On Top of the World Communities - Active Adult Living

Personal Coaching = RESULTS! by David Gibas

2012-01-31T10:10:00.007-05:00

Have you been working hard at the gym or going to fitness classes to lose weight or feel better? How's that going for you? If you answered "not too good", maybe it's time to boost your fitness routine with a new results-oriented fitness program.

Statistics from several studies on exercise adherence indicate that approximately 50% of individuals who start a self-monitored exercise program will drop out of that program within six months. The reason is that we tend to have unrealistic expectations. We drift away from our resolution when we do not experience the results we want soon enough.

A realistic goal that is specific measurable is a critical stop in your commitment to get fit. Once your goal is in place, you will need to stay motivated and accountable to keeping up with your workouts. A fitness plan is simple by design but difficult by nature. Human behavior is complex and changing that behavior is difficult.

The Ranch Fitness Center & Spa is here to help! The Ranch now offers a premium fitness membership, which includes personal coaching. Personal coaching was designed to combat the obstacles that keep most people from achieving the results they want. Your personal coach provided goal setting and program design but, most importantly, keeps you motivated and accountable to get the results you want! The personal coaching schedule is flexible with morning, evening and weekend options. Visit The Ranch for more details...it's time to get the results for which you're looking!

David Gibas is the Facility Director at The Ranch Fitness Center & Spa

Willie Nelson & Family Will Make Tour Stop at Circle Square Cultural Center in Ocala

2012-01-27T10:16:00.007-05:00

Music icon and winner of 25 Grammy, CMA & American Music Awards Willie Nelson comes to the Circle Square Cultural Center! Willie’s popular hits such as “Mama Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys”, “On The Road Again”, “Always On My Mind” and many more classics are ageless songs that span generations. With his brilliant 6 decade career that speaks volumes of his music’s relevance and performance power, the 75 year old Willie Nelson continues to sell out venues all over the world!

This tour is called Willie Nelson & Family for good reason...his family is in the band! His sister Bobbie will be on the piano, his daughter Amy has been known to sing backup and his very talented 23 year old son Lukas will play the guitar and sing alongside his father.

In addition to the aforementioned songs, Willie has been known to include "Good-Hearted Woman", "Angel Flying Too Close to the Ground", "Move it On Over", "Healing Hands of Time" and "Georgia On My Mind" to his concert play list.

Don’t miss the legendary Willie Nelson live in concert on Saturday, February 4 at 7pm at the Circle Square Cultural Center, located at 8395 SW 80th Street. For more information on the 2012 entertainment line-up including times, dates and tickets, visit the website at www.CSCulturalCenter.com or call 352-854-3670.

Ocala Area - Dining Out

2012-01-25T09:26:00.004-05:00

Eating out rather than cooking at home is quite a trend, and in Ocala, you will find many options for doing just that. Offering American dishes, BBQ, buffet-style, Asian cuisine, Italian fare, fine dining, coffee, dessert and so much more, from national chains to locally owned establishments, Ocala has what you’re looking for.

Some of Your National Favorites
Ocala has some of your favorite national chain restaurants where you can enjoy a meal with family and friends: Chili’s, Bob Evans, Bonefish, IHOP, Carrabba’s, Panera Bread, Five Guys Burgers & Fries, Starbucks, Golden Corral, Sonny’s BBQ, Outback Steakhouse, Quiznos, Applebee’s, Hooters, Boston Market, Ruby Tuesday, El Toreo Mexican Restaurant, Cracker Barrel, Zaxby’s, Coldstone Creamery, Olive Garden and many more. And, as Ocala continues to grow you can expect to see new establishments coming to the area...

Locally Owned Restaurants with a Lot to Offer
Ocala has many locally owned restaurants as well. It could take months to sample them all, but what a fun and “tasty” way to get to know the area.

Candler Hills Restaurant

Only one word is needed to describe this personable and beautifully located restaurant...variety. Candler Hills Restaurant is located on On Top of the World property and gives an abundance of delectable choices from cobb salad, quesadillas and deli sandwiches to paninis, pasta dishes and steak. The restaurant also has a full bar and delicious homemade desserts. Dine inside or out on the patio that overlooks the 18th green at Candler Hills Golf Club. The restaurant is open 7 days a week and is open to the public. www.candlerhillsrestaurant.com

Pi on Broadway
This quaint yet upscale establishment serves tapas and wood-burning oven-cooked pizzas. On the second level you will find an outdoor overlook of downtown Ocala where you can enjoy music on weekends and the ambiance of tiki torches. www.pionbroadway.com

Stumpknockers on the River
Located on the Withlacoochee River, this restaurant offers seafood lovers a little bit of heaven: fried catfish, stuffed flounder, frog legs, sea scallops, Florida gator, steaks and much more. www.stumpknockers.net

Ipanema
This Brazilian Steakhouse presents a unique dining experience where servers parade a variety of freshly grilled meat through the restaurant and slice a piece (or more) for you tableside in a style of service called rodizio. www.ipanemaocala.com

SKY Asian Fusion Cuisine
Located on the top floor of the Holiday Inn, SKY, and the hotel, are anything but typical. Surrounding you with Asian-inspired decor, SKY serves up exotic Pacific cuisine including vegetarian lettuce wraps, curry shrimp, steamed lobster dumplings, Mongolian beef, crispy calamari salad, pad thai, and much more. www.ocalasky.com

Little Joey’s Pizza
All the Italian you could want can be found at Little Joey’s Italian diner, just one mile from On Top of the World. Little Joey’s offers hot and cold subs, calzones, salads, pasta, soups, and of course, pizzas. The four cheese pizza with sliced tomatoes comes highly recommended. Finish your meal with some homemade zeppolis or tiramisu.

Eating Out at Home
Doing Dinner
Want restaurant quality meals without actually going out or spending hours in the kitchen? Doing Dinner has the solution. By preparing and freezing meals that you pre-order, Doing Dinner does the work for you. All you do is thaw, cook and enjoy. Regular entrees are designed to feed three average adults and single serve meals which you can mix and match to please everyone at the table. Each month new items are featured in addition to the over 20 regular items. www.doingdinner.com

Get To Know: Chef Todd Rowell

2012-01-23T11:46:00.002-05:00

In just the few short months since Chef Todd Rowell joined the Hospitality Division at Ocala’s On Top of the World Communities, he has taken the kitchens of both Candler Hills Restaurant and the resident only Pub in successful directions. His efforts have been well received and much appreciated. From his Friday and Saturday night dinner features to an overall change in the quality, consistency and presentation of the dishes, he has brought a new vision to hospitality in the community.

Before Chef Todd joined the hospitality team, he managed kitchens at Dunnellon’s Juliette Falls and Rainbow Springs Golf & Country Club as well as at Citrus Hills Country Club in Hernando, FL. Todd is a classically trained French chef and was mentored and trained by other classically trained chefs. In addition, he was the Executive Chef for wrestling superstar Terry “Hulk Hogan” Bollea in Tampa. Chef Todd believes in bold flavors and visually striking presentations.

He is a husband and father of a young child and lives in the Dunnellon area. Chef Todd was born in St. Petersburg, FL and is a life long resident of the Sunshine State. On Top of the World Communities is looking forward to a long and successful relationship with Chef Todd. Welcome aboard!!

Resident Club Showcase: Travel Toppers

2012-01-18T09:04:00.005-05:00

Since 1991, Travel Toppers has planned and executed trips for Ocala's On Top of the World Communities residents at the best possible cost. During this 20-year period, Travel Toppers has arranged over 500 trips including day trips, overnight tours and cruises with more than 30,000 seats being filled! All Travel Toppers officers, coordinators and hosts/hostesses are volunteers of the organization.

In 2011, On Top of the World residents enjoyed a Caribbean cruise, a theatre production of the Church Basement Ladies and day trips to Kennedy Space Center, Millenia Mall and the Dali & Chihuly Museum…and those are just highlights of the year!

This year’s variety of trips promises to be just as exciting and fun as those of the previous 20 years! Travel Toppers has already planned on visits to Branson, Missouri, the Strawberry Festival in Plant City, FL, as well as Tampa Bay Downs Racetrack in Tampa, FL and cruises to Hawaii, Panama Canal and Alaska….to name just a few.

On Top of the World residents are encouraged to make trip recommendations to the club for a possible future event! Yes, Travel Toppers is one of the communities' more popular clubs...simply for creating memories, providing good times and making travel dreams come true!

"What are you going to do about that slice?" by Brian Boeling

2012-01-10T10:19:00.005-05:00

The New Year presents the best time to get back into the swing of things…your golf swing that is! There have been many whisperings around the On Top of the World and Candler Hills Golf Clubs about terrible slices causing bad scores. There is nothing golfers fear more than the dreaded slice. With the proper technique, your slice can be a thing of the past! Follow these simple tips and say goodbye to your slice forever.

ADDRESS POSITION: When addressing the ball, start by placing it in the heel area of the club head as this will help to promote an inside-out swing path. Next, use a strong grip (hands turned back with the Vs from the thumb and forefingers turned toward the right shoulder for right-handed golfers). Make sure to grip the club lightly in the fingers with the right hand. This grip position will help you rotate the hands over, which squares the clubface upon impact. Finally, take a slightly closed stance.

BACKSWING: Start the club back by turning the left shoulder away from the target, feeling as though your left shoulder is behind the ball at the top of your backswing. To help you make a full-shoulder turn, slide the left knee back to the center of your stance, and let your left heel come off the ground as you turn away from the target. On the top of your backswing, 80% of your weight should be on your back foot and your head should remain over the ball. You are now in position to unload your weight and power into your left side on the downswing.

DOWNSWING: Start the downswing by stepping down on your left heel and letting your left hip move slightly toward the target. As your lower body starts to move, pull your hands down keeping your right elbow close to your right hop as long as possible.

IMPACT POSITION: This is the moment of truth! Keep the shoulders square to the target as the club head strikes the ball. At this point, the hands and arms should pass your body with your right hand turning over your left hand (releasing the club), and the force of your swing should pull you off your right foot so your weight will be moving toward the target.

FOLLOW-THROUGH: As you release the club through impact, let your arms straighten out toward the target. From here, let the momentum of your swing continue until your hands finish up high. Hold this follow-through while you watch the ball fly down the fairway (a good example of this is to watch PGA Tour player Sergio Garcia as he holds his follow-through position until the ball comes to rest). As you practice the follow-through, feel as though the momentum of your swing is pulling you through. Try not to force this motion.

By following these tips, your slice should be something of the past. But if you continue to struggle with it, contact one of our golf professionals and they’ll get you on track to get rid of that terrible slice!

Brian Boeling is the Director of Golf for Candler Hills Golf Club and On Top of the World Golf.

Christmas Light Displays Can Last a Lifetime by Adria Byers

2011-12-21T10:26:00.004-05:00

Ever since I can remember, Christmas lights displays were one of my favorite things to do during the holidays. My favorite thing? Opening presents on Christmas morning! But light displays were a close second. I still have memories of my brother and I riding in the back of my mother's station wagon with our heads hanging out the opened back window (safety was not a big issue in those days). Luckily, I'm from south Florida, the weather allowed us to do that!

I'll never forget how exciting it was to see colorful lights carefully outlining the houses...every corner had a light, the roof, the garage doors, the windows, the doors and even the driveway! Now that I have a family of my own, I make sure my kids enjoy decorating our home with as many lights we can untangle and get to twinkle.

My kids get a big kick out of seeing cards drive slowly past our house to enjoy our lit up creation. And they too get to ride along as I drive and see other beautifully decorated homes...albeit buckled up in the back seat (safety first!).

The Ocala Star Banner recently compiled a list of Marion County homes that welcome visitors to drive by and admire their hard work. The article also details what each display has to offer and directions on how to get to them. Take your kids, grand kids and great grand kids for a festive drive that will create everlasting memories like the ones I have.

Adria Byers is an employee of On Top of the World Communities.

Heartfelt and Heart Healthy Gift Ideas by Cammy Dennis

2011-12-14T10:33:00.005-05:00

Want to give a holiday gift that is heartfelt and heart healthy? Why not share something that inspires health and wellness? With some help from WebMD, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and Dr. Weil, a list of healthy holiday goodies that are sure to please and prevent disease was compiled. For the exercise enthusiast, or those who aspire to be, stuff a new gym bag with some great tools to motivate their workouts:

Upbeat music to keep workouts energized
A gift certificate for a session with a personal trainer.
A pedometer...this nifty tool keeps track of how many steps you take; the goal is 10,000 steps every day!
A fancy new BPA free water bottle (BPA stands for Bisphenol A, which is a chemical used in plastics) to stay hydrated, the bottles come in a variety of colors and styles.

For the intellectual in your life, fill a new book bag with items that support brain health:

Games like Boggle and Scrabble, crossword puzzles, Sudoku or word search. Studies prove mental exercises help ward off dementia, keep the brain active and also support social interaction.
A copy of the latest Master the Possibilities Education Center catalog. Choose from a vast selection of classes to engage in creative and intellectual pursuits.
A magazine subscription that reflects personal style or interest.

For the special someone seeking stress relief, fill a beauty basket with gifts that will help to calm the mind and sooth the soul:

Luxurious bubble bath.
Scented candles.
Music that inspires relaxation.
Aromatherapy oils.

For the gourmet in your life, fill a reusable grocery bag with healthy treats and ideas that support nutritious and delicious dining:

A new heart-smart cookbook. Eating healthy does not mean giving up favorite foods or skimping on flavor.
Good quality dark chocolate. make sure that the cocoa content is at least 70% for the best antioxidant quality.
Extra virgin olive oil. This oil has the "good fat" to help lower the bad cholestorol (LDL) and boost the good cholesterol (HDL).
Include some of your own healthy holiday recipe cards.

Cammy Dennis is the Director of Fitness Programming for On Top of the World Communities and The Ranch Fitness Center & Spa

Resident Club Showcase: On Top of the World RC Flyers

2011-12-09T12:21:00.003-05:00

The On Top of The World RC Flyers and its members are affiliated with the Academy of Model Aeronautics, AMA which is a world-class association of modelers organized for the purpose of promotion, development, education, and the advancement of model aircraft activities. The On Top of The World RC Flyers and the Academy provide leadership, organization, competition, communication, protection, representation, recognition, education, and scientific/technical development to its members regarding remote control model aircraft.

The On Top of The World RC Flyers club first started in 1990 when a group of seven residents obtained permission to fly RC model aircraft in a field behind the residential area at On Top of the World Communities. Since then, the club has grown to over 100 members and has moved the field twice. The current location remains within the gated community and is situated on a fourteen-acre site with a 600 by 150 foot grass runway. This new flying site was completed and dedicated in November 2004. Details of the construction are published in Model Aviation Magazine in the May 2005 issue.

Most of the members both build and fly model aircraft and have come to live at On Top of the World Communities from various states across the country specifically because of the flying field. For new flyers, the club maintains a flight-training program. The club encourages the general public to visit the field by hosting three events: A fall Fly-in, a spring giant scale IMAA event and a spring SAM antique model Fly-in. When the weather cooperates, each morning you will find a friendly gathering of members at the new pavilion where they can enjoy friendly conversation and a beautiful pastoral scenic view while resting between flights. However, the greatest service that the club provides to its membership is the opportunity to have fun!

Holiday Food Drive

2011-12-07T09:45:00.004-05:00

Over the past nine years, On Top of the World Communities in Ocala, FL has chosen to support Interfaith Emergency Services (IES), a non profit organization that provides emergency assistance to individuals and families in crisis. Residents and employees of On Top of the World have always been very generous in donating large amounts of nonperishable food items and various sundries to our annual food drive. With this in mind, we are asking again this year for any help and can lend. According to Karla Grimsley, Executive Director of Interfaith Emergency Services, the need has never been greater. "Today, there are over 16, 000 people in Marion County who are suffering due to unemployment. Many others have lost jobs and found employment but make significantly less than before. We are currently serving an average of 70 families per day and over 1,300 children over the weekends through our Food 4 Kids program. We are providing shelter to 31 residents (13 of those are children). We simply could not meet the need without the support of caring people like you!"

IES is in dire need of the following staple food and hygiene items:

Canned vegetables
Canned beans
Peanut Butter
Jelly
Boxed dry pasta
Rice
Cereal
Oatmeal
Spaghetti sauce
Macaroni & cheese
Canned fruit
Canned soups
Canned meats (tuna, chicken)
Soap
Shampoo
Deodorant
Toilet paper
Toothpaste
Toothbrushes
Razors
Feminine products

The 2011 On Top of the World food drive has already begun and will continue to accept donations through December 16th. Your donation of any of the above listed items would be of great help. Please place your item(s) in one of the collection boxes.

Thank you in advance for helping those less fortunate in our community. Happy Holidays!

This article was written by On Top of the World employee Patty Soriano.

Master the Possibilities Education Center Announces Expanded Winter Class Schedule

2011-11-17T10:31:00.003-05:00

Master the Possibilities Education Center in Ocala announced their largest class schedule in their 6 year history. The usual Winter catalog will be expanded into a Winter/Spring publication covering courses being offered from January to May 2012. With this expansion, the center for lifelong learning will offer more classes and presentations than ever before…well over 500! Categories include academic, health and wellness, computer training and a strong art component being offered monthly. All of these courses and programs are OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.

Master the Possibilities opened its doors in 2006 offering nearly 300 programs with 3,000 enrollments. Now operating in its 6^th year, the center has grown its programming to over 800 classes and presentations with over 17,000 enrollments. There are over 100 highly qualified and credentialed instructors.

Registration for the Winter/Spring session is required. The expanded catalog will be posted to www.masterthepossibilies.com and the printed version will be available at the Education Center located in Circle Square Commons at 8415 SW 80^th Street, Ocala on Thursday, December 15^th. Register online or call 854-3699 to enroll.

Great Shows and Performances Scheduled for 2012 at the Circle Square Cultural Center

2011-11-09T08:48:00.003-05:00

The exciting 2012 entertainment line-up at Circle Square Cultural Center has been released and tickets are now on sale. The Cultural Center will be featuring energetic and fun entertainment such as Lovin’ Spoonful, The Duprees, Debby Boone, The Countours, and much more! Plus, an exciting and fun Elvis tribute artist contest! These electrifying performances are sure to entertain audiences of all ages.

Circle Square Cultural Center (CSCC) at Circle Square Commons in Ocala, FL brings top name entertainment to the area, featuring spectacular events and performers every year. With theatre-style seating for over 800 guests, you’ll have an incredible concert experience in this unique intimate setting. In addition to concerts, CSCC is the largest indoor venue for banquets in Ocala. This beautiful auditorium also hosts theatrical productions, dances, conventions, expos, fundraising events, and more.

For more information on the 2012 entertainment line-up including times, dates and tickets, visit www.CSCulturalCenter.com or call 352-854-3670. The Circle Square Cultural Center is located at 8395 SW 80th Street in Ocala.

Getting Results From Your Fitness Program by Larry Robinson

2011-11-03T10:26:00.004-04:00

Have you ever started a fitness program and then quit? If you answered yes, you're not alone. Many people start fitness programs but stop when they get bored or the results come too slowly. Here are several tips to avoid this from happening and help you get the results you want from your fitness program.

Set goals

Start with a goal and make it a S.M.A.R.T. goal. S.M.A.R.T. stands for; specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely based. The idea is to set a goal and hold yourself accountable to it. For example, if you’re just starting an exercise program your S.M.A.R.T. goal might be to exercise for 30 minutes, 3 days a week, which is the minimum that is required to gain a health related benefit.

Make it fun

Find sports or activities that you enjoy and then vary the routine to prevent boredom. Having a workout ‘buddy’ is also a great idea. This can add social time to your exercise and keep you accountable to someone other than yourself. There is a great quote from a new book entitled ‘Bending the Aging Curve’ the author Dr. Joseph F. Signorile states: “we have engendered in the American population an environment of failure. Rather than helping the public to see exercise as a two-for-one special, providing both health benefits and recreation, we have made it a second job that a person must complete every day or be considered a failure”. Perhaps you need to change your perception, try replacing the word ‘exercise’ with ‘activity’.

Make physical activity part of your daily routine

If you are finding it hard to make time to be active you may be falling back on excuses. Schedule your fitness commitments as you would any other important activity. You can also slip in physical activity throughout the day. Make lifestyle choices that support being active, use the stairs, take a walk instead of the golf cart, and get involved with clubs and organizations that keep you moving.

Put it on paper

Are you hoping to lose weight? Gain strength? Sleep better? Manage a chronic condition? Write it down! It is a good idea to keep an exercise diary. Seeing the benefits of regular exercise on paper may help you stay motivated. Record what you did during each exercise session, how long you exercised for and how you felt afterward. Recording your efforts helps to keep you focused and remind you that you're making progress.

Reward yourself

After each workout session or fitness class, take a few minutes to savor the good feelings that exercise gives you. This type of internal reward can help you make a long-term commitment to regular exercise. External rewards can help too. When you reach a longer range goal, treat yourself to a new pair of walking shoes or new tunes to enjoy while you exercise.

Be flexible

If you're too busy to work out or simply don't feel up to it, take a day or two off. Be gentle with yourself if you need a break. The important thing is to get back on track as soon as you can. Remember it’s never too late to start exercising; the benefits of staying active are extremely important for maintaining muscle, strength and quality of life!

November Fit Tips

Fit Tip #1 Exercise releases endorphins that make you feel good about yourself. This is a tremendous bonus; your muscles and your mind get to feeling good!

Fit Tip #2 Set yourself a goal (a S.M.A.R.T. goal) then use your exercise diary to keep track of your progress.

Fit Tip #3 Exercise is safe for people of all ages; it is one of the most important things we can do for ourselves when it comes to aging optimally.

Larry Robinson has been a personal trainer at On Top of the World Communities' Health & Recreation Department for the past 3 years.

Lawn Fungus: How to Prevent It and What to Do If You Have It

2011-10-26T11:55:00.003-04:00

It’s that time of year again. Temperatures are cooling off at night and daytime temperatures are slightly cooler with a few hot days scattered here and there. What does this mean for those of you who maintain your own lawn? Fungus is ready and waiting to show its face in your lawn.

“The first thing to know is that fungus is 100% preventable.” says Phillip Hisey, On Top of the World Communities' Landscape Superintendant. “For fungal pathogens to become active in the landscape, a few environmental factors must be present.

First, the temperatures have to be between 65 and 85 degrees. Second, soil moisture has to be at higher levels. The fungal pathogen is already in the soil but without these factors is not likely to spawn and become problematic.”

Hisey says there are three fungal pathogens that are most likely to create problems in your home lawn. The first is Rhizoctonia solani; also known as Large Patch fungus. Another is the Gaeumannomyces graminis var. graminis, also known as Take All Root Rot and the last is Pythium Root Rot.

With the proper treatment program these are 100% preventable. “Another thing to remember is that when treating fungal problems, fungicides work better at lower preventative rates rather than at the curative rates. Once you start using curative rates, damage has been done and recovery is slow.” explains Hisey.

Rhizoctonia solani, also known as Large Patch fungus, is probably the easiest to identify by the “halo” or distinct yellow margin that forms. Another way to identify the fungus is to run the palm of your hand across the potentially infected area and see if the leaf blades come off. If you have the fungus, the leaf blades or sheaths will break off easily. Preventative applications are preferred but if you are trying to save the grass that has been infected, using a systemic fungicide is the best bet. “Systemic products are taken up through the plant while contact fungicides actually come into contact with the pathogen.” says Hisey.

Gaeumannomyces graminis var. graminis or Take All Root Rot has been problematic in the past as well. Most people didn’t realize they had it while some found out when it was too late. Again, preventative applications are the key to success for controlling this fungal pathogen. One of the key factors when dealing with this fungus is soil pH.

“Using acid forming fertilizers to lower soil pH will help. This fungus prefers pH levels above 7.0. So avoid late season fertilizations and check your irrigation system for proper coverage and see that you are not applying too much water.”

Pythium is a bit easier to control because most of the triggers for this fungus are culturally related or depend on things we can control such as avoiding excessively wet roots and trying to avoid stress to the grass. Products should be applied in a preventative method. “If you have not made any applications to your lawn, now is the time. Large Patch fungus should be treated in the fall, starting now through November, and should pick up again in March and April. Take All Root Rot should be treated preventatively in October through November, again in January and February and possibly again in March if winter temperatures persist.” explains Hisey.

With Take All Root Rot, trying to get a lower pH is the key to success so applications of fertilizer in the spring should have higher levels of sulfur. Coming out of the winter, if you suspect the Take All Root Rot has infected your lawn, use liquid applications to fertilize the grass “Remember the roots have been damaged and therefore are not taking up the nutrients vital to growth.” And lastly, if you are following these applications for Large Patch and Take All Root Rot you are very likely taking care of the Pythium.

Gators, Manatees and Bears...OH MY! State Wildlife Park is Unique and Educational

2011-09-22T14:01:00.007-04:00

The Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park is located approximately an hour's drive southwest of Ocala, FL. The drive, however, is well worth it. The park is filled with birds, wild animals and plants native to central Florida. Most of the wildlife are brought to the park for rehabilitation before they're set free in their natural habitat. Others, like Lu the 51 year old hippo, are permanent residents. But the most popular residents are the gentle manatees. These peaceful giants prefer the warm spring waters especially during the cooler weather of fall and winter. Want to see them right now? Take a look at the park's Manatee Cam for a glimpse.

For a more in-depth view of the park and what it has to offer, visit their website or call (352) 628-2311.

Master the Possibilities Education Center Announces its Fall Session

2011-09-20T11:28:00.002-04:00

At Master the Possibilities Education Center in Ocala, FL, fall classes kick up into high gear. In fact, this quarter, the center for lifelong learning will offer more classes and presentations than ever before...close to 200! Categories include academic, health and wellness, computer training and a strong art component.

Master the Possibilities is in its sixth year of operation and offers over 800 opportunities to learn, grow and have fun every year. There are over 100 highly credentialed instructors.

Registration for the fall session is required. The online catalog will be posted to www.masterthepossibilities.com on Thursday, September 22nd for online registration. For telephone registration, pick up a printed catalog at the Freedom Library located at 5870 SW 95th St, Ocala or at Master the Possibilities beginning September 29th and call (352)854-3699 to enroll. Master the Possibilities is located at 8415 SW 80th St, Ocala in Circle Square Commons.

Resident Club Showcase: The Entertainment Group

2011-09-13T12:04:00.002-04:00

The Entertainment Club of On Top of the World Communities’ mission is to bring professional entertainment to the community’s stage with ticket prices equal to the cost of a first run movie and a box of popcorn. General admission tickets are $8 and reserved tickets are $10. The shows are held at the Health & Recreation Building located within the community and are available to residents and their guests. The most important part of the mission statement is the annual donations given to Hospice of Marion County, Marion County Senior Services and Florida Center for the Blind all made possible by the support of On Top of the World residents and sponsors.

The Entertainment Group’s 2011-2012 show lineup:

· Friday, September 24, 2011

Sally and her Buddies – Sally Langwah presents her sock hop tribute show.

· Saturday, October 29, 2011

Diamond Then & Now – The ultimate tribute to the legendary singer/songwriter Neil Diamond as performed by Jack Berrios.

· Saturday, November 26, 2011

Christmas and a Whole Lot More – The Marlins brothers perform music from diversified artists such as Glen Miller, Willie Nelson, Elvis, TheBeach Boys, Liverace and even Tiny Tim, to name a few.

· Friday, January 27, 2012

The Van-Dells – The nation’s number one rock n’ roll review will entertain audiences of all ages with a unique blend of comedy, costume changes, choreography and tight harmonies.

· Saturday, February 25, 2012

The New Dawn Singers – College aged performers will bring a high-energy song and dance show with life, enthusiasm and spirit.

For shows open to the public, visit www.CSCulturalCenter.com for the 2011/2012 entertainment lineup.

Hurricane Watch vs. Hurricane Warning – Know the Difference

2011-09-09T11:29:00.005-04:00

This year's hurricane season has been a volatile one to say the least. Since the start of hurricane season June 1st, there have been 14 named storms, 3 of which are currently swirling around in the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. When a storm is approaching, television meteorologists often show us the little hurricane icon and a "cone" of its projected path on a large computerized map. Luckily, most of the storms each year veer away from Florida. But on few occasions, these damaging storms come ashore to threaten homes and businesses. Many times, you can "hunker down" in your house and ride out the wind and rain (tropical storms through category 2 hurricanes). But there are more severe hurricanes which really pack a punch (category 3-5 hurricanes) that might require you to leave your belongings to fend for themselves. Your personal safety is top priority.

The following are terms used when a storm is eminent. It's a good idea to learn them so you'll know what actions you need to take to be safe.

Tropical Storm Watch: An announcement that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are possible within the specified coastal area within 48 hours.
Tropical Storm Warning: An announcement that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are expected within the specified coastal are within 48 hours.
Hurricane Watch: An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are possible within the specified coastal area. Because hurricane preparedness activities become difficult once winds reach tropical storm force, the hurricane watch is issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.
Hurricane Warning: An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are expected somewhere within the specific coastal area. Because hurricane preparedness activities become difficult once winds reach tropical storm force, the hurricane warning is issued 36 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.

Get to Know Brian Boeling

2011-09-07T12:10:00.003-04:00

Brian Boeling joined On Top of the World as the new Director of Golf just a few short months ago and has already made an impact to both staff members and residents. Brian joins the team having supervised state and nationally ranked golf courses such as Palmetto Dunes in Hilton Head Island, SC, Sycamore Hills and Tanglewood in Michigan and Ridgewood Lakes and Bridgewater in Florida. Two of these courses (Palmetto Dunes and Sycamore Hills) were recognized as being in the Top 100 Golf Shops by Golf Digest magazine. Brian has been a Class A member of the PGA for 26 years and has 15 combined tournament wins in both the Mini Tour and PGA Sanctioned Events

Brian was born and raised in Mt. Clemens, Michigan and attended the University of Houston in Texas. He is engaged to be married.

Why was On Top of the World first named "The City of Life?" Why was it changed and named On Top of the World?

2011-08-31T08:42:00.005-04:00

The short answer is that the name “The City of Life” was Mr. Sidney Colen’s idea. He wanted to start a community that was remarkably different from anything he’d done before. He wanted to create a community that could truly be a celebration of life in all its diversity. The community he envisioned was one that was predominantly pedestrian, with cars only allowed on the periphery. Parks would be a prominent feature. The focus of the community would be centered on arts and education…arts of all kind, not so much from an entertainment perspective, but from an experiential level for the residents through their direct participation in the creation of works. In this regard, Mr. Colen was inspired by the success of the community of Chautauqua.

Interestingly enough, part of that original vision is being realized today through the Circle Square Cultural Center and Master the Possibilities Educational Center. Sholom Park is also an extension of that vision, as is the extensive commitment to building a park-like, pedestrian friendly atmosphere along the main thoroughfares within the community.

The thinking was a good 20 years ahead of its time. In many ways, this vision was a forbearer to the architecture movement known as “new urbanism”. The home design followed the theme consistent with being a pedestrian community. Every home had a front porch for sitting. Smaller, neighborhood green spots are distributed throughout the community. The limiting of automobiles proved not too practical. A truce of sorts was declared with the popular integration of golf carts into everyday usage.

So what happened to the name? Well, it never really got traction. Mr. Colen realized that the “On Top of the World” name had a wonderful reputation and excellent recognition already established in Clearwater, FL. Thus, the Ocala, FL community was renamed On Top of the World – Central within nine months of opening. As to the original vision, it had to adapt to the actual market reality: people will not easily part with their automobile(s). All things considered, it took longer to develop the original vision, and yes, there was adaptation along the way.

Mr. Sidney Colen was very proud of the community he inspired and did live long enough to see much of that original vision realized. On Top of the World – Central continues to evolve and refine itself within the broad scope of the original vision. It is a community that deeply respects Mr. Colen’s environmental vision, as well as his admiration for the arts and education.

Take a Walk Down Memory Lane with an Unbelievable Tribute to the Blues Brothers

2011-08-18T15:36:00.004-04:00

Enjoy a fun-filled night as The Alabama Blues Brothers take you on a trip back to the movie theatre! Sing along and laugh at the antics of this amazing real-life brother act and their talented backup band with an unbelievable tribute to the Blues Brothers!

Don’t miss this high energy, dance-in-the-aisle entertainment with The Alabama Blues Brothers Friday, August 19, 2011 at 7 pm at the Circle Square Cultural Center located at 8395 SW 80^th St, Ocala. For more information visit: www.CSCulturalCenter.com, or call 352-854-3670.

The History of On Top of the World Communities, Ocala, FL

2011-08-15T12:57:00.001-04:00

“One of the nation’s 50 best active-adult communities” according to Where to Retire magazine (2011), On Top of the World Communities has become an acknowledged leader in active-adult residential design, as well as a pioneer in building energy-efficient homes.

A comprehensive mix of innovation and value is part of a multi-generational family tradition started by company founder, Sidney Colen, in the 1940s. It was the way Mr. Sidney, as he was called, had operated since 1947, when he began building single-family homes in the St. Petersburg, FL area.

By 1957, he developed Florida’s first community for active-adult buyers and created the first modern condominium community – Clearview Oaks in Clearwater, FL. A decade later, the company began building its next community, On Top of the World, also in Clearwater. Close to 5,000 condominium homes in all were built in that area.

In 1975, Sidney Colen turned his attention to north central Florida and purchased a 12,972-acre cattle ranch established by James Norris in the 1940s – Circle Square Ranch. Colen had a vision to develop this land in a way that combines an innovative, superior lifestyle with friendly and inviting neighborhoods; a vision of preserving the environment and natural beauty together with establishing a tradition of excellence. With the development of a master-planned community at Circle Square Ranch, portions of the land continue to be a working ranch while the remainder of the property moved into a new, carefully thought out phase, maximizing the full potential of the spectacular location and surroundings.

Since the start of construction at On Top of the World Communities in Ocala in the early 1980s, about 4,500 homes have been built in 14 neighborhoods. Development of the Ocala, FL property has been overseen by Colen’s son, Kenneth Colen, who inherited his father’s eye for detail and concern for the environment.

Internet Scams: Don't Be A Victim

2011-08-04T15:26:00.002-04:00

You hear it all the time...someone gets an email from their bank asking to verify their information and ends up losing all of their savings. Or you're happily surfing the internet when a virus scan alert appears on your screen saying you've been infected. You think you're doing the right thing and click on the "SCAN NOW" button and that's when it infects your computer.

There are a lot of scams on the internet and it's important you keep a keen eye on what you're clicking and/or sending. On Top of the World is always on the look-out for the latest news on scams and fraudulent activity on the internet. We have our ear to the ground and will notify you of these scams and dangerous viruses by posting an alert on our Facebook page and Twitter account as well as our resident informational website OTOWINFO.com.

Learn more about the latest scams by reading this article. Stay informed and on your toes!