Wine appreciation is a hobby that I've pursued through membership with various wine clubs, self study and onsite seminars, including the Bordeaux Institute of Wine (Bordeaux, Fr.) and the German Wine Academy (Wiesbaden, Germany). In addition, I've visited over 100 wineries and dialoged with numerous winemakers. I began teaching wine appreciation classes in 1983.

Jay was the lead guitarist in a rock band during the 1960's. The band performed the NYS Pavilion of the World's Fair in Queens, NY.Jay's subsequent "day job" careers included his own practice as a chiropractor and then as a high school chemistry teacher. During that time, he earned a Master's Degree in Education.

Paul Kroll is a highly regarded art teacher with a remarkable career spanning many years. He dedicated his expertise and passion to educating students within the Nazareth Area School District, 94 Friedenstahl Ave, Nazareth, PA., where he instilled a love for art in his students.After retiring from the school, Paul embarked on a new chapter in his teaching journey.

Dr. Daniel Lack received his degree from the SUNY State College of Optometry. He is a Senior Emeritus Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and a Fellow Emeritus of the College of Optometrists in Vision Development. His research on vision and learning and sports vision was published in several optometric journals.

Beverly Lafferty is an RN and Director of Volunteer Services for Hospice of Marion County. She has combined her nursing and management experience to oversee the Hospice of Marion County Volunteer Services department. Prior to her current role, she was Clinical Manager for Legacy House.

Bert has more than 40 years of stained glass art experience. Her first class was completed in 1981. She has attended multiple classes at workshops and trade shows. She also has 30 years experience in the stained glass trade. She has completed multiple stained glass painting classes with world renowned master glass painters Richard Millard and Peter McGrain.

Char Leasor has been a public school teacher for 37 years. She has been teaching rubber stamping and paper crafting for over 20 years. Char is a Fun Stampers Journey Coach and Blogger.

David is a retired Operations Analyst and a current host on the Creating New Pathways Podcast. He enjoys games like chess because they challenge your mind. He is inspired by the writings of Thoreau, Steinbeck, Pirsig and others insightful authors.

Dr. Lossada came to Ocala in 2005 and opened a private practice specializing in Neruology and Psychiatry. She joined Hospice of Marion County in 2007 and became Cheif Medical Officer in 2010. She is board certified as a Diplomate Neurologist and Psychiatrist and belongs to the Board of American Medical Specialities.

Dr. Jason Lundock is an archaeologist and classicist who has worked with such institutions as the British Museum, the Appleton Museum and the Portable Antiquities Scheme. He studied at Harvard University, where he received his ALB in Anthropology and Archaeology. He also received his MA and Ph.D. at King's College London, U. of London.

Deb Machtel has a rich background in training and development and currently channels her expertise into running a successful craft studio. Deb regularly conducts workshops on a variety of crafts, including candle making, hand-knit blankets, door mats, and wood signs.

Helga Malinsky is a Certified Yoga Instructor, former YMCA Fitness Leader, and Author of several Cookbooks and Exercise Books. Helga has presented her wellness workshops at YMCA's, Adult Learning and Recreational Centers, Wellness and Recreational Centers, and on TV in Arizona, Virginia and Florida since 1977.

Amanda Marek is a graduate of the University of Florida, earning her Masters in Forest Resources and Conservation with specialization in Environmental Education. She has worked as a biological science technician and volunteer coordinator at multiple state and national parks and is now your UF/IFAS Marion County Florida-Friendly Landscaping Extension Agent.

Ro is a visual artist with a love of abstract and op-art. She painted 2 large murals in the 80's (New York). After a successful 30 year acting and modeling career, she turned to her love of painting in 2017. Ro has had 4 solo shows and is currently displaying her work in 3 galleries.

Maureen is a group Fitness Instructor, Yoga Instructor and Personal Trainer.

Dennis Meredith is a retired world language teacher and director of cultural education for a not-for -profit cultural immersion program. He has travelled extensively to Europe, Mexico and Costa Rica. Keynote speaker at World Language Conferences.

Dianna Miller is a retired Social Studies teacher with a passion for travel. After years of teaching history, economics, and some geography, she found that she loved traveling to the places she taught about. She loves to share what she has learned about travel to foreign countries and other areas of the United States with budding travelers looking to learn more about land and sea journeys.