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Ocala Style Magazine
Drivable Destination: Longboat Key
Get away and unwind on the serene shores of Longboat Key, a hidden gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast, where 12 miles of lush, pristine beaches stretch as far as the eye can see. Bordered by the tranquil Gulf of Mexico on one side and the picturesque Sarasota Bay on the other, Longboat Key is a paradise for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This idyllic island offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, fabulous accommodations, and endless opportunities for adventure, making it the ideal destination for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.
Editor’s Picks | September/October 2024
A guide to our favorite monthly happenings and can’t-miss events. This production is a re-imagining of the 1957 musical written by Rodgers & Hammerstein. Tickets can be purchased online at bit.ly/oct_cinderella. FESTIVALS OF SPEED. World Equestrian Center. September 14. With the Florida Army National Guard, this Salute To Veterans...
Drivable Destinations: Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa
On the cinnamon-sand beaches of Palm Coast sits a classic and hospitable beach resort: Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa. The location, grand common spaces, generous suites and sweeping Atlantic Ocean views aren’t the only things that will bring us back to this classic resort—the warm hospitality of the staff is an exceptional added bonus.
Back to School Community Giveback
The annual event organized by The Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County and carried out with numerous partner agencies once again drew huge crowds to multiple locations, including the main staging area at the AdventHealth Auxiliary Center. During the July 27 event, parents and guardians, along with their charges, were eager to receive more than 6,000 backpacks ahead of the new school year.
VIP Sip & Shop
The treasures were abundant and impressive at this year’s Art in the Attic y-ART Sale FUNdraising event hosted by the Marion Cultural Alliance. Beginning with a VIP Sip and Shop ticketed gala on July 12, the fun (and bargain shopping) continued through July 20 at the Brick City Center for the Arts.
A Floral Fantasia
Step into the world of Fe (pronounced Faye) Wood and you enter a realm of flowering plants that have enchanted people for millions of years. At Fe’s Orchids, you can immerse yourself in a world of color, contrast and fragrance. She will answer any question a visitor may have and even “babysit” plants for snowbird residents or provide “doctor” services to orchids that need some TLC.
Help, Hope and Healing
Kimberly’s Center for Child Protection was formed after a task force comprised of law enforcement, prosecutors and child protection leaders convened in 1996 to help find a better way to care for children and teenagers in the aftermath of child abuse allegations. “The task force identified the Children’s Advocacy...
Drivable Destinations: Follow That Dream tour and more
Just a short drive from Ocala, you can step back in time to visit historic locations in Citrus and Levy counties that are tied to Elvis Presley, the singer, actor and entertainer who remains a cultural icon today. It was in the summer of 1961 that Presley was in the area to film his ninth motion picture, Follow That Dream.
Ocala Cooks | Isabelle Jean-Obrien
1 box chocolate cookies, fillings removed (I used Oreos) To make the crust, if you use Oreos, remove the filling and crush them in a food processor. Add about one teaspoon of espresso powder, 1/2 cup of sugar and 1/2 cup butter and mix. It should stick together, but not be crumbly. Add a bit more butter if needed.
Ocala Cooks | Crissie Trussell
Pre-heat the oven to 325ºF. Place the Biscoff cookies in a food processor and process to make fine crumbs. Melt the butter and mix with the Biscoff crumbs. Press the mixture on the bottom of an 8-inch or 9-inch cheesecake pan. If using an 8-inch pan, it must be deep. Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool down.
A Little Bit About … Scott Mitchell
That would be a tie between shrimp and grits and a fresh grouper sandwich. Favorite place to dine in Ocala/Marion County for a special occasion?. My father was an airline pilot, so I’ve seen almost all of the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii. I’ve also been to Australia, Honduras, Argentina, Puerto Rico, Paris, England, Scotland and Ireland. The highlands of Scotland were exceptional.
Leading from the Heart
Prospective clients who walk into the offices of the Marion County Literacy Council learn one thing very quickly: Executive Director Yamila Acosta has most likely been in their shoes. Her ability to connect with students is one reason she recently celebrated 15 years of service with the nonprofit organization, which has seen its share of ups and downs but currently is growing so fast it’s hard to keep up with the demand.
Vows | August 2024 | Gonzalez
Their favorite memory: “We genuinely cannot choose one moment that was our favorite. Every waking moment of that day was an absolute dream. Between reading our vows during our first touch, finally seeing each other at the altar and dancing all night long with our loved ones, it is impossible to choose. It was the best night of our lives.”
Vows | August 2024 | Britton
Their favorite memory: “Our officiant came up with the most beautiful poem, tailored to our childhood, adolescent and adult lives. Then he had us turn towards our guests (who traveled from Florida to Tennessee) and said, ‘If anyone here would not hesitate to help Tiffany and Ben in a time of need, please stand.’ Every single guest stood up for us. It was the coolest moment and really solidified the love everyone had for us as a couple.”
Vows | August 2024 | Tomlinson
Their favorite memory: “When our photographer took us outside as the sun was setting for some really great photos. We had a ton of fun doing all sorts of funny poses and Wildalys was great at getting us to loosen up. It really ended up being a special experience.”
Enslavement, Resistance and Creativity
Part of working at a museum involves assessing donations and deciding if they are a good fit or better suited for another institution. One never knows what will arrive. Sometimes it’s “treasure,” and other times it is not. An incredibly unique object with a fascinating story of enslavement, resistance and freedom was recently brought to light right here in Marion County.
Editor’s Picks | August 2024
August 5-9 Hosted by Marion County Parks & Recreation, this camp is called a “modern twist on traditional fun” for children of all ages. It includes field days, trips to Easy Street, indoor skydiving at SkyZone and other activities. Visit bit.ly/3yO7iRB to learn more. KIDZ FEST – THE...
Children First Gala
The Marion County Children’s Alliance recently hosted its annual gala event and awards ceremony to recognize the 2024 Dr. Mike Jordan Awards of Excellence and Vision. The criteria were that an organization has demonstrated exceptional performance in initiatives for or with the children of Marion County. The alliance combines numerous groups in support of children. Jordan was one of MCCA’s founders and an 18-year volunteer and executive director.
Columns, Confessions and A Brain Cyst
Our local pundit finds humor in many things, even the challenges of brain tumors and tremors, which, he says, “have been a mix of physical therapy, meds, chiropractors, wine, moderate profanity and the support of my patient wife.”. EDITOR’S NOTE: This essay was written for Dave Schlenker’s latest book,...
Thread By Thread
Charlita Rae Whitehead’s abstract fiber artwork is a revelation in yarn. A prime example is the aptly named Bliss, a 3-by-3-foot visual delight of color, texture, unintentional heart shapes and even a little sparkle. Varying shades of purple, red, teal, brown and hot pink get your attention from across...
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