. This “tempest” is what the Cup affectionately calls a Guinness Immersion.

It’s debatable whether there are any leprechauns in Ocala, but you may find his pot of gold at the Cup O’ The Irish. At the very least, you will have a blast of a week trying! Check out Cup O’ The Irish on Facebook to get all the week’s activities and times.

Cup O’ The Irish 3233 SE Maricamp Rd., Ocala (352) 694-0245 / Find us on Facebook Mon-Thu, 6am-9pm / Fri, 6am-11pm Sat, 8am- 11pm / Sun, 8am-9pm

Margarita Republic Caribbean Grill & Bar has become one of the most “happening” spots in The Villages.

With live entertainment nightly— everything from karaoke to open mic night and a DJ on Friday and Saturday nights— there’s always something fun in the works. This Caribbean-style sports bar has numerous TVs to watch the game if you aren’t on the dance floor, throwing darts or shooting pool.

Among the most popular dishes are the mahi tacos, the signature grouper sandwich and “the best rueben in town.” Patrons love the “Pirate’s Platter,” featuring fried shrimp, snapper, clam strips and sea scallops.

True to its name, the establishment offers a variety of tasty margaritas.

Open at 11am 7 days a week.

1102 Main St., The Villages (352) 753-4660 margaritarepublic.com

QUICK BITES

Exciting things are happening at Great American Coffee Roasters. “This spring, we’ll be expanding into a full-blown commercial roastery, and we’re also doing catering now,” says Steve Durand, who owns the business with wife Jeyrl.

“We’re going to bring in some coffees from Tanzania, Burundi and Uganda. We’ll always have our Central and South American coffees, but these new African coffees are very unique.”

The shop is open Monday-Saturday.

Check out their “Coffee & The Constitution” classes every second and fourth Thursday at 6:30pm, or join them for Game Night every Friday from 6-10pm.

816 S. Magnolia Ave., Ocala (352) 390-6766 greatamericancoffeeroasters.com

DININGGUIDE

Mesa de Notte 2436 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala / (352) 732-4737 / mesaocala.com Mon–Fri 11a-10p / Sat & Sun 3p-10p / Happy hour daily 3-7p Additional parking in rear.

Chef Jose Moreno says “Benvenuti a Mesa de Notte” (Welcome to Table of the Night) an Italiano vero, fine dining experience you won’t forget. Traditional Italian cuisine, as well as unique specialty dishes, are all served with gourmet pasta made in-house at Mesa de Notte. Mesa de Notte uses only the freshest ingredients, including fresh seafood and vegetables, hand-cut steaks, veal, duck and more. Complete your meal with one of 13 delicious sauces, all rooted in Italy, such as livernese, puttanesca, frances, pomodoro, bolognaise, pesto, vodka, piccata, oil and garlic. Enjoy a glass of “vino” from over 80 international fine wines, many served by the glass, or maybe a nice bottle of cold beer. Come enjoy! Or let us cater your special occasions!

Welcome HITS! Come join us on St. Patrick’s Day, Saturday, March 17th. Special hours from 12-10pm. Traditional St. Patrick’s Day fare will be served, including Shepard’s Pie, Corned Beef & Cabbage and much more. Don’t miss out!

Reservations recommended but not required.

The Ivy House Restaurant 106 NW Main Street, Williston / (352) 528-5410 / ivyhousefl.com Sun-Wed 11a-2p / Thu-Sat 11a-8p Tucked comfortably in the heart of Williston, this familyowned establishment is a pleasure to visit. The restaurant has been named by Florida Trend as one of the “Top 500 Best Places to Eat in the State” for several years now. Lunch is served seven days a week and features a Southern-style daily special, and supper is served Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings only. Specials include Southern Fried Lobster, delicious steaks and their famous Baked Krispy Chicken, along with a complete full menu.

For more information on catering, please contact Waica Huggins or Evelyn Nussel at wmhivyhouse@yahoo.com.

No reservations are required, but a courtesy call for parties of more than 10 is appreciated. Full-service catering, gift shop-boutique.

Crossroads Country Kitchen 7947 W Highway 40, Ocala / (352) 237-1250 Mon-Thu 6a-8p / 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 homestyle chicken & dumplings 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. Make sure to leave room for one of the tasty home-baked desserts, too! In the mood for a fresh fish fry? Tuesdays and Fridays are all-you-care-to-eat catfish. Big screen televisions will allow you to enjoy your meal without missing one second of the big game or race.

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.

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DININGGUIDE

Chili’s Grill & Bar Several convenient locations throughout our area / chilis.com Sun-Thu 11a-11p / Fri & Sat 11a-Midnight (lounge open till 2a, at I-75 location only) Happy Hour All Day Everyday Happy Hour is all day every day with 2-for-1 drinks. New lunch break. Forget the old—go for the bold. $6 lunch combos!

From freshly prepared salads to mouthwatering burgers, Chili’s kicks up the flavor with food that’s anything but ordinary. Smokey, sweet and savory ribs are now slow-smoked over pecan wood and are impossible to resist. Enjoy the flavor without the guilt thanks to dishes under 750 calories.

Party Platters create the perfect event at Chili’s.

Scan here with your smartphone for a direct link to chilis.com

Tilted Kilt 3155 E. Silver Springs Boulevard, Ocala / (352) 351-5458 / tiltedkilt.com Mon-Sat 11a-Midnight / Sun 11a-11p Other favorites include such entrées as the Sausage Artichoke Fettuccini, Danny Boy’s Shepherd’s Pie and Lasagna.

St. Patrick’s Day is coming to to Tilted Kilt and it will be a party like no other! Everything at Tilted Kilt, from the delicious pub-style food to the friendly costumed staff, is exciting and fun! The menu features an array of satisfying options, whether you just want to snack or feel like having a full meal. Nachos, cheeseburger sliders, quesadillas and salads join over half a dozen hearty burgers, such as the Black & Bleu, The French Connection (lots of melted Swiss cheese and sautéed mushrooms and onions) and the BBQ Bacon. Other favorites include Maggie Mae’s Fish & Chips, Kilt Burner Wings, Chicken Tenders, the Ultimate Club Wrap and the Grilled Chicken Caesar Wrap.

Cuvée Wine & Bistro 2237 SW 19th Ave Rd, Ste. 102, Ocala / (352) 351-1816 / cuveewineocala.com Mon-Thu 5p-10p / Fri & Sat 5p-2a / Happy Hour 5p-7p Call for Reservations.

Private Parties and Off-Premise Catering Available.

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Cuvée Wine & Bistro is an elegant and approachable environment where you can embrace the age-old relationship between food and wine. In an inspiring and intimate atmosphere, Cuvée brings together the taste of upscale cuisine with the freshest ingredients, combined with a wide array of wines from around the world. We guarantee your senses will be delighted and your palate overwhelmed. Feed your mind, your spirit and your curiosity at Cuvée.

DININGGUIDE

Bamboo Bistro 700 North Hwy 441 (In Front of Target), Lady Lake / (352) 750-9998 Mon-Thu 11a-9:30p / Fri-Sat 11a-10p / Sun Noon-9p Celebrating 1 year in business! Experience the unique and unforgettable taste of Bamboo Bistro in The Villages! Offering Asian dishes from China, Japan, Vietnam and Thailand along with a full sushi bar, Chef Liang Wu incorporates the best variety of authentic Asian ingredients while using an array of cooking techniques. Our specialties include Peking Duck, Pepper Seared Filet Mignon, Seafood Delight, along with other seafood choices. Many wok entreés and noodle dishes are available as well. A variety of Asian beers and the extensive wine list will complement any meal.

Chef Wu and co-owner Jian Daniels have created a wonderful new Asian Fusion dining experience in town that manages to be both elegant and casual.

Latinos Y Mas 2030 S Pine Avenue, Ocala / (352) 622-4777 / latinos-mas.com Mon-Thu 11a-9p / Fri & Sat 11a-10p / Closed Sun Looking for a unique evening out with a Latin flair? Well look no further, Latinos Y Mas is the answer. Begin your dining experience with a refreshing dragon berry mojito, or perhaps a unique tropicolada. Follow that with the golden crispy calamari with homemade marinada chipotle mild sauce. For your main entrée, try the Zarzuela de Mariscos, a combination of sautéed shrimp, scallops, clams, mussels, fish and calamari in a delicious coconut milk and Caribbean rum sauce, served over rice. Or, try the Blackened Mero served with a tangy tropical mango salsa and a cool orange sauce. Of course, there is no resisting the sweet treats at Latinos, so make sure to save room for dessert!

Welcome HITS! Private Party Rooms Available!

Gift certificates and party platters available for any special occasion.

Cody’s Original Roadhouse 2505 SW College Road, Ocala / (352) 237-8182 / codysamerican.com Doors Open at 11a. Serving Lunch & Dinner Daily.

“Where Quality and Value Come Together!” Servin’ USDA Hand-Cut Prime and Choice Steaks, rotisserie chicken, BBQ ribs, chops, fresh fish, burgers, salads and more! Kids eat free Monday and Tuesday; Wednesday – Buy One, Get One Free Fajitas and Thursday, Steak Night with $12.98 steak specials!

Daily 2-4-1 Happy Hour 11am-7pm, Early Bird Specials until 6pm Mon. thru Sat. Sunday – after church specials starting at $8.99 with dessert. Enjoy seafood specials on the Lenten Menu, such as New England Haddock for $12.98, a Catch of the Day and many other fresh seafood delights. Take-out service available

Locations also in Gainesville, The Villages in Lake Sumter Landing and our new location in Tallahassee. You’ll be green with envy on Saturday, March 17, if you don’t order the Corned Beef and Cabbage with Irish Potatoes and Carrots for $12.98!

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a menagerie of wedding dress-inspired cakes by entrants who came far and wide to showcase their talents and enviable ability to turn an edible delight into an awe-inspiring masterpiece.

Over 110 contestants registered in divisions ranging from novice to professional, and $4,000 was raised for the Make-a-Wish Foundation of North Central Florida.

Because of the previous year’s success, the 2012 ICED (Impressive and Creative Edible Delights) competition has been extended to a full weekend, March 31 and April 1, with The Arthritis Foundation as beneficiary. This year’s theme, Masquerade Ball, will present spectators with a fun and festive parade of cakes decorated in avant-garde and carnival fashion. The exciting new contest, the Live Challenge, will test cake decorators’ skills against the clock. Other categories include “Masquerade Ball” Cakes, Mask Accessories, Icing Images “Edible Icing Sheets” Cakes and the Non-Judged Display. Skill levels are separated by divisions: novice, advanced, professional and youth. While contestants are buckling down for the competition, I got to interview show chair Lisa Menz of Cakes by Lisa; Edna de la Cruz, who judged last year’s competition and Angela Schellbach, the 2011 professionaldivision winner.

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Photo by Elise Kersey

Photo by Elise Kersey

L

ast year, on March 27 at the Circle Square Cultural Center, the first Florida ICED Cake Competition featured

Photo by Elise Kersey

I was always artistic as a child. I first got into cakes after I got married in 1992. A store did my wedding cake. Even though it tasted good, it was not a pretty cake. I had wanted something really different and unique and couldn’t find it, so I told myself I can do this and started taking classes and then started doing cakes for family and friends for free before making cakes professionally for others. I did that for five years. I am a cake artist, not a cake decorator; to me there is a huge difference. Anyone can do a cake, but to make it a piece of art is a whole different world. It takes time, talent and patience.

I had always seen top cake competitions being done all over the U.S. and wondered why Florida, with all our amazing cake-decorating talents, didn’t put one on. So I took ahold of it and became the founder and co-chairman of the show.

I love bringing a show like this to Ocala. Some of the best in the country come for this show.

What are common cake problems?

The one thing I hear a lot of from people who buy cakes from businesses is how dry they are or how the buttercream or fondant covering tastes bad. My first thing when I started decorating was to make sure to attain a beautiful cake and that the cake itself was moist and delicious. You must always work on the inside of the cake as hard as you work on the outside.

» Balance is key; plan your design in a layout sketch, considering colors and the theme.

» Don’t over decorate your cake, and know when to stop.

» If you’re entering a cake into

ICED, use fondant with fake cake dummies, not real cake.

» Take your time in your art; make it beautiful, elegant, different.

» Go to classes and conventions to learn from the best.

What is a tool you like to use when decorating?

The one product I really like is my Edible Icing Sheet printer by Icing Images. This is a printer that will print anything you wish on edible icing sheets, and it has edible inks. It is all food safe, and you can be so creative with it. It saves you tons of time, and lets you take your cakes to a whole new level. Even a novice can use this product right from the start to make their cakes fantastic and beautiful.

Photo by Elise Kersey

When did you become interested in cake decorating?

How did ICED come about?

“There’s tons of information out on cake competitions and how to score points with your entries,” says Lisa Menz. If you think you’ve got what it takes when it comes to your cakes, go to floridaiced.com to register (registration closes March 24). Here is some cake artist wisdom from the pro:

Photo by Tammyportraitart.com

“Let Your Sweet Dreams Become a Reality” is Cakes

by Lisa’s slogan and a motto Lisa Menz lives by. Her cake business’s mission is to make clients’ dreams realized in 3-D—and edible—form for any special occasion. She takes this promise to the next level with the ICED competition by welcoming fellow cake designers to make their sweet dreams a reality and inviting them to showcase their best work. Lisa fills me in on her background and the competition’s.

Photo by Elise Kersey

Edible Artistry

Tips by Lisa

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Photo by Elise Kersey

What is it like being in the judge’s shoes instead of the contestant’s?

It can be a bit difficult to be a judge.

People don’t realize this. Sometimes, it comes to a small, tiny issue that makes a person go to second instead of first— sometimes it’s that close.

There is a certain grading criterion in each competition, but do you look out for other elements?

Every show has its own rules and ways to judge a cake. They are all based around the same ideas.

You have to stay objective. For example, let’s say I don’t like yellow cakes and I have to judge one.

At that point, I have to make sure that my opinion stays out of the judging and see the cake as a whole and by its quality of work, not just a color.

How do you determine a winner?

There are a lot of reasons a cake can win, but they need to have beautiful designs and clean work.

Originality is always a plus.

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Entrants, meet your contender…

Angela Schnellbach, champion of last year’s competition, worked on her ICED cake for roughly a month in between work and family time. Angela started cake decorating 15 years ago in Publix Supermarkets. Now, she experiments at home, trying different sculpting techniques. ICED 2011 was her chance to feature her skills for the first time in a competitive atmosphere.

What drew you to enter ICED? The very first competition I watched was the Oklahoma State Sugar Art Show. I wanted nothing more than to compete myself and that had been my goal ever since, but I could never afford to go out there. So when I found out from a fellow associate that there was a competition in Ocala, I was all over it and signed up right away.

SAT SUN March 31& April 1

How did you transport the cake to the event?

I drove myself and the cake to the event in my mini-van. The cake was six tiers tall. I divided the cake into three sections: the bottom three tiers, the middle two and then the top with the flower bouquet. Any extra flowers I kept separate. It is always nerve-wracking delivering a cake. You never realize how bumpy a road is or how uneasy drivers can make you until you have a fragile piece of art in the back of your vehicle.

Is there anything you would have changed after the competition?

Photo by Elise Kersey

Edna De la Cruz is a professional cake designer from Orlando who teaches around the country. Her website, designmeacake.com, offers recipes, tutorials and an online shop with instructional DVDs. Edna’s out-of-this-world cake won on The Food Network Challenge episode “Extreme Alien Cakes.” She has judged many competitions, including last year’s ICED. Here, she gives an insider’s look from the judge’s perspective.

I always say to enter cake competitions, even if you are a beginner. The competitions are meant for everyone to participate, even kids. So if you feel you are too new and don’t know much, you still can go and participate along with others who are at the same level. Competitions can help you learn new techniques and will make you get better at finishing your cakes in a neat way. I know they are called competitions, but the experience is worth it even if you don’t get first prize.

Photo by Elise Kersey

The Food Network Star

What advice would you give to cake artists who want to enter ICED?

Yes, I would not have prestacked the cakes the way I did. Even though they were in three sections, they were way too heavy to transfer more than once.

Are you entering this year’s competition?

Most definitely! I believe the competition is going to be more challenging this year because more people are hearing about the Florida ICED Cake Competition.

What’s your advice for this year’s hopefuls?

Go for it! My motto was, “Go big, or go home.”

Once you come up with an idea, do your research and think outside of the box. However, if you’re in it to win it, don’t use a technique until you’ve mastered it, and showcase what you do well.

CIRCLE SQUARE CULTURAL CENTER 8395 SW 80th Street, Ocala (352) 854-3670 / floridaiced.com

Homes on Parade

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The Annual Parade of Homes kicks off p114

Buckin’ Broncos p120

Insomniacs On The Square p126

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and more!

Try It Yourself!

The Ocala Gran Prix offers kart rentals Wednesdays and Thursdays, 3-8pm and Friday-Sunday, 10am-8pm.

(352) 291-0600 / ocalagranprix.com

Not Your Average Go Kart

O

ne of the longest-running and largest sprint kart racing series in the world is making its annual stop at Ocala Gran Prix. The FLORIDA WINTER TOUR features back-to-back weekends of non-stop sprint kart racing action. Over 500 drivers from 32 countries participate in this world-renowned event, including amateur kart racing enthusiasts and top professional race car drivers from Formula 1, IndyCar,

NASCAR and Grand-Am just to name a few. The first weekend is dedicated to the Formula Karts powered by engines from Honda, Parilla and Vortex, among others. The second weekend features the Rotax Max Challenge with an international format and features only karts powered by Rotax engines. Ocala Gran Prix is one of three stops on the Florida Winter Tour and the place to be in March for top kart racing action.

Want To Go? Learn more about kart racing and the Florida Winter Tour at floridawintertour.com.

FLORIDA WINTER TOUR AT OCALA GRAN PRIX March 9-11, 15-18 4121 NW 44th Ave., Ocala / (352) 291-0600 / ocalagranprix.com

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3-18

W

e’re not talking about parading for 16 days straight!

The Marion County Building Industry Association once again welcomes you to their annual PARADE OF HOMES. Whether you are looking to buy a new home or are in search of some renovation ideas, this event is a great opportunity to check out some of the latest trends in home building and meet some of the top builders in Marion County.

For a complete list of homes and builders on display, check out the Marion County Building Industry Association website. mcbia.org or (352) 694-4133.

A 16Day Parade!

Mar

9-11

Horsepower in Horse Country The organizers of the Ocala Pumpkin Run present the HORSEPOWER IN HORSE COUNTRY CLASSIC CAR SHOW. Along with some top-

notch classic cars, there will be a variety of vendors, displays, demonstrations, great food and live entertainment. This event is fun for the whole family with lots of great activities for the kids, including face painting and pony rides. ocalapumpkinrun.com or (352) 620-9998.

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Unleash your true warrior at this year’s WARRIOR DASH at Camp Weed in Live Oak. This race is 3.02 miles of true grit and determination. You and hundreds of other warriors will race through

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Mar

5-11

TEE TIME Golden Hills Golf and Turf Club, recently named “one of Florida’s hidden gems” by Golf Magazine, will host one of the stops on the NATIONAL GOLF ASSOCIATION PRO TOUR. The Harley-Davidson of Ocala Classic will feature some of the

top names in the sport. The first round begins on March 8 at 7:30am, and the tournament runs through Sunday, March 11. Young golf enthusiasts should check out the free junior clinic at 4pm on March 6. Admission is free. goldenhillscc.com or (352) 629-7980.

Mar

17

Ride, Roll or Run Your Way Over!

Weather you are a runner, horseback rider or trail bicycler, this race has a leg for you! The annual RIDE, ROLL, RUN RELAY will take place at the Landbridge Trailhead of the Cross Florida Greenway. Trail riders will tackle a 7.5-mile ride on horseback before cyclists maneuver through 10 miles of trails. Runners will finish the race with a 3.5-mile dash to the finish.

Enter the event with teammates, or try all three legs yourself. Registration begins at 8am, and the relay takes off at 9am. (352) 236-7143.

the teetering traverse, scale the great warrior wall, plummet down deadman’s drop and leap over the flames of warrior roast in an effort to prove who is the most fearless of them all. Registration closes March 19. warriordash.com.

Driving It Home Interview By Bonnie Kretchik

The Live Oak International combined driving event is one of the premier events in North America. This year marks its 20th anniversary and is sure to excite spectators with non-stop driving action from March 22-25 as well as a show jumping competition, classic car show and the Horse Fever auction scheduled over the weekend. Chester Weber, whose home base is the picturesque Live Oak Plantation, is among the top drivers in the world.

He took some time to offer some insight into this fascinating sport.

For those unfamiliar with the sport, what is combined driving?

Combined driving is an equestrian sport based on the ancient tradition of chariot racing and driving. The modern equivalent consists of one, two or four horses pulling a carriage through various patterns and obstacles. Three phases constitute a combined driving event: dressage, marathon and cones.

How did you get involved in the sport?

I originally had aspirations of being a jockey. However, after outgrowing the typical jockey, I began driving teams of draft horses and was immediately hooked.

Photo courtesy of picsofyou.com

CHESTER WEBER

Q&A Photo courtesy of My Elisabeth Weber

A QUICK

Which horses will you be competing with at this year’s event?

The current team consists of my own horses Reno W, Rolex W, Para and Boy W; and two horses owned by Jane Forbes Clark, Splash and Uniek.

How long does it take to get a team to this level?

The exact time it takes to bring a team of horses to the top echelons of competition depends very much upon the horses and their individual talent, compatibility, strengths and weaknesses, as well as the trainer’s ability to evaluate and work with the horses and ‘feel’ of the driver. But if you were to

put a time frame on it, the short answer would be 3,000 hours of training and conditioning.

Which aspect of the event is your favorite?

I enjoy all three phases, but the horses are the key ingredients. With the right team, the dressage phase is a blast. With another team, it may be boring.

My current team is a nice mix.

How many teams will be competing at Live Oak this year?

There will be 70-80 drivers and 30 jumpers. The jumping division is a new addition to the Live Oak schedule and is being held for the first time this year.

Want To Go?

Mar

22-25

LIVE OAK INTERNATIONAL Live Oak Plantation 2215 SW 110th Ave, Ocala (352) 873-9407 cailiveoak.com » Admission is $10 at the gate,

and tickets for children and seniors are $5.

» Visit cailiveoak.com for a

complete schedule of events.

» It is recommended that

spectators bring lawn chairs.

» For Horse Fever auction

tickets, contact the Marion Cultural Alliance at mcaocala.com or (352) 369-1500.

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Concerts

Ticketmaster / (800) 745-3000 / ticketmaster.com All dates are subject to change without notice, so please call ahead to confirm venue listings.

Who

Where

When

Steel Magnolia

Silver Springs Nature Park

03/03

Goo Goo Dolls

Universal Studios, Orlando

03/03

Mel Tillis

Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

03/10

Styx

Silver Springs Nature Park

03/10

Big Time Rush

Universal Studios, Orlando

03/10

J Cole

Universal Studios, Orlando

03/16

Sugar Ray

Universal Studios

03/17

Ronnie McDowell

Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale

03/17

Wilson Phillips

Florida Theatre, Jacksonville

03/21

Hot Chelle Ray

Universal Studios, Orlando

03/23

Debbie Boone and Orchestra

Circle Square Cultural Center, Ocala

03/23

B.o.B

Universal Studios, Orlando

03/24

Hot Chelle Ray

State Theatre, St. Petersburg

03/25

Glen Campbell

Florida Theatre, Jacksonville

03/25

Plain White T’s

Universal Studios, Orlando

03/30

Eddie Money

Silver Springs Nature Park

03/31

Mar

8-11

Musical Madness & Hilarious Hijinks Disney’s Phineas And Ferb is live and coming to Florida.

The PHINEAS AND FERB LIVE tour includes the whole gang as they try to foil another one of Dr. Doofenshmirtz’s evil plans. Watch as Perry the pet platypus slips into his secret double life as Agent P in this awesome escapade! The tour has stops in Tampa on March 8 and 9, Jacksonville on March 10 and Orlando on March 11. ticketmaster.com.

THELOCALSCENE

Performing Arts Who

Where

When

Imagination Movers

Phillips Center, Gainesville

03/02

John Leguizamo

Bob Carr Center for Perf. Arts, Orlando

03/06

Phineas and Ferb

Tampa Bay Times Forum

03/08-09

Phineas and Ferb

Moran Theatre, Jacksonville

03/10

Phineas and Ferb

UCF Arena, Orlando

03/11

Jay Mohr

The Mahaffey, St. Petersburg

03/15

A Perfect Wedding

Ocala Civic Theatre, Ocala

03/1504/08

Lord of the Dance

Bob Carr Center for Perf. Arts, Orlando

03/16

The Marvelous Wonderettes

IceHouse Theatre, Mount Dora

03/1604/08

Young Frankenstein

Lakeland Center Youkey Theatre

03/21

Joan Rivers

Lakeland Center Youkey Theatre

03/22

George Lopez

Hard Rock Live, Orlando

03/23

Die Fledermaus

Circle Square Cultural Center, Ocala

03/24

Peking Acrobats

Phillips Center, Gainesville

03/25

Joffrey Ballet

Phillips Center, Gainesville

03/27

Young Frankenstein

Phillips Center, Gainesville

03/28

Squabbles

Ocala Civic Theatre, Ocala

03/2904/06

Jerry Seinfeld

Lakeland Center Youkey Theatre

03/30

Stomp

Phillips Center, Gainesville

03/30-31

APPLETON EXHIBITS (ONGOING) The Appleton Museum will feature several exhibits during March, including For The Love of The Sea: Watercolors of Phillip Steel through March 18 and Three From Cuba: The Art of Vincente, Miguel and Sandro-The Fantastic to the Sublime through April 1. appletonmuseum.org or (352) 291-4455.

FREE ENTERTAINMENT AND DANCING (FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS THROUGH MARCH) Circle Square Commons hosts free dancing and entertainment on the town square from 5-9pm. circlesquarecommons.com or (352) 387-7516.

CTAE STUDENT MASSAGES (THROUGH MAY 16) CTAE will offer 50-minute student massages by appointment on Mondays and Wednesdays. Call to schedule.

Massages are $20. (352) 671-7200 ext. 56801.

SALUTE TO SENIOR SERVICE (THROUGH MARCH 15) The Home Instead Senior Care office in Marion County has announced the Salute to Senior Service program to honor senior individuals who serve their local communities. The program will select an outstanding volunteer from each state, and a national winner will be selected in May. A $5,000 donation will be made to the winner’s charity of choice. Nominations will be accepted through March 15. salutetoseniorservice.com or (352) 622-6447.

WHITE MOUNTAIN WOMEN EXHIBITION (THROUGH APRIL 1) The Florida Museum of Women Artists presents this exhibit, featuring works from the private collection of Frances “Dolly” MacIntyre and pieces on loan from the Huntsville Museum of Art. An opening reception will take place February 10 from 5-7pm.

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Celebrating

Years

A ST H M A & Y G ALLER OF FLORIDA CARE

asthma?

Do you wheeze? Do you make a squeaky or whistling sound when you breathe? Do you get frequent chest colds or bronchitis a few times per year? Do you cough at night? Do you cough when you exercise or laugh? If yes, let us evaluate you for asthma.

Asthma is a disease that affects the airways in the lungs. If you have asthma, the lining in your airways are inflamed and swollen all the time.

Serving Ocala with the most comprehensive health solutions under one roof for the last 20 years.

PRIMARY CARE Biju Sinha, M.D., M.R.C.P. Jaskaran Bedi, M.D. Kriti Kumari, M.D.

INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGY Prem Singh, M.D., F.A.C.C., F.S.C.A.I. ENDOCRINOLOGY Josef Vesley, M.D.

CARDIOLOGY Mann P. Singh, M.D., F.A.C.C. Matthew Morgan, ARNP

Special Interests & Expertise: Primary Care / Internal Medicine Treatment of Heart and Vascular Disease Treatment of Diabetes Heart Catheterization Cardiac Angioplasty / Stenting Peripheral Angiography

Peripheral Artery Angioplasty Endovenous Ablation for Varicose Veins Diagnosis and Treament of Venous Disease Clotting Disorders Geriatric Medicine

MarionHeartAssociates.com arion Heart Associates, P.A.

Rebecca B. Long, ARNP

G. Edward Stewart II, MD

Thomas L. Johnson II, MD

“Physicians Board Certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology”

We offer personal and prompt service. Same day appointments are often available. We accept most insurance plans and payment plans are available. No referral required.

1500 SE Magnolia Extension, Suites 203 & 204 • Ocala, FL

352.622.1126 | aacfinc.com

Now Enrolling Clinical Research Studies! Call 629-2223 for info.

arion Internal Medicine Associates

Ocala Main Office 1805 SE Lake Weir Ave Ocala, FL 34471 Tel / 352-867-9600 Fax / 352-867-9603 7 mi from The Shores 10 mi from Belleview

Summerfield

10369 SE 175th Place Rd Suite 200 Summerfield, FL 34491 Tel / 352-867-9600 Fax / 352-867-9603

New Patients Accepted by All 7 Providers Most Insurances Accepted

TimbeRidge 9401 SW St. Rd 200 Suite 403 Ocala, FL 34481 Tel / 352-873-8775 Fax / 352-873-3812

12 mi from Dunnellon

Weekday Mornings 5:30-10:00 AM

Photo by Agape Photography

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THELOCALSCENE

Sports MLB / 2012 Spring Training Houston Astros Oseola County Stadium, Kissimmee (321) 697-3201 DATE

OPPONENT

TIME

Mar. 3 Mar. 5 Mar. 6 Mar. 9 Mar. 11 Mar. 13 Mar. 15 Mar. 18 Mar. 20 Mar. 23 Mar. 25 Mar. 27 Mar. 28 Mar. 31

Washington Atlanta NY Mets Toronto Detroit Philadelphia Toronto NY Mets St. Louis Washington Pittsburgh Detroit Miami NY Yankees

1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p

Atlanta Braves Champion Stadium, Orlando (407) 839-3900 OPPPONENT

TIME

Mar. 3 Mar. 6 Mar. 9 Mar. 10 Mar. 11 Mar. 14 Mar. 16 Mar. 17 Mar. 18 Mar. 19 Mar. 22 Mar. 25 Mar. 28 Mar. 30 Mar. 31

Detroit Washington NY Mets NY Yankees Toronto Washington Houston Toronto Baltimore St. Louis Miami Houston NY Yankees Houston Detroit

1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 6:05p 6:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 6:05p 1:05p

Detroit Tigers Joker Mar.ant Stadium, Lakeland (866) 66-TIGER OPPONENT

Mar. 2 Mar. 4 Mar. 5 Mar. 7 Mar. 9 Mar. 10 Mar. 12 Mar. 14 Mar. 15 Mar. 17 Mar. 20 Mar. 21 Mar. 24 Mar. 25 Mar. 26 Mar. 29 Mar. 30

Florida Southern Atlanta Toronto Atlanta Philadelphia Washington NY Mets NY Mets Baltimore St. Louis Atlanta Minnesota NY Yankees Philadelphia Miami Washington Baltimore

Washington Nationals Space Coast Stadium, Viera (888) 632-6287 DATE

OPPONENT

Mar. 2 Mar. 4 Mar. 7 Mar. 8 Mar. 10 Mar. 12 Mar. 13 Mar. 15 Mar. 17 Mar. 18 Mar. 21 Mar. 23 Mar. 25 Mar. 29 Mar. 30 Mar. 31

Georgetown Houston St. Louis Houston NY Mets St. Louis Detroit NY Yankees Florida Detroit Atlanta Houston NY Mets Atlanta Florida St. Louis

TIME

1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 6:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 7:05p 1:05p

New York Yankees Steinbrenner Field, Tampa (813) 879-2244

DATE

DATE

Admission is free for members and $10 for non-members. floridamuseumforwomenartists.org or (386) 873-2976.

TIME

1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 6:05p 1:05p

DATE

OPPONENT

TIME

Mar. 2 Mar. 4 Mar. 7 Mar. 9 Mar. 11 Mar. 12 Mar. 13 Mar. 16 Mar. 17 Mar. 20 Mar. 23 Mar. 25 Mar. 27 Mar. 29 Mar. 30

USF Philadelphia Tampa Bay Atlanta Philadelphia Houston Boston Washington Houston Pittsburgh Minnesota Detroit Toronto Baltimore Philadelphia

1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 7:05p 7:05p 1:05p 1:05p 7:05p 1:05p 1:05p 7:05p 7:05p 7:05p

Philadelphia Phillies Bright House Networks Field, Clearwater / (727) 442-8496 DATE

OPPONENT

TIME

Mar. 3 Mar. 5 Mar. 8 Mar. 10 Mar. 11 Mar. 14 Mar. 15 Mar. 17 Mar. 19 Mar. 23 Mar. 25 Mar. 26 Mar. 27 Mar. 29 Mar. 31

NY Yankees NY Yankees Pittsburgh Baltimore Detroit Minnesota Atlanta Toronto Detroit NY Yankees Baltimore Boston Pittsburgh Tampa Bay Toronto

1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p 1:05p

CIRCLE SQUARE COMMONS FARMERS MARKETS (THROUGH MAY) Circle Square Commons will host a farmers market on Thursdays from 4-7pm.

APPLETON AFTER HOURS (MARCH 1) The Appleton Museum will host their monthly After Hours social from 5-8pm.

Admission is free for members and $8 for non-members. appletonmuseum.org or (352) 291-4455.

STUDENT PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST (MARCH 1-MAY 5) The Discovery Science Center and the North Central Florida Photography Club invite students in grades 6-12 to participate in a photography contest. A free workshop for participants will be held on March 3 at the Discovery Science Center. mydiscoverycenter.org or (352) 401-3900.

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT (MARCH 2) Drop your kids off for an evening of science and entertainment at the Discovery Science Center while you enjoy a night out. Price is $15 and includes snacks. mydiscoverycenter.org or (352) 401-3900.

CLOTHING DRIVE (MARCH 1-9) The Hispanic Organization for Leaders and Administrators (HOLA) is collecting gently used career apparel.

Collection sites are at the Student Service Center, Marion Technical Institute and Sunrise Elementary. holamarion.org.

MARION COUNTY KIDNEY FOUNDATION 5K (MARCH 3)

This event will take place at 8am at the Baseline Road Cross Florida Greenway Trailhead. marioncountykidneyfoundation.org or (352) 622-4231.

ELVIS TRIBUTE ARTIST CONTEST (MARCH 3) Elvis impersonators will be vying for a spot in the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Contest in Memphis, TN, for a chance to win $20,000. The preliminary round will take place at the Circle Square Cultural Center at 11am. The final round begins at 7pm. csculturalcenter.com or (352) 854-3670.

RAGIN’ WARRIOR CHALLENGE (MARCH 3) This mud run is 11.5 miles of extreme obstacles and takes place at the Florida Horse Park. Compete with a team or as an individual. Race-day registration is $150 (cash only), and camping is available. Spectator tickets are $10, and children under 10 are free. raginwarrior.com.

SWEET ADELINES CHORUS (MARCH 3) The Sweet Adelines present Lazy River Days at First Christian Church. The quartet, Wired For Sound, along with the Ocala Civic Theatre Singers will perform. The show starts at 3pm.

Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door. (352) 288-8841.

ARMY OF HOPE (MARCH 3) The Florida State Elks Association will host this event at the Elks Lodge from 12-4pm. Tickets are $10 and $5 for children 10 and under. (352) 636-4127.

SILVER RIVER KNAP-IN (MARCH 3-4) The Silver River Museum will host this unique festival celebrating the ancient art of stone tool making. The event runs 9am-4pm both days. Admission is $5. silverrivermuseum.com or (352) 236-5401.

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MARION CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY CONCERT (MARCH 4) The Marion Chamber Music Society presents the Gainesville Music Teachers Performance Group concert at 3pm at the Queen Of Peace Church in Ocala. Free. mcaocala.com or (352) 369-1500.

COLLEGE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL FILM SERIES (MARCH 6) The College of Central Florida and the Appleton Museum will present Lives of Others. The film starts at 2pm at the Appleton and 7pm at CF. Admission is free at CF and free with museum admission at the Appleton. cfccfoundation.org or (352) 873-5800.

GYPSY VANNER HORSE PRESENTATION (MARCH 8) Learn about Gypsy Vanner horses and Mule Moms during this presentation at Gypsy Gold Farm.

Each participant will receive a DVD about Gypsy Vanners and take a guided tour of the farm. Program cost is $20 and runs from 9:30am-noon. masterthepossibilities.com or (352) 861-9751.

YOUTH RALLY AND ANTIBULLYING CONFERENCE (MARCH 9-10) On March 9, the Church at the Springs will host a youth rally on bullying from 7-9pm. On March 10, there will be a conference for parents, educators and anyone who works with youth at the Hilton from 8:30am-2pm. Tickets for the conference are $49. joycouncil.com or (352) 484-7433.

MASTER GARDENERS’ SPRING FESTIVAL (MARCH 10-11) The Marion County Master Gardeners host their annual spring festival at the UF/IFAS Marion County Extension Service. Admission is $1. marioncountyfl.org or (352) 671-8400.

Riding, Roping & Wrestling Mar

23,24

The toughest cowboys around will be at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion for the 19TH ANNUAL SOUTHEASTERN PRO RODEO. See bareback bronco riding, tie down roping, barrel racing, and, of course, the most dangerous 8 seconds in rodeo, bull riding! Friday is kid’s night with special admission and prizewinning events for junior cowboys and cowgirls ages 6-11. So don your cowboy hats, polish your spurs and come out rain or shine! Doors open at 6pm both nights, and the action begins at 7:30pm. Tickets are $14 in advance or $16 at the gate. ocalarodeo.com or (352) 401-5900.

OCALA OPEN GOLF TOURNAMENT AND PRO-AM CHALLENGE (MARCH 13-16) This event will take place at Candler Hills Golf Course. A pro-am challenge will kick off the event on Tuesday. The Ocala Open benefits Hospice of Marion County and Interfaith Emergency Services. ocalaopen.com or (352) 854-2765.

LOVE THAT DRESS (MARCH 15) The Ocala Hilton

will host this shopping event to benefit the PACE Center For Girls. V.I.P. reception begins at 5pm, and doors open for general admission at 6pm. Tickets are $15. pacecenter.org or (352) 369-0571.

HOUSE CONCERT SERIES (MARCH 17) The Oasis House Concert Series begins again with singer/songwriter John Frinzi.

Doors open at 5pm for a potluck dinner, and the concert begins at 6pm. The concerts are held at the

home of Ken and Laurie Mosher, and guests are asked to bring their own chairs. For directions and more information, email Ken at theoasisconcerts@yahoo.com.

O’CALA’S ST. PATRICK’S DAY FESTIVAL (MARCH 17) The downtown square hosts this event on the square with dancing, entertainment, food, vendors and crafts. The festival runs from 4-9pm and is free. ocalafl.org or (352) 368-5517.

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LE ISU R E AN D R ECR E ATIONAL COU R SE SCH E DU LES REGISTRATION TAKES PLACE THE FIRST SCHEDULED NIGHT OF CLASS • 1014 SW 7TH RD. • OCALA, FL 34471 *Yoga classes meet/register at Dunnellon Elementary School – 10235 SW 180th Avenue Rd., Dunnellon, FL

BUSINESS TECH & RECREATIONAL CLASSES ARE STARTING SOON! Expand your horizons with computer training and recreational

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L i v e Yo u r D re a m s M A R I O N C A R E E R T R A I N I N G . C O M • 352 - 671-72 0 0 Follow us on Facebook — Facebook.com/MyCTAE Marion County Public Schools, An Equal Opportunity School District

COURSE

DAYS

TIMES

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LAB FEE

TUITION

Beginning Piano Beginning Spanish I Belly Dancing Belly Dancing Cake Decorating The Couponing Craze Gourmet For $10 A Day Making Ends Meet And More Photography Pottery Sewing And Design Sewing And Design Yoga

Tue. Tue. Wed. Thu. Wed. Thu. Mon. Thu. Thu. Thu. Tue. Thu. Thu.

6:30 pm - 8:30 pm 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

4/3 - 5/22 4/3 - 5/22 4/4 - 5/23 4/5 - 5/24 4/4 - 5/23 4/5 - 5/24 4/2 - 4/23 4/5 - 5/24 4/5 - 5/24 4/5 - 5/24 4/3 - 5/22 4/5 - 5/24 4/5 - 5/24

None $5 None None None $5 $40 $5 None $10 None None None

$54 $54 $36 $36 $68 $54 $41 $54 $54 $65 $68 $54 $54

B USI N ESS AN D TECH NOLOGY COU R SE SCH E DU LES REGISTER AT CTAE CAMPUS: 1014 SW 7TH RD. • OCALA, FL 34471 • MAR. 5 - 15 (CTAE is closed Mar. 19 - 23) Register at Student Services from 8:30am - 5:30pm, Mon. - Thurs. Contact Suzanne Bryant at 352-671-7200 for more info.

COURSE

DAYS

TIMES

START/END

LAB FEE

TUITION

Basic Powerpoint 2010/Presentation Skills Basic Web Design Beginning Computers – Level 1 Bookkeeping Basics Computer Hardware & Software Basics Keyboarding & Beginning Word 2010 Microsoft Excel 2010 Microsoft Publisher 2010 Quickbooks Pro 2011

Mon. Thu. Wed. Tue. Thu. Mon. Tue. Wed. Tue.

6:00 pm - 8:30 pm 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm

4/2 - 5/21 3/29 - 5/17 3/28 - 5/16 4/10 - 4/24 3/29 - 5/17 4/2 - 5/21 3/27 - 5/15 3/28 - 5/16 5/1 - 6/12

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$118 $118 $118 $45 $118 $118 $118 $118 $104

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THELOCALSCENE 12 STEP MINISTRY GOLF TOURNAMENT (MARCH 17) This event will take place at the Ocala Golf Club with an 8am shotgun start. The tournament will be in a scramble format.

Prizes will be awarded for team winners and holes-inone. christian12step.org or (352) 732-0877.

5K RUN/WALK (MARCH 17) A 5K run/walk will take place at 8am at City Hall to benefit the United Way. Entry is $20 before March 12 and $25 after.

Race forms can be downloaded from the United Way website, uwmc.org or from active.com. Or call (352) 732-9696.

VINTAGE QUILT DISPLAY (MARCH 17) Pieces of the Past, a vintage quilt display, will take place at Harvest Village in Micanopy from 9am-5pm. There is a suggested donation of $2, and proceeds benefit the Horse Protection Association of Florida and the Marion County Humane Society. (352) 591-5777.

SCRAPBOOK FOR BREAST CANCER (MARCH 16-17) Bring your scrapbook, knitting, embroidery or any other craft project to the Marion County Extension Auditorium. Pizza will be served Friday night and morning snacks and lunch on Saturday.

Hours on Friday are 6-10pm and 8am-4pm on Saturday. Cost is $25 in advance and $30 at the door.

(352) 732-5982.

POLOCROSSE TOURNAMENT (MARCH 17-18) The first event of the season will take place at the Florida Horse Park. Chuckas begin at 8:30am and end at 3pm.

Concessions will be available.

Free admission for spectators. americanpolocrosse.org or (352) 266-9326.

SPRING CAMP (MARCH 19-23) The Discovery Science Center will host a spring camp centered around the art of Toulouse Lautrec for ages 8-12. Camp will include field trips, art creation, fun, games and more. Camp runs 8:30-4:30, extended hours available. $100 for members, $110 for non-members. mydiscoverycenter.org or (352) 401-3900.

TRIPS ‘N’ TOURS (MARCH 22, APRIL 4) The Appleton Museum of Art’s Trips ‘N’ Tours series will visit the Gypsy Gold Gypsy Vanner Horse Farm followed by a tour of the Chasing A Dream Thoroughbred Horse Farm. $65 for members, $75 for nonmembers. appletonmuseum.org or (352) 291-4456.

MOVIE IN THE PARK (MARCH 23) Jervey Gantt will host this event from 7:309:30pm. This month’s film will be Zookeeper. Popcorn and drinks are provided, and admission is free. Bring a lawn chair. ocalafl.org or (352) 629-8444.

BUNCO BASH (MARCH 24) The Bunco Babes of Ocala present this event benefiting the Michelle-OGram Foundation. The luau-themed event will be held at the Ocala Hilton beginning at 6pm. Tickets are $35. buncobabesocala.com or (352) 361-7983.

SIDEWALK ASTRONOMY (MARCH 24) Join Astronomer Ken Nash for a tour of the night sky at the Discovery Science Center.

The program begins at 6pm and is free. mydiscoverycenter.com or (352) 401-3900.

LIVE MAGIC SHOW (MARCH 25) Magician Jonathan Frost will be at the Melting Pot on the Square. Enjoy an elegant four course dinner while being entertained by a Continued on page 124

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Fishin’ For Fun

Mar

31

Looking for something fun to do with the whole family? Enjoy the beautiful spring weather and head out to Tuscawilla park from 9am-noon to learn about one of the most popular recreational activities around, fishing. Families are invited to attend this fun event for all ages. Some fishing poles will be provided. ocalafl.org or (352) 368-5517.

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THELOCALSCENE

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master magician. Event runs 6:30-9:30pm. seelivemagic.com or (877) 567-8921.

OPEN HOUSE AND EVENING PROGRAM (MARCH 29) The Silver River Museum will host an open house along with a program on the archeology of the Second Seminole War. The open house runs from 4-6pm, and the program runs from 6-7pm.

There is no admission charge, but reservations are required for the program. (352) 236-5401.

PIG OUT BBQ BASH (MARCH 31) The Junior League of Ocala presents this event at the Florida Horse Park. The event runs from 10am-6pm. juniorleagueofocala.com or (352) 368-0993.

ALL VEHICLES PAST AND PRESENT CAR SHOW (MARCH 31) The Marion County Sheriff ’s Office will host this event from 9am-3pm. Admission is free for spectators and car registration is $15 before March 23 and $20 afterward. (352) 368-3582.

DOORS TO THE FUTURE (MARCH 31) The Hispanic Organization for Leaders and Administrators presents an educational event at the Marion Technical Institute from 9am-12:30pm for high-schoolers preparing for graduation. Topics included are résumé writing, financial aid and interviewing techniques. Parents can attend. holamarion.org.

GRACE SCHOOL YARD SALE (MARCH 31) Grace School will host a yard sale from 8am-1pm.

The sale will take place on the school grounds. (352) 387-3090.

REDDICK BBQ FESTIVAL (MARCH 31) This event will feature a BBQ competition between local churches, community yard sale, vendors, games and music. Yard sale begins at 7am, BBQ served at 10:30am.

reddickbbqfestival.com or (352) 258-4604.

OCALA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA (MARCH 31- APRIL 1). The Ocala Symphony Orchestra presents In A Galaxy Far, Far Away at the Ocala Breeders’ Sale Auditorium.

The March 31 performance begins at 7:30pm and the April 1 performance at 3pm. Tickets are $30 for adults and $10 for students. ocalasymphony.com or (352) 351-1606.

I.C.E.D. CAKE COMPETITION (MARCH 31-APRIL 1) This cake and sugar arts competition will take place at the Circle Square Cultural Center and features vendors, demonstrations and live entertainment. floridaiced.com or (352) 307-7444.

ROLLER DERBY (APRIL 1) The Ocala Cannibals will host a home bout against the South Florida Rollergirls at Skate Mania.

Doors open at 6pm, and the bout begins at 6:30pm. Tickets are $8 in advance, $12 at the door. ocalacannibalderby.com or (352) 454-2018.

ANCHOR RUNWAY AND FASHION SHOW (APRIL 1) Trinity Catholic High School presents an afternoon fashion show to benefit the Children’s Home Society of Florida. Hundreds of dresses will be available as well as boutique shopping. The show will be held in the school cafeteria from 12:30-3pm. trinitycatholichs.org or (352) 622-9025 ext. 1113 for details.

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: email: calendar@ocalastyle.com fax: (352) 732-0226 mail: Ocala Style Magazine The Scene, 1007 E. Fort King St., Ocala, FL 34471

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AFTERDARK AFTER

Indulge Your Inner Insomniac

L

ooking for something to do, but sick of doling out the dough at movie theaters?

Check out one of the coolest live theaters on the square (OK, so maybe it’s the only theater on the square!) The INSOMNIAC THEATRE is an entirely volunteer-run organization and puts on some pretty amazing shows.

“We do it because we love it. All of us work nine-to-five jobs, then come and spend all night at the theatre, hence the name, Insomniac Theatre,” says Chad Taylor, president of Insomniac Theatre.

Opened in 2010, the theatre is located on the downtown square in one of Ocala’s oldest buildings. It is such a unique setting that audience members feel at ease as soon as they walk in the door. Get ready to sit back and enjoy some of the best acting in Ocala by those who truly love to do it!

ABOUT CHAD:

ABOUT THE SHOWS:

• Involved in theater since age 11

• Always looking for something unique

• Wrote his first play at 17

• Put on by a dedicated volunteer staff

• Written over 75 plays with productions all over the U.S.

• Welcomes anyone interested in acting, directing, producing, etc.

• Performed in over 100 plays

• Tickets are $10, $15 for musicals ($12 in advance)

• Directed and produced over 50 plays

• Concession stand available • Look for new coffee shop and café coming soon

UPCOMING EVENTS: March 8-18: The 39 Steps: Comedy/suspense based on the 1915 novel by John Buchan and the 1935 Alfred Hitchcock film.

Performances Thursday through Sunday at 8pm and a 3pm Sunday matinee.

March 23-24: 24 Hour Theater: This is a two-night event

featuring the local improv troupe Second Thought Improv.

During the first night, audience members will come up with a list of plays they’d like to see performed. After the audience leaves, the writers, actors, directors and crew will write, rehearse and create the set over night for a variety of performances that will take place the next day when the audience returns. Described as “controlled chaos,” you never know what to expect!

LOOKING AHEAD: April 8-18: Philadelphia Story: Performances Thursday through Sunday at 8pm with a 3pm Sunday matinee.

April 27-28: Rocky Horror Picture Show Shadow Cast: (An audience favorite!) Performances Friday and Saturday at 8pm and midnight.

Insomniac Theatre 1 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala (in the old bank building) (352) 897-0477 / insomniactheatre.com Check them out on Facebook and Twitter!

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College of Central Florida President’s Holiday Reception APPLETON MUSEUM OF ART

The College of Central Florida hosted a President’s Holiday Reception on Friday, Dec. 9, at the Appleton Museum of Art. The event featured music by Kevin Christian as well as the holiday exhibit, “A Dickens’ Christmas: The Urban Family Collection.”

Chester & Barbara Trow

PHOTOS BY BRANDON SCRAMBLING

Richard Bazile

Page & Rusty Branson Lisa & Todd Panzer

Joan & Cliff Stearns

Trevor & Dr. Jillian Ramsammy Robert & Linda Durrance

View more Social Scene photos and purchase prints of your favorites at ocalastyle.com

Don & Susan Taylor

Brian & Judy Menadier

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Christine Wissinger Sandy Balfour, Adam & Lisa Lombardo Kevin Christian

Beverly Morris and Chick Dassance

Joe & Dr.Cheryl Fante

Joyce & Christina Brancato

Phyllis & Ron Ewers Naida & Frank Rasbury

Ramona Kirsch & Evan Shofron Karen & Winston Needham

Bonnie & Allen Parsons

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The Sircle Black History Month Gala HOLIDAY INN SUITES

Daphne Stewart and Shelia Ferguson

On February 3, The Sircle Inc. held its annual Black History Month Gala. This year’s event featured keynote speaker Dr. Dennis Kimbro. This black-tieoptional gala’s purpose was to increase cultural awareness and promote community involvement and economic empowerment for the residents of Marion County.

PHOTOS BY BRANDON SCRAMBLING

Tracy Blocker and Florence Williams Ray

Continued on page 132

Shelia Adams and Luzonia Waters

Terri & Dereck Williams Paula Fordman and F.L. Brown

Tracey Terrell, Devon Chestnut and Maureen Taraglione

Gloria & Louis Thrower Faith Jenkins, Angie Clifton and Deatra Thomas

View more Social Scene photos and purchase prints of your favorites at ocalastyle.com

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Carrie Woodberry and Kecia Gallmon Shakiria & Amanda Stepheson

Why Grace School?

1.Grace provides an unrivaled, close-knit community for all ages.

2. Grace provides an unmatched program of academic excellence.

Grace provides an unparalleled number of opportunities for enrichment outside the classroom.

3.

Grace School was the first private school in Marion County, and we hope that you will join us as we continue to be Marion County’s premier Christian school. We will strive each day to fulfill our mission statement: To Prepare Our Children for Life, To Honor and Glorify God, In a Christ-Centered Environment Of Academic Excellence.

Grace School

352.387.3090

4410 SE 3rd Ave | Ocala, FL 34480

www.graceschoolocala.org Accepting Applications for the 2012-2013 School Year

Accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools and Florida Kindergarten Council.

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

scan for more information

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The Sircle Black History Month Gala Dr. Gwendolyn Goldsby Grant and Shatasha Jones

HOLIDAY INN SUITES

On February 3, The Sircle Inc. held its annual Black History Month Gala. This year’s event featured keynote speaker Dr. Dennis Kimbro. This black-tieoptional gala’s purpose was to increase cultural awareness and promote community involvement and economic empowerment for the residents of Marion County.

PHOTOS BY BRANDON SCRAMBLING

Natalia Cox, DeeDee Banks and Lourdes Chaney

Mr. & Mrs. Greene

Continued from page 130

Beverly Neasman, Gwen Sims and Loretta Jenkins

Angela Brown, Joann Stephenson, Bernadette Wright and Monica Bryant

Ann McKinney and Nedra Huggins

Kathy Judkins

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Algenon Thomas and Henrietta Flanders

Taneka & Fulton Wilson Amy Graham and Chief Greg Graham

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Celebration of Life GATEWAY BANK

HUGS Charities, Inc. held a fond gathering to celebrate the life of Augie Greiner, Sr., who passed in August 2010. On January 19 at the Gateway Bank of Central Florida, attendees gathered in a “community hug” to celebrate the late community leader. Greiner was a member of the University of Florida Athletic Hall of Fame, and co-founder of the “Ocala Gator Tip-Off Club.”

Greg Ergle

Jim Wilkerson and Nancy Greiner

PHOTOS BY BRANDON SCRAMBLING

Brian Cretul and Ryan Anderson

Carolyn Smith and Tito Comas

Todd Duffy, Wally Wagoner and Kurt Greiner Nicolette Siyufy

Sal & June Cianciola

Garrett, Jillian & Jamie Greiner, Alex Kay

View more Social Scene photos and purchase prints of your favorites at ocalastyle.com

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Bo & Sally Williams Jennifer & Tylus Chatterton

Ginny Wilson and Catha Gent Beth Eiland, Jill & Phil Schuck Frank & Gayle Elkes

Ann Richardson and Burton Marsh

Amanda Stem, Joyce Adams and Barbara Fitos

Ann Cambias and Barbara Musleh Carswell Ponder, Teddie & Jerry Gause

Jodi & David DeSantis, Mary Alice Adkison

Evan & Mary Ann Richards Mimi Ayer, Muriel Webb and Jane Voge Jo Ann Sandy and Marie Tuck

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Artist Within VII COUNTRY CLUB OF OCALA

On January 21, professional and amateur artists combined talents to showcase their works of art at the Artist Within Dinner and Auction. Guests were able to review the art prior to the dinner and auction held that evening. $8,800 was raised to benefit the Marion Cultural Alliance’s cultural grant fund.

Chuck & Anne Koch, Debra & Robert Goodlett

PHOTOS BY BRANDON SCRAMBLING

Continued on page 138 Lydia Kuttas

Peter & Maggie Andrews

Lynn Cyprian and Ronnie King Brian & Alina Stoothoff, Jim McCune

Bernard & Peggy Watts

Rus Adams and Chris Bricker

George Tomyn, Jeff & Julie Shealy and Brad Rohrbacher

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Buffy Hart and Brittany Visser Leslie Scales and Richard Schleicher

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Scene

the

THESOCIALSCENE

Artist Within VII COUNTRY CLUB OF OCALA

On January 21, professional and amateur artists combined talents to showcase their works of art at the Artist Within Dinner and Auction. Guests were able to review the art prior to the dinner and auction held that evening. $8,800 was raised to benefit the Marion Cultural Alliance’s cultural grant fund.

Randy Merrill and Vic Burke

PHOTOS BY BRANDON SCRAMBLING

Continued from page 136 Steve & Bobbi Lytle

Stephanie Harrell, John Findlater and Samantha Rauba

Janet & Dan Robertson Rachel & Dorothy Redman, Meagan Chaney and Maggie Carbonell

Nira Colyn and Nirav Gupta

Jackie & Harry Schindehette Donald & Lisa Young

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Jim & Bonnie Payton

Bonnie & Dr. Derek Farr

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Appleton’s 25th Anniversary Gala APPLETON MUSEUM

Ron & Phyllis Ewers

The Appleton Museum recently celebrated its 25th anniversary with a Gala. “La Belle Epoque” took place January 28. Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception, “living art” in the courtyard, a champagne toast and a three-course dinner served in the Edith Marie Gallery.

PHOTOS BY BRANDON SCRAMBLING

Continued on page 142

Francis & Eydie Robacker

Chester & Barbara Trow, Greg Tucci

Dick & Janet Chitty Bonnie & Roger Baldus, Elaine & Greg Tucci

Dodie Jerz and Bonnie Janssen

Theresa & Glenn Lane Frank & Naida Rasbury

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Joan & Cliff Stearns Marie Robinson and Donald Cushing

Scene

the

THESOCIALSCENE

Appleton’s 25th Anniversary Gala APPLETON MUSEUM

Garrett Mitchell and Pamela Calero

The Appleton Museum recently celebrated its 25th anniversary with a Gala. “La Belle Epoque” took place January 28. Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception, “living art” in the courtyard, a champagne toast and a three-course dinner served in the Edith Marie Gallery.

PHOTOS BY BRANDON SCRAMBLING

Continued from page 140

Marlene & Ernie Jacobowwitz

Trinette Collmer, Lori Kenny and Roberta English

Brad & Debbie Rogers Linda Appleton Potter & Bill Potter

Paul & Deanna Stentiford

Colleen & Bob Stenstream

Elaine Tucci, David Gadladge, Greg Tucci and Susie Klein

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Colleen Harper and Shirley Knox Adam & Lisa Lombardo

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