Ocala Style | October 2023

arts culture THE ISSUE

& e Man Behind a Towering Talent

Our Guide to Fall’s Best Events and Festivities

TALL TALE

352.804.8989

Joan Pletcher, Realtor

Our results speak for themselves.

List with Joan today!

Private Country Living - NW Ocala

23.85 +/- Acres graced with majestic oaks. Custom-built 3-bedroom, 3-bath home welcomes you to the entry foyer with beautiful wood floors, formal living and dining areas overlooking the pool with views of the farm. Chef’s kitchen features granite countertops, raised bar for seating, plus custom cabinetry and is open to a spacious family room with fireplace, built-in cabinetry, and sliding glass doors. Enjoy outdoor entertaining with the large screen-enclosed pool, covered lanai, and summer kitchen overlooking the beautiful views of the farm. Charming 2/2 guest quarters. Kitchen-family room features large sliding glass doors that provide a pathway to the center aisle barn. The equestrian will love the 6-stall center aisle barn with tack room, wash rack, full bath plus storage. Additional improvements include covered equipment storage, 3 RV hookups, 60’ round pen, and 20m x 40m dressage arena. Call today for additional information on different ways the property can be purchased.

Prime gated 18+ acres privately located close to all amenities. Home features an open kitchen-family room, 2 bedrooms and 2 baths. Two-story 1/1 guest residence with stunning views of gently rolling pastures. Entertain your family and friends in the beautiful summer kitchen with a sitting area while overlooking your horses and pastures. Stable with 4 stalls, tack room, and extra storage space above. Second barn is perfect for equipment storage, overhead storage, and a recently added A/C office. Both barns have new metal roofs. Additional storage building with 2 feed stalls. 100’ x 200 Arena, round pen, and newer fencing. This is a perfect location to live amongst horse enthusiasts and build the equestrian estate of your dreams.

$1,675,000

Private, Elegant Living on 8 +/- Acres

Driving up the tree-lined drive, your eyes are drawn to this magnificent two-story 5-bedroom, 6.5-bath brick estate. The expansive foyer welcomes you and your guests. Formal dining room, and formal living room with built-in shelving and fireplace. The kitchen features granite countertops, a center island with a cooktop, a raised counter seating area, plus a breakfast nook and is open to the family room, which serves as the hub of the family gathering area. The office features built-in bookcases and hardwood floors. Your guests will enjoy the spacious guest accommodations, which include the morning kitchen and breakfast nook, plus large sitting area. Enjoy your evenings in the screen enclosed lanai with a pool, jacuzzi, and summer kitchen while watching the beautiful sunsets over the pond and the bass rolling over in the distance. Tennis court, gazebo and beautiful granddaddy oaks add to the uniqueness and privacy of this estate.

$2,290,000

This family estate is just minutes from all the town’s amenities. The 5.60 +/- acres of beautifully landscaped land is gated and perimeter fenced for privacy. As you enter the gate, the winding drive and ancient oaks lead you to a magnificent 5-bedroom, 6 1/2 bath home, plus office, with more than 7,000 square feet of living area. This is a custom-designed estate with great architectural details. The home is designed for entertaining, with an open floor plan, billiards/game room and bonus room. Features include built-in bookshelves, crown molding, Travertine flooring. The formal dining room overlooks the pool and lanai area, which has a patio and cabana with plenty of seating areas to entertain your guests while enjoying the views of the property. There is a four-car garage. The roof, windows and plumbing are all new. Paddocks are perfect for grazing cattle or horses. Zoned A-3 Agricultural.

$1,950,000

French Country Estate

Professionally sculpted and architecturally designed residence sits on 1,935+/- private acres with shared ownership of private Lake Ledwith (1,774 +/-acres). Incredible, custom-designed home combines the best of elegance, style and craftsmanship, and offers gorgeous, expansive views of the surrounding granddaddy live oaks and grounds. The 5-bedroom, 5.5-bath home offers five fireplaces, office, exercise room, wine cellar and abundant storage areas across the 7,918+/- square-feet of living area. This home offers unique luxury for a large family and outdoor space to entertain a crowd. Four-car garage. For the sporting and hunting enthusiast there is an expansive game room with full bar, raised seating, granite countertop, fireplace, plenty of space to watch your favorite game on TV, talk of largemouth bass caught in your own lake, or plan your next duck, turkey and deer hunts. Residence and 1,280 +/acres are perimeter fenced 8-feet high. Just minutes to the Williston airport.

What

Expect an unparalleled combination of professionalism, integrity and relentless commitment to her client’s unique needs, interests, and desires.

Joan is a residential, equine property and land development REALTOR® since 1985 and a horsewoman herself so her clients have the benefit of experience and specialized expertise.

“The Ocala region is home to the most beautiful equestrian estates and horse farms in the United States and the natural beauty of the area, along with an amazing variety of equine-centered activities and venues, such as the phenomenal World Equestrian Center, makes this a place that more and more people want to call home,” says Joan.

should you expect working with Joan Pletcher?

Dear Readers,

all. We may not have the dramatic changing of the seasons like in other places, but we do get mornings cool enough to have coffee on the lanai and evening sunsets streaked with red and gold. And, in Ocala/Marion County, we have the official kick off to a season of activities that are highlighted in this Arts & Culture issue.

This year, Ocala Style is again the proud media sponsor of the Ocala Arts Festival on Oct. 28 and 29. This art festival, now in its 56th year, is a staff favorite. If you go on Sunday, look for Mike Weakley, our cover stilt walker, and tell him you read about him in Ocala Style

We are also excited about sponsoring Brown’s Fall Fest & Mega Maze, from Oct. 7-Nov. 5. I had the opportunity to tour the farm recently with the visionaries behind it to see all the preparations that go into the one-of-a-kind fall destination full of surprises and more photo ops than I could count. I’ve never wandered a corn maze, so I’m looking forward to returning to the farm and seeing it in its full glory.

Numerous other events shared in these pages include the Florida Feast, Jeeptoberfest, McIntosh 1890s Festival, Howl-O-Ween PAWty, Hapi Harvest Day, Boo Bash and the Marion Cultural Alliance’s Block pARty. It’s all geared to getting out and having a good time and, in many cases, supporting local charities.

Speaking of local charities, I hope this issue gives you an opportunity to get acquainted with the local work being done by Save Our Rural Areas (SORA). This organization is helping advocate for maintaining rural life in Marion County and bringing awareness to all the things that make that lifestyle special. Watching this group of volunteers reactivate off and on over the years should serve as an inspiring reminder that we should all accept responsibility for maintaining the things we love in Marion—even if it means taking on a righteous battle or two.

In this issue we also spotlight some cool locals, such as artist Christine Bravata, who creates stunning ceramics; CF equine educator Marie Davidson; and Sara Lambert, a true community connector through her roles with the county and the Junior League.

And for those of you who look forward to enjoying seasonal flavors, Jill Paglia delivers recipes for Chicken Pot Pie, Pumpkin Muffins and Sweet Potato Cookies, all sure to please everyone you invite to your table.

Enjoy!

Jennifer Hunt Murty Publisher

Publisher | Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@magnoliamediaco.com

Magnolia Media Company, LLC (352) 732-0073

PO Box 188, Ocala, FL 34478

Art

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Amy Harbert amy@magnoliamediaco.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Bruce Ackerman

Randy Bastista

Tammy Griffin

Meagan Gumpert, MAVEN photo + film

John Jernigan

Maudie Lucas Photography

Paige Mercer Photography

Julianna Mertin

Dave Schlenker

Wildalys Photography

ILLUSTRATORS

Jordan Shapot

David Vallejo

CLIENT SERVICES GURU

Cheryl Specht cheryl@magnoliamediaco.com

ocalastyle.com

ocalastyle

ocalastylemagazine

ocalastyle

Editorial EDITOR IN CHIEF

Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

CREATIVE CONSULTANT

Nick Steele nick@magnoliamediaco.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Greg Hamilton greg@magnoliamediaco.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jaye Baillie

JoAnn Guidry

Belea Keeney

Scott Mitchell

Jill Paglia

Dave Schlenker

Beth Whitehead

Sales ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Evelyn Anderson evelyn@magnoliamediaco.com

SENIOR MARKETING ADVISOR

Jennifer Poole jpoole@magnoliamediaco.com

D istribution

Rick Shaw

Strategic Community Alliance, Inc. (SCA), a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization in Ocala, strives to promote civility, mutual respect, unity, and personal responsibility in communities through constructive diversity, inclusion, and cross-cultural initiatives. If you want to donate or learn more about SCA, please visit http://www.scacommunities.org or contact Dr. Sheni Meghani at shenimeghani@yahoo.com.

Strategic Community Alliance, Inc. (SCA) is a 501(c)3 charitable organization registered with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) #CH67488. Our Federal Tax Identification number is 88-0586533.

9 SOCIAL SCENE

See who was out and about at some recent happenings.

21 ON THE SCENE

Our guide to our favorite monthly happenings and can’t-miss events.

24 DOING GOOD

The nonprofit Save Our Rural Areas (SORA) works to preserve rural character.

27 VOWS

Meet Ocala’s newest brides and grooms.

Marie Davidson leads the CF equine studies program.

58 SILVER RIVER

The “transformative” Florida Art Collection is now at the Harn Museum of Art.

60 SCHLENKERISMS

Dave talks about his epic European adventure.

62 CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT Jaye Baillie shares some favorite things.

63 BEST BUDS

Belea explores her favorite gardens from TV and movies.

Mike Weakley photographed by Bruce Ackerman. At left: Photo by John Jernigan.

INSIDER

Social Scene

Photo by Bruce Ackerman

Among those enjoying the Marion Senior Services 50th Anniversary Celebration at the Reilly Arts Center on September 6th were, Katie Boyd, MSS Executive Director Jennifer Martinez and Macin Woods.

50th Anniversary Celebration

An evening of elegance on September 6th heralded the milestone of Marion Senior Services’ 50 years of supporting and advocating for senior citizens. Executive Director/CEO Jennifer Martinez and her team welcomed dignitaries, community members and volunteers to the special celebration.

REILLY ARTS CENTER

Photos by Bruce Ackerman

Larry and Catherine Castrenze

Alvin Hamilton and Shan Wimberly

Tonya Painter, Roy Painter, Brad Beck, Michelle Beck and Jennifer Martinez

Lewis Stokes, Angie Ray and Tammy Hoff

Norm and Mary Ellen Poe

By

Silverman

October 5-15, 2023

OPENING WEEKEND MAHLER AND THE BREATH OF LIFE

Ocali Country Days Silver River Museum

Ocala, Florida Ocali Country Days Silver River Museum Ocala, Florida

November 11-12

9am-4pm

Admission $8.00 per person (children 5 and under free)

Cash or online payment only at ticket booth. To purchase tickets online go to https://gofan.co/app/school/FL86777

Ocali Country Days is back this fall. The festival runs through the weekend of November 11-12 with live music, historic displays, vendors, great food, unique crafts for sale and more. $8 per person with children 5 and under free.

Visitors experience the Florida of yesteryear with Living History exhibits highlighting life during the 1800s. Tour pioneer cabins, visit with crafters demonstrating old time skills, watch sugar cane syrup being made, take a tram ride though the state park, tour the Silver River Museum and much more.

The Silver River Museum is located within the beautiful Silver Springs State Park. Visit us online at www.SilverRiverMuseum.com for more information.

Stephanie Nevada, Broom Maker

Philanthropist Honored

CHURCH OF HOPE

The Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County hosted a special event on August 15th to unveil the cover of the September issue of Ocala Style, recognizing David Tillman as the Philanthropist of the Year. The issue features the annual Guide to Charitable Giving.

Photos by Bruce Ackerman

Kristen Dreyer and David Tillman

Lauren Deiorio and Beth McCall

Ron “Rondo” Fernandez and April Savarese

Ashleigh Grabe and Amy Motta

Ben Marciano and Sheni Meghani

Located in the heart of downtown Ocala, Harry’s offers traditional Louisiana favorites like Shrimp and Scallop Orleans, Crawfish Etouffée, Jambalaya, Shrimp Creole, Blackened Red Fish, Louisiana Gumbo and Garden District Grouper. Other favorites, like French Baked Scallops and Bourbon Street Salmon, are complemented with grilled steaks, chicken, burgers, po’ boy sandwiches and salads. Their full bar features Harry’s Signature Cocktails, such as the Harry’s Hurricane, Bayou Bloody Mary or the Cool Goose Martini. They also feature wines by the glass and a wide selection of imported, domestic and craft beer.

Harry’s Seafood

Bar & Grille

24 SE 1st Avenue, Ocala

(352) 840-0900 › hookedonharrys.com

Mon-Thu 11a-9p › Fri & Sat 11a-10p › Sun 11a-8p

Happy Hour Specials:

2-7p every day

$4 Draft Beer

$5 House Wine

$5 Premium Cocktails

$6 Super Premium Cocktails

$7 Harry’s Signature Cocktails

Head to El Toreo for the best Mexican food this side of the border! Enjoy all of your favorite traditional Mexican dishes in a friendly and festive atmosphere.

Specials:

Mondays and Wednesdays, Margaritas are $2

Saturdays, 2 for 1 Margaritas All Day

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

Dine-in or take out available

Hometown Heroes

CIRCLE SQUARE CULTURAL CENTER

Photos by Bruce Ackerman

Many of the area’s first responders were recognized and honored on September 7th at a gala organized by Marion County Veterans Helping Veterans and Hiers-Baxley Community Care. It included a keynote address by Carali McLean, president of the local branch of the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Tim Ecker, Frank York and Chris Whitler

Tamara Rudowitz and Chris Reynolds

Mike Balken and Lou Biondi

Bobby Schultz and Scotty Douglas

Clint Welborn and Peter Lee

Pamela Driggers

Jazz & Justice

Ocala/Marion County’s NAACP Branch 5114 hosted its annual music and awards event on September 9th, which included the inaugural presentation of the Advancing the Cause of Justice Award, which was given to Judge LeAnn Mackey-Barnes.

ONE HEALTH CENTER

Photos by Bruce Ackerman

Patricia Tomlinson, DeNaya Wilkerson, Barbara Fitos and Sarah Greene

Sonya Sapp and Narvella Haynes

Jack Kiner, Kathy Kiner, Loretta Jenkins and Whitfield Jenkins

Kelvin Richardson Jr., Sharon and Kelvin Richardson

Troy Barnes and LeAnn Mackey-Barnes

New Look, Same Great Care

Hospice of Marion County is now an affiliate member of Empath Health. This affiliation makes us part of a nonprofit, integrated network of care from Ocala to Naples serving nearly 20,000 individuals in hospice care, home health, elder care and more.

We remain committed to serving our community with the same expert compassionate care since 1983.

HospiceofMarion.com

An Evening of Mission and Music

The musical performance by members of the AdventHealth Orchestra on September 10th was presented by the AdventHealth Ocala Foundation, with the proceeds helping to fund AdventHealth Ocala Hospital’s labor and delivery services.

REILLY ARTS CENTER Photos by Bruce Ackerman

Richard Hickam and Erika Skula

Anya Wynn and Esterline Geffrard

Charlie Stone, Michelle Stone, Jeanne Henningsen, James Henningsen, Beth Knife and Chris Knife

Ryan and Kait Gray

Bert and Xochi Smith

‘Changing the Scenery’

By Susan Smiley-Height

Lori Marino’s scientific work focuses on the evolution of the brain and intelligence in dolphins and whales (as well as primates and farmed animals), and the effects of captivity on wildlife. She is a neuroscientist and adjunct professor of animal studies at New York University (NYU), founder and president of the Whale Sanctuary Project and executive director of The Kimmela Center for Scholarshipbased Animal Advocacy.

“I grew up in Brooklyn and went to NYU for my BA. I did a stint working on the problem of human adaptation to zero gravity at NASA Kennedy Space Center and Johnson Space Center. But I realized I wanted to work with other animals,” Marino shares. “I received my Ph.D. in animal behavior and psychobiology at State University of New York at Albany, after which I took a faculty position at Emory University in neuroscience and behavioral biology.”

Marino states that central to her research is: What is it like to be a member of another species?

“I started studying dolphins and whales in grad school when I saw a photo of a brain of a bottlenose dolphin. I was intrigued by its complexity, so, for the next 30 years my research has been on brain evolution and anatomy in dolphins and whales (noninvasively),” she notes.

“In 2001, I co-authored a paper demonstrating that bottlenose dolphins recognize themselves in mirrors—a rare capacity in the animal kingdom—and in the mid-2000s began to look into the welfare and sourcing of dolphins and

whales for marine parks. I didn’t like what I found. I gave up working with captive dolphins and added an advocacy component to my work at Emory.”

Marino, a pianist, also is a prolific writer and is co-director of the Animal Law and Science Project at George Washington University.

The topic for her lecture at IHMC in Ocala on October 19th is Changing the Scenery for Captive Whales: The Whale Sanctuary Global Movement.

“Dolphins and whales are highly complex, large-brained social mammals. Thousands are kept in concrete tanks in marine parks and aquariums. A growing body of scientific data reveals that these animals cannot thrive under these circumstances—they experience chronic stress, illness, neurobehavioral abnormalities and, sometimes, death,” Marino offers. “There is a growing global movement to provide an alternative in the form of sanctuaries.”

She says she will talk about the science behind the welfare of captive whales and the seaside sanctuary for beluga whales and orcas being created by the Whale Sanctuary Project in Nova Scotia.

The lecture will take place at 15 SE Osceola Ave., beginning with a reception at 5:30 p.m.

To learn more and RSVP, go to ihmc.us/life/ evening_lectures/ocala-lecture-series

For information about the Whale Sanctuary Project, go to whalesanctuary.org

Lori Marino, founder of the Whale Sanctuary Project, will lecture at IHMC in Ocala.

Photo courtesy of Lori Marino

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On the Scene

A guide to our favorite monthly happenings and can’t-miss events

FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK

Downtown Ocala

October 6

The start of the First Friday Art Walk season is here. The monthly event runs through May and features artists, performers and craftspeople all around the downtown square. You can get a casual or formal dinner and enjoy entertainment at the gazebo stage and buskers singing on the streets. Stores are open late for shopping. Enjoy the ambience of a festival while supporting local businesses and artists. For more info, ocalafl.org

PARK AFTER DARK MOVIE SERIES

Citizens’ Circle

October 6

The City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Department hosts the series, which this month offers Hotel Transylvania, a PG-rated animated movie about Johnny (voiced by Andy Samberg), who accidentally stumbles upon the hotel and falls for Dracula’s teenage daughter, Mavis (Selena Gomez). Dad Dracula (Adam Sandler) is not enthused. The event is free to attend. Refreshments will be available for purchase. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. For more info, call (352) 368-5517 or visit ocalafl.org/recpark

MARION COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION CARNIVAL

Southeastern Livestock Pavilion

October 7

This is the fifth annual fall carnival and is a family-friendly affair with activities such as bounce houses, food trucks, costume contests, candy treats, giveaways and lots of entertainment. Free to attend. Call (352) 371-8560 for more info.

GERMAN FESTIVAL

World Equestrian Center

October 7

Embrace your Bavarian side and try German foods, beers, games and music. On the menu is bratwurst, knackwurst, pretzels, schnitzel, potato salad, apfelstrudel, lebkuchen (gingerbread cookies) and Black Forest cake. Live music from the Swinging Bavarians adds to the atmosphere, along with the Schnitzel Shuffle 5K run (separate registration needed.) Tickets are $42 for adults and $25 for ages 5-12 (free for youth under 5 with a paying adult). See worldequestriancenter.com for tickets and info.

JENNIFER FOSTER CONCERT

Countryside Presbyterian Church

October 8

Soprano Foster has performed all over the world. She teaches voice in her Ocala studio and conducts group workshops for singers, actors and public speakers. The event is free; a love offering is warmly welcomed. Learn more at jenniferfostermfa.com

APPLAUD THE ARTS

Appleton Museum of Art

October 14

The Marion Cultural Alliance celebrates with Soiree de Lumiere , the theme of its 16th annual Applaud the Arts celebration. Organizers are planning an enchanted evening under the lights with artwork, heavy hors’ d’oeuvres, specialty cocktails, live music and more. Cultural Grant and Arts Awards recipients will be announced. Cocktail att ire is requested. Tickets are $35-$65. For more info, mcaocala.org

BARK IN THE PARK DOGGY EXPO

Ocala Downtown Market

October 15

The Senior Resource Foundations presents this doggone good time, which will include pet costume contests, vendors, animals for adoption, food trucks and family and pet-friendly activities. Proceeds will benefit Marion County Animal Services to help provide health care, training and shelter services for dogs, cats, rabbits, horses and fowl; and the Marion Senior Services’ Meals on Wheels program. For more info, see srfofocala.org

PHANTASMAGORIA XIV: TALES OF THE UNDEAD

Reilly Arts Center, Ocala

October 19

This Victorian horror troupe will thrill you and chill you, all the better to get you ready for Halloween. This theatrical presentation offers stories of vampires, ghosties and ghoulies, using music, puppetry, effects, dance and storytelling. It’s a macabre

and modern twist on spellbinding tales. Tickets are $25; see reillyartscenter.com for more info.

PARK AFTER DARK: NASHVILLE

Sholom Park

October 19

If twang and steel guitars are more your style, then check out this nod to Nashville. Cliff Dorsey’s baritone voice draws inspiration from Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley and Merle Haggard, and he creates a modern spin on country music. Along with the music, you can try out Nashville cuisine such as a fried chicken slider, Tennessee whiskey barbecue rib tips and pineapple sweet tea punch from a food truck. Tickets are $15 and $25. See sholompark.org/events

COPS & CARS

Ocala Police Department Headquarters

October 21

This fundraiser features all kinds of classic, muscle and modern cars and trucks, along with tasty goodies from food trucks, live music, vendors and prizes for the fanciest rides. Proceeds benefit the Chief Greg Graham Legacy Foundation. Free for spectators. Check out bit.ly/cops_cars or email acummings@ocalapd.gov for more info.

Cops & Cars, photo by Bruce Ackerman

CHAMPAGNE DREAMS

Country Club of Ocala

October 21

The Red Carpet Aff air gala will include live music, cocktails, dinner, dancing and a painter creating artwork in the moment. The party benefi ts the Transitions Life Center, a nonprofi t organization that helps provide a safe and enriching environment for adults with intellectual disabilities. Dressy att ire is encouraged. Tickets start at $200 per person. For more info, see tlcocala.org

CRAFT FAIR

Circle Square Cultural Center

October 21

Dozens of On Top of the World crafters will show off their skills and wares in this annual fair, which is free to attend. Unique gifts, from jewelry to home décor, artwork to clothing, will be offered. There will be entertainment by Fred Campbell and the Circle Square Commons shops will be open with food and snack options. See ontopoftheworldinfo.com/annual-craft-fair for more info.

NEIL DIAMOND

LEGACY

Circle Square Cultural Center

October 28

This tribute show to the singer/songwriter will bring back mellow memories. Starring Jay White, accompanied by world-class musicians, the show recreates Diamond’s original sound, with hits like Cherry, Cherry, Sweet Caroline, Coming to America and more. Tickets start at $35. For more information visit csculturalcenter.com

OCALA ARTS FESTIVAL

Downtown Ocala

October 28-29

This is the big annual arts event in Marion County and more than 150 artists are expected to show offerings in watercolor, oil, sculpture, mixed media, photos and more. There will be a variety of entertainers and vendors. In addition to area restaurants, there will be numerous food trucks, such as Big Lees, Ede’s Hamburgers, Grumpy’s Homemade, Kona Ice and Krafty Kettle. Free to attend. For more info, fafo.org/festival

UPCOMING

OCALA FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL

World Equestrian Center

November 3-5

This is a weekend full of flavors with celebrity chefs Lorena Garcia and Timothy Hollingsworth, local pitmaster Rashad Jones and WEC’s own pastry chef Yohann Le Bescond. There will be cooking demonstrations, educational classes, live entertainment and samples of food, wine and spirits. The event benefits the Public Education Foundation of Marion County ProStart program. Note: This is a 21 and older event. Tickets start at $95 for Saturday only. Full weekend packages and five-star experiences are available. See ocalafoodandwinefest.com for details.

Ocala Arts Festival, photo by Meagan Gumpert of MAVEN photo

Preserving Marion County’s Beauty

The nonprofit Save Our Rural Areas (SORA) strives to protect farmland and historic communities amidst growing urban development.

By Beth Whitehead | Photos by Bruce Ackerman

While Florida is known for its beaches, a big part of the heart of the Sunshine State has always been found in its hidden beauties—the rivers, lakes, springs, wetlands and farmlands. More than a decade ago, the cost of preserving the state’s natural beauty hit home (or right next door) for northwest Marion County residents Tim Gant and Jerome Feaster and led them to found the nonprofit Save Our Rural Areas (SORA).

In 2006, a developer purchased the land neighboring Gant and Feaster’s properties in the community of Shiloh with the intent of building a conservation community in the middle of Marion County’s Farmland Preservation Area (FPA). A conservation community is a hybrid model of development with the goal of mitigating harm to the ecosystem while developing the land for

homes. Marion County established the FPA in 2005 and it encompasses 190,500 acres, of which 2,500 have been lost to rezoning based on developer efforts, according to SORA.

The more than1,000 acres of wetland that bordered Gant and Feaster’s individual properties had been owned by one family for over 100 years, passed down as the family farm, and they felt it was about to be developed into a land lined with houses that lacked sufficient infrastructure.

The plan came before the Marion County Board of County Commissioners (MCBOCC) and, says Gant, president of SORA, through protests of his group the board voted down the plan.

With the ruling, SORA, a 501(c)(3) since 2006, started focusing its efforts at defending the rural character of Central Florida against big development outside of a comprehensive development plan.

Tim Gant and Jerome Feaster

“We believe growth, if it’s needed, should be centered in urban areas where the necessary infrastructure exists and not in rural area communities that wish to remain agriculturally based,” Gant says. “Our motto sums this up as: ‘Keep the country, country!’”

Composed of around 10 to 12 volunteers, the group, says Feaster, who is vice president, mostly accomplishes its work through educating citizens and lobbying at county meetings. The group also hosts the annual Farmland Preservation Festival. The event includes vendors, organizations, arts and crafts, entertainment, live animals, fresh produce and a popular tractor parade. Proceeds support SORA’s endeavors to preserve the character of local communities. They have hosted the event for the last 15 or so years, Feaster says. The 2023 festival was held in April at the Majestic Oaks equine training center in Reddick.

SORA members sit in on county meetings when there are perceived threats within the FPA and petition on behalf of the families living in other farming communities who want to maintain the rural way of life their parents passed down to them.

“I live on a pioneer farm,” Feaster says, “which is a family farm that’s been in the family for over 100 years. There’s lots of families out here in our community who have been here for over 100 years. And there’s people who have lived here for 50 years that are just as adamant about keeping the country, country as we are. Some have only been here 10 years and they still want to keep the country, country. If they didn’t, they wouldn’t have moved here.”

SORA doesn’t ask that developers not urbanize areas of Marion County; They ask that the county

government keep developers away from the historically rural communities that wish to remain so.

“As much agriculture is destined to change due to aquifer depletion and changing weather throughout the land,” Gant says, “it is imperative that rural lands remain rural—not just for the communities’ sake, but for the protection it affords to our future water supplies and for the food we all need. Not to mention the wildlife corridors these large tracts of land provide.”

Since 2006, SORA’s efforts have paid dividends for these small rural communities but, Gant says, there remains a sense of urgency to their goal.

“After a few years of relative quiet, we have been forced to act quickly on a trio of projects that we felt threatened the Farmland Preservation Area,” Gant says. “One of those we recently settled on via negotiation with the Jockey Club’s new owners, the Roberts family, which hopefully will reduce the impact on the area the development will have. The other two, at the Irvine Interstate 75 exchange, are still in the docket and can’t be commented on at this time other than to say currently nothing definite is moving forward with regards to the proposed development.”

SORA is supported primarily by private donations.

To learn more about SORA, visit saveourruralarea.org and find them on Facebook.

Ocala Style’s sister publication, the Ocala Gazette weekly newspaper, has written numerous articles about topics mentioned in this article. To read them, go to ocalagazette.com and type SORA in the search window.

Evan Reddick drives a 1947 McCormick Farmall HV tractor at the Farmland Preservation Festival parade.

VOWS Celebrate...

Ocala’s brides and grooms, get a glimpse into their most special of days and hear firsthand about the memories that will always hold a place in their hearts.

Pictured: Maria & Chad Mitchell |

Photographed by Maudie Lucas Photography

MARIA (MAZZURCO) & CHAD MITCHELL

February 19th, 2023

Venue: Golden Ocala

Photographer: Maudie Lucas Photography

Wedding Planner: Blessed Magnolia

Florist: Floral Architecture

Hair/makeup artists: Miami Makeup Mafia and Ali from Truluck Studio

Their favorite memory: “Nearly all of our guests rented townhouses in the picturesque Golden Ocala, creating the perfect setting to celebrate and spend time together. Our wedding reception was so much fun with the help of our amazing DJ, Malike. It was truly an epic party!”

AISHA (VAZQUEZ) & CHRIS DAVILA

May 20th, 2023

Venue: World Equestrian Center

Photographer: Wildalys Photography

Makeup: Mirella Murillo

Hair: Angelica Woodside, Generations

Family Salon

Her favorite memory: “For our first touch, we got each other a secret gift; he received a watch to match his wedding band and I received a bracelet. My original jewelry set for my wedding day was rose gold. It broke and I ended up wearing pearls. He didn’t know this, but the bracelet he got me had a pearl. I took it as another sign of this marriage being God’s plan.”

ALANA (NALENZY) & DAVID ALEXANDER

May 20th, 2023

Venue: The Barn at Southern Oaks

Photographer: Paige Mercer Photography

Florist: Belle Claire Farms

Hair: CJ Lash & Locks

Her favorite memory: “From the excitement of getting ready with my girls, to the surreal feeling of walking down the aisle toward my future husband, our day was nothing less than perfect. The speeches given at our wedding tugged at my heart strings and I felt so blessed to be surrounded by family and friends.”

His favorite memory: “During the ceremony, in the middle of everything, it felt like just the two of us up there. It was truly our moment, and we were so blessed to be able to share it with our closest friends and family.”

JENNA & TRENT JONES

April 8th, 2023

Venue: Protea Weddings and Events

Photographer: Maudie Lucas Photography

Hair and Makeup: Caitlyn, Salon Bliss

Florist: Pine and Petal

Her favorite memories: “Seeing my husband’s face when he first saw me, our first touch, surprising my mother with a motherdaughter dance and seeing my husband dance with his mother.”

His favorite memories: “Watching the doors open and seeing my wife, drinking Hennessy Pure White Cognac (Henney White) with my brothers and just enjoying all the people I love in one room celebrating me and the woman I love.”

Appleton Museum of Art | Ocala Spoken Word | Fine Arts for Ocala (FAFO)

Magnolia Art Xchange | Art Army Ocala | Circle Square Cultural Center

Marion Cultural Alliance / Brick City Center for the Arts

Sean T Music Global | City of Ocala Cultural Arts

Florida Thoroughbred Museum & Gallery | Ocala Calligraphy Guild

Marion County Center for the Arts @ West Port High School

Marion County Literacy Council | Reilly Arts Center | Marion Theatre

The College of Central Florida Webber Gallery | Dance Alive National Ballet

Ocala Civic Theatre | The College of Central Florida Theatre

Kingdom of the Sun Concert Band | Central Florida Master Choir Mcaocala.org

Coordinated by Marion Cultural Alliance and sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, and the National Endowment for the Arts

FALL

ur Picks for Some of the Best Chills and Thrills of Autumn

BySusan Smiley-H e i g ht

PUMPKINS, MEGA MAZE AND MORE

October 7th-November 5th

You know it’s fall when pumpkins start showing up everywhere, like in pumpkin spice in your coffee and on nearly every food surface (Yes, pumpkin spice pretzels do exist!) and in pumpkin patches all around Marion County.

One of the more unique pumpkin patches is actually a pumpkin house. You can find it as part of the Brown’s Fall Fest & Mega Maze at Brown & Brown Farms, 13940 Highway 301 in Oxford, south of Ocala. This year’s festival is bigger than ever, and the pumpkin house is a big attraction. The frame of the house is filled with gorgeous, plump orange pumpkins that can be “picked” on the spot.

“The pumpkins are for people to buy, and we replenish them,” explains Suzanne Gilbert, Director of Fun. “We also have a

pumpkin patch that surrounds the house and pumpkins are available in our Country Store for purchase.”

The festival will offer a corn maze that spans more than 12 acres and features a large main maze with intriguing twists and turns and a smaller maze that’s a bit easier to navigate. Other attractions will include the Bee-line Express and the Grain Train, hayrides, jumping pillows, a corn pit, barnyard basketball, human foosball, giant slides, a spider web, giant yard games, duck races, a petting zoo and Tiny Town.

Special events include Uncle Willy’s Twilight Express, which will take guests on a train ride through the Field of Fright on Friday and Saturday nights, and Dazed In The Maze, which will allow adults to wander the maze to find

Farm and maze photos provided by Brown & Brown Farms

free samples from local wineries and breweries hidden inside.

The festival runs 5-10pm Fridays, 10am-10pm Saturdays and noon6pm Sundays from October 7thNovember 5th. Various fees apply and some proceeds will support the Turkeys From Heaven nonprofit in Sumter County. There is no fee to visit Brown’s Country Store.

For details, go to brownandbrownfarms.com

NOT Spooky! so

October 7th

The Marion Therapeutic Riding Association historically hosts a Halloween event as well as a holiday market and car show after Thanksgiving. This year, the Not-soSpooky Fall Festival will offer the best of both. The sensory-friendly event, set for 10am-3pm October 7th, at MTRA, 6850 SE 41st Court, Ocala, will offer trick or treating stations, horse poo bingo, prize drawings, a car show, face painting, horse painting and creative arts mask stations, games and more. Admission is free. Hayrides and a scavenger hunt will be available for a donation. There are fees for car show participants and vendors. MTRA events raise money to sponsor therapeutic horseback riding lessons for children and adults with physical, emotional and cognitive challenges. This year’s event will also support young adults aging out of foster care and transitioning into independent living with the Refuge of Hope Independent Living organization. To learn more, go to fb.com/mtraocala

Feast On This

October 12th

Who doesn’t love a good meal? And knowing that proceeds from your meal ticket will help stock the Interfaith Emergency Services food pantry to support local individuals and families, certainly sweetens the deal. You can do good and get your feed on at the Florida Feast on October 12th at 5:30pm at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion at 2232 Jacksonville Road, Ocala. The event needs a space that big to accommodate an anticipated 1,200 attendees, who will chow down on appetizers, free taps from a beer wagon, homemade sides and desserts, and barbecue favorites like fish, chicken, pork and beef. While you are noshing, you can check out some very cool silent auction and raffle items that include weekend stays at resorts, gift baskets, electronics and more. Individual tickets are $100 and table sponsorships are available. The event is hosted by the Marion County Roadbuilders Association. For tickets, go to iesmarion. org/floridafeast

JEEPS to the Rescue

October 13th-15th

The Ocala Jeep Club is a nonprofit organization whose members like to have fun while they raise money for local charities. Their signature event is Jeeptoberfest, which over the years has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to help people in the community. This year’s event will take place October 13th-15th (open to the public on Saturday and Sunday) at the Florida Horse Park at 11008 South Highway 475, Ocala. Admission for spectators is $10 per carload—cash only—and a portion of those proceeds will be donated to local charities. Activities begin at 9am each day and a variety of vendors will be on hand. Jeeptoberfest is the oldest Jeep-only event in the southeast and has grown from a show-and-shine at Phillips Chrysler Jeep Dodge to more than 1,500 Jeeps participating on three levels of courses. To learn more, go to jeeptoberfest.com

Go Back In Time

October 14th

If you drive Highway 441 between Ocala and Gainesville, you will travel through the historic town of McIntosh. Most days, it’s a quiet little place with shopping for antiques, outings on Orange Lake and shade cast by granddaddy oak trees that is perfect for a picnic at the community center. On one day of the year, however, more than 250 vendors show up, along with over 40,000 visitors, for the annual McIntosh 1890’s Festival. The event pays homage to the town’s founding. More than 60 structures in the 1-squaremile village are on the National Register of Historic Places. This year’s event is from 8am-4pm on October 14th. Admission is free. Attendees can expect a huge variety of offerings, ranging from vintage goods to modern art to handmade crafts and more. Vendors and community groups will offer refreshments and there will be entertainment. Proceeds benefit the nonprofit Friends of McIntosh and local organizations. From Ocala, go north on 441 for about 20 miles. For details, visit mcintosh1890sfestival.com

Hispanic Heritage

October 14th

The College of Central Florida is hosting a Hispanic Heritage Festival in partnership with the Hispanic Business Council and with the support of the city of Ocala. The event will take place from 11am to 6pm October 14th at Citizens’ Circle, 151 S.E. Osceola Ave., Ocala. Visitors can enjoy free kid-friendly art activities, music, community resources and sale items from more than 40 booths, including Marion County Public Library, Early Learning Coalition, Chick-fil-A and many more. Food trucks will have meals and snacks for purchase. CF will have team members to answer questions about the admissions process, financial aid and more. To learn more, visit cf.edu/hhf

lwoH i n g GoodTime

October 25th

Kids and pets get in free for this event. Adults pay $5 admission. It’s the annual Howl-O-Ween Paw-ty fundraiser for the Humane Society of Marion County. On October 25th, from 5-7:30pm, the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion at 2232 Jacksonville Road will be filled with people and pets. The event will include a trunk or treat for the kids, vendors, games and costume contests for everyone. Each guest will receive a hot dog, drink and snack. To learn more, go to fb.com/events/604731595093633

Celebrate Fall

October 28th

The normally serene Sholom Park will come alive with activities during the Hapi Harvest Day event from 1-4pm on October 28th. The park is located near the On Top Of The World communities, at 7110 SW 80th Avenue, Ocala. The event is sponsored by the Horticultural Arts and Park Institute, Inc. The afternoon will feature a painted pumpkin hunt, trick or treating, food trucks and a Monster Mash Dance Party. Come in costume for a chance to win prizes. There will be interactive and educational trickor-treat stations and live musical entertainment by the Ina A. Colen Academy

Show Choir and country

singer-songwriter Patrick Gibson. There is a $5 fee for parking. For more info, visit sholompark.org/ events/hapiharvest-day-2023

At right, top and bottom: photos by Bruce Ackerman

BAT’S EYE VIEW

October 21st

It’s okay to go a little batty once in a while— especially near Halloween and when it’s time for the annual Florida Bat Festival.

The Lubee Bat Conservancy, in Alachua County, is the home to some of the world’s largest bats, several native species and “13 Rodrigues fruit bats that look like a cross between teddy bears and Ewoks.” During the organization’s 19th annual festival, on October 21st, visitors can check out the bats, renovated bat barns and new murals by Samm Wehman and Ari Uberti.

We asked conservancy director Brian Pope why people from the Ocala/Marion County area might want to travel to the festival.

“Bat Fest is one of the largest fall events in North Central Florida, and we have something for everyone. Of course, the main draw is the up-close viewing of our bats, including Malayan flying foxes who can reach a wingspan of 6-feet,” offers Pope. “No other zoological institution in the world has the diversity of bats represented at Lubee and guests have a unique opportunity to see our beautiful bats at a very close distance.”

Pope says the bats are active during the day

and will be playing with toys, puzzles and other types of enrichment during the event.

“Festival attendees will get a rare glimpse into their social lives as they play and interact with each other,” Pope adds. “We want our guests to enjoy themselves and walk away with a better understanding of Lubee, bats and their ecological and economic importance to humans. If nothing else, we hope to change a few minds and have people who were a bit apprehensive about bats feel that they are to be appreciated.”

The festival will offer games, activities, crafts, a Kids Zone and educational presentations. There is a beer garden and food options, which can be enjoyed in Oak Hollow, a 33,000-squarefoot shaded haven under granddaddy oak trees near the primary bat viewing area.

The Lubee Bat Conservancy is located at 1309 NW 192nd Avenue, Gainesville. The nonprofit is dedicated to saving bats and their habitats through research, conservation and education. Event proceeds help fund ongoing programs. Admission to the festival, which will run from 10am-5pm, ranges from $5 to $25.

To learn more and get tickets for the festival, go to lubee.org

BOO!

October 31st

The city of Ocala is calling all little ghouls and goblins, spooks and spirits, princesses and pirates to the annual Boo Bash. The celebration is from 5:30-7:30pm on October 31st, at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st Court, Ocala. It is a family-friendly indoor event with face-painting, creepy crafts, candy for children and more. It is free to attend. Learn more at ocalafl.gov/government/ city-departments-i-z/recreation-parks/ recreation/holidays

Let’s pARTy

November 3rd

The Marion Cultural Alliance is known for its creative events. The inaugural Block pARTy from last year returns for a monthlong run and kicks off with a VIP reception on November 3rd, from 5-7pm at the organization’s Brick City Center for the Arts at 23 SW Broadway Street, Ocala. This is a chance to see more than 100 12-inch by 12-inch “blocks” of art created by local and regional artists, designers and creators— and maybe even take one of the pieces home with you (after the exhibit closes, of course). The reception, with tickets from $50-$55, will offer an evening of art, music, tapas, and libations. Each VIP guest’s name will be placed in a drawing. Tickets will be drawn randomly and the guest can select the artwork of their choice. Following the VIP Reception, the gallery will open to the public from 7-9pm, coinciding with the city of Ocala’s First Friday Art Walk, and remaining paintings will be priced at $75 each. The paintings will remain on display throughout November. For additional information, visit mcaocala.org/event/mcasblock-party-on-broadway-fundraiser

Photos by Bruce Ackerman

Christine Bravata has blended her love of art and horses with her training as a mental health professional to weather life’s storms and chart a course to success and personal fulfillment.

By Nick Steele | Portrait By Julianna Mertin

By combining her passions as an artist, equestrian and mental health professional, Christine Bravata has used art and animals to help autistic youth, veterans and at risk and abused children suffering from PTSD, through equine-assisted and art therapy. She is also a talented ceramicist who creates both fine art pieces and functional everyday wares that are sold locally at CC Fine Arts in Chelsea Square and Hats Off Boutique at The World Equestrian Center, as well as through her own Etsy shop.

“When I first spotted Christine’s work at the Ocala Arts Festival, I could see that it was special,” explains Cheryl Ritter, co-owner of the CC Fine Arts gallery. “I’ve always appreciated pottery and the many talented artists who work their magic in this complicated and demanding medium, but Christine stands out in that her way of handling clay is unique. Her style, use of color, her love of

horses, the ocean, and her family are all represented in her work through her use of coral-like textures, equine-influenced pieces, honeycomb surfaces and other elements. Christine’s work is strongly influenced by her life and her personal experiences. That expressiveness allows her to share her thoughts, emotions and ideas through the creative process. And this lady has a lot to say!”

Indeed, Bravata’s life story is written on the pieces she handcrafts and that includes influences from her family, her core interests and her journey through some recent struggles. She was born and raised in the northeast, living in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania before relocating to Central Florida.

She identified several deep passions early on in life that allowed her to find her voice and carve out her own unique path.

“I have always loved art and I was always

creating things with my hands as a kid,” she recalls. “My dad worked in construction, so I would build things with him. And my mom’s pretty artistic as well. They were not artists, but they always encouraged me to be creative. Art was sort of my own personal therapy at the time—art and writing. I wrote a lot of poetry. I sometimes put poetry on my pieces.”

Bravata has also found a way to incorporate her grandmother’s past work in her art.

“She was really a beautiful artist, in her own way. She worked on 7th Avenue in New York City making wedding dresses, doing all this intricate little sewing. It’s so perfect that it looks like a machine did it,” she shares. “I have a bunch of her pieces and I use a few of them as patterns. I press the fabric into the clay to imprint the texture onto the piece. In that way, I am also able to kind of keep her art alive in the world.”

Bravata had the opportunity to develop as an artist at an early age and always had her hand in something creative, but those early seeds would take time to grow.

“Anytime I could take an art class, I did. I took a ceramics class in high school and was basically hooked from then on. That was also when I fell in love with the pottery wheel,” she offers. “But I didn’t get back to the wheel again until much later in life. I got married and had four children. So, I took a long break to be a stay-at-home mom for about 20 years before I got back into it.”

But art wasn’t the only passion she reignited. She suffered some trauma early in her life and that led her to want to explore human nature at a closer level. She would also rekindle another love affair at this time—with horses.

“I went back for my master’s when my youngest

child was about 2 or 3. I was always the friend that everybody came to with their problems, so psychology just seemed like a good fit for me because I wanted to figure out why people do the things that they do and maybe help victims of abuse. That’s what got me into equine assisted therapy because I also have a love of horses. I began riding when I was probably 2 or 3 years old. I always loved being around horses and wanted horses of my own, so during college I got back into riding and was finally able to own a horse,” Bravata shares. “And then, I wanted to put it all together. I wanted to be able to incorporate my three passions of psychology, art and my love of horses, so I started doing research and found that there were places that did equine assisted psychotherapy and I realized that was what I wanted to do as my career.”

This led her to several professional relationships with top programs in the Central Florida area, where she flourished working with special needs individuals and groups employing various therapies including nature, equine and art therapy. One of those experiences was at Stable Foundations, an equine assisted therapy program in Oviedo.

“The reason why we incorporate horses is not because they’re shamanistic creatures, but because they have the ability to mirror what we’re giving them in terms of nonverbal communication,” states the program’s founder and director Lorisa Lewis. “There’s kind of this instant feedback loop that happens with them and gives us another dimension of understanding of our relationship with other people, how we are carrying ourselves and what we’re putting out there in terms of our nonverbal communication. What made Christine wonderful with our clients and helping them to see things

about themselves through their interactions with the horses, is her understanding from both her graduate work in psychology as well as from her vast experience as a horsewoman and how those two things dovetail. She has a deep understanding of the psychology of horses and how they think. She kind of speaks horse, if you will. She’s able to look at her client and what the horse is doing and then put those two things together in a way that adds up to an additional dimension of understanding for the human. Many of us who do this work develop sort of that understanding of horse language, but she’s really quite talented.”

Bravata’s professional success sadly came at a cost to her personal life at a moment when she was faced with a health crisis and was also dealing with the restrictions brought on by the pandemic.

“Once I did get back into work and was spending a lot of time working at these programs, it took me away from the house a lot, which led to some marital issues because my then-husband was wanting me to be home like I had been for all those years. And just before our divorce I found out that I had breast cancer and went through about a year of surgeries and chemo and radiation. The pandemic also initially meant nobody could be out in public groups, so things shifted and I had to take a break from a lot of things. When I finished my chemo and radiation, I decided I was going to just focus on my art and my horses. Now, I have a home studio on 10 acres and I can do private groups and have private clients here for pottery lessons and equine assisted learning. I also bought myself an RV and renovated it. I named her Freeda because I was free to go wherever the hell I wanted. She’s a symbol of this new chapter in my life and having to be faced with death and possibly

leaving four children behind without a mother.”

The challenges ultimately led her to double down on her core passions.

“I have a new outlook on life, and I take much more time for myself, my kids and my joys, which is mostly my horses and my art,” she muses. “Those things are really my therapy and the way that I show my gratitude for being here—being on this earth and being able to take dirt from this earth and manipulate it in my hands to create something beautiful from clay.”

One of the things she struggled with as an artist was focusing on her sculptural pieces versus more practical items. which include everything from dishes and ornaments to pendant necklaces.

“I had so many people ask me for everyday things like mugs. And I thought, Am I really an artist if I’m making mugs?” she admits. “I decided to do it and I have so many people say, ‘I just love your mug and I have my coffee in it every morning. It just brings me so much joy.’ Or ‘I look at the horse and it reminds me of my mom who has passed away.’ So, now I look at my mugs a little bit differently. No, they’re not the big sculptural pieces that take me a month or more to make, but they are still art for somebody that maybe can’t afford a big giant piece. It’s functional art for every day is what I like to say. You know, when you experience a near-death experience like illness, you tend to become more in the moment. Exploring, creating, playing, being open to new ideas and just being able to let things go and go with the flow is very therapeutic. And working with clay allows you to kind of do that.”

To learn more, visit christinebravata.com, etsy.com/ shop/christinebravata or phone (407) 915-9203

feeling ‘fine’

The Ocala Arts Festival will bring in more than 150 noted artists from around the nation as it showcases a wide variety of artworks, including pieces by local students.

By Susan Smiley-Height

on the last weekend of October, the Horse Capital of the World will become the Art Capital of the World. That is when the Ocala Arts Festival will take over several city blocks in downtown Ocala.

The festival has gained a reputation for the quality of the works on display, the diverse range of artists who participate and the added components that make this one of our area’s best loved annual events. This year’s event, the 56th annual, on October 28th & 29th, will bring in 155 artists from around the country.

The power behind the festival is the Fine Arts For Ocala (FAFO) nonprofit organization, which was formed in 1966 by local residents. In 1988, the group started Symphony Under The Stars, the annual Mother’s Day tradition that helps fund the art festival.

In addition to perusing the artists’ wares, including paintings, photography, sculpture, jewelry and more, festival patrons can enjoy entertainment on two stages, visit downtown eateries and businesses, shop a variety of vendors, see art created by local students and

engage in art activities for children, presented by the College of Central Florida’s Appleton Museum of Art. This year’s featured artist is Dennis Angel.

Participating artists will compete for $27,000 in awards, selected by two prestigious judges. The prizes include $5,000 for Best in Show; two Awards of Excellence at $2,500 each; seven Awards of Distinction at $1,000 each; and 10 Awards of Merit at $500 each. In the Emerging Artists category, six entrants will be given $1,000 each in amenities, courtesy of the David & Lisa Midgett Foundation.

The chair of this year’s festival is Teddy Sykes, with co-chair Ryan Andrew Neumann. Both are artists and FAFO board members.

“We’re really looking forward to seeing everyone come out this year. We have an incredible team who has put in a lot of work to make this one of the best festivals yet,” offers Sykes. “We have an all-star lineup of artists and, in addition to that, I really think visitors are going to like many of the new

Opening image by Bruce Ackerman. Other images: courtesy of Dennis Angel.

features we are adding to this year’s event. It’s going to be a great time.”

The open container aspect of the festival, which debuted in 2022, will return this year. That means attendees can purchase an alcoholic beverage at an establishment within the event zone and carry it with them as they walk around.

“We hope our downtown businesses see increased patronage and revenue from this policy,” notes FAFO Administrative Coordinator Ashley Morgan.

The activities will include a scavenger hunt, in which festivalgoers can visit businesses to hunt for a pink flamingo and fill their “passport” as they vote for their favorite window display, courtesy of Ocala Main Street and the city of Ocala’s Cultural Arts Division.

There will be opportunities throughout the event zone for children to draw, paint, or create chalk art. Student art will be displayed at Citizens’ Circle, which is also where attendees can see student singing and dance groups. Bands and solo musicians will perform at the gazebo in the heart of the downtown square.

Among the many tents that will “blossom” around downtown will be those housing the emerging artists and the featured artist.

“For me, the emerging artist tents are the most anticipated feature of the festival. I love to see people exercising their artistic agency and recognizing their own potential. We at FAFO are doing our best to help these wonderful humans become more visible,” says Neumann. “It’s all about elevating and celebrating the ones really doing the work. I am also very excited to see what the young creators have made this year for the student art competition.”

Featured artist Angel has degrees from Indiana University, the University of Oklahoma and the Parsons School of Design. His resume includes lengthy lists of solo and group exhibits, grants and awards, and publications and reviews. This will be his third year participating in the Ocala Arts Festival.

“My experience with the festival has been extremely positive,” he notes. “The FAFO staff and volunteers are amazing. The artists’ amenities are excellent as well: Easy setup, booth sitters and a wonderful artist award dinner on Saturday night are some highlights. While Ocala is one of the smaller venues I exhibit in, the art patrons are very informed and enthusiastic. I am so pleased to return as the featured artist.”

As for his style, Angel offers, “My drawings are all originals using colored pencils on a smooth museum quality watercolor paper. My imagery focuses on the still life genre, always with a focus on or reference to great artists of the past.”

Angel believes that “having art in one’s life is essential” and that the festival is an important connection between patron and artist.

“Today, in some ways we are so interconnected with social media but in many respects find ourselves very isolated. With art we can feel connected in a very personal way. This is because artmaking in any form or medium remains one of our most human activities. This is what makes the art festival so special,” he explains. “Unlike an art gallery or a museum, the patron can meet the artist, ask questions and learn about the artist’s techniques and concepts. If they purchase a piece of work and place it in their home, they will always have a very powerful connection with that artist and his or her creation.”

The Ocala Fine Arts Festival is free to attend. The hours are 10am5pm Saturday and Sunday.

To learn more, go to fafo.org

Top: Lego Flowers with Lichtenstein. Center: Nectarines with Degas. Above: featured artist Dennis Angel.

TOWERING TALENT

If you’ve attended one of the many outdoor events our area has to offer during the past 10 or so years, there’s a good chance you encountered a guy so big on charm that he left a lasting impression.

At 9 feet tall on his stilts, Mike Weakley cuts a striking figure, easily capturing the attention of and delighting spectators young and old.

“You have to be a people person to succeed at this job,” he offers. “I juggle, twist balloons, and play games while on stilts. I love to dance. People get a kick out of seeing me wiggle my knees back and forth. It’s all about making sure the guests are having fun.”

While Weakley is a long-time staple at such events as the Ocala Arts Festival (he will be back this year, on Sunday) and Marion County Carnival, his first local event was the Ocala Crawfish Festival in 2012.

“I remember wearing a red crawfish hat,” he recalls. “Sadly, they no longer put on that festival.”

His start in entertainment can be traced back to a job he had delivering balloons while in college.

“I was paid extra if I dressed as a clown. People started asking for me to come dressed up for birth-

By Nick St le | Portrait by Meagan Gumpert

day parties or grand openings. It was a blast,” he says. “Soon after, I dropped out of business school to audition for Clown College.”

He attended the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Clown College in 1988 and, following graduation, spent seven years performing with Ringling Bros. Circus. Of the memorable venues he has played, including the White House, Caesar’s Palace and SeaWorld, one has a special place in his heart.

“One of the most memorable places was Madison Square Garden. Opening night was magical,” he offers. “Sold-out performance—around 20,000 people and we received a huge standing ovation at the end of the show. I still get chills thinking back on that.”

And, at 57 years old, he’s still going strong.

“I’m happiest when I’m performing. I’ve been an entertainer for 30-plus years. I’m proud of the fact that I am still making a full-time living at it,” he shares. “I will be stilt walking for as long as my body lets me. Even after that, I’ll find some way to entertain.”

To learn more, visit www.stiltfun.com

LIVING Happy Fall Y’all!

The change of season brings a bounty of delicious flavors and comfort foods.

By Jill Paglia | Photography by John Jernigan

Each year, I look forward to all the comfort foods that fall brings, as if it is a license to indulge in more calories now that sweater weather is upon us. We tend to enjoy the outdoors more and look forward to the first bonfire of the season and the weekends spent watching football. I have a few ideas that are perfect for autumn entertaining, whether you are throwing a backyard gathering or have a kitchen and family room full of sport fans. These recipes will be just the ticket to make your day memorable.

Chicken Pot Pie became an American staple in the 1950’s and is still as popular today. You can use a premade crust to save time, and don’t be afraid to multiply this recipe and make several at one time. You can always freeze the others for later. Another time saving step is to shred a few rotisserie chickens. The choice is yours and either way you are still preparing one of America’s

favorite comfort foods.

When you think of fall, what comes to mind? For me, and I bet for many people, it’s pumpkins and all the delicious ways to enjoy this seasonal favorite ... pumpkin pie, pumpkin bread, muffins, munchkins and even coffee.

What better to serve with the pot pie than homemade Pumpkin Muffins topped with a dab of melted butter? Make sure you double up the recipe so you will have some for breakfast the next morning.

I love to think outside the box and another fall indulgence is baking Sweet Potato Cookies. I know you’re probably thinking, ‘Really?’ But, let me tell you, while these are not your ordinary cookies, they are super easy to prepare and offer the perfect combo of salty/sweet and soft/chewy.

I hope you enjoy a season filled with all things fall, spent with family and friends.

Chicken Pot Pie

1 14.1 ounces Pillsbury pie crust (2 count)

1/3 cup butter

1/2 cup chopped onion

4 celery stalks, halved and sliced

1 bag frozen peas

2 large carrots, diced

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1 3/4 cups chicken broth

1/2 cup milk

2 1/2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

Heat oven to 425 › Prepare pie crusts as directed for twocrust pie in a 9-inch glass pan. › In a 2-quart saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, celery and carrots and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently until tender. › Stir in flour, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning and garlic until well blended. › Gradually stir in broth and milk, cooking and stirring until thick and bubbly. › Add chicken and vegetables. Remove from heat. › Spoon chicken mixture into crust-lined pan. › Top with second crust; seal edge and flute. › Cut slits in several places along the top of crust. › Bake 30 to 40 minutes, until golden brown. › During the last 15 to 20 minutes, cover crust edge with strips of foil to prevent excessive browning. › Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Sweet Potato Cookies

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened

3/4 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup granulated sugar

3/4 cup sweet potato purée

1 large egg

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups toasted pecans, chopped

Maple Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar

2 tablespoons maple syrup

1 tablespoon milk

Pinch kosher salt

3/4 cup toasted pecans, finely chopped

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. › Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. › In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. › In a large bowl using a hand mixer, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluff y. › Beat in sweet potato, egg, and vanilla, then add dry ingredients and mix until just combined. › Stir in chopped pecans. › Scoop 1-inch balls onto prepared baking sheets and place 2 inches apart. › Bake until golden and set for about 10 minutes. › Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes then place cookies on a cooling rack and let cool completely.

Glaze:

In a medium bowl, stir together powdered sugar, syrup, milk, and pinch of salt. › Drizzle glaze over cookies and sprinkle with chopped pecans

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 large eggs

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup olive oil

1 1/4 cups canned pumpkin puree

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup apple juice or milk

Cinnamon icing:

1/2 cup powdered sugar

Dash of ground cinnamon

2 teaspoons milk

Crumb topping:

1/3 cup brown sugar, packed

3 tablespoon granulated sugar

3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Pinch of salt

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Crumb topping: In a medium bowl, combine sugars, cinnamon, salt, and flour. Add the melted butter and stir until combined (I use a fork). Set aside.

Muffins:

Preheat oven to 350. › Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper liners. › In a large bowl, combine flour, spices, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. › In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, oil, pumpkin puree, vanilla, and milk or juice until combined. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir with a rubber spatula until just combined, being careful not to over-mix. › Divide the batter between 12 muffin cups.

› Crumble topping over the top of each muffin. › Bake for about 20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center of the muffins comes out clean. › Place the pan on a wire rack to cool for 10 minutes, then remove the muffins from the pan and place on the rack to cool completely.

Icing:

Whisk all ingredients until smooth, increasing the milk one teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Adjust the consistency as necessary by adding more powdered sugar (to thicken) or more milk (to thin). › Use a small spoon to drizzle icing over the tops of the cooled muffins

Pumpkin Mu ns with Crumb Topping

Community Connector

Through her work in several key roles, Sara Lambert is impacting the community in a positive way.

By Susan Smiley-Height | Portrait by Bruce Ackerman

Sara Lambert speaks animatedly, her voice punctuating the ideas and concepts that move her. Just ask about her job as the Community Engagement Coordinator for Marion County Parks & Recreation or her role as president of the Junior League of Ocala and watch her face light up.

Lambert, 31, is one of the community’s new crop of young leaders and brings fresh energy to everything she attempts. She’s a “beach” girl who grew up in Ponte Vedra, between St. Augustine and Jacksonville Beach, and relishes spending time with her husband, attorney Kyle Lambert, and their springer spaniel Rusty, especially for walks at the Baseline Trailhead Park and at his parent’s place on Lake Weir.

Lambert is a graduate of Flagler College in St. Augustine, with a degree in history. After graduating in 2014, she went to work in the education department at the Museum of Science and History in Jacksonville.

“Originally, it was writing summer camp curriculum, along those lines, and then I started doing some outreach for them and I learned that I liked doing that,” she shares.

She met Kyle in 2016 and they moved to Ocala in 2018 when he took a job with the State Attorney’s office. That is when she went to work for the county, in the recreation division, writing summer camp curriculum, among other duties. She

assumed her current role in 2021.

“I had always known I wanted to keep doing an outreach/communications type of thing and so when we got that position approved, I applied for it,” she shares. “It’s a lot of social media management and some public relations. The cool thing is I get to be an advocate for my department, and I really appreciate that they have entrusted that to me.”

She manages the Instagram and Facebook accounts for Parks & Recreation and the Facebook account for the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion (SELP), one of the area’s busiest public venues.

“I make sure our content is planned out for the week,” she explains. “I promote any events or programs that we have coming down and try to make sure everyone knows what’s happening in Parks & Recreation.”

She is part of the team that produces the Marion County Parks & Recreation Carnival, which this year will take place on October 7th at the SELP. The family-friendly event will include a trick-or-treating trail, inflatables, games, carnival entertainers, face painters, giveaways, music and food trucks. Guests who bring a non-perishable donation for the Bring the Harvest Home food drive may win a prize.

“Sara has been a vital asset and is a fantastic representative for our department as she continues to grow our community reach through social media, marketing, events and other community interaction opportunities,” says Assistant Director of Parks & Recreation Kelsey Mears, CPRP. “Her position has her regularly interacting with nonprofit organizations, elected officials, other municipal entities and the public.”

Lambert’s community involvement includes serving as president of the Junior League of Ocala and secretary to the board of directors of the Marion County Literacy Council.

Lambert says when she and Kyle moved here, she didn’t know anyone and that some of the women in his office encouraged her to attend a recruitment event for the league.

“I fell in love with what they were doing. I fell in love with a lot of the girls. I really appreciated the fact that they were looking to meet people who need help where they were at,” she offers. “They weren’t assuming what people needed; they weren’t telling people what they needed. They were genuinely asking, ‘What do you need, and how can we provide it to you?’”

When she became a member, the group had a

partnership with the School Board in helping out at entitlement schools.

“I really liked the fact that women were going into neighborhoods that they probably never would have gone into to say we are here to help and lend a hand. It was very personal,” Lambert shares. “I served as our Community Impact chair for one year, when were still partnering with the School Board. It was during COVID so we couldn’t do a lot of inperson volunteering, which was a huge bummer. But we would write notes of encouragement to teachers, students and staff and deliver them to the schools. And we bought books and wrote notes inside to the kids to help them in certain benchmark grades that needed higher reading skills for testing.”

The current Community Impact project is a diaper bank.

“It’s more of pantry, as we don’t necessarily partner with other nonprofits and give them diapers,” Lambert outlined. “We have been going out to community events and handing diapers out to people who need them. Our first big event was the Community Foundation’s school give-back, and we handed out almost 2,500 diapers. It was awesome.”

The league’s biggest annual fundraiser in the Autumn Gift Market, which will be held October 20th and 21st at SELP and the adjacent Marion County Extension Auditorium. The event offers vendors and artisans from across the state. Friday’s VIP Night features food, cocktails and first dibs on raffle items. Admission is $5 and the proceeds benefit the diaper bank.

“Sara has been a wonderful leader in Junior League of Ocala over the past few years. I am super excited for what she will accomplish over the next year,” notes former president Kali Stauss Lourenco. “Sara is dedicated to the league, her career, family and friends. She always gives 110% no matter what she is working on. Her heavy involvement in the nonprofit community truly makes a difference in Ocala and Marion County. Sara always has great ideas and is excellent at employing those around to her to put those ideas into action.”

Lambert, who freely admits she wasn’t too sure about moving to Ocala, says now, “I’m really proud to live here. It’s lovely to see how much it has grown and expanded,” she says, “and it’s nice to see an elder/millennial group of people who are trying to make a difference and see their home really grow and expand.”

She always gives 110% no ma er what she is working on.

- Kali Stauss Lourenco

Equine Endeavors

Marie Davidson’s lifelong equestrian experiences and a medical miracle brought her to Ocala, where she is the program manager of the CF equine studies program, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary.

By JoAnn Guidry | Portrait by Bruce Ackerman

What a person wears can tell you a lot about them. One case in point is Marie Davidson’s Western belt buckle.

“I was a horse-crazy only child in a non-horse family. And, of course, I was always begging for a horse,” shares Davidson with a small smile and a twinkle in her blue eyes. “I was also very introverted, so my parents knew they needed to get me involved in something. So, they found a riding lessons stable nearby and I started lessons when I was 6.”

As luck would have it, Davidson’s first trainer at that riding lessons stable in Germantown, Tennessee, was a young Melanie Smith. The latter would go on to become a member of the United States Show Jumping Team that won a Gold Medal at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.

“Of course, years later I realized how fortunate I had been that Melanie Smith was my first trainer,” says Davidson. “And throughout my childhood, my parents made sure that I always had the best possible trainer. My father was a forester with the

U.S. Forest Service and we moved every two years. As soon as we settled in a new town, my parents would start checking out trainers for me.”

The next move for Davidson was to Little Rock, Arkansas, where she finally got a pony.

“I was 9 when my parents bought me Pepper, a 13.2 hands crossbred mare. We saved her from a kill pen, meaning she would’ve been killed if we hadn’t bought her,” explains Davidson. “We boarded Pepper at a farm owned by Jim Loveless, who was a well-known cutting horse trainer, and I, of course, started taking lessons from him.”

Working with Loveless would be a revelation for Davidson.

“He really helped me turn Pepper into a real competitor and he liked my tenacity as well,” notes Davidson. “He even put me on his top cutting horse to learn to ride changes and patterns. And those basic skills, which are so much about balance, have helped me throughout my riding career.”

She was soon competing in local rodeos.

“I won my first belt buckle in reining when I was 9, in 1970. I won that buckle riding Pepper, my kill pen pony, competing against cowboys up to age 16 riding nice quarter horses,” says Davidson, pointing to that very belt buckle she is wearing on this day and most days. “This belt buckle is a sentimental thing for me as it started my journey on a path where I went for things that seemed out of reach. Winning that belt buckle had a huge effect on becoming the person I am, and it keeps me grounded.”

Fo owing The Hoofbeats

Two years after winning that belt buckle, Davidson moved to Maryland, where she joined the Redland Hunt Pony Club.

“This club was led by an amazing group of horsemen and horsewomen, who I learned so much from during my time with them,” notes Davidson. “I rode multiple disciplines, hunter/jumper and dressage. I also competed in my first horse trial, my introduction to three-day eventing. Pepper and I won; I was hooked on the sport.”

While at a club meeting, Davidson was introduced to acclaimed equestrian Bruce Davidson, no relation, who had won a U.S. ThreeDay Event Team Silver medal at the 1972 Olympics. In 1974, Bruce Davidson became the first American to win the World Championship Three-Day Event in Burghley, England, which he won again in 1978 in Kentucky. He followed that with U.S. Three-Day Event Team Golds at the 1976 and 1984 Olympics, as well as collecting another Team Silver at the 1996 Olympics.

“I was 13 when I first met Bruce and thrilled when he told me to look him up if I ever got to Pennsylvania, where he was based,” recalls Davidson. “Well, of course, we did move to Pennsylvania when I was 14. My father purposely took a job in Philadelphia but bought a house in southeastern Pennsylvania in the middle of horse country so I could train with Bruce. At 14, I became one of his first working students and really began my three-day eventing journey.”

She worked with the Olympian rider all through high school and for several years afterward.

“During my time with Bruce, I was able to compete with several horses at the lowest of the international levels and then work my way up,” reveals Davidson. “He helped me learn how to train young horses and created opportunities for me to ride some very nice horses. I went on to win the United States Combined Training Association (now the United States Eventing Association) Young Rider of the Year award in 1981.”

By age 16, Davidson was training client horses on her own.

“I was still working for Bruce on weekends and holidays, but also now training as well to support my riding habit,” says Davidson. “Many of the horses that I trained came as referrals from Bruce.”

Davidson’s equestrian experiences also branched out to training thoroughbreds and volunteering at a veterinary clinic.

“I had the opportunity to break and train some young thoroughbreds at Derry Meeting Farm. I also exercised some racehorses during that time. It was a lot of fun and gave me more experience with different horses in another discipline,” Davidson shares. “I also started riding with some veterinarians from the nearby Delaware Equine Center and then began volunteering at the center as well. And that’s

At the 1987 Rolex Kentucky International riding Monk by Phelps Photo

Nine year-old Davidson jumping Pepper

Davidson’s winning buckle

where I met the horse of my lifetime.”

The unraced thoroughbred gelding named Doubt About was known as Monk.

“Monk was there for some minor surgery. He was only 2, but he was 17.1 hands and a rose gray with big white spots. In the right light, that rose gray color can look purple,” describes Davidson. “This funny-looking horse stood there, looking at me with this arrogant expression on his face, sizing me up. I was smitten. But Bruce talked me out of buying Monk.”

Three years later, Davidson got a call from Monk’s owner.

“He had been unable to sell Monk, but I just didn’t have the money to buy him,” admits Davidson. “My grandmother knew how much I wanted that horse and bought him for me. He was my dream horse until he died at 27.”

While attending Penn State, Davidson qualified to train by invitation with the U.S. Olympic Three-Day Event Team at its headquarters in Hamilton, Massachusetts. She rode several horses, including Monk, while she was in Young Rider Development & Training (1981-1982), on the Olympic Long List (1983-1984) and Olympic Training List (1987-1988).

“These were amazing years for me and Monk,” says Davidson. “I got to train with Jack Le Goff, the U.S. Olympic trainer, and be around all those accomplished equestrians.”

Always the overachiever, Davidson also spent a year studying in Strasbourg, France, before graduating in 1987 on the Dean’s List with a bachelor’s in general arts and sciences. All of this happened even though she was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disease that attacks the pancreas.

“I look back now and have no idea how I did what I did,” notes Davidson, who began having to take insulin shots with her diagnosis. “The only explanation that I have is that I was possessed and obsessed.”

Life Changes & A Miracle

In 1995, Davidson moved to Flagstaff, Arizona, where she continued her equine endeavors while adding another degree. In 2001, she earned a master’s in bilingual multicultural education with a teaching certificate in special education from Northern Arizona University.

“I taught riding lessons, schooled horses for clients and competed with younger horses at lower levels. After graduation from NAU, I taught special education to 4th-6th grade students with behavioral challenges in Flagstaff public schools. But I got quite sick from the type I diabetes and had to quit,” says Davidson. “In 2008, I became a vet tech and later office manager at Cave Creek Equine Surgical and Diagnostic Center. I learned a lot about regenerative medicine there, but after a while the commute from Flagstaff to Cave Creek was taking a toll on my health.”

In 2010, shortly after leaving the Cave Creek position, Davidson, then 51, suffered a near-death drop of blood sugar that caused her kidneys to fail.

“I spent two years on dialysis while I continued the best that I could giving riding lessons. But as time went on, it was clear this was not a good situation,” she admits. “My parents, who were now living in Lakeland, Florida, came and brought me to live with them. After testing at Tampa General Hospital, it was determined that I needed not only a kidney transplant but a pancreas transplant as well.”

Davidson recalls wondering if she’d live long enough to get the life-saving transplants.

“Only a few weeks after the tests, I got a call from the transplant unit at 4:30am and was asked how fast could I get to the hospital,” shares Davidson. “I replied how fast do you want me? I got my transplants the next day. After the surgery, I felt 100 percent better the moment I woke up.”

Now feeling healthier than she had in years. Davidson, who will have to take anti-rejection drugs for the rest of her life, was anxious to resume her equestrian activities. She also realized that to stay healthy, she needed to stay close to Tampa General Hospital.

“I started doing online research on equine-related opportunities and that’s how I found the CF equine studies program in Ocala,” Davidson recalls. “I sent Dr. Judy Downer, who was the program manager, an email with my resume and she invited me to come visit her, which of course I did. We had a nice chat, but she said that I couldn’t teach without a master’s in animal science or something related to equine studies. But with my background and experiences, she was willing to have me come team-teach with her to see how I liked it. Well, I loved it.”

Davidson also added to her educational resume.

“In 2015, I completed an online master’s in equestrian education from William Woods University in Fulton, Missouri,” says Davidson. “Now I could teach equine studies program classes as an adjunct professor.”

In 2020, Downer, who had been the CF equine studies program manager since 2004, retired. Davidson then became the acting program manager, officially taking on the position in the summer of 2021.

“Dr. Downer was brilliant in managing and growing the equine studies program,” says Davidson. “I learned so much from her and I’m honored to continue her legacy.”

A Vintage Gift

In December 2016, Vintage Farm, a 103-acre south Marion County farm valued at more than $2.9 million, was donated to the CF Foundation. The longtime supporter of education and agriculture wished to remain anonymous. Vintage Farm, five miles from the main CF campus, is shared by CF’s agribusiness and equine studies programs. In 2021, the equine studies classes began moving to Vintage Farm and now all the classes are held there. The barns and paddocks are well-suited for the hands-on classes.

“We are so fortunate to have Vintage Farm. It’s the perfect setting for the program,” notes Davidson. “We have two leased horses, Ellie, a thoroughbred mare, and Dolly, an Arabian mare, who live on the farm. I bring in my two thoroughbred geldings, Rio and Bounce, and other horses as needed. We bring in guest speakers in a wide range of equine-related businesses. We take field trips to area farms and veterinary clinics, as well as volunteer at area events. Our students get a great all-around equine education.”

The first equine studies program classes were held in 2003 and included only two classes, nutrition and a survey of the equine industry. Today, the equine studies program, which is part of the CF Business and Technology Department, offers a full schedule of classes in equine business and equine exercise physiology. Students can earn a bachelor of applied science in business and organization management with an equine studies specialization, an associate in science in equine etudies with specializations in exercise physiology or business management, and college credit certificates in equine technician or equine assistant management. Classes are held Monday through Thursday at Vintage Farm.

In addition to Davidson, the equine studies program instructors include full time professor Angie Adkin and adjuncts Katie Bigge, Cori Wiygul,

Madelyn Smythe and Jessica Simons.

“We have a great team, and we couldn’t do what we do without them. We have a wide range of students in our current enrollment of 130,” notes Davidson, who now lives in Summerfield, only minutes from Vintage Farm. “We have all ages, some with equine backgrounds and some with none. We have students who are working toward an equinespecific career and others who work in careers such as real estate or insurance, where some of their clients are horse people.”

Davidson, who teaches several classes including locomotion, equitation science and advanced handling, is not one to take her equestrian life for granted.

“I have been so fortunate to have the equine education and experiences that I have had in my life,” says Davidson, 62, with a sigh of true gratitude and then a small smile. “I can’t think of anything better than being involved with the CF equine studies program and paying that forward.”

Classroom photo by Bruce Ackerman; Other images courtesy of Marie Davidson

The Florida Art Collection

By Scott Mitchell | Images

Many years ago, I bought a book titled Celebrating Florida: Works of Art from the Vickers Collection, edited by Gary R. Libby and published by the University Press of Florida in 1995. The book highlights a selection of paintings from the collection of Samuel and Roberta Vickers and includes essays about each painting and artist. It is the sort of book that makes one proud to be a Floridian as the works are both eclectic and beautiful. It is a stunning representation of our beloved state, with rich imagery and history. I had no idea how important the Vickers collection would become.

The Vickers, known widely as Sam and Robbie, are Florida natives with a passion for the fascinating history and natural beauty of the

Sunshine State. They married about 65 years ago, raised a family and built several successful businesses in Jacksonville.

In the early 1980s, they began seeking out and collecting art that related to Florida. Sam also used business travel as an opportunity to visit galleries and antique shops to expand the collection. As it turned out, they both had a keen eye for art and the means to collect it.

Over a 40-year period, the couple amassed a significant collection of paintings, drawings and prints from the early 1800s to about the 1960s. The collection includes more than 1,200 pieces of art by more than 700 artists. It is the largest art collection featuring Florida and includes many of the greatest names in American art.

courtesy of Harn Museum of Art

All photos by Randy Batista, courtesy of University of Florida/Harn Museum of Art

The “transformative” gift from Samuel and Roberta Vickers may be seen at the Harn Museum of Art in Gainesville.

Fort George Island, Thomas Moran

As it turns out, my beloved book, which features 66 works, was just the tip of the iceberg. Fast forward to 2021, when I received a call from old friends at the Florida Museum of Natural History at the University of Florida (UF) in Gainesville who were looking for a space to exhibit a 20-foot-long historic Seminole dugout canoe made by the legendary carver Cory Osceola. I was told the boat was part of a larger art collection that had been donated to the Harn Museum of Art, also at UF, and, while they wished to retain ownership, the curators hoped to put the boat on long-term loan at the Silver River Museum.

This was when I learned that the Vickers had just donated their entire collection to the Harn, and I was floored with the scope of the gift. The grouping includes paintings by artists such as Winslow Homer, Thomas Moran and N.C. Wyeth. The paintings represent a variety of styles and themes, from glowing impressionistic sunsets on a Gulf Coast beach to a photograph-like rendition of a 1951 Florida trailer park. A complete research library accompanied the artwork.

To truly appreciate this collection, one must consider it all together and within the context of Florida today. The paintings as a group capture the diverse natural beauty of our state. In many cases, they are snapshots in time of places that no longer look as they did when the artist put paint to canvas. The works capture decades of change and bring to life an incredible range of people and lifestyles over

the years. It is a colorful study of the Sunshine State through the eyes of hundreds of artists.

The Florida Art Collection, as it is now known, has been described as “transformative” for the Harn. With the donation, the Vickers made an already wonderful museum truly exceptional. In interviews, the couple noted that they chose UF because they value education and feel the collection would be safely kept in perpetuity at such an institution.

The Harn opened in 1990 and has twice been expanded. A third major expansion is in the planning stage. The 20,000-square-foot addition will include dedicated exhibit space for the Florida Art Collection as well as a print study room providing students and scholars a place to closely analyze selected works of art. Best of all for Marion County is that this wonderful resource is so close and accessible. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, with variable hours. Admission is free. To learn more, go to harn.ufl.edu

Scott Mitchell is a field archaeologist, scientific illustrator and director of the Silver River Museum & Environmental Education Center, located at 1445 NE 58th Ave., Ocala, inside the Silver River State Park. Museum hours are 10am to 4pm Saturday and Sunday. Admission to the park is $2 per person; free ages 6 and younger. To learn more, go to silverrivermuseum.com.

Osceola of Florida, Robert John Curtis

Trailer Park Garden, Stevan Dohanos

An Epic European Journey

Text and

by Dave Schlenker

grand and gothic they make your knees weak.

Okay, now that I think about it, gelato is much bigger than Clooney in northeast Italy.

“No more talking,” our guide, Katia, said at one point. “It’s gelato time.”

Celebrating 30 years of marriage, Amy and I found ourselves on Italy’s Lake Como this summer, heading south along an ancient stretch of shore that will give you whiplash.

Here a castle. There a castle. The Swiss Alps on one side. The island of lepers on the other side. Winston Churchill stayed at that castle. King Such and Such summered in that one.

Here, villas and castles and cathedrals from the 15th and 16th centuries mix with what tour guides call “modern s***”—opulent buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries.

But the biggest attraction on this Como excursion is an 18th century villa that, frankly, could use a new roof. George and Amal Clooney live here, prompting necks to crane to the point of crackling cartilage.

Clooney purchased the house in 2002 after— per tour guides—his motorcycle broke down in the neighborhood.

Since then, area property values have soared. Tourists flock to the coffee shops rumored to be Clooney haunts. They are as much a part of the Como experience as the narrow cobblestone streets, gelato and centuries-old cathedrals so

And it was. Then it was gelato time again. Late afternoon? There’s a gelato shop at the top of hill, next to the 92-yearold woman who refuses to sell her worth-millions villa because of the blood, sweat and tears her late husband—once a poor man—put into it. She walks the steep streets, smiling at tourists and telling her story to those who inquire about the purple bougainvillea spilling over her balcony.

I am rambling here, trying to find an entry point into a column about the lighter side of Europe—the areas we visited, anyway.

Let me back up. This was the trip of a lifetime, and we apologize to our daughters for the resulting lack of inheritance.

We traveled from Italy to Switzerland to France to Germany to The Netherlands. We climbed inside windmills, lit candles in cathedrals, ate bratwurst along the Rhine and wallowed in gallons of gelato.

I also took notes. When tour guides talk about mermaid statues banished to the Bronx because mermaid boobs offended Italians, writers buy notebooks.

The following are notes and nuggets. It reads like an idiot’s guide to Europe and has little practical value. And, as it turns out, there are dumb questions.

Amid the passion and preservation, Europe’s

photos

rich history also includes plenty of naughty bits, blood, revenge, mistresses, mistresses with guns and general debauchery.

Public bathrooms are not big in Europe. When boatloads of tourists stop in a village, they are advised to “find a bar.” That is to say, the bars have bathrooms, but you will need to (1) pay to use them or (2) buy a drink for the privilege of using them. And drinking, of course, leads to more peeing, which leads to more bars. Tourism toilets are an industry all to themselves.

Many cathedrals and ancient sites dump tourists out near cheap souvenir stores. In Cologne, Germany, for example, you can see the Shrine of Three Kings (believed to the bones of the three wisemen) and then walk 30 yards to buy “Germany” refrigerator magnets shaped like Jack Daniels labels.

And while I poo-poo those tacky souvenirs alongside the 13th Century Cologne Cathedral, I could not get enough of them. I bought a metric ton of stylish European T-shirts made in China.

“I’m afraid you have to like sauerkraut to enter Strasbourg,” a French tour guide told us. Then an awkward pause. “That was a joke.”

NEVER—and I stress all caps here—cut your pasta or twirl it with a spoon in Italy.

And NEVER drink wine with pizza. I am not sure why, but it is clear something terrible will happen to you if you drink wine with pizza. This is why I stick with beer for every meal. Safety first. Europeans bury people everywhere (alreadydead people, of course).

Pigeons are the size of roosters.

Storks are a thing in France. Real and rooftop. Naps are king. Stores close during the afternoon hours. Residents often eat dinner after 9pm. This is tough for American empty nesters, who are usually comatose in front of Netflix at 8:45pm.

In many European towns, there are more bikes than cars—or people for that matter. Tourists with their eyes on cathedral spires and T-shirt racks are in constant peril. It is not that cyclists want to kill you, they just want you out of their way, dead or alive. “You don’t find a lot of nice bicycle drivers,” warned a tour guide dubbed Herman the German.

Also said by Herman the German upon answering a question about a convent: “They do nun stuff.”

There are plenty of cars, too. Those vehicles also will merrily maim you on narrow streets lined with gelato shops that make you a larger target for narrow streets.

Look out for architectural revenge, especially in Germany.

And watch for ancient building décor that

features a mooner, pooper, tongue-wagging pirate, a spitting orphan and a gnomish concrete man, who, um, … how to put this … contorts in a pleasurable … well, dogs can do it, but humans cannot. Nor should they.

The pervert gnome was a subtle snub to the bishops also adorning this gothic masterpiece. If American history had more mooning pervert gnomes, my GPA would have been higher.

There are many other notes in my notebook, but I cannot read them, I guess because I had too much beer with my pizza. But what strikes me most about Europe is how much its residents savor (and know) their own history—good, bad, naughty and tragic.

Imagine going to a 700-year-old church with corpses in the walls. Every statue on every square inch of every public space has a story with cultural significance, sometimes with beheadings or tickedoff gnomes. T-shirts dating back the 2010s scream of European pride: “My dad went to a cathedral stocked with dead bishops, and all I got was this lousy T-shirt.”

There’s also George Clooney and gelato. So, indulge, listen carefully, savor the food, examine the architecture, obey the pasta laws, take a nap and then set a course for the rarest, most beloved attraction in Europe: a bathroom.

Family

My husband, Russell, (pictured below) and I met on a blind date and have been married 47 years. Our family includes Sam and Beth and their kids Henry and Lora Kate, in Ocala; and Rebecca and Andy and our LA-based grandkids Emory and Clark.

Art and Culture

The art scene is vibrant here and we have many great cultural assets. From the Ocala Civic Theatre (73 years), Appleton Museum of Art (35 years) and Ocala Symphony Orchestra (48 years) to galleries, historic and scientific venues, there’s always something wonderful to experience.

Jaye Baillie

SHARES THE THINGS SHE CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT

Jaye has been executive director of the Marion Cultural Alliance since 2016 working to grow the capacity of artists and nonprofit arts organizations through grant funding, programming, training, and to develop a cohesive and vibrant cultural community.

FAST

My 6 a.m. Master’s swim practice at the Florida Aquatics Swimming Training (FAST) facility is a commitment I make for my physical and mental health. Coach Michael is phenomenal, the friendships are priceless and the sunrises are stunning.

3

Travel I believe in working hard and playing hard and always having some adventure on the horizon. This past year, I completed a pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago and this year did my first (and last!) open water swim. I’ve traveled to China, South America, Iceland, Mexico, Cuba, Canada, Ireland, Italy and many ports of call.

My BFF

4 2 6

St. Johns River

Living on this national heritage river presents ever-changing views and endless opportunities for fun and adventure, like casting for shrimp, pulling crab traps, catching stripers and swimming in crystal clear springs. With amazing sunrises and majestic storms, the river is always awe-inspiring.

Beth McCall and I have been a dynamic duo since our kids were at Happy Hearts. That’s 40-plus years of a beautiful friendship. Everyone needs a ‘Beth’ in their lives!

Portrait by Tammy Griffi n. Other photos: courtesy Jaye Baillie.

Plant Culture: Gardens in Movies

Movies about gardens and gardening offer inspiration and, usually, a soothing, quiet charm.

By Belea T. Keeney Illustration by Jordan Shapot

You know you’re a garden groupie when you find yourself watching movies or TV and looking at the gardens, yards and interior plants in the background more than you watch, you know, the story action.

Miami Vice is my guilty pleasure, and I completely lose track of whatever young Don Johnson and his hair are doing onscreen to ooh and ahh when he strolls past a 10-foot-tall bird of paradise with foot-tall flowers, or a pothos vine climbing a palm tree, showing off yellow and green leaves the size of elephant ears. My favorite movie and TV scenes take place in protected courtyards, lush with fountains and container plants, with the solar gain benefits clearly showing in the healthy foliage. One I like a lot is, I’m pretty sure, a studio set creation with a central fountain and a cottage with French doors in the background. It was used in both Bram Stoker’s Dracula and

Wolf, and probably in other movies I haven’t seen. Here are a few garden-themed movies that might appeal to you and get your green thumb itching to plant and nurture again once fall temperatures start to cool down our landscapes. Take it to the next level by watching these movies outside on a big screen in your yard, or at least on the screen porch.

Master Gardener was released in 2022. I missed this in the theater, so it’s on my watch list. It’s directed by Paul Schrader, who also directed Taxi Driver and wrote movies like Raging Bull, American Gigolo and The Last Temptation of Christ. It’s the story of a wealthy woman (Sigourney Weaver) who employs a gardener with a dark past. A frothy, upbeat movie this ain’t gonna be, so I’m saving it for a cold winter night when the gardening part of the story will inspire me.

Dare to be Wild, from 2015, starts out as a kind of a Devil Wears Pradastyle story for garden designers and florists.

Mary Reynolds takes on a junior garden designer job with a tough, celebrity-obsessed designer who uses Mary’s considerable talents, steals her designs and then fires her. Mary, improbably, is later accepted into the world-renowned Chelsea Flower Show, the “Olympics of gardening.” Her dream is to make use of the wild in her garden designs and to avoid the unnatural and manicured. There are lots of lush scenes of wild Irish landscapes and sculpted, human-created flower gardens and arrangements. It’s a little incoherent with its editing and scene setups but the point is the plants not the plot. Shots are framed with unfurling ferns and green, green, green natural spaces. A little girl who talks to plants, trees and garden fairies grows up to be a world-renowned garden designer whose work is focused on bringing the wild back into all landscapes, especially one’s own backyard. It’s streaming on several free platforms, including Roku, Tubi and the like.

Greenfingers, released in 2000, is a comedy starring Clive Owen and Helen Mirren, and it’s a lighthearted view of the British criminal justice system. The opening scene of Colin’s (Owen) burglary of a flower shop has him using a rickety bicycle as a getaway vehicle. Naturally, Colin ends up in prison. The men in the prison work program learn to grow flowers and vegetables together, and when a famous gardener (Mirren) takes interest in their work, she gets them an entry into a garden show. This is a breezy take on rehabilitation and the truly healing powers of growing plants. It’s also

streaming on several free platforms including Roku, Tubi and others.

A Little Chaos, from 2015, is a fictional account of the creation of part of the astounding Gardens of Versailles and stars Kate Winslet as a 17th century garden designer for King Louis XIV. Hired by renowned designer Andre Le Notre, Winslet’s Sabine builds a fountain system using then-unique reservoirs and pump systems. In a time before Kubota, John Deere and Caterpillar, the enormous amount of physical labor was done by peasants and serfs. The sheer volume of earth moved and boulders placed made me feel guilty about complaining while resetting my 16-inch paver stones. Alan Rickman played King Louis and also directed this film. It has it a feeling of both Dangerous Liaisons and Downton Abbey, given the scale of the buildings, opulence of the settings and royal lifestyles. It is available for rent on Apple TV, Prime and others.

So, gather up your own garden spoils—maybe some home-grown mint for your iced tea and some sliced tomatoes with basil and mozzarella—and delve into these movies that celebrate green thumbs.

A native Floridian and lifelong gardener, Belea spends her time off fostering cats and collecting caladiums. You can send gardening questions or column suggestions to her at belea@magnoliamediaco.com

Kate Winslet in A Little Chaos

Joel Edgerton and Sigourney Weaver in Master Gardener

This page: A Little Chaos courtesy of Focus Features; 2022 Master Gardener US LLC. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures

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