>> CELEBRATE THE POWER OF THANKFULNESS. FROM HEARTWARMING STORIES OF APPRECIATION TO PRACTICAL TIPS ON CULTIVATING GRATITUDE DAILY, THIS ISSUE IS A REMINDER TO CHERISH THE LITTLE MOMENTS, EXPRESS THANKFULNESS TO THOSE WE LOVE, AND FIND JOY IN GIVING BACK. LET THIS SEASON BE ONE FILLED WITH GRACE, REFLECTION, AND GRATITUDE. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
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HEARTFELT HOLIDAYS
From giving a helping hand to sharing memorable experiences, check out five thoughtful and creative ways to show appreciation to your loved ones during the holidays!
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This special section puts names to the north central Florida faces who always bring their A-game, keep customers smiling, and continually lead the region into the future. These are the faces of Our Town.
CONTENTS
17 // MAKING MEMORIES
Discover five enjoyable and festive ways to make lasting memories with your loved ones during this holiday season.
22 // LIGHTING UP THE SEASON
Explore Gainesville’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Celebration Pointe, a festive event full of lights and performances.
28 // FROM THE TEACHER’S TOOLBOX
A recurring feature dedicated to empowering parents and teachers with the confidence and tools they need to support development.
36 // WORLDWIDE THANKS
Explore how different countries and cultures celebrate gratitude.
43 // PASSING THE TORCH
Meet the new executive director of the Matheson History Museum: Sal Cumella.
49 // BREAD OF THE MIGHTY
North Central Florida’s largest food bank, fighting food insecurity through community-driven efforts and education.
207 // GRATITUDE JOURNALING
Check out these tips and prompts to help cultivate thankfulness through writing.
212 // SEASONAL STRESSORS
The importance of practicing gratitude during the holiday season to combat stress and enhance well-being.
219 // TURKEY TRADITIONS
Popular Thanksgiving customs in the U.S.
It began as a dream. We envisioned a place where families could sit back and relax after a long day’s work. A place where you could talk, crack a few peanuts and soak up some old-time atmosphere. A place that reflected the warmth and friendliness of downtown beautiful Alachua, Florida. That dream became Conestogas Restaurant.
Now, since September 1988, Conestogas has become an area tradition. We take pride in giving customers exactly what they want. Delicious hand-cut steaks grilled to perfection, fresh seafood, mouth-watering desserts, plus courteous service and a friendly smile - it’s what you can expect at Conestogas.
Reservations are never required, so y’all come on in, relax a spell, enjoy some true Southern Hospitality...and help yourself to the peanuts!
- Rick, Donna, Alex, Dixie, Melissa, Bevin and the Crew of Conestogas
The best kind of facial recognition is face-to-face.
A smiling face helps open your phone and, at Capital City Bank, it helps open lasting relationships. We’re proud of our online banking and app, yet face-to-face is how we get to know you personally and match your financial needs with the best banking solutions. ccbg.com.
PUBLISHER
Charlie Delatorre
PRODUCTION DIRECTORS
Kaloni Dunlap, Brian Knepp
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Ericka Winter Pauley editor@towerpublications.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Dana Bryan, Hanna De La Garza, Dr. Kaytie Milliken, Ashley Rodriguez, Terri Schlichenmeyer, Crystal Smith, Lindsay Schindler, Delaney Starling, Joanna Grey Talbot
INTERNS
Ashley Rodriguez, Delaney Starling
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Jenni Bennett jenni@towerpublications.com
DIRECTOR OF SALES
Nancy Short nancy@towerpublications.com
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OUR TOWN MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED BI-MONTHLY BY TOWER PUBLICATIONS, INC. REPRODUCTION BY ANY MEANS OF THE WHOLE OR PART OF OUR TOWN WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM THE PUBLISHER IS PROHIBITED. VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THE EDITORIAL PAGES DO NOT IMPLY OUR ENDORSEMENT. WE WELCOME YOUR PRODUCT NEWS. INCLUDE PRICES, PHOTOS AND DIGITAL FILES WITH YOUR PRESS RELEASE. PLEASE FORWARD PRODUCT SAMPLES AND MEDIA KITS TO REVIEWS EDITOR, OUR TOWN MAGAZINE, 4400 NW 36TH AVENUE, GAINESVILLE, FL 32606. WE CANNOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR UNSOLICITED PRODUCT SAMPLES.
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Scott Gerber Client Experience Manager
EDITOR’S LETTER
A Grateful Heart
As we celebrate the power of thankfulness in this special holiday issue, I’m reminded of how much gratitude has shaped my life in ways I never expected this year. On January 1, 2024, I found myself in the hospital’s labor and delivery wing, anxiously awaiting my baby girl’s arrival. By the next day, January 2, Phoebe was here, and in that instant, my world was utterly transformed. Her first cry was so soft and sweet, like a little lamb, and I was instantly overwhelmed with love. At that moment, I knew everything had changed. I didn’t realize how much of me would change, too.
They say when you become a mother, you don’t just meet your baby for the first time—you meet a new version of yourself. That couldn’t be truer. After giving birth, I felt both incredibly exhausted and renewed, transformed in ways I didn’t expect. I didn’t look like my old self or feel like my old self—but I found that this new me, the one stepping into motherhood, is stronger and more capable than I ever imagined.
The early months of motherhood are no joke. There were many sleepless nights, moments of self-doubt, and times when I wondered if I was doing anything right. Some days were simply about surviving until the next (and to be honest, some of them still are). But through all the messiness and sleep deprivation new parenthood brings, there are countless moments of incredible joy—holding Phoebe in my arms, hearing her precious little noises, and watching her discover the world. Becoming her mom has been the most challenging and beautiful journey of my life, and for that, I am forever grateful.
As we reflect on gratitude during the holidays, I can’t help but think how important it is to cherish the small moments too. The big, shiny moments are great, but it’s the quiet ones—the unexpected acts of kindness, the times when we show up for one another—that matter the most. Gratitude isn’t always glamorous; sometimes, it’s about simply getting through the day with a thankful heart for one tiny thing. That’s the cool thing about gratitude—a little bit goes a long way.
In this issue, you’ll find heartwarming stories of appreciation and practical ways to cultivate gratitude during holidays and everyday life. Even when life feels chaotic or overwhelming, there is always something to be thankful for. Many times, when things feel upside-down—I believe that’s God working in your favor, shifting your life for your ultimate good. I’ve learned that this is when we should be the most grateful. That’s when the magic happens!
So let’s celebrate all the messy moments, challenges, and blessings this season brings. Whether through a kind word, a heartfelt gesture or simply taking a moment to breathe and appreciate what we already have. Gratitude has the power to shift everything.
Wishing you a season filled with grace, joy, and a grateful heart. Merry Christmas!
Ericka Winter Pauley, Editor-In-Chief
CONTRIBUTORS
DONNA BONNELL
became the author of her column, Embracing Life, more than 20 years ago. She shares her personal challenges and victories with the goal of inspiring her readers to analyze why things happen in their own lives. bonneldj@gmail.com
HANNA DE LA GARZA
is a University of Florida journalism and classical studies graduate. Outside of work, she enjoys finding new places to visit and new activities to try out. hannah.delagarza@ufl.edu
ASHLEY RODRIGUEZ
is a senior journalism major at the University of Florida and a freelance writer. In her free time, she likes to discover new music, learn new languages and play cozy video games. arodriguez34@ufl.edu
CRYSTAL SMITH
is a freelance writer and columnist born and raised in West Texas. She received her B.S. in Journalism in 2006 from the University of Florida. She is in love with the Florida landscape. ces03k@gmail.com
DANA BRYAN
is a UF journalism graduate and a freelance writer. In her free time, she loves to read, write amateur code and watch television. itsdanabryan@gmail.com
DR. KAYTIE MILLIKEN
is a dedicated education consultant empowering parents and teachers with practical, research-based strategies and resources. Born and raised in Alachua County, she is a proud UF graduate. kaytlynn.milliken@gmail.com
DELANEY STARLING
is a freelance writer and a senior journalism major at the University of Florida. When she’s not writing, you can find Delaney pursuing her passion for music, traveling and extreme outdoor activities. delaney.starling@ufl.edu
TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER
has been reading since she was 3 years old and she never goes anywhere without a book. She lives with her two dogs and 11,000 books. Her book reviews are published in more than 200 newspapers and magazines throughout the U.S. and Canada. bookwormsez@yahoo.com
LINDSAY SCHINDLER
is a senior journalism major with a minor in health promotion at the University of Florida. She has played soccer for 19 years and when she’s not writing, she spends her free time at the gym and going on walks. lindsayschindler@ufl.edu
JOANNA GREY TALBOT
is the marketing director for the Matheson History Museum and the author of the blog “Florida Revealed: Dispatches from the Land of Publix, Citrus, and Alligators.” joannagtalbot@gmail.com
PRECIOUS MOMENTS
FIVE WAYS TO SPEND TIME WITH YOUR LOVED ONES THIS SEASON
Making Memories
WRITTEN BY DANA BRYAN
ONE SECOND. ONE HOUR. ONE DAY. ONE MONTH. ONE YEAR. A LIFETIME.
Time passes quicker than our eyes can see, and there’s no time like the present to start making memories with your family. With this in mind, here are five ideas for spending time with your loved ones this holiday season.
EXPERIENCE A WINTER WONDERLAND
With 100,000 twinkling Christmas lights, whimsical music, and widespread holiday cheer, a winter wonderland experience is hard to resist. Winter Wonderland has partnered with the North Central YMCA to provide unique displays, over 10,000 Christmas lights, ornament making, cooking decorating, and a special guest appearance from the one and only Santa Claus. Immerse yourself in an enchanting world of fun brought to life by Santa’s hardworking elves and a ton of Christmas joy. Beginning on
November 29th, this event will take place at YMCA 34th Street in Gainesville, FL. Buy your tickets from: https:// app.gopassage.com/events/winter-wonderland
ENJOY A HOLIDAY SHOW
A classic, creative, and beautiful way to spend an evening, a holiday show will get family members’ minds and hearts into the holiday spirit. The Dance Alive National Ballet will perform The Nutcracker this holiday season from December 19th to 22nd. Watch the inspiring and electrifying dance performance of a truly classic tale. With natural grace and incredible poise, Clara saves the Nutcracker prince. He takes her on a journey to the Kingdom of Sweets, where they encounter the Sugar Plum Fairy. Donned in gorgeous makeup and bejeweled costumes, the magic of The Nutcracker will pirouette its way into your memory forever.
For behind -the-scenes content on the dancers and their previous performances, check out their Instagram: @ dance.alive. To buy tickets, go to: https://performingarts. ufl.edu/events/the-nutcracker-6/
GIVE BACK/ VOLUNTEER
Nothing brings a family closer than working side-byside toward a goal bigger than yourselves. During the holiday season, there are multiple opportunities to pay it forward, such as volunteering at soup kitchens, food banks, and homeless shelters. Most daycare centers, elementary schools, or organizations such as Toys for Tots will happily accept children’s toys. The gracious smile on a young child’s face when they receive a present will instill just how important it is to help spread holiday cheer. Children and adults will also learn invaluable lessons on sharing and spreading love and community outreach.
PLAY BOARD GAMES
Board games are a classic way to enjoy the company of your relatives. Competitive glances and sore loser tantrums provide for big laughs later on and can teach you a lot about people’s personalities. Time inevitably flies by no matter what you do, but when playing a board game with the ones you love, the time passed is well spent. During late nights, for especially intense games, have a few snacks around the house. Competitive spirits intensify in times of hunger. Be careful! There’s one game in particular, with fake properties and colorful money, that has a strong reputation for fraying family relationships (at least for the night) almost as much as it strengthens them (#MONOPOLY).
Time inevitably flies by no matter what you do, but when playing a board game with the ones you love, the time passed is well spent.
CELEBRATE WITH A PARADE (AND MAYBE MEETING A CELEBRITY)
Settle into the hubbub buzz of the holidays while admiring pretty floats and eating delicious foods amongst the community of Gainesville. Celebrate with a parade! Parades are a lovely way to involve the whole family. Between children giggling at the fantastical costumes, adults appreciating the handiwork of the well-constructed floats, and everyone cheering as the town marches down the street, parades bring out the best in all those watching.
On Saturday, December 7th, A Very Gainesville Holiday Parade will take place, moving from W. University Avenue and Sixth Street to 620 E. University Avenue, also known as the Alachua County Public Schools Administration building. The procession begins at noon, and afterward, there will be a dance party and lights celebration. Shaquille O’Neal, businessman and retired basketball star, has been named the parade’s grand marshal. The parade is a new tradition for the city. It was introduced last year and billed as a “celebration by the community, for the community.”
Happy Holidays!
LIGHT UP THE SEASON
Holiday Festivities at Celebration Pointe
In Gainesville, the holiday season unfolds with a dazzling display of festive lights and joyful sounds, transforming Celebration Pointe into a magical winter wonderland. Each year, as the temperatures begin to cool and the days grow shorter, the property is adorned with a captivating array of decorations that invite families, friends, and visitors from across North Florida to embrace the holiday spirit.
WRITTEN BY HANNA DE LA GARZA PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CELEBRATION POINTE
The Promenade, bustling with shops and restaurants, becomes a feast for the senses, featuring an enchanting ornamental archway and vibrant candy cane decorations. Twinkling lights cascade from above, creating a canopy of brightness that dances against the evening sky.
As visitors stroll along Celebration Pointe Avenue, the scene becomes even more enchanting. Towering palm trees are wrapped in shimmering Christmas lights, their fronds glistening like jewels and illuminating the entire area with a warm and inviting glow. The air fills with the cheerful melodies of holiday tunes, enhancing the festive ambiance and encouraging everyone to pause and take in the sights.
At the heart of this vibrant display stands the centerpiece of the celebration—a magnificent tree soaring high in the center of Celebration Pointe Avenue. This towering symbol of the season is adorned with dazzling ornaments, ribbons, and lights that create a breathtaking focal point for all to admire. The sense of wonder builds as the evening approaches, culminating in the highly anticipated Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Scheduled for November 23rd at 6 p.m., this beloved event marks the official start of the holiday festivities. Families and friends gather around the majestic tree, their faces aglow with excitement, eager to witness the moment when the lights illuminate the night sky.
S ince its inception six years ago, the Tree Lighting Ceremony has grown into a major community tradition, attracting people from Gainesville and beyond to experience the warmth and wonder of the season.
The event began shortly after Celebration Pointe started decorating the property, aiming to create a festive atmosphere that would resonate with the local community. Recognizing the need for a holiday gathering that could unify residents and showcase the joy of the season, the
team at Celebration Pointe set out to create something special. They partnered with Christmas Designers Florida, a holiday decorating company known for their work with large developments across the country, bringing their expertise and creativity to transform the space.
An gela Chan, Manager of Marketing at Celebration Pointe, has been involved with the Tree Lighting Ceremony since 2020, and she took over its coordination in 2021. She recalled how the event was met with challenges during this time, particularly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these challenges, she focused on revitalizing the event, introducing new elements while honoring its roots. Chan’s vision for the event was clear: to create a welcoming environment that fostered a sense of community and celebration.
Over the years, Celebration Pointe has partnered with various local groups and schools, highlighting the talents of Gainesville’s youth and fostering a sense of community pride. The event has featured a diverse lineup of local performers, making it a true celebration of the city’s artistic spirit.
One standout group is the Danscompany of Gainesville, a well-respected dance organization that has been enchanting audiences with its performances for over four decades. Known for its dedication to the art of dance, Danscompany provides training and performance opportunities for dancers of all ages. During the Tree Lighting Ceremony, attendees are treated to a sneak peek of their annual production of Cinderella, featuring graceful dancers adorned in beautiful costumes. The elegance and creativity of their performances captivate audiences, igniting the holiday spirit and leaving lasting impressions on all who watch. Adding to the festive atmosphere is RADD Sports Cheer, a dynamic cheerleading program that highlights the skill and energy of its young athletes. With their high-energy
routines and infectious enthusiasm, RADD Sports Cheer brings an extra layer of excitement to the event. Their performances often include acrobatics, stunts, and intricate choreography, demonstrating the hard work and dedication these young athletes put into their craft. The cheerleaders not only uplift the crowd with their spirited performances but also inspire the next generation of cheerleaders, reminding everyone that teamwork and perseverance can lead to remarkable achievements.
Since its inception six years ago, the Tree Lighting Ceremony has grown into a major community tradition, attracting people from Gainesville and beyond to experience the warmth and wonder of the season.
Another c eremony highlight is the Williams Elementary School Choir, a delightful group of young singers who bring traditional holiday tunes to life. The joy and cheer radiating from these elementary school kids as they perform is palpable, making it an emotional experience for many families in attendance. Parents and relatives often gather, filled with pride, to watch their children take the stage. The choir’s performances not only showcase the vocal talents of these young students but also create a heartwarming atmosphere that embodies the spirit of the season. The sight of smiling faces and the sound of harmonious voices serve as a reminder of the joy that comes from community and shared experiences.
A k ey aspect of the Tree Lighting Ceremony is its partnership with the Phoebe Louise Dooley Foundation, a local nonprofit that supports pediatric cancer patients. Dr. Cole Dooley, the foundation’s president, established the organization in honor of his daughter, Phoebe, who was diagnosed with diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, an inoperable brain tumor.
with over 20 years of field experience. Coker Prime is committed to offering the best quality of electrical services.
Dooley connected Celebration Pointe to Dr. Tung Wynn, a University of Florida pediatric specialist. Last year, Wynn invited one of his patients, Grayson, and his family to flip the switch, lighting up the tree and bringing smiles to all in attendance. The joy on Grayson’s face was a moving reminder of the foundation’s mission and the importance of community support during challenging times.
This commitment to the community extends beyond the ceremony itself. Despite all the shopping, dining, and entertainment available, Celebration Pointe strives to be a place for people to congregate and connect.
“Celebration Pointe has always been a place for people to, you know, not only just shop, eat, and play, but to celebrate every day,” Chan said. “We want this to be a community place for everyone to congregate and have fun in a safe environment.”
In addition to the Tree Lighting Ceremony, Celebration Pointe hosts free concerts three times a month, Florida Gators tailgate parties, a weekly market, and more, further
enhancing its role as a community hub.
W hile the details for this year’s event are still being finalized, attendees can expect the same warm atmosphere as in previous years, with even more exciting additions as Celebration Pointe aims to enhance the experience. At 6 p.m. on November 23rd, families, friends, and neighbors will gather once again to ring in the holiday season. The tree lighting has grown each year, drawing larger crowds and becoming a highlight of Gainesville’s holiday season.
The Tree Lighting Ceremony is more than just a celebration of the season—it is a testament to the community’s togetherness and joy. At a time when many are reflecting on the spirit of gratitude, this event provides a moment to pause, appreciate, and share in the collective warmth of the season.
Happy Holidays!
TEACHER’S TOOLBOX
By Dr. Kaytie Milliken
The holidays are here! As cooler weather and shorter daylight hours drive folks indoors, most of us experience a noticeable climb in screen exposure. Children spend time watching holiday movies, playing with newly gifted video games, and using devices for remote learning during school breaks. Parents also become more engaged with screens—using devices for online shopping, planning gatherings, and staying in touch with relatives.
DR. KAYTIE MILLIKEN IS A DEDICATED EDUCATION CONSULTANT EMPOWERING PARENTS AND TEACHERS WITH PRACTICAL, RESEARCH-BASED STRATEGIES AND RESOURCES. BORN AND RAISED IN ALACHUA COUNTY AND A PROUD UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA GRADUATE, KAYTIE COMBINES HER PROFESSIONAL EXPERTISE WITH HER PERSONAL EXPERIENCE AS A MOTHER TO PROVIDE VALUABLE INSIGHTS AND SUPPORT. SHE INVITES YOU TO CONNECT WITH HER ON SOCIAL MEDIA @KAYMILLIKEN OR VIA EMAIL AT KAYTLYNN.MILLIKEN@GMAIL.COM.
Welcome to From The Teacher’s Toolbox: a recurring feature dedicated to empowering you with tools to support children’s growth and development. Each installment will offer practical, research-based techniques and resources to enhance your skills and confidence as a parent or teacher.
What is screen time? Screen time refers to the amount of time spent in front of electronic devices such as televisions, computers, and smartphones for passive, interactive, social, or educational use. While experts agree that less is best, the CDC does provide a general guideline of 0 to 2 hours per day, depending on the screen’s purpose and age of the child.
This season, consider any of the following strategies to help your family find and maintain their balance with screens. Healthy spring habits are built in the winter!
SET REALISTIC LIMITS
Motivation is a combination of value and expectancy of success. We must set achievable screen time goals that allow the child to experience success. For some, a realistic goal is to choose an alternative activity that reduces the daily screen time by 30 minutes. Others might commit to watching only two episodes of TV per day.
MAKE A LIST
Together, create a list of alternative activities and ideas for screen-free hours. Keep this list in a common area for easy reference, especially during difficult transitions.
ESTABLISH
CLEAR BOUNDARIES AND STICK TO THEM—EVEN WHEN
IT’S TOUGH
Changing habitual behavior is hard! Remember that any engagement with an alternative activity, even briefly, is a win! The feelings about it will fluctuate—as feelings tend to do.
REDUCE THE ELEMENT OF SURPRISE
A surprise is often followed by an emotional response. Before pressing play, ensure the child knows approximately how long this session will be and the activity on deck. As soon as it’s time to transition, engage with the child in a positive way (smiles, laughs, snuggles, squeezes) and help kickstart the predetermined activity. Yes, she’ll still feel upset when I remove the iPad, but at least I’ve eliminated the shock factor.
• Remember, children have underdeveloped frontal lobes— the part of the brain responsible for self-control. While temper tantrums are an expected response, reducing the element of surprise can help us avoid them.
OFFER A MOOD-BOOSTING ACTIVITY IMMEDI-
ATELY FOLLOWING SCREEN TIME
Chatting together, dancing, singing, cooking, cuddling, and playing outside are all ways to increase serotonin levels in the brain. Even just a few minutes of undivided attention will prove to be one of your most powerful strategies.
PACK A BUSY BAG
Designate a special bag or backpack to use at restaurants, church, traveling, and other public places. Fill the bag with age-appropriate activities that can act as alternatives to the iPad or phone. Examples include coloring and dry-erase supplies, small MagnaTiles and blocks, reusable stickers, Silly Putty, Mad Libs, and Play-Doh.
• Be proud of how much time your child spends engaged with the other activities—even if he does end up with 15 minutes of YouTube Kids while you finish your meal.
While the seasonal shift does offer opportunities for digital bonding and relaxation, it’s important that we all maintain healthy screen time habits.
SET A GOOD EXAMPLE
He’s more likely to engage in outdoor play if Dad joins him. She’s less likely to resist if I leave my phone in the basket, too. This is because children are social learners, a theory developed by psychologist Albert Bandura (1973). Social learning theory emphasizes the importance of social influence. In short, our children are likely to imitate the behaviors, attitudes, and reactions of those around them. According to a recent survey by Asurion, Americans look at their screens once every two minutes and 43 seconds. Unsurprisingly, many parents report that their phones get in the way of quality time with their children. Roughly 7 in 10 parents (68%) say they are at least sometimes distracted
by their smartphone, with 17% saying this happens often (Pew Research, Parenting Children in the Age of Screens, 2020).
USE PARENTAL CONTROLS
Work smarter, not harder. Most devices have built-in parental controls that allow us to set time limits for the whole device or specific apps. I’m also guilty of underusing the stopwatch and sleep timer features. I’ve found that relying on an objective signal to say, “Times up!” helps reduce the likelihood of begging and negotiating with the adult.
USE SCREEN-FREE ANCHORS
Consistent screen-free anchor times and places increase the level of predictability for children. One family might decide to avoid TV and iPads during all meals to encourage conversation. Another might choose to be screen-free for the first and last hour of the day. You might decide not to allow screens in the bedroom. The only rule is consistency.
Many experts recommend sticking to the anchors even while on vacation or out of routine.
LISTEN TO YOUR INSTINCT
Your heart (or, more likely, your gut) will tell you when you’ve reached a situation that requires an adjustment to the plan. Modeling grace during the meltdown, forgiveness after the slammed door, and flexibility on sick days will prove more valuable than rigidity just for discipline’s sake.
W hile digital entertainment and learning are part of the seasonal charm, maintaining healthy screen habits can help us all create a more fulfilling holiday experience. Setting realistic limits, exploring alternative activities, and modeling positive behavior will guide your family toward a healthier relationship with screens throughout these long winter days.
GRATEFUL HEARTS
5 WAYS TO SHOW APPRECIATION & GRATITUDE TO LOVED ONES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
Heartfelt Holidays
WRITTEN BY DANA BRYAN
THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS ONE OF THE MOST JOYFUL TIMES OF THE YEAR BECAUSE WE GET TO SPEND IT WITH THE PEOPLE WE LOVE, CHERISH, AND ARE PROUD TO CALL OUR OWN. It’s important to take the time out of our busy schedules to appreciate the people we value. There is nothing more rewarding, comforting, or special than spending quality time with family, friends, and significant others. Whether this holiday season means twinkling lights, presents under a Christmas tree, a glowing candle, lighting a menorah, or simply eating a good home-cooked meal — remember to show your loved ones gratitude and appreciation this holiday season.
1. LEND A HELPING HAND
Offer some help with doing the dishes or sweeping the floors. Ask if your kids need help with their homework, and try to work through it together. Fill up your spouse’s gas
tank when running low or restock their skincare favorites in the bathroom. See if you can help a friend or family member with a hard task or situation at work. Do things for the people you love that will help to alleviate stress from their environment. It can be validating and reassuring when a person you trust helps you without instigation. It provides a sense of acknowledgment and shows you are paying attention to not only them but the things that they do. Everyone struggles now and then. Sometimes, people have difficulty not with the task itself but with the sheer number of tasks they must complete. Ticking one or two items off their checklist is a classic and practical way to show them how much you care.
2. CREATE A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE SPECIFICALLY FOR THEM
When we are old and gray, we will remember the quality time we spent with others and the experiences we thought
were worthwhile. Creating a memorable experience catered to your loved one is a beautiful and special way to demonstrate your appreciation and gratitude. Plan the adventure they’ve been wanting to go on. Build a mini, at-home movie theater and watch their favorite movie. Take them to a concert when their favorite artist is performing. The look on their faces would be priceless, and it’s a memory for you and them that will last a lifetime. Take a break and enjoy their company in a way that showcases your deep consideration and appreciation for not just what they do but who they are. People hold memories dear to their hearts for decades. Fifty years from now, they’ll be able to look at you and say, “Remember when we did ‘insert amazing experience’ together? I had never felt more appreciated in my life.”
3. GIVE A THOUGHTFUL GIFT
A tale as old as time. Giving a thoughtful gift to loved ones is a common way to convey appreciation and gratitude. Yet, it can be very challenging to get right. The right gift should show a deeper understanding of the person or group of people. It’ll serve as a reminder of your thanks every time they look at it, a reminder of your relationship’s past, present, and future. Maybe they only glance at the gift once in a blue moon or look at it daily and smile.
It doesn’t have to be expensive or flashy, but they should feel your warmth and affection through the item. When done well, a thoughtful gift is a treasure worth a thousand words — all of which are spoken directly to the heart of your loved one. It’s tricky to get right, but well worth it if you do.
4. PHYSICAL AFFECTION
Physical affection is often considered a way to show appreciation to a significant other. However, it can be shown to a loved one regardless of the relationship – friend, child, parent, neighbor, etc. Physical affection comes in many different forms. It can include a kind hug, a friendly linking of arms, a tender kiss on the cheek, a playful tap on the hand, a tired headrest on your shoulder, and a cozy nap on your lap. After a long, stressful day, small, soft touches might be the best way to show your appreciation. They are undoubtedly underrated. If we are all being honest, the truth we all fear to confess is that, sometimes, you need a hug. A gentle touch at the right moment can send the message, “I hear you. I see you. Thank you.”
5. SAY “THANK YOU”
A simple “thank you” can go a long way. Thank your mom for the delicious meal she made on this special day and the delicious meals she makes on ordinary days. Thank your dad for the lighthearted jokes and earnest smiles he wears, even on the most challenging days. Thank your sibling for the good-natured teasing and camaraderie you could live without, but you don’t have to, thanks to them. Thank your best friend for the listening ear and long conversations that reassert your sanity because God knows you need
someone to vent to about your family. Expressing gratitude and appreciation does not have to be complicated or overwhelming. It can really be as simple as a thank you. Sometimes, that is all a person needs to hear to keep going. Words have power and meaning. Choose to make them count. Choose to say the words you can be proud of, like a timeless, wholehearted, full of sincerity “thank you.”
These are five ways you can show your loved ones appreciation and gratitude, but there are many more. Search for the one best suited to the people you love the most. It could be cheap, expensive, large, small, wild, or calm. It’s up to you. As long as the person feels appreciated, you’ve done your job. Remember to express appreciation and gratitude for the small, discreet gestures from your loved ones just as much as you do for the big, once-a-year gestures. Small moments build up to big moments. Someday, you might find that those small day-to-day gestures meant more to them and you than you realize.
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WORLDWIDE THANKFULNESS
10 Ways Different Countries and Cultures Give Thanks
Giving thanks isn’t specific to a person or a place. It crosses borders, surpasses customs, exceeds distances, ignores time zones, and outlives traditions. It is a thing that we all find the need to do. We just might do it in different ways. Big and small, alone and in groups, loud and quiet, in celebration and mourning, giving thanks is a universal experience. Discover the many ways cultures and countries worldwide choose to give thanks. Some might surprise you; some will feel familiar, and some you might want to try yourself. Showing gratitude can be a unifying experience if you let it.
WRITTEN BY DANA BRYAN
1. GRENADA- THANKSGIVING DAY
Gr enada’s Thanksgiving Day commemorates the anniversary of the 1983 Caribbean and American military intervention in Grenada. On October 25th, a joint military force (the U.S., Barbados, Jamaica, and the members of the Eastern Caribbean Peace Force (ECPF)) landed in Grenada to restore order to the country after the killing of their former prime minister and his colleagues. Determined to express their thanks to the U.S. soldiers, Grenadians made phone calls and sent aircrafts to get food typically associated with American Thanksgiving (turkey, yams, cranberries, and potatoes) to the island. On Thanksgiving Day, many towns and villages with squads of US soldiers invited them to celebrate a Grenadian Thanksgiving, a meal of thanks for their arrival and help. Forty-one years later, it remains a national holiday shared throughout the country. It is celebrated by enjoying a meal with family and friends. Both traditional Grenadian and American Thanksgiving dishes are served.
2. CHINA- THE MOON FESTIVAL/MOONCAKE FESTIVAL
The Moon Festival, also known as the Mooncake Festival, the Mid-Autumn Festival, and Harvest Moon, is one of the biggest holidays celebrated in China. The festival is celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth month of the Chinese lunisolar calendar (the night of the full moon between early September and October). It is a day for friends and family to gather, offer thanks for the fall harvest, and pray for longevity and good fortune. There are several versions of a fable associated with The Moon Festival, the legend of Chang’E. An abbreviated version of the legend explains that Houyi, an expert archer, saved the Earth by shooting down nine of ten suns in the sky. As a reward, the king gifted him an elixir that would send him to the heavens to be remembered forever. Houyi chooses to stay on Earth with his lover, Chang’E. When Houyi’s enemy tries to steal the elixir, Chang’E protects it by drinking it, and she’s been on the moon ever since.
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3. BARBADOS- THE CROP OVER FESTIVAL
The Crop Over Festival is a summer festival from late July to early August. In the 1780s, Barbados was one of the world’s largest sugar cane producers, and Crop Over was a celebration to mark the end of the harvest. During the 1940s and post-World War II, the celebrations dwindled due to the decrease in demand for sugar and the closing of many plantations around the island. However, Crop Over was revived in 1974, infusing other elements of Barbadian culture, life, and heritage. The festival traditionally begins with the Opening Gala, Ceremonial Delivery of the Last Canes, and the crowning of the king and queen of the festival—the most productive male and female cutters of the season. There is calypso and soca music playing, beautiful costumes, prizes, and local food being sold. The festival’s finale is the Grand Kadooment, a massive parade featuring bands playing through many neighborhoods and making their way to the beach for more food and a quick swim.
4. MALAYSIA- KAAMATAN
Kaama tan, Pesta Kaamatan, or Tadau Kaamatan, is a form of a harvest festival mainly observed by the Kadazandusun population, beginning on May 1st and ending with a two-day public holiday and grand celebration on May 30th. It is a period of thanksgiving that marks the beginning of harvest season. It calls for get-togethers and feasts with traditional foods, traditional wear worn by representatives from different districts, folk sports competitions, a singing contest, and traditional dances. According to the tales of the Momolian religious system, Kinoingan (a deity) and his wife, Suminundu, sacrificed their daughter, Huminodun, to save and feed the Kadazandusun people during a famine. Huminodun’s body was transformed into growing rice paddies to feed the people. It was believed that part of her body’s spirit was embodied within the rice. This spirit is known as Bambaazon, which protects the rice crops from floods and continues to feed the people.
5. CANADA- JOUR DE L’ACTION DE GRÂCE
Jour de l’Action de Grâce or Action de grâce translates to thanksgiving in English. Some refer to it as ‘Canadian Thanksgiving’ to differentiate it from its American counterpart. It is a national holiday celebrated on the second Monday in October. Although bearing a resemblance to American Thanksgiving in its food (turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, cranberry, and stuffing), sport (a televised Canadian football doubleheader), and way of celebration (a gathering of family and a parade consisting of floats), the first celebration of Canadian Thanksgiving is thought to take place more than forty years before the Pilgrims arrived in Plymouth. It is more closely connected to the traditions of Europe. It is believed to have taken place in
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MALAYSIA
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Canada when an English explorer arrived in Newfoundland in the 1570s and wanted to give thanks for his safe arrival. The date of the celebration has changed many times over the years, and so has the theme of the holiday. However, it is marked by quality time with family and friends, good food, and joyous moments.
6. SOUTH KOREA- CHUSEOK
Chuseok is a major harvest festival in South Korea. It’s a three-day celebration on the 15th day of the eighth month of the lunar calendar, which typically lands in September or October. It involves family reunions, paying respect to ancestors by visiting one’s hometown, cleaning ancestral graves, and holding memorial rituals. There’s also folk dancing, games, and traditional foods, like songpyeon (rice cakes) and japchae (a noodle dish). According to ancient legend, about 2000 years ago, the king started a monthlong weaving contest between two teams. The losing team would treat the winners to food and drinks. This would become the first Thanksgiving.
7. GHANA- THE HOMOWO FESTIVAL
The Homowo Festival is a monthlong celebration of the harvest by the Ga nation of the Greater Accra area in Ghana. According to legend, the Ga nation experienced a famine during migration due to a lack of rain. They called on their ancestral spirits through libation to bless the farms, and in response, it rained, and the fields produced an abundance of crops. The festival was created to celebrate the harvest. Homowo derives from two Ga words, homo meaning hunger, and wo, meaning to shoot at. Homowo means hooting at hunger. The festival kicks off with planting maize and loudly denouncing hunger. Throughout the month, people march down roads, beat drums, chant, do face painting, and sing. Families get together to resolve any issues. Locals consume traditional foods and pour drinks for the spirits and ancestors.
8. JAPAN- LABOR THANKSGIVING DAY/KINRO KANSHA NO HI
In Japan, Labor Thanksgiving Day is a time to be thankful to workers. On November 23, school children prepare cards and gifts for people in the labor sector, like police officers, firefighters, and doctors, to show appreciation. Businesses congratulate their workers on their dedication, and families get together to have dinner. Labor Thanksgiving Day, or Kinro Kansha no Hi, has occurred for thousands of years and is a modern name for an ancient ritual called Niinamesai. In the ritual, the emperor makes the season’s first offering of freshly harvested rice to the gods and then tastes the rice himself. After World War II, Labor Thanksgiving Day enforced that fundamental human rights were guaranteed, and the postwar Constitution greatly expanded workers’ rights.
9. INDIA-PONGAL
Pongal is a four-day harvest festival celebrated by the Tamil community in South India. It celebrates the Sun, Mother Nature, and the farm animals that help contribute to a bountiful harvest. Pongal is also the name of a sweet rice dish made and eaten during the festival. It’s based on the Tamil word pongu, which means “to boil over.” The four days are traditionally called Bhogi Pongal, Surya Pongal, Maatu Pongal, and Kaanum Pongal. On the first day (Bhogi), a fresh start is signified by cleaning and throwing out old belongings. The second day (Surya) is the primary day, focusing on honoring the Sun god. Colorful floor patterns are drawn at the entrance of one’s home, and each household cooks a fresh pot of rice with milk. Later, people feast on several Pongal dishes prepared specifically for the day. The third day (Maatu) honors the cattle by bathing and adorning cows with beads and flowers. The fourth day (Kaanum) is about strengthening ties in the community. Families gather and have a delicious meal together.
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10. GERMANY- ERNTEDANKFEST
Erntedankfest occurs on the first Sunday in October. It translates to ‘thanks for the harvest festival.’ It is a way to thank God for the g ifts of the harvest. It is typically celebrated with church services, music, dancing, food, and a parade. Many communities elect a Harvest Queen and present her with a wreath of wheat during the parade. Her crown, Erntekrone, is a wreath built on a pole decorated with paper flowers and ribbons. Erntedankfest isn’t a big day for family get-togethers like other places in the world. Some Germans mig ht have only experienced it by watching it on T V. However, like many places in America, after Erntedankfest, the unused food is g iven to those in need. The meals are made with fresh produce harvested from local crops. In some areas, there is an evening service followed by a lantern and torch parade for the children.
Regardless of where you’re from and when you choose to celebrate, g iving thanks is a beautiful thing. This holiday season, remember to proudly express your gratitude for all the wonderful things you have. Happy holidays!
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TO PRESERVE & PROTECT
THE MATHESON HISTORY MUSEUM HIRES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Preservationist of Stories
WRITTEN BY JOANNA GREY TALBOT
PHOTOGRAPHY
COURTESY
OF THE MATHESON HISTORY MUSEUM
THIS YEAR WAS A YEAR OF TRANSITION FOR THE MATHESON HISTORY MUSEUM IN DOWNTOWN GAINESVILLE.
The Mu seum celebrated its thirtieth year with an anniversary sock hop and by hosting its first traveling Smithsonian exhibition – Voices and Votes: Democracy in America. The most significant change, though, was the passing of the baton from Executive Director Kaitlyn Hof-Mahoney to the Museum’s new director, Salvatore J. Cumella.
After serving at the Museum in various roles for nine years (three as director), Hof-Mahoney left to pursue opportunities in grant administration. Hof-Mahoney said, “I have greatly enjoyed the past nine years with the Matheson, and it remains dear to my heart. It has been a privilege to work with each member of our board, staff,
and community to share the vibrant history of Gainesville and Alachua County. I am delighted to hand the reins to Salvatore Cumella. His enthusiasm and strong background in historic preservation is just what the Matheson needs. I am confident that the Museum will continue to flourish under his leadership and look forward to seeing his vision for the future of the Matheson.”
Over the summer, the Museum’s Board of Directors conducted interviews and, at their August meeting, recommended the hiring of Cumella. His first day was September 16th, and he hit the ground running.
Orig inally born in New York, Cumella moved to the Tampa Bay area at the age of seven. He then moved to Gainesville to attend the University of Florida and stayed for over twenty years. From 2015-2016, he served as the City of Gainesville’s Historic Preservation Planner. In 2016,
he moved to Fernandina Beach to serve as the City’s Senior Planner until 2023, when he founded Helios Preservation Consulting, LLC.
With degrees in history/classical studies and historic preservation, Cumella brings a new perspective to the Matheson History Museum but is also proud to continue its tradition of serving Alachua County.
“I am very excited to step into the role of Executive Director,” Cumella said. “Museums must continually evolve and grow to remain relevant and reach new audiences. With a solid foundation already in place, I see a great deal of opportunity to build upon that legacy, guiding the museum and helping it continue to grow and evolve in the future.
The Matheson History Museum has a small but amazingly talented staff, and I am looking forward to working with them to bring our visitors new and exciting programming.”
Telling the stories of our community is what fuels his passion for history.
“What I find truly fascinating is that inspiration doesn’t always come from famous or widely recognized individuals—it often comes from everyday people,” Cumella said. “A conversation with a neighbor, a story from a colleague, or an interaction with a stranger can be just as powerful. Every person’s story adds richness and depth to our collective narrative. In many ways, history is a reflection of all of us—our strugg les, triumphs, and everyday moments.”
As with any new job, the ideas are endless, but Cumella is committed to prioritizing initiatives based on needs and available resources. He plans to focus on the key areas of visitor experience, staffing and volunteers, operations, community partnerships, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Yet, there are also basic facility needs that need to be addressed.
“A major priority will be creating a plan for the rehabilitation of the Matheson House,” he said. “Like many historic
homes, it requires various repairs and upgrades, including structural improvements. Additionally, I see an opportunity to enhance the interpretation of the Matheson collection, connecting this multi-generational family story more deeply to the history and evolution of Alachua County.”
Cumella kno ws the Matheson is not the only local organization that preserves our community’s stories. He wants to continue the Museum’s tradition of supporting and partnering with other organizations and institutions.
“I would love to see more partnerships with other institutions that are dedicated to preserving and interpreting different aspects of our community’s history,” he said. “Many of these organizations, like us, are non-profits and face similar challenges, so there’s great value in coming together to support one another. Looking ahead, I envision the Matheson History Museum becoming a true community hub that serves as a partner and resource for a wide range of organizations with a shared mission of preserving our local heritage.”
“Museums must continually evolve and grow to remain relevant and reach new audiences. With a solid foundation already in place, I see a great deal of opportunity to build upon that legacy, guiding the museum and helping it continue to grow and evolve in the future.”
(Left) Cumella poses for a photo while giving away free trees as part of his work in Fernandina Beach. (Right) Cumella presenting about Cemetery Master Planning at the Association for Gravestone Studies annual conference.
After a national search, the Matheson History Museum Board of Directors is very pleased with its choice of hire. Board President Robert Mounts said, “I am pleased to welcome our new Executive Director, Salvatore Cumella, an experienced Historic Preservation planner. Sal received his Master’s in Historic Preservation from the University of Florida in 2023 and is well-equipped to lead the Matheson and preserve its many historic buildings and collections in the years to come.”
Whether you are a long-time supporter or have never visited the Museum, be sure to stop by to meet Salvatore Cumella and share your story.
Matheson History Museum 513 E. University Avenue Gainesville, FL 32601
352-378-2280
www.mathesonmuseum.org
Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 11 am – 4 pm Free Admission
Cumella is pictured cleaning headstones in a North Carolina cemetery.
Embracing Life
BY DONNA BONNELL
THE POWER OF GRATITUDE
Germany Kent, Author of the “Hope Handbook,” flawlessly explains an extraordinary emotion that many overlook. She says, “Gratitude is one of the most powerful human emotions. Once expressed, it changes attitude, brightens outlook, and broadens our perspective.”
Sometimes it may be difficult to readily acknowledge something to be thankful for, but it is always there waiting for you to notice. I was reminded of that phenomenon on a special day between Hurricanes Helene and Milton. My day began with a lovely breakfast and reunion with my forever friend.
Mar y and I met while working at Oak View Middle School a couple of decades ago and have both retired. We feel like we have known each other longer than the actual limited physical time our paths have crossed. Thus, the reason we call each other forever friends.
Like me, Mary is a storyteller and writer. Moreover, we believe, think, and pray almost identically. Since the COVID pandemic shutdown, we only briefly visited on one occasion. Catching up by telling condensed versions of our lives since 2020 was difficult for two like-minded storytellers.
After we shared our pertinent personal events, we could not help but talk about the current weather situation. I shared with Mary that my husband and I have a small fishing site on Rocky Creek (near Steinhatchee). The quaint rustic dwelling is my husband’s hobby. Over the years he slowly built and enhanced his camp. His joy included sharing the facilities with friends and family. Hurricane Helene pounded the Big Bend area and severely damaged his retreat.
ng to his distress, a few days prior to Hurricane Helene he had a cancerous tumor removed from his forehead. The surgery resulted in 22 stitches. As a diabetic, it was crucial he kept it clean and covered it with a large bandage to heal. He was not to lift heavy items or overexert himself.
Then shocking news hit the headlines. Florida will face the brutal impact of yet another mysterious, monstrous hurricane named Milton. Sadly, much of our sunshine state was already cluttered with mounds of trash and tree remnants. Our west coast communities had not begun to recover from the massive destruction of Hurricane Helene.
My husband could not wait any longer to survey just how bad the situation really was. Concerns about his wound took second place. We already knew from neighbors on Rocky Creek that it was a disaster. Our property was not insured, red flagged by the fire department, and uninhabitable. The first trip to inspect the property was heartbreaking. He and the property were devastated. The second was to retrieve anything salvageable.
The items recovered were small but meaningful. One was a small watertight box. It was meant to be used on a boat to secure important items (wallets, licenses, medications, etc.). It was found nestled in the deep, massive mud covering everything. The only items that remained in perfect condition were inside that plastic box – band-aids. They happened to be the exact size of bandages needed to cover his long surgical incision. To me, that was a good sign and the beginning of recovery.
I asked Mary if I was grasping for straws or if this could be a real message. Without hesitation, she agreed with my analogy. If I had any doubts, she squelched them. We both saw this as a symbol of healing (of medical wounds and loss of property). Furthermore, I felt the waterproof container was emblematic of God’s protection. The positive power of gratitude helped to drown the negative power of Hurricane Helene.
Finding gratitude in my daily life does not mean I do not feel despair or experience difficulties. It only means that it helps me transcend tough times with moments of light and hope. Finding that box and sharing that silly story with a friend who understood helped begin the healing from the devastation of Hurricane Helene. I felt a smile form on my face, and gratitude filled my heart.
Having positive-minded friends helps with life’s journey of gratitude. Mary Chever-Watson has been inspirational in my growth. Check out her blog, “Daily Walks with Mary.” It is easily accessed at marycheverwatson.com
FEEDING HOPE & NOURISHING COMMUNITY
Bread of the Mighty
WRITTEN BY DELANEY STARLING
OVER 47 MILLION AMERICANS ARE CURRENTLY FACING FOOD INSECURITY.
As of 2023, child hunger rates in the U.S. have increased from one in seven to one in five. In Florida alone, nearly 3 million people are food insecure. With these staggering statistics, confronting the issue of hunger could seem like an impossible task. For Bread of the Mighty, these numbers have driven the Gainesville-based non-profit to become the largest food bank in North Central Florida, distributing six million pounds of food to 40,000 Floridians each year.
Bread of the Mighty’s mission began 37 years ago. After being released from prison, Bread of the Mighty founder Greg Von Gragg came home to find his family experiencing food insecurity. Von Gragg decided to use this personal challenge as an opportunity to help thousands of others in the Alachua area overcome similar obstacles. What started
as a modest organization operating out of a small warehouse is now one of the largest food banks in Florida. Five days a week, Bread of the Mighty trucks traverse four counties, Alachua, Gilchrist, Levy, and Union, to deliver a daily average of 25,000 pounds of food to more than 175 food pantries and feeding programs throughout North Central Florida.
The non-profit doesn’t stop at distribution. Assisting communities through nutrition and financial literacy classes has become a core piece behind Bread of the Mighty’s mission of fighting food insecurity. While walking through the warehouse, executive director Patrick Dodd explains, “We understand that it’s not enough just to get food into the hands of community members who need it. We need to get nutritious foods, and we need to help teach them the benefits of a nutritious diet so that we can empower them.”
The typical food pantry is intended to supply goods to individuals. Organizations like Bread of the Mighty are classified as food banks. They operate through a network of partnered non-profits, churches, and homeless shelters to get the food from Bread of the Mighty’s warehouse to those in need. Moving thousands of pounds of food weekly has required Bread of the Mighty to become a well-oiled machine with 20 full-time staff members and countless volunteers. Every food item must be inspected for safety and sorted by category.
Seventy percent of the food donated to the nonprofit comes from partnerships with major grocery stores. Bread of the Mighty purchases the remaining 30% with funds from community donations and grants. Donations from food partnerships used to make up 90% of the nonprofit’s inventory. Over recent years, there has been a 25% decrease in grocery store donations.
“I think one misconception is that we are state and federally funded and are a product of the government welfare safety net,” Dodd said. “But the reality is we only get about 10% of our operating budget from state and federal allocations…about 70 to 75% of it comes directly from donations from community members. So, I mean, we are really run for and by the community.”
As costs have risen, so has the need for the organization’s assistance. Community support, whether monetary or food donations, is essential to the continued progress of the organization’s fight against food insecurity.
Af ter nearly four decades of service, it’s impossible to know how many lives Bread of the Mighty has touched. Where some may see the staggering hunger statistics and only see numbers, Bread of the Mighty employees see people. While talking with a few employees, it was clear their ability to make positive changes in the lives of community members has impacted them as much as those they’ve helped.
Moving thousands of pounds of food weekly has required Bread of the Mighty to become a well-oiled machine with 20 full-time staff members and countless volunteers.
Bread of the Mighty nutrition coordinator Sandra Wilcox teaches nutrition classes in low-income and rural areas, providing information on cooking nutritious meals with food bank ingredients. Wilcox recalls one of her students who, at the beginning of the course, wouldn’t cook meat for fear of making herself seriously ill. The nutrition classes were a transformative experience for the student. Wilcox’s guidance empowered them to cook meals with meat and actively seek out new recipes to try.
“It’s such a rewarding experience to see people have food in their stomach, know where they can get food and what they can do with what they’re getting,” Wilcox said.
Dodd vividly remembers an interaction with a mother who faced food insecurity after being unable to work due to her son’s illness.
“She felt that feeling when you drop 25, 30 pounds into a trunk; there’s just a soft thump you hear. And it was just a very visceral reaction,” he said. “She felt that thump, she felt that through her core, and that was such a relief to her to hear that sound and to think the fact that, okay, this is one thing I can take off a laundry list of different problems I have to try and solve for my family.”
Here’s to the local non-profits and charities our communities are so grateful for this season!
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FARM TALES From Mother Hen
AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE
When November comes along, most of us begin to think of the upcoming holidays. First up is Thanksgiving, the annual day of gratitude. Of course, typically we remember the Pilgrims who survived a perilous journey to the New World, made their settlement and formed a relationship with their new neighbors, the Native Americans.
I can only imagine their thoughts as they met those Native Americans and tried to communi cate with them through sign language. Somehow these brave folks sur vived those first months, and when the harvest gave them hope for survival, they decided to have a feast to give thanks and cele brate the fruits of their labors.
W e’ve all been taught in elementary school the history of the Pilgrims and that first Thanksgiving in the New World, so I don’t need to go into the details of their trials and hardships. Indeed, there were more hardships to come even after that first harvest feast. What we learned from these Pilgrims is the importance of stopping to reflect on what is important. They didn’t dwell on the hard times they had just experienced but recognized the blessings of what they had accomplished.
not to dwell upon the hardships they experienced along the way or worry about what’s to come.
Let’s take a moment to let this thought sink in. I’m hoping to encourage us all to really ponder this and apply it to our daily lives. We all have hurdles to overcome. Whether it is frustrating annoyances, sickness, or heartbreaking tragedies, this is when we need to take on an attitude of gratitude.
You may say there are some tragedies for which you can’t find anything to be grateful for. I acknowledge that fact and have actually experienced some of them myself. The pain is sometimes just too great. At times like these, you must allow yourself to grieve. However, before you can move on, it’s important to find something for which you are grateful. It somehow helps.
The takeaway from their story and the important nugget that can sometimes be missed is that they knew how essential it was to take a moment to give thanks for their blessings,
For most of my life, I have made a habit of journaling. Sometimes, it may just be a line or two about my day, or other times, it may be pages about some event. I find it interesting to look back through the years and see how much has changed or how much is still the same.
W hile going through a particularly difficult time in my life, I came across the idea of keeping a gratitude journal in a magazine I was reading. The idea was to keep a journal strictly to record something you were grateful for each day. It was to form a habit of looking for a daily blessing, be it large or small, and focusing on that instead of the things that went wrong.
Like exercise strengthens your muscles for a healthy body, the gratitude journal strengthens your thoughts for a healthy mind.
The concept is this: no matter how bad your day may be, there is always something to be grateful for. For me, it was as simple as seeing the sunlight glancing off a colorful autumn leaf or watching a duck splashing in a puddle after it rains. Those things bring me joy, but I grew up in the country, so it could be something totally different for you. If I hadn’t been looking for these blessings, though, they would have been lost in the rush of the day.
HEN IS PROUD TO BE A “BABY BOOMER” RAISED ON A FARM POPULATED BY DOGS, CATS, CHICKENS, DUCKS, GEESE, HORSES AND COWS. THE WISDOM SHE GAINED WHILE GROWING UP IN THE COUNTRY CAN’T BE FOUND IN BOOKS. YOU CAN CONTACT MOTHER HEN AT motherhenfarmtales@gmail.com.
MOTHER
The mor e you look for these little nuggets of joy, the better you will get at finding them. When you do, it becomes a habit that lifts your mood and gives you peace. Just like the Pilgrims, let’s learn to stop and take a moment to focus on our blessings … instead of worrying about past struggles or what’s to come.
Whether it is frustrating annoyances, sickness, or heartbreaking tragedies, this is when we need to take on an attitude of gratitude.
So, while you are worried about preparing your turkey dinner or doing your Black Friday shopping, take a moment to step back and look for that special something to write in your journal. An attitude of gratitude can make a big difference in your day.
May your Holidays be blessed … and your New Year be filled with gratitude.
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Where Your Style IS OUR PASSION
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Friday, November 8 at 7:30 p.m.
Santa Fe College Fine Arts, 3000 NW 83rd St.
THE GAINESVILLE ORCHESTRA “THE FIREBIRD”
11/8
GAINESVILLE – Filled with orchestral fireworks, Stravinsky’s beloved “The Firebird” is the story of Prince Ivan, the evil magician Koschei and the magical Firebird. It is paired with Ravel’s delicious and lush “Mother Goose Suite.” Tickets are $22-$52. sfcollege.edu
WOOFSTOCK
Thursday, November 7 from 6 – 10 p.m.
Santa Fe River Ranch, 29220 NW 122nd St.
ALACHUA – This year’s Woofstock promises a groovy evening packed with live tunes, scrumptious eats, refreshing drinks, a killer silent auction, and plenty of funky fun. Over the last eight years, Woofstock has raked in over $300,000 to help furry friends in need. humanesocietyncfl.org
DANCE FOR LIFE – A SUICIDE AWARENESS GALA
Saturday, November 9 at 7 p.m. Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.
GAINESVILLE – Reserved seating price range is $25 for adults, children (18-0) are $15 and UF students are $15. performingarts.ufl.edu
43RD ANNUAL DOWNTOWN FESTIVAL & ART SHOW
Saturday, November 9 and Sunday, November 10 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Downtown Gainesville, 111 E University Ave.
GAINESVILLE – Discover 200+ local and national artists showcasing their extraordinary creations, from paintings and sculptures to jewelry, ceramics, and more—all available for purchase! While you shop, enjoy live music on 4 stages, plus captivating dance and circus performances, and a delicious array of food! gainesvilledowntownartfest.net
MOVIE NIGHT: IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE
Friday, November 15 at 7:30 p.m. Tioga Town Center, 13085 SW 1st Ln.
NEWBERRY – Get in the holiday spirit during Tioga Movie Night, featuring “It’s A Wonderful Life.” Don’t forget those blankets and lawn chairs, and be sure to stop by one of the amazing restaurants to grab dinner before the movie, or pick your food up to-go and enjoy during the show! tiogatowncenter.com
ALACHUA MAIN STREET HARVEST FESTIVAL
Sunday, November 17, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Main Street Alachua, 1500 Bob Hitchcock’s Main St.
ALACHUA – In its 21st year, the Alachua Business League will once again produce the Alachua Main Street Harvest Festival, for one day only. Join live music, a wide variety of food trucks, children’s activities and over 200 unique vendors. Find that special gift for the holidays, indulge in the festival cuisine and just relax for the afternoon with friends! Well behaved, leashed pets are welcome! alachuabusiness.com
FLOWER GROWLER WORKSHOP
Sunday, November 17 at 12 p.m.
Swamp Head Brewery, 3650 SW 42nd Ave.
GANESVILLE – Join Sunny and Share Stems at Swamp Head Brewery for a Flower Growler Workshop. A ticket purchase gets you all the materials needed to make a custom flower arrangement, complete with a 64oz Swamp Head growler vase. One Swamp Head draft beer is included in your ticket price. sunnyandsharestems.com/products
CANDYLAND CHRISTMAS
Thursday, November 21 at 5:30 p.m.
GWC Clubhouse, 2809 W. University Ave.
GAINESVILLE – Kick off the holiday season with this annual fun and festive event featuring fully-decorates trees for chance drawings, holiday décor items for sale and chances to win great prices. Enjoy sipping wine and indulging in delicious holiday hors d’oeuvres and sweets. Tickets are $40 in advance.
gainesvillewomansclub.org
Thursday, November 21 –Sunday, November 24
Black Box Theater, 1800 McCarty Dr. GAINESVILLE – Join the UF College of Arts for the 30th annual production of “Agbedidi” celebrating the diaspora and fusion of African dance cultures and featuring both traditional African Dance and contemporary works. You won’t want to miss this dance spectacular—where diversity is celebrated, differing cultures and dance forms are brought together, and you have the opportunity to get up out of your seats! arts.ufl.edu NOV 21-24
SONGS OF THE SEASON
Friday, November 22 at 7:30 p.m.
Santa Fe College Fine Arts, 3000 NW 83 St. GAINESVILLE – Tickets are $10 - $16. sfcollege.edu
MATILDA
Friday, November 22 – Sunday, December 15
Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd.
GAINESVILLE – The daughter of ignorant parents, Matilda finds refuge in library books, which she reads quickly and begins creating her own stories. Things are no better at school, where Matilda also must face a tyrannical and cruel headmistress, Miss Trunchbull. Matilda finds companionship in her teacher, Miss Honey, as well as her fellow classmates. Brave little Matilda knows she has to stand up against the adults in her world, and in doing so, discovers her own remarkable powers. gcplayhouse.org
A BLACKADDER BLACK FRIDAY
Friday, November 29 at 4 p.m.
Blackadder Brewing Company, 618 NW 60th St. Suite A
GAINESVILLE – The annual bottle release of Hildegard of Bingen goes fast! Brewed without hops, this ale (Gruit) is bittered with herbs: marsh rosemary, sweet gale, meadowsweet, yarrow, elderflower, juniper berries and hibiscus. blackadderbrewing.com
EBENEZER SCROOGE’S BIG GAINESVILLE CHRISTMAS SHOW
Friday, November 29 – Monday, December 23
Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE 2nd Pl.
GAINESVILLE – “A Christmas Carol,” a story about transformations, is transformed into a fast, funny, and highly theatrical reimagining of the most beloved holiday story ever told. The show gives us everything we love about the story of Scrooge, from ‘Bah, Humbug!’ to the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, to Tiny Tim and the Cratchit family. Don’t miss this riotous Dickens mash-up described as fun, fast-moving, full of laughter and festive. thehipp.org
CRAFT FESTIVAL
Saturday, November 30 and Sunday, December 1; 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Stephen C. O’Connell Center, 250 Gale Lemerand Dr. GAINESVILLE – Browse unique merchandise and gifts from over 200 vendors and this annual event showcasing crafts from talented artisans. oconnellcenter.ufl.edu
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
Saturday, November 30 – Monday, December 23
Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE 2nd Pl.
GAINESVILLE – Snowflakes and sleigh rides might not be a Gainesville tradition, but the Hippodrome’s Christmas Carol is. Become a part of the tradition as we celebrate Scrooge’s redemption through music, dancing, and as always, joy. thehipp.org
MOVIE NIGHT AT BO DIDDLEY PLAZA
Friday, December 13 at 7 p.m. Bo Diddley Plaza, 111 E University Ave.
GAINESVILLE – This free public event will include a screening of “Frozen” and refreshments available from purchase from Cosmic Snow Cones and Hot Diggity Dogs. gainesvillefl.gov
12/6
CHRISTKINDLMARKT
Friday, December 6 at 4 – 8 p.m. and Saturday, December 7 at 12 – 8 p.m.
Blackadder Brewing Company, 618 NW 60th St. Suite A
GAINESVILLE – Blackadder Brewing Company’s annual Christkindlmarkt will feature local craft and food vendors, music and holiday fun. blackadderbrewing.com
THE HOLIDAY CHANNEL CHRISTMAS MOVIE WONDERTHON
Friday, December 6 – Sunday, December 22 High Springs Playhouse, 23416 W U.S. Hwy 27
HIGH SPRINGS – Produced by special arrangement with Playscripts. Inc. Directed by Spencer Seeley. Shows are Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. highspringsplayhouse.com
HOLIDAY AT SANTA FE
Saturday, December 7 at 2 p.m.
Santa Fe College Fine Arts, 3000 NW 83 St. GAINESVILLE – sfcollege.edu
LIGHT UP TIOGA
Saturday, December 7 at 5 p.m.
Tioga Town Center, 13085 SW 1st Ln.
NEWBERRY – This year’s event will feature exciting new festive activities and fun for all ages, along with traditional favorites from past years, including the popular Holiday Market. Attendees can enjoy food trucks, special guests, free family-friendly activities, photos with Santa, and much more. Many of Tioga’s beloved businesses, shops, bars, and restaurants will also be open for the occasion. tiogatowncenter.com
THE GAME’S AFOOT
Friday, December 13 – Sunday, December 22 Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 619 S Main St. GAINESVILLE – It is December 1936, and Broadway star William Gillette, admired the world over for his leading role in the play Sherlock Holmes, has invited his fellow cast members to his Connecticut castle for a weekend of revelry. But when one of the guests is stabbed to death, the festivities in this isolated house of tricks and mirrors quickly turn dangerous. acrosstown.org
3RD ANNUAL SANTA PAWS 5K-9
Saturday, December 14 at 8 a.m.
Albert “Ray” Massey Westside Park, 1001 NW 34th St.
GAINESVILLE – The Mills Group Keller Williams presents the pawsitively fun 3rd Annual Santa Paws 5K-9 benefitting The Humane Society of North Central Florida. Get ready to run, walk and wag your tail on the 5K or 10K routes- participants are encouraged to bring their four-legged friends (dogs only)! runsignup.com/santapaws5k9
HOLIDAY MARKETPLACE
Saturday, December 14 at 12 p.m.
Swamp Head Brewery, 3650 SW 42nd Ave. GANESVILLE – Join Shop Otis’s Closet Boutique and Swamp Head Brewery at the brewery for a holiday gift market with some wonderful local businesses. Vendors will have tents set up on the brewery grounds, so bring your friends, grab a beer from the bar and do some last-minute holiday shopping. swamphead.com
CHRISTMAS COOKIE CONTEST
Saturday, December 14 at 2 p.m.
Blackadder Brewing Company, 618 NW 60th St. Suite A
GAINESVILLE – See how your cookie recipe stacks up against the competition. Cookies will be judged according to taste, presentation and originality. Prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd places. One entry per person. sissy@blackadderbrewing.com
SUNDAY WITH SANTA
Sunday, December 15 at 3 p.m.
Blackadder Brewing Company, 618 NW 60th St. Suite A
GAINESVILLE – Kids can enjoy milk and cookies after meeting the big man in red himself and adults can sip in Dragon’s Milk with their cookies or choose from one of the many other holiday draft options. blackadderbrewing.com
EAT. DRINK. BE UGLY.
Thursday, December 19 at 7 p.m.
Blackadder Brewing Company, 618 NW 60th St. Suite A
GAINESVILLE – The 8th Annual Ugly Sweater Contest, Eat. Drink. Be Ugly event will crown the winners for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. blackadderbrewing.com
DANCE ALIVE NATIONAL BALLET PRESENTS: THE NUTCRACKER
Thursday, December 19 – Sunday, December 22 Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.
GAINESVILLE – The all-time family favorite is here again! Everyone needs a hero, and in this case she’s a girl. Sheer magic! Family friendly. Supported by PNC Foundation. performingarts.ufl.edu
MOVIE NIGHT: A CHRISTMAS STORY
Friday, December 20 at 7 p.m. Tioga Town Center, 13085 SW 1st Ln.
NEWBERRY – Get in the holiday spirit during Tioga Movie Night, featuring “A Christmas Story.” Don’t forget those blankets and lawn chairs, and be sure to stop by one of the amazing restaurants to grab dinner before the movie, or pick your food up to-go and enjoy during the show! tiogatowncenter.com
RECURRING EVENTS
HAILE EQUESTRIAN RIDE & WINE
First Fridays at 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Haile Equestrian, 7680 SW 46th Blvd.
GAINESVILLE – Enjoy an adults-only evening of horseback riding, wine, charcuterie and great conversations with us. All riding levels welcome. Tickets are $75 per-person. haileequestrian.com/events
GUIDED WALK AT KANAPAHA
First Saturdays at 10 a.m. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, 4700 SW 58th Dr.
GAINESVILLE – Enjoy a guided tour through Kanapaha Botanical Gardens starting at 10 a.m. the first Saturday of every month. Regular admission price applies for non-members. kanapaha.org
FIRST SUN
BIRDS AND BREWS
First Sundays, Start Times Vary
First Magnitude Brewing Company, 1220 SE Veitch St.
GAINESVILLE – Join volunteers with the Alachua Audubon Society in front of the Maggie sign by the entrance to The Source at 5:45 p.m. for an hour-long birdwatching tour around Depot Park. Return to the brewery to unwind with a drink! fmbrewing.com
ARTIST MEETUP
Second Thursdays from 5:30 – 7 p.m.
Gainesville Fine Arts Association Gallery, 1314 S Main St.
GAINESVILLE – The Gainesville Fine Arts Association is proud to present Artist Meetups every second Thursday of the month from 5:30-7 p.m. Join in the conversation about the current exhibitions. Exhibiting artists are strongly encouraged to attend and speak about their work. This event is free and open to the public. gainesvillefinearts.org
JAZZ ON THE GREEN
Second Saturdays from 7 – 9 p.m.
Celebration Pointe, 5001 Celebration Pointe Ave. Suite 140
GAINESVILLE – Join Celebration Point every second Saturday of the month for live music, food, drinks and more! Spread a blanket under the setting sun, and catch some beautiful music on the green. celebrationpointe.com
GAINESVILLE CARS & COFFEE
Second Sundays from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Whole Foods Market, 3490 SW Archer Rd.
GAINESVILLE – A gathering for automotive enthusiasts of all types from exotics and classics to imports and jalopies. The meet is free to attend; coffee will be provided to attendees, as well as breakfast items for sale. gainesvillecarsandcoffee.com
STORY TIME AT THE ZOO
Third Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.
Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo, 3000 NW 83rd St.
GAINESVILLE – Join the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo and the Alachua County Library every 3rd Wednesday of the month for Story Time at the Zoo! Story time is held in front of the zoo on the lawn and is free for all to attend. If you’d like to visit the zoo after story time, tickets are $8 for adults; $5 for children ages 4-12, seniors over 60 and UF student and staff with Gator 1 card; and free for children 3 and under. Zoo Members and Santa Fe College students, staff and faculty with SF ID are free. sfcollege.edu/zoo
PLAYLIST AT THE POINTE
Fourth Fridays from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Celebration Pointe, 5001 Celebration Pointe Ave.
GAINESVILLE – A music event that offers an eclectic mix of music from a variety of genres – country, rock, soul and more. celebrationpointe.com
TOT TROT
Tuesdays from 9 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
Florida Museum of Natural History, 3215 Hull Rd.
GAINESVILLE – Get your toddler excited about science and natural history! Join Discovery Zone nature ambassadors for an exciting and interactive nature walk. Each program highlights an outdoor area and encourages exploration with a closer look at nature and museum objects. This program promotes sensory experiences, investigation and exploration with a focus on science. Recommended for children ages 2-5 years old (child must be accompanied by an adult chaperone). Tickets are $6 for members and $7 for non-members. floridamuseum.ufl.edu
BIRD WALKS AT THE WETLANDS
Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
(September – May)
Sweetwater Wetlands Park, 325 SW Williston Rd.
GAINESVILLE – Discover the rich diversity of birds at one of north central Florida’s premier birding hotspots during a 2-3-hour guided walking tour. Join us to see why Sweetwater Wetlands Park is the most popular birding destination in the Gainesville area. Walks are free with park admission fee ($5/vehicle) and are offered every Wednesday morning from September 1st though the end of May. alachuaaudubon.org
SeptMay
BARNYARD BUDDIES
Wednesdays at 3 p.m. (September – May) Morningside Nature Center, 3540 E University Ave.
GAINESVILLE – Morningside Living History Farm is hosting an in-person, socially distant Barnyard Buddies program! This one-hour program is free, but online pre-registration through Eventbrite is required on a firstcome-first-served basis. Youngsters, with an adult, can meet and greet farm animals by helping staff with afternoon feeding on the Living History Farm. September – May.
GNV MARKET
Thursdays from 4 – 7 p.m.
Heartwood Soundstage, 619 South Main St.
GAINESVILLE – The GNV Market is Gainesville’s Downtown farmers market every Thursday from 4-7 p.m. Featuring over 40 vendors, fresh produce, live music and craft beer. gnvmarket.com
HIGH SPRINGS FARMERS MARKET
Fridays from 3 – 7 p.m.
23517 NW 185th Rd.
HIGH SPRINGS – Florida grown fruit, vegetables, dairy and meats as well as honey, handmade treats and more. The Farmers Market is produced by The City of High Springs. highsprings.us/farmersmarket
PARKRUN 5K AT DEPOT PARK
Saturdays at 7:30 a.m.
Depot Park, 200 SE Depot Ave.
GAINESVILLE – Parkrun is a free, weekly, timed 5K at Depot Park. Participants can walk, jog or run. The community is encouraged to get active at their fitness and ability level. Parkrun is a global movement that started in the UK and quickly spread across the world. Every Saturday over 1,700 events occur with more than 150,000 participants globally. parkrun.us/depotpark
ALACHUA COUNTY FARMERS’ MARKET
Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
5920 NW 13th St.
GAINESVILLE – Don’t forget to bring shopping bags, your grocery list, and plenty of small bills. This market prides itself on being a grower’s only market – meaning the vendors selling produce, plants and other products must have grown the items themselves. 441market.com
HAILE FARMERS MARKET
Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Haile Plantation Village
GAINESVILLE – Take a stroll down the tree-lined streets of the Haile Village Center to browse for groceries, prepared food and handmade gifts then continue on for more shopping or brunching at the Village Center’s locally-owned shows and restaurants. Covid-19 recommendations: maintain physical distance, don’t touch products, one customer served per vendor at one time and protect yourself and others by wearing facial coverings. hailefarmersmarket.com
Dr. Amir Akhavan has built a reputation for using state-of-the-art orthodontic technology including Invisalign® clear aligners, InBrace Smartwire™ hidden behind the teeth, modern metal and ceramic braces, digital impressions, and more!
Dr. Akhavan embraces creativity and innovation by putting new ideas and sound technology into practice to help his patient receive the best outcome possible.
Visit online or call to set up a complimentary consultation.
Providing orthodontic services to Gainesville, Tioga, Newberry, Alachua and surrounding areas.
Naked Salsa
BY CRYSTAL SMITH
WRITING ****K YOU NOTES
As a good Texas girl, I was raised to understand the value of a well-written Thank-You note. After weddings, birthdays, and pretty much any occasion where you’re given a gift, a good Southern girl will sit down and pen a thoughtful note of gratitude.
Over the past 40 years, I’ve been given a lot of things on my wish list and a lot of things I didn’t ask for. Sometimes it’s hard to find gratitude for those unwelcome surprises. But looking at where my life is now, I can see that so many times I thought I was handed the short end of the stick, I was actually given an incredibly valuable gift.
So I figured it’s time I sat down and penned a few Thank Yous.
DEAR 5TH GRADE TEACHER,
Thanks for never believing in me. No really. When you told my mom that I was a slacker and not going to amount to much, it sent that woman into a Mama Bear rage like I’ve never seen. You didn’t know I had ADHD — none of us did. It was the ‘90s. Girls didn’t get that. Your words were rough, but they also helped me see that I had someone in my corner come hell or high water — my mama. Oh! And by the way — I use Slack on a daily basis at my big girl job that I love, so I found a way to be a productive Slacker after all.
DEAR OLD BOSS,
Hey fella! Thanks for firing me. Well, technically, you didn’t fire me — you had someone else do it. So brave. So corporate. Man, when they called to tell me I was canned for being “too combative,” I didn’t know what to say. I just flashed back to my performance review from three months earlier, where I was hailed as “an absolute joy to work with,” and my only feedback for improvement was to “stop being so self-deprecating” about my work and learn to speak up. LOL. Man…too funny.
blindsided — let go without any real explanation and no clues to go on. But once I found out the seedy underbelly and the real reason for my termination, I started to feel pretty grateful to be cut loose.
Honestly, I mostly want to thank you for the timing. I hear folks are dropping left and right around there now. It’s like a combat zone. But if you had waited any longer to can this combative employee, I would have missed out on the amazing job that fell into my lap a few months after we parted ways. More money AND more fun at work? You think I was a joy to work with back then, you should see me now!
It’s funny — my new boss actually encourages women to speak up in meetings and share their ideas. He’s like… not even scared or anything. He’s actually grateful. And so am I.
DEAR EX-HUSBAND,
Boy, do I owe you a debt of gratitude. First of all, thank you for these two precious girls I get to hang with every day. Your contribution to their existence is appreciated. It just goes to show you that even just a few minutes of effort really can make a difference! These people are cool as hell, and we’re all thankful for the DNA donation.
But even more than that, I want to thank you for every harsh word, every broken promise, and every tear-filled night you gave me. See, I was raised a good Southern girl who was taught that one of the greatest things I could be in life is a good wife and mother. I wrapped my value up so tight in that idea that it strangled any trace of individuality that lingered.
t it took me a minute to feel gratitude for this gift. I really loved my job, and I just felt
I believed the three different marriage counselors that said if I just tried harder, or if I cleaned more, or if I just sucked it up, laid down and fulfilled my “duties as a wife,” I’d earn your approval. But the death of our marriage and the quiet breath I let out that first night alone taught me that I actually never needed it. It’s my job to determine my own worth and value. Not yours. I hired you for the wrong gig — and that’s on me.
So, thank you for showing me that I’m not more valuable when someone else loves me, and I’m not less valuable when they don’t. Now I get to move through life loving myself as a whole person, not as someone who needs a better half. What a gift that has been.
Thanks again, Cr ystal CRYSTAL
2024 Fall
Parade of HomesTM
Dates & Hours:
October 5-6 & 12-13, 2024 12-5 pm Each Day
Admission: Free
Presented by:
The Builders Association of North Central Florida (352) 372-5649 2217 NW 66th Court Gainesville, FL 32653
For More Information: Visit BANCF.com
Welcome
Welcome to the Annual Parade of Homes™ . Since the Parade of Homes debuted in 1958, over 2,150 homes have been showcased in 330 neighborhoods throughout Alachua County and the surrounding areas. The Parade of Homes™ provides residents an opportunity to see the latest in-home innovation, the best in neighborhood design and the newest in energy efficient techniques.
Each year we continue to bring you a wide variety of housing styles, locations and price ranges. This Fall we were excited to feature 11 brand new homes throughout 9 beautiful neighborhoods in Alachua County.
Althoug h this show has passed, we encourage you to check out the products featured in this section of the magazine and join us for the 2025 Spring Parade of Homes™ coming up April 26-27th & May 3-4th!
F or more information on the Parade of Homes ™ , or BANCF, please visit our website at www.BANCF.com. There you will find an easy-to-use classified directory for all your building or remodeling needs, consumer information, and information about the Builders Association and its activities. On behalf of the BANCF Board of Directors and our 475 members, thank you for allowing us to be a part of your lives for over 60 years. We hope you enjoy this year’s Fall Parade of Homes™!
Don Kellogg 2024 BANCF President Lori Willis Parade of Homes™ Co-Chair
Ryan McGriff Parade of Homes™ Co-Chair
Drive around our beautiful community and look at what was most likely built by one of our members. For over 67 years BANCF members have worked together to build our beautiful neighborhoods, homes, schools, shopping centers, churches, office buildings and hospitals.
BANCF members are the experts in their respected fields. They share a common goal of creating a desirable community, fulfilling the American Dream of home ownership and building a strong economy. They know that the best communities are filled with people who work together to improve the quality of life for all its residents. That is why so many members are active in community work, from providing housing opportunities to low-income residents, volunteering in our schools to educating, training and providing scholarships to high school and college students. Our members have been and continue to be a strong and well-respected presence in the community.
They are also committed to the future! Construction provides many career opportunities. BANCF sponsors an Apprenticeship Program where employees can get paid for on-the-job training in Carpentry, HVAC, Plumbing, Electrical and Building Maintenance. Tuition is paid by their employer and technical training is held at the Charles R. Perry Construction Institute at Santa Fe College. In addition, BANCF provides
college scholarships for students interested in construction at Santa Fe College. For more information contact Sara@bancf.com.
Now that you know who we are and what we do, how can we help you? A classified directory of our members is a click away at BANCF.com. Use this resource when thinking about buying a new home, remodeling, home products, services or even where to go out to dinner. Yes, our membership is more than builders and subcontractors. It is filled with many business types that believe in a strong local economy. If you are interested in becoming part of this great organization, contact us at (352) 372-5649 or email membership@bancf.com.
So, whether you are interested in buying your dream home, remodeling your home into the home of your dreams, a career in construction or becoming a part of this great organization, contact the Builders Association of North Central Florida at (352) 372-5649 or visit BANCF.com. We look forward to being your local housing resource!
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Get to Know The Builders
Getting to know your builder is crucial for ensuring a smooth construction process and achieving your dream home.
The next few pages are dedicated to each of our Fall Parade Builders and what makes them unique. These companies range in size, experience, and design philosophy, offering a diverse array of styles and approaches to home construction. Whether you’re drawn to innovative, modern designs or classic, timeless aesthetics, each builder brings their own expertise and vision to the table. By exploring their distinct qualities and specialties, you’ll gain insight into how they can turn your dream home into a reality.
We hope that these profiles will help with the first step in building a strong relationship with your builder and making the journey to your new home more enjoyable and less stressful. A well-chosen builder is not just a contractor but a partner in bringing your dream home to life.
D.R. HORTON, INC
FLETCHER CONSTRUCTION
GW HOMES
AMIRA CUSTOM HOMES
ATLANTIC DESIGN HOMES
HARTLEY BROTHERS
JOHN F. CRAWFORD HOMES
PRIDGEN HOMES
SHAWN LASH SIGNATURE HOMES
TOMMY WATERS CUSTOM HOMES
FALL 2024 PARTICIPATING BUILDERS:
BUILDER SPOTLIGHT:
Corey Amira
License #CRC1331309 14901 Main Street Alachua, FL 32615
Company Profile
After growing up in the construction industry working for his father, who is also a general contractor, Corey realized that building custom homes was his passion. In 2015 Corey founded Amira Custom Homes and decided to specialize in delivering great custom home building experiences to his clients. Corey enjoys helping clients design a plan that fits their needs and wants, and then bringing that plan to fruition through the construction process with his team of top-quality suppliers and subcontractors. Always up for a challenge, we relish the opportunity to build different styles and different designs to fit what our clients are looking for in their custom builds.
Atlantic Design Homes is one of the most highly regarded homebuilding companies in the Gainesville Area. We have designed and built nearly 900 of Gainesville’s most elegant homes on private lots and in subdivisions such as Haile Plantation, Richmond, Mentone, and Town of Tioga. We have a family-run company that has been building homes for 40 years. We are committed to environmentally conscious and energy-saving homes.
Atlantic Design Homes is not just a builder - Atlantic Design is a multi-faceted company bringing you exceptional construction, renovations, design services, and interior design - all under one roof. Our many years of service in all areas of homebuilding will work for you and your family - helping you to find the home of your dreams.
Certified by ALACHUA COUNTY LIVING WAGE PROJECT
In partnership with WE ARE NEUTRAL we employ practices to offset the carbon emissions generated by our construction. Any home or renovation we do for you will leave NO CARBON FOOTPRINT!
From our first home in 1978 to over 1,000,000 homes in 2023, our mission remains the same - to deliver quality and affordability across the country.
Since 2002, more people have chosen D.R. Horton than any other builder. Buy or rent, we have homes and services to provide a home for every stage of life.
At Fletcher Construction, based right here in Gainesville, FL, we’re all about turning your construction dreams into reality. For over 20 years, we’ve been building homes and commercial projects with a focus on quality and customer satisfaction.
We’re a team of experienced professionals who take pride in getting the job done right, whether it’s a custom home or a new restaurant. Our approach is simple: we listen to what you want, work with you every step of the way, and make sure the final result is something we can all be proud of.
We’ve built a strong reputation in Gainesville and the surrounding areas, thanks to our honest, straightforward approach and our attention to detail.
At Fletcher Construction, we don’t just build buildings— we build lasting relationships with our clients. So, whether you’re planning a small renovation or a big new build, g ive us a call. We’d love to help make your vision come to life.
View the home profile that Fletcher Construction is building in the Gloria’s Way subdivision on page 33.
Fletcher Construction, LLC
Blake Fletcher
BUILDER SPOTLIGHT:
GW Homes
Gay Schmitt
G.W. Robinson
License #CRC1331054 6208 NW 43rd Street Gainesville, FL 32653
Company Profile
GW Homes is proud to be a home builder in Alachua County. For over 55 years, we have been designing and building dream homes for our amazing clients. Our vision as a company is to be Florida’s most customer focused home builder, providing utmost convenience in planning and buying, reduced build times, and excellence in sustainability. At GW Homes we plan and execute delivery of thoughtful and efficient homes to our customers. We commit to building homes and neighborhoods known for exemplary quality. We maximize the resources entrusted to us to deliver positive returns. We walk with integrity in the work we do and the relationships we share for the greater purpose of building the Kingdom of God. We aim to create an enjoyable and positive experience. Our team would love to meet with you to discuss making your dream home a reality!
(352) 373-1724
lori.willis@evrealestate.com
www.gw-homes.com
View the home profiles that GW Homes is building in the Laureate Village subdivision on pages 37-38.
BUILDER SPOTLIGHT:
Matthew L. Hartley
License #CGC1520103 1325 NW 53rd Ave., Suite D Gainesville, FL 32609
Company Profile
Hartley Brothers Inc. is a Local Family-Owned Custom Home Builder founded in 1980. Since the company’s founding, the Hartley Brothers have built more than 1,500 Homes in Central Florida. Dedicated to building custom homes that our customers will love for years to come. We have over 100 Floorplans to choose from; or you can customize your own floor plan with the help of our in-house draftsman. Building in Alachua, Gilchrist, Levy, Columbia & Marion Counties. We strive to create an easy, stress-free building experience. We can’t wait to build your dream home.
(352) 332-3912
sales@hartleybrothers.com www.HartleyBrothers.com
View the home profile that Hartley Brothers, Inc. is building in the Wimberley subdivision on page 47.
John F. Crawford, the owner and operator of John F. Crawford Homes, is a renowned building contractor with a deep-rooted commitment to crafting exceptional single-family residential homes. With a legacy spanning three generations, John’s expertise in the home-building industry is both extensive and personal.
A retired combat veteran, John brings the same dedication and precision from his military career to his work in construction. His approach to building is deeply influenced by his experiences, emphasizing attention to detail and a steadfast commitment to excellence. At John F. Crawford Homes, John specializes in design-built homes, guiding each project from concept to completion with a focus on integrating innovative design with functional craftsmanship.
John’s philosophy, “Quality over convenience,” is not just a motto but a principle that drives every aspect of his business. He believes in using only premium products
and delivering superior service, ensuring that each home meets the highest standards of quality and durability. This dedication to excellence has earned him a reputation for creating homes that are not only beautiful but also built to last.
In every project, John F. Crawford honors the traditions of his family’s legacy while embracing modern advancements in home construction. His passion for building and his commitment to quality make him a standout figure in the industry, dedicated to making each client’s vision a reality.
View the home profile that John F. Crawford Homes, LLC is building on page 27.
BUILDER SPOTLIGHT:
Pridgen, Inc.
Jamie Pridgen
License #CBC1255740 13633 NW 14th Place Newberry, FL 32669
Company Profile
The Pridgen family has been building custom homes for over forty years. Our clients come to us for our dedication to creating bright, comfortable luxury homes with a heart for quality, eye for detail, and careful craftsmanship. Pridgen homes are often timeless and transitional in style, but our goal is always to build according to your vision and expectations in the most stress-free manner possible. In every project, we strive to operate with fairness, patience, and understanding of your needs.
Jamie Pridgen is the President and CEO of Pridgen, Inc. He and his interior designer work directly with new clients through the design and building process from Contract to
(352) 494-1417
pridgenhomes@gmail.com
www.PridgenHomesInc.com
Certificate of Occupancy so that you never feel lost in the decision making. Jamie believes in “treating others how you would like to be treated” and as such, he treats his clients with courtesy and respect and leads his team with confidence and efficiency as we craft each home with love, care, and attention, never forgetting the honor we have been given in helping you build your dream home.
View the home profile that Pridgen, Inc. is building in the Town of Tioga on page 43.
Shawn Lash is a second-generation, family builder with deep Gainesville roots. Founded in 1976 by Shawn’s father, Rob, Lash Development has specialized in commercial projects and in building high-end, custom homes. Decades later, Rob’s love for residential construction was instilled in his son, Shawn, who became President of the Company in 2007.
I n January 2022, Shawn distinguished his family’s construction business into two specialized entities, Lash Development which continues to be a leader in our local commercial construction industry, and Shawn Lash Signature Homes, the residential construction division. Shawn Lash Signature Homes is known for its perfect combination of quality, luxury, and comfort while keeping on trend with today’s high-end energy efficiency and building standards.
Shawn’s hands-on approach with his clients defines
(352) 310-5274
info@lashdevelopment.com
www.ShawnLash.com
Shawn Lash Signature Homes as one of Gainesville’s premier custom builders. Unlike franchise builders, Shawn personally works with each client to develop a floor plan that fits both lifestyle and budget. Whether it’s a stock floor plan, a modification of an existing plan, or starting from scratch, Shawn works one-on-one with each client throughout the construction process.
Shawn’s parents taught him the value of honesty, quality, and hard work and he is committed to keeping those lessons alive by exceeding his customers’ expectations in every home he builds. If you are looking for a true custom home builder, Shawn Lash Signature Homes would be honored to build for you.
View the home profile that Shawn Lash Signature Homes is building in the Lexington Place subdivision on page 41.
BUILDER SPOTLIGHT:
Tommy Waters Custom Homes, Inc
Tommy, Derek, & Carly Waters
License #RG291103605
274 NW 137th Drive, Suite 200 Newberry, FL 32669
Company Profile
Continuing a family tradition that started over 65 years ago, Tommy Waters is renowned for crafting many of Gainesville’s unique and high quality residences. His dedication to creating the finest custom homes in the market has established the Tommy Waters brand as a symbol of exceptional workmanship and meticulous attention to detail.
Tommy’s journey in homebuilding began when he was about 10 years old, working alongside his father on weekends. “I started by digging ditches, picking up trash, and sweeping,” he recalls. By the age of 17, he built his first home and participated in the Gainesville Home Builders Parade of Homes, becoming the youngest builder ever featured in the event.
(352) 333-0885
TWCH@tommywaters.com www.TommyWaters.com
Over the past 50 years, Tommy has achieved remarkable success by delivering Gainesville’s most distinctive and innovative home designs. His approach focuses on high levels of customization to ensure each home perfectly matches the buyer’s lifestyle and needs. Tommy takes pride in his “Complete Commitment” to every home he builds, with Tommy, his son Derek, and daughter Carly, and their team maintaining an open and approachable relationship with each client. Your satisfaction, from the initial design to the final walkthrough, is assured.
View the home profile that Tommy Waters Custom Homes, Inc. is building in the Town of Tioga on page 44.
Quality Custom Home Builder
John F. Crawford Homes has always operated under strong values aimed at exceeding client needs. Our communication channels are always open—our relationship with our clients begins on the first day of contact, and only ends once they’re fully satisfied with our work.
• Based out of Alachua
When you hire our services, you can count on us for the results you want and need. Get in touch today, and discover the advantage of working with John F. Crawford Homes.
• Coverage area: Alachua, Bradford, Columbia, Gilchrist, Union counties
• Homes starting in the low 500’s
• Family owned and operated
• VA approved Builder
• In business since 2020
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Custom BuildOn Your Land
Location is everything. Building on your lot ensures that you can be intentional about the location of your new home. When you choose your ideal location, you can decide which lot on the street or cul-de-sac you want to settle in. This creates a unique opportunity to find the ideal location that suits your lifestyle preferences, budget, and long-term building plans.
John F. Crawford Homes (904) 338-5683 sales@johnfcrawfordhomes.com www.johnfcrawfordhomes.com
Parade Home: 16595 SW 15th Avenue, Newberry
Directions to the Neighborhood: From the Newberry Rd exit on I-75, head West on SR 26/Newberry Rd for 6.5 miles. Turn left onto SW 170th Street. Go 1 mile, then turn left onto SW 15th Avenue. Home will be on the right.
John F. Crawford Homes, LLC
John Crawford License #CBC1264448
14368 NW 161st Ave Alachua, FL 32615
16595 SW 15th Avenue, Newberry
2,374 sqft conditioned 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, plus Office
• L arge Front Porch
• Tailor-made Mudroom Bench
• Tongue and Groove Porch Ceiling
• Luxur y Vinyl Plank and Tile throughout
• Exposed Beams
• Custom Site-Built Wood Closets
• Spacious Walk-In Pantry
• Electric Fireplace
• Freestanding Tub in Master Bathroom
• Fully Customized Cabinetry
• Decorative Accent Walls
• Luxurious Quartz Countertops
Zoned for: Archer Elementary, Oakview Middle, Newberry High Schools
Dylan’s Grove, now expanded to add Phase 2A, with 9 estate size lots, from 2.00 acres to 3.95 acres. The homesites are open and level and the forty acres comprising Phase 2A are surrounded by a stand of huge, mature oak trees in the 100 foot wide common buffer. There is an 8 foot wide paved jogging trail, meandering 2 1/2 miles through a wooded buffer, offering real nature focused living. Our trails are tucked away to provide tranquility and pass through large stands of mature trees. DYLAN’S GROVE IS AN OPEN BUILDER NEIGHBORHOOD.
Atlantic Design Homes (352) 378-0521 (352) 318-1108 lucian@atlanticd.com michelle@atlanticd.com www.AtlanticD.com
Parade Home: 19010 SW 21st Place, Newberry
Directions to the Neighborhood: Find the entrance of Dylan’s Grove at SW 188th Street and 15th Avenue. Gates will be open for the Parade of Homes. Drive into the Dylan’s Grove neighborhood, taking first right onto SW 21st Place. On the left you will pass The Lodge, located where Phase 2A begins.
Welcome to Finley Woods, a premier D.R. Horton community featuring upscale new construction homes in Gainesville, FL. Located near Williston Road and under 5 minutes to I-75, Finley Woods is tucked away from the hustling college town of Gainesville in a quaint and family-friendly community.
D.R. Horton, Inc. (352) 282-3155 westcentralflorida@drhorton.com www.drhorton.com/florida/west-central-florida/gainesville/finley-woods
Parade Home: 6045 SW 46th Drive, Gainesville
Directions to the Neighborhood: Head South on I-75, take exit 382 towards FL 121 S/Williston Rd. Travel 1 mile and take a right onto SW 62nd Avenue. In half a mile take a right onto SW 46th Drive. The model sales center will be on your right as you enter Finley Woods.
Dylan’s Grove - 2
4 - Gloria’s Way
Laureate Village - 6 & 7
Finley Woods - 3
9 & 10Town of Tioga
11 - Wimberley
Custom Build - 1
Greg Ridolph
License #CRC057592
3300 SW 34th Ave, Suite 101A
Ocala, FL 34474
6045 SW 46th Drive, Gainesville
2,768 sq ft conditioned
4 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths
• 3 Car Garage
• Stainless steel appliances
• Ceramic tile floor in main living areas
• Smart home technology package
• 9 ft ceilings
• Multi-gen suite with kitchenette
• Kitchen backsplash
• Covered Lanai
• Granite countertops throughout
• Stone accent exterior
• L arge kitchen island
• Community pool and clubhouse
Zoned for: Idylwild Elementary, Kanapaha Middle, and Gainesville High Schools
Gloria’s Way is located west of I-75, near Jonesville. The single-family residential development features 42 large lots near the recently signaled intersection of SW 8th Avenue and SW 122nd Street. Residents have convenient access to the Starbucks, Steeplechase Shopping Center, and Publix Supermarket through interconnecting public roadways through Town of Tioga. Just north of Gloria’s Way on NW 122nd Street is North Florida Regional Medical Center Emergency Center and the coveted Tioga Town Center with Patticakes, Gainesville Health and Fitness, Dave’s New York Deli, Northwest Seafood, World of Beer, along with several other professional offices and fine retailers.
2,660 sqft conditioned 4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths plus Office
• Open concept in living, dining and kitchen areas
• Beautiful Gourmet Kitchen with spacious center island
• Maintenance free lawn
• L arge Lanai
• His/Hers closets
• Coffered ceilings in master bedroom and living room
• Gorgeous solid wood cabinets with Quartz countertops
• Custom Designer details throughout
• Maintenance-free yard
Zoned for Chiles Elementary, Kanapaha Middle, and Buchholz High Schools
fc@thefletchercompanies.com www.TheFletcherCompanies. com
High Springs Main Street
High Springs Main Street
High Springs, a town of a little over 6,000 residents, is full of small-town charm. The High Springs Main Street & Downtown area has many early 20th century homes & buildings still standing. As a railroad town incorporated in 1892, with the rivers and springs nearby, High Springs has consistently grown over the past century into the great small Florida town that it is today.
Parade Home: 19019 High Springs Main Street, High Springs
Directions to the Neighborhood: Take I-75 North from Gainesville & get off on exit 404. Head south on CR 236. Just past High Springs Community School, you’ll see our home on the left, fronting right on Main Street.
Amira Custom Homes
Corey Amira
License #CRC1331309
14901 Main Street Alachua, FL 32615 (352) 327-4409
19019 High Springs Main Street, High Springs 1,611 sqft conditioned 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths
• The ‘Heritage Revival Project’, this home was designed with historical features in mind to fit in with the beautiful homes on Main Street & Downtown High Springs
• Ele vated Front Porch with Stem Wall Foundation
• Anderson ville Handcrafted Brick Wainscoting w/ Brick Accents Throughout House
• S mooth Hardie Siding w/ 4” Reveal Throughout House with Board & Batten Accents
• 5V profile Galvalume Metal Roof on Entire House
• Windsor Pinnacle Wood Clad Double Hung & Casement Windows with Stained Interiors
• Stained Fiberglass Exterior Doors
• Solid C ore 5 Panel Doors Throughout House
• Flat Profile Craftsman Door & Window Trim Throughout House
• Eng ineered Wood Flooring Throughout Common Areas & Bedrooms
• S tained Wood Cabinetry & Quartz Countertops in Kitchen & Baths
Zoned for High Springs Elementary, High Springs Middle, and Santa Fe High Schools
Laureate Village is a beautiful GW Homes Community with over 200 homesites. One of Gainesville’s Finest SW Communities of Luxury homesites. Laureate Village residents will be able to enjoy a beach entry community pool, playground, pickleball, shaded cabanas, putting green and walking trails throughout. Located close to Tioga Town Center, Celebration Pointe and just minutes from UF and Shands.
GW Homes (352) 373-1724 sales@gw-homes.com www.gw-homes.com
Directions to the Neighborhood: From Newberry Road, Turn south on SW 143rd Street, and travel ¼ mile to the entrance of Laureate Village on the right.
Dylan’s Grove - 2
- Gloria’s Laureate Village - 6 & 7
GW Homes
Gay Schmitt
G.W. Robinson
License #CRC1331054
6208 NW 43rd Street
Gainesville, FL 32653
14900 SW 9th Lane, Newberry
4,010 sqft conditioned 4 Bedrooms, 4 ½ Baths, plus a Study, Sunroom, and Loft-Flex Space
This beautiful 2024 Spring Parade Home designed and built by GW Homes doesn’t disappoint. Located on one of the new Sanctuary lots in Laureate Village. This Exquisite home includes 4010 SF of conditioned space with 4 Bedrooms and 4-1/2 Baths plus a Study, Cozy Sunroom, and upstairs Loft-Flex Space . As you enter, this impressive home welcomes you 20ft ceilings enhanced with custom design details such as a stone feature wall, stained coffered beams, and a beautiful Wood panel 2 story fireplace wall. The open, spacious design of the Great Room, dining, and gourmet Kitchen area offer the most in entertaining space and gathering space for the family. The Gourmet Kitchen offers a space for the most discerning of chef’s. Custom Solid Wood Cabinets, Exotic Quartz Counters, LG Signature Appliances, Copper Range hood , Stainless Galley Sink, and a Butler’s Pantry. The Owner’s Retreat includes a vault ceiling with stained beams, a barn entry door to the Owner’s spa bath suite, Enormous Owners Walk-in closet, High tech body shower heads in the glass enclosed walk-in shower, free standing soaking tub, and dual vanities with quartz counters. Designer tile, Moen plumbing fixtures, and beautiful lighting complete this spa bath. The Sun room offers the perfect spot for fun family game nights or a quiet place to land with your favorite book. The Outdoor living space of this special home includes a salt water pool, outdoor summer kitchen and dining space complete with a Gas Grill, Sink, and Refrigerator. The Laureate Village amenities are located close by and include a beach entry pool, pickle ball, basketball, playground and family picnic areas along with miles of walking trails.
Zoned for Archer Elementary, Oakview Middle, and Newberry High Schools
(352) 373-1724
lori.willis@evrealestate.com www.gw-homes.com
649 SW 144th Drive, Newberry
2,331 sqft conditioned 4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, plus Study
GW Homes
Gay Schmitt
G.W. Robinson
License #CRC1331054 6208 NW 43rd Street Gainesville, FL 32653
(352) 373-1724
lori.willis@evrealestate.com www.gw-homes.com
• Solid Wood Cabinets
• Quartz Countertops
• Beautiful Tile Backsplash
• 10’ Ceilings
• Luxury Laminate Wood Plank Flooring
• Stainless Appliance Package
• Upgraded Lighting and Plumbing
• Covered Veranda
• Fully Landscaped Yard
• Paver driveway and Porches
• Smart Home Technology features
• Extended Energy Efficient Package
• Community pool, playground, pickleball, basketball, and walking trails
Zoned for: Archer Elementary, Oakview Middle, and Newberry High Schools
Lexington Place
Nestled in the heart of northwest Gainesville, Lexington Place is conveniently located off NW 39th Avenue and NW 51st Street, close to restaurants, downtown Gainesville, UF, Santa Fe College, UF Health and NFLMC. This upscale, enclave neighborhood features only 18 lots and boasts a beautiful green space complete with a pond and a fountain. Lexington Place is perfect community featuring quality, luxury, and convenience. Come see for yourself why many have chosen this quaint, deed restricted community for their “forever home”.
Shawn Lash Signature Homes (352) 310-5274
info@lashdeveloment.com www.ShawnLash.com
Parade Home: 3566 NW 49th Place, Gainesville
Directions to the Neighborhood: Crossroads: NW 39th Avenue and NW 51st Street
Directions: From NW 43rd St and NW 39th Ave, travel west on NW 39th Ave to traffic light at NW 51st Street. Turn left onto NW 51st Street, then follow the signs to the home.
2,450 sqft conditioned 4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths plus Flex Space
• Elegant Fusion of Quality, Luxury, and Comfort: This home combines high-end energy efficiency with the timeless appeal of French Country design.
• Sophisticated Flooring: Thatcher White Oak Wire Brushed Engineered Hardwood Floors enhance the main living areas and kitchen, offering both elegance and durability.
• Inviting Great Room: Features a striking woodburning fireplace with a stone surround, complemented by cathedral ceilings, rustic wood beams, and built-in shelves.
• Gourmet Chef’s Kitchen: Showcases modern Sand color shaker cabinets and a Jubilee center island, with a convenient walk-in butler’s pantry for effortless meal preparation.
• Luxurious Primary Suite: Highlights a step-up tray ceiling with refined crown molding.
• S pa-like Primary Bath: Includes a modern slipper tub, a shower with a separate handheld head, and spacious walk-in closets that connect to the laundry room.
• Versatile Third Bedroom Suite: Ideal as a media room, additional home office, or guest room, offering flexible use.
• Functional Laundry Room: Features a custom stop-n-drop area with solid surface counters and ample upper and lower cabinetry.
• Comple te Summer Kitchen: Designed for outdoor entertaining with lower cabinetry, solid surface countertops, a gas grill, and an exhaust chase.
• High-End Energy Efficiency: Equipped with spray foam insulation in the ceiling and 6-inch thick walls, a tankless water heater, and other standard upgrades featured in all Shawn Lash Signature Homes.
Zoned for: Glen Springs Elementary, Fort Clark Middle, and FW Buchholz High Schools
(352) 310-5274
info@lashdevelopment.com www.ShawnLash.com
Town of Tioga
Town of Tioga
Town of Tioga is a jewel of Alachua County as well as a blueprint for modern-day community developments nationwide. Tioga has been the recipient of national and local awards and continues to be recognized specifically for its natural features, amenities, Town Center, pedestrian paths, and plentiful common areas.
Pridgen Homes, Inc. (352) 494-1417 pridgenhomes@gmail.com www.pridgenhomesinc.com
Parade Home: 13400 SW 11th Rd, Tioga
Tommy Waters Custom Homes (352) 333-0885
TWCH@tommywaters.com www.tommywaters.com
Parade Home: 1025 SW 136th Street, Tioga
Directions to the Neighborhood: From I-75: 4 miles West on HWY 26 (Newberry Rd.) turn left onto SW 131st Street (into Town of Tioga), cross 8th Ave and continue on SW 131st.
Dylan’s Grove - 2
4 - Gloria’s Way
Laureate Village - 6 & 7
Finley Woods - 3 Lexington Place - 8
9 & 10Town of Tioga
11 - Wimberley
Custom Build - 1
Jamie Pridgen
License #CBC1255740
13633 NW 14th Place
Newberry, FL 32669
13400 SW 11th Rd, Tioga
2,278 sqft conditioned 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, plus Office and Sunroom
• Upgr aded trim package, including built-in entertainment center in the Family Room, decorative wall paneling in the Office, crown molding in the main areas, and cased out windows everywhere
• Quartz countertops everywhere
• L aminate closet shelving in the master closet
• Stained wood beams in the Family Room
• Paver patio in the back
• Sunroom featuring a wall of tall windows, and separated from the Family Room and back patio by stained wood French doors
• Stained wood French doors to the Office
• Solid wood cabinetry with soft close doors and drawers throughout
• Spray foam insulation
• L andscape and irrigation, white vinyl fence
Zoned for Meadowbrook Elementary, Kanapaha Middle, Buchholz High Schools
(352) 494-1417
pridgenhomes@gmail.com
www.PridgenHomesInc.com
Tommy Waters Custom Homes, Inc
Tommy, Derek, & Carly Waters
License #RG291103605
274 NW 137th Drive, Suite 200 Newberry, FL 32669
1025 SW 136th Street, Tioga
3,243 sqft conditioned 4 Bedrooms, 4.5 Baths
• Located on a 0.18 acre lot in Town of Tioga, next to a spacious common area and nature trail with a beautiful Oak tree canopy.
• Luxur y two-story Transitional style home made with quality and detailed construction in the Waters Tradition.
• Two car garage
• Unique courtyard design, custom designed pool and spa with a lanai over 600 Sqft of entertaining space and a summer kitchen
• Open Great Room with 12’ ceilings, sliding glass door, floating shelves and tile-faced gas fireplace.
• European style kitchen cabinets made by HKB with a large entertaining island, Galley sink, Hide-a-door walk-in pantry with an appliance counter, and a KitchenAid appliance package.
• Ov ersized open dining room with large windows
• French doors to a bright and private study
• Grand Master Suite with two custom designed walk in closets, elegant master bathroom
• All en-sui te bedrooms, upstairs room has private entry access, could be a great in law suite, additional bedroom or bonus room.
• L arge laundry room with laundry sink and folding counter.
• Energy efficient Carrier infinity zoned A/C, open call foam insulation, natural gas, and tankless water heater.
Zoned for: Meadowbrook Elementary, Kanapaha Middle, and Buchholz High Schools
(352) 333-0885
TWCH@tommywaters.com www.TommyWaters.com
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Wimberley
Wimberley
Wimberley is a quaint 46 lot community situated on over 32 acres featuring 1/4, 1/3 and 1/2 acre lots. Located on SW 8th Avenue at the intersection of SW 143rd Street, just south of Jonesville and adjacent to Town of Tioga and Tioga Town Center. Almost every lot backs common area with no neighbor directly behind!
From Newberry Road and I-75, west on Newberry Road past Tioga. Left at light in Jonesville on NW 143 St. At the roundabout, turn Left onto SW 8th Avenue and first Left into Wimberley.
Dylan’s Grove - 2
4 - Gloria’s Way
Laureate Village - 6 & 7
Finley Woods - 3
9 & 10Town of Tioga
11 - Wimberley
Custom Build - 1
Hartley Brothers, Inc.
Matthew L. Hartley
License #CGC1520103
1325 NW 53rd Ave., Suite D
Gainesville, FL 32609
14086 SW 7th Place, Newberry
2,715 sqft conditioned 4 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths, plus Home Office
• Gourme t Kitchen with Hardwood Cabinets and Quartz Countertops
• Butler Pantry with built in shelving, 2nd Refrigerator, sink and microwave
• Master Suite with French Doors to Rear Lanai
• Elegan t Master Bath with oversized Walk-in Tile Shower & Freestanding Tub
• Fireplace with Stone Wall from Floor to Ceiling
• Spacious Outdoor Living with Covered Rear Lanai and Outdoor Kitchen for Entertaining
• 12’ Ceilings in Foyer and Main Living Room
• Drop-N-Go in Valet area, complete with bench and storage cubbies
• Low maintenance Hardi-board exterior with stone accents
• Luxur y Vinyl Plank Flooring
• Ener gy efficient insulated windows, tankless water heater
Zoned for: Meadowbrook Elementary, Kanapaha Middle and Buchholz High Schools
(352) 332-3912
sales@hartleybrothers.com www.HartleyBrothers.com
2024 Directory
Company Name
Primar y Phone #
2 College Brothers, Inc. (352) 448-9095
2-10 Home Buyers Warranty (904) 814-5874
3002 Surveying (833) 352-3002
352 Electric, LLC (352) 284-6702
352 Hauling Crew & Junk Removal (352) 519-6917
441 Self Storage, LLC (352) 318-8050
A
A Beautiful Yard, Inc (352) 338-1400
A Quality Pool Service (352) 246-1350
A.E.S. Inc. of SE US (352) 546-1157
A+ Air Conditioning & Refrigeration, Inc. (352) 374-4988
Aaron Vurgason Electric & Automation (352) 363-9246
ABC Supply (352) 336-5372
Ace Contracting Enterprises, Inc. (727) 725-5513
Acentria Insurance (352) 505-1953
Acousti Engineering Company of Florida (386) 462-9900
Action Labor and Staffing Connection (352) 372-1611
Advanced Building Concepts, Inc (352) 379-0898
Aggressive Appliances (407) 295-4489
AKEA, Inc. (352) 474-6124
Alachua Blinds and More (352) 494-4778
Alachua County Property Appraiser (352) 374-5230
Alachua Environmental Services, Inc. (904) 259-6200
Mollman Air Conditioning and (352) 339-6640 Refrigeration, LLC
Monarch Design Group (352) 378-4400
Moody, Salzman, Lash & Locigno (352) 373-6791
Mosquito Joe (352) 380-1474
N
Nalbandian Properties, LLC (352) 372-2222
Natural Elements Painting (352) 514-0005 and Repair, LLC
NCCER-National Center of (386) 518-6936 Construction Education Research
NCF Electrical Services (904) 263-3977
Neighborhood Housing & (352) 380-9119 Development Corporation
Nelson & Company, LLC (904) 807-9899
Nemer Construction, LLC (352) 870-5259
Newmans Heating & A/C, Inc (352) 375-8555
Newsome Well and Septic (386) 462-7745
Niesen, Price, Worthy & Campo, PA (352) 373-9031
No Wy Solutions, LLC (352) 672-3210
Norfleet Construction, Inc (352) 472-5780
O
OEC Business Interiors, Inc. (352) 332-1192
Oelrich Construction, Inc. (352) 745-7877
Oldcastle APG South, Inc. dba Coastal (352) 377-1699
Oliver Electrical Services (352) 339-4099
One Stop Painting & Flooring, Inc. (352) 401-7600
O’Steen Brothers Inc (352) 376-1634
P
Parrish McCall Constructors, Inc. (352) 378-1571
Patrice Boyes, P.A. (352) 372-2684
Pavlov Media (904) 874-4229
PeachTree Hospitality Management (404) 497-4111
Perry Roofing Contractors (352) 371-8971
PHOS Creative (352) 505-3626
Pinnacle Site Solutions, LLC (352) 727-4532
Planned Furnishings (352) 372-1280
Porta Serve (386) 454-0929
Portal Realty (352) 222-4850
Power Production Management, Inc (866) 828-3337
Precise Concrete & Masonry, Inc. (352) 536-5878
Precision Glass, Inc (352) 336-4060
Precision Window Cleaning (352) 507-5635
Preferred Plumbing of Gainesville, LLC (352) 641-6201
Prestige Electric, Inc. (352) 745-0650
Preston-Link Electric, Inc. (352) 373-3516
Pridgen Homes, Inc. (352) 475-5500
Princess Portable Toilets, LLC (352) 317-2527
Pro Services of North Florida (352) 317-2688
Proforma Premier Branding (772) 486-6333
Project YouthBuild (352) 225-3307
Purvis Gray & Company LLP (352) 378-2461
Q
Qualified Plumbing Services Inc (352) 222-2640
Quality Plumbing (352) 377-1009
R
R&R Construction, Inc. (352) 371-2711
R.J. Cameron Construction, Inc. (352) 281-6435
Radiant Credit Union (352) 381-5291
Randy Lewis Electric Inc (352) 463-2554
Ratner Construction (352) 358-1128
Ray French AC & Heating, Inc (352) 372-3705
RBI Electrical Contracting LLC (352) 514-0428
RE Robinson Remodeling & (352) 375-7917
Custom Builder, LLC
Re/Max Professionals (352) 375-1002
Reagan Potts-Edward Jones Investments (386) 462-0417
Rebuilding Together North (352) 373-2573
Central Florida, Inc.
Redline Electric (352) 226-5134
Regions Bank (352) 854-4160
Renaissance Printing (352) 514-7322
Renaissance Windows & Doors (904) 469-3499
Renasant Bank (352) 224-1904
Richardsean Construction, Inc (904) 687-6915
Ridgway Enterprises Inc. (352) 372-4337
Ridgway Roof Truss (352) 376-4436
Ring Power Corporation (352) 371-9983
RISE CONSTRUCTION GROUP LLC (352) 218-7008
Riverbend Electric (352) 448-9833
Robert J. Young Company, LLC (352) 240-3696
Robinson Renovation & (352) 333-9566
Custom Homes, Inc.
Ro-Mac Lumber & Supply, Inc. (352) 622-7099
Ron’s Window Covering Service (352) 538-0001
Rosenboom Construction Inc (352) 538-3877
Rosselle Consulting Inc. (352) 373-7741
Roving Dumps, LLC / (352) 995-0066
Mobiledumps Gainesville - Ocala
Ruiz Plumbing Industries, Inc (352) 484-1143
RunBrook (833) 786-2766
RWPC Inc. (386) 462-0660
S
S.E. WILLIAMS ELECTRIC INC (352) 372-3324
S.I. Goldman Co., Inc. (352) 367-0200
Salter Feiber, P.A. (352) 376-8201
Saltwater Builders, LLC (352) 498-5900
Sandberg Phoenix & Von Gontard, P.C. (352) 260-0128
Santa Fe College - Building Construction (352) 395-5251
Santa Fe Electric, Inc. (352) 468-1602
Santa Fe Ford (352) 262-3673
Sarah Cain Design (352) 284-8299
Scarborough Plumbing LLC (352) 472-7385
Scherer Construction of (352) 371-1417
North Florida LLC
Scorpio. (352) 363-6070
Seacoast Bank (352) 375-1889
Secur-Tel Security Systems (386) 462-5558
SERVPRO of East Gainesville (352) 732-4817
SERVPRO of Gainesville West/ (352) 374-6589
Alachua County West
SFC-Facilities Operations (352) 395-5567
Shannon Homes of Gainesville, Inc. (352) 331-8801
Shea’s Glass Company (352) 372-4353
Sherwin-Williams (352) 258-1332
Shore Builders, Inc. (352) 339-3322
Signs By Tomorrow (352) 367-4645
Silcox Painting, Inc. (352) 215-0852
Skobel Homes (352) 505-9100
Sloan’s Property & (352) 477-0146
Land Management, LLC
Snap Electric LLC (352) 275-3278
SnG Pavement Marking, Inc. (352) 378-2636
Solar Impact, Inc. (352) 338-8221
Sound Ideas (352) 378-0192
South State Bank (352) 416-0330
Southeast Perimeter Solutions, Inc. (386) 454-2329
Southern Air Systems (352) 472-2920
Southern Atlantic Electric Co., Inc. (904) 268-3009
Southern Escapes, LLC (352) 318-4959
Southern Static Electric LLC (352) 438-4057
Southern Style Plastering & Stucco (386) 454-8330
Spain & Cooper Homes, LLC (352) 376-6372
Spray-Net First Coast (904) 248-1881
Stellar Services (352) 359-4903
Sterling Builders Group, LLC (352) 234-3201
Steve Dublin Homes, Inc. (352) 375-0032
Straight Line Construction (352) 453-9609 of Gainesville, LLC
Studio MJG (352) 226-8061
Successful Living II (352) 505-0578
Summit Fire and Security (407) 469-2134
Sunbelt Rentals (352) 224-7077
Sunshine Plumbing and Gas (352) 339-5791
Superior Finish LLC (352) 538-6272
Superior Plaster (352) 538-7224
Sweeping Beauties in the (347) 758-2845
Sunshine State, Inc
T
Tadlock Roofing (352) 658-7117
Taylor, Cotton & Ridley, Inc. (352) 378-1608
TD Bank (352) 494-6454
Teamlogic IT 60918 (352) 745-3993
The Best Restoration, LLC (352) 505-3321
The Flanagan Companies Inc (352) 336-0743
The Fund (Attorneys’ Title Fund (904) 761-3001 Services, LLC)
The Wood Doctor Tree Service (352) 816-0826
The Wood Stove and Fireplace Center (352) 377-9535
Think Technologies Group, LLC (352) 789-6043 x122
Thrivent Financial (352) 226-8000
Tioga Realty (352) 333-3009
Titan Chevrolet (904) 657-0788
Titan Electric Southeast (407) 670-4080
Titletown Plumbing LLC (352) 318-8782
T-MOBILE (352) 446-1866
Tommy Waters Custom Homes (352) 333-0885
Top Dog Painting and Repair, LLC (352) 235-4060
Top Hog BBQ (352) 554-4019
Tower Publications, Inc. (352) 416-0207
Trane Residential HVAC (352) 231-4746
Trimark Properties (352) 376-6223
Trinity Fabricators, Inc. (904) 284-9657 x102
True Force Roofing LLC (352) 900-5149
Truist Bank (352) 538-3659
Two Men And A Truck (352) 372-0300
Tyrone and Sons Plumbing LLC (352) 231-2105
U
UF Mover Guys LLC (352) 415-0886
UF Small Business & Supplier Diversity (352) 392-0380
Universal Engineering Sciences (352) 372-3392
University of Florida - TREEO Center (352) 294-3879
University of Florida Facilities Services(352) 294-0662
Utility Service of Gainesville, Inc (352) 377-1511
V
V E Whitehurst & Sons Inc (352) 528-2101
Van Goettling Masonry, Inc. (352) 372-2379
Verdex Construction, LLC (352) 389-4295
Vintage Electric Inc. (352) 371-8021
Vision Construction, Inc. (352) 745-2469
VyStar Credit Union (904) 571-6526
WW W Gay Mechanical Contractor (352) 264-2600
Waldorff Insurance & Bonding, Inc. (352) 374-7779
Walker Architects, Inc. (352) 672-6448
Warner, Sechrest & Butts, PA (352) 373-5922
Warring Homes, Inc. (352) 333-8400
Waste Pro of Florida, Inc.- (386) 462-2500
Gainesville Division
Watson C&D, LLC (352) 495-9948
Watson Realty Corp. (352) 377-8899
WB Howland Co. (386) 362-1235
WCJB TV20 (352) 416-0665
WH Construction, LLC (352) 234-3534
Whitfield Window & Door Inc. (386) 454-0295
Whitslar’s Pressure Washing LLC (352) 346-5414
William Weseman Construction (352) 371-1828
Wilson Heat & Air Inc. (386) 496-9000
WJ Bergin Cabinetry (407) 271-8982
Wolf Security Systems, LLC (352) 332-8185
Wood’s Electrical Services, Inc (386) 623-1132
Work Comp Specialists Insurance Agency (352) 219-5855
Wrap Spot (352) 872-5363
Y
Yankopolus Architecture and (352) 358-1267 Design Studio,LLC
Z
Zsolt Granite Corporation (352) 214-3080
your so-c alled golden years. And i t is that – but eover, it’s about getting there healthy and set up to them.
a time when life expectancy in America is lagging, important information to have – and when it comes A ARP’s chief public policy officer, you know you can it. Author Debra W hitman uses plenty of real-life xamples to make her advice as relevant as possible, and she says will make readers take a hard look at their to spot where even the most minor changes can make most sig nificant dif ferences. W hitman also invites eaders to c onsider the ne xt gener ation b y be coming tivists for enhanced health care benefits, safer senior housing, eliminating racial and geographical differences ing, and better ways to pay for nursing homes and memor y care.
That makes this a great handbook for anyone over age but it’s also a map for midlife, too, and don’t be surprised our 20-something picks it up. If any of you are hoping etirement someday, “The Second Fifty” should be part f your plans.
TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER HAS BEEN READING SINCE SHE WAS 3 YEARS OLD AND SHE NEVER GOES ANYWHERE WITHOUT A BOOK. SHE LIVES WITH HER TWO DOGS AND 11,000 BOOKS. HER BOOK REVIEWS ARE PUBLISHED IN MORE THAN
Date:
Tried and true. Locally loved. Contributors to our community. This special section of Our Town puts names to the north central Florida faces who always bring their A-game, keep customers smiling and continually lead the region into the future. Look for these special photo pages throughout this issue. These are the faces of Our Town.
From relaxing outside in the beautiful Promenade to shopping for your gameday gear, there are a number of amazing things to do at Celebration Pointe. Located on west Archer Road, just off I-75. Celebration Pointe is the perfect place for area residents to gather for unlimited celebration. Celebrate wins with events like Chomp the Block, the block parties before UF Football home games, or the monthly music events, KISS FM and Playlist @ the Pointe. Looking to enjoy your day with shopping, dining, and playing? it’s never been easier than at Celebration Pointe. Shop your individual style at stores like Nike Factory Store, Palmetto Moon, Tommy Hilfinger and more. Or dine at restaurants like Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille + Visor’s or dig into a mouthwatering steak at Prime & Pearl. Keep the family entertained by playing some games at Dave & Buster’s. Or enter into an escape room at Escapology or watching the latest blockbuster at Regal Cinemas. There’s more to the Pointe, at Celebration Pointe.
THE FACE OF LEGENDARY FOOD
Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille
Steve and Jerri Spurrier
Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille, a locally owned polished casual restaurant has a menu of elevated, Field-to-Fork fan favorites. Each dish is made from scratch daily with fresh ingredients from area farms and pastures. Try our renowned Brazilian Cheesy Rolls, Short Rib and Wild Mushroom Risotto, the vegetarian Eggplant Rollatini, or the gluten-free Blackened Redfish. Don’t miss the premier weekend brunch buffet in North Central Florida or our weekly specials, like 50% off selected martinis on ‘Tini Tuesday, Wine Lover’s Wednesday with 50% off bottles of wine, and a dynamic menu of old fashioneds every Thursday. Visit the newly renovated Visors Rooftop, the perfect place to watch the game, hang out with friends, or wait for your reservation from a climate-controlled space great for all kinds of weather. From date night to celebrations to private events, Gainesville’s best dining experience is at Spurrier’s.
“It seems to me that in the restaurant business, your best defense is a great space and your best offense is great food!” – Steve Spurrier
The ford franchise in Alachua was purchased from Symder Ford in 1988 by John Waitcus and was renamed Santa Fe Ford. Greg Waitcus was appointed vice president and general manager and has successfully managed Santa Fe Ford for 36 years. Santa Fe Ford now offers Mobile service at your home or work locations. We have four mobile units operated by trained technicians, managed by Morgan Waitcus. Our Quicklane is now open! We offer mobile service bringing expert technicians to your location for maintenance and repairs for all foreign and domestic manufacturers. We have all major tire manufacturers and our prices will not be beat. Book now on our website, or call us and enjoy top-notch service at your doorstep! THE FACE OF YOUR
Santa Fe Ford
From left to right: Susan Luttrell-Waitcus, Morgan Lutrrell-Waitcus, John Waitcus, Greg Waitcus 16330 NW US HWY 441, ALACHUA, FL 32615 (866) 371-2255 SANTA-FE-FORD.COM
ConnectSmart Systems is passionate about providing security solutions for your home and business.It is a veteran owned business. Founder, Jon Doles, has an experienced and successful history in the security alarm industry. He formed ConnectSmart Systems from well thought out ideas that were garnered from lessons learned all the way back to 1997. Along the way, Jon discovered a need that intersected with his passion; he intuitively believed he could provide more personalized service at a more affordable price. He is living his beliefs today, offering flexible terms, affordable monitoring rates, and security system installation and service you can count on. He offers Home Controls and Services that keep you connected when you are away. As a licensed and insured State of Florida Contractor, Jon operates above regulatory standards, making sure his systems and service go above and beyond his customers’ expectations.
DESIGN
Kaelyn Schmidt Design Suzanne
Kaelyn Schmidt Design, founded in 2018, helps clients discover their unique style and bring it to life at home. Kaelyn and her team focus on practical, functional design, combining contracting and design services for a seamless renovation experience. With over a decade in the industry, Kaelyn Schmidt started her career with a custom builder before launching her own business. A University of Florida
Interior Design graduate and licensed contractor, she specializes in kitchen and bathroom renovations while offering full design services. Kaelyn Schmidt Design serves northern Florida, including Gainesville, Ocala, and nearby areas, providing bathroom and kitchen remodels, floor plans, 3D renderings, tile layouts, builder selections, and decorating focused on furniture placement. THE FACE OF INTERIOR
Stonehouse Neighborhood Grill
From left to right: Susana Amador, Jose Garcia, Chessy Oberbeck
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Stone House Neighborhood Grill is a full-service restaurant located in the Country Way town square in Newberry, Florida. Specializing in hand-cut steaks, slow roasted brisket, prime rib and half-pound burgers, their family-friendly atmosphere is perfect for special occasions or a casual dinner out. Enjoy the cooler weather on their beautiful patio and take advantage of their beer, wine and specialty drinks. Offering excellent lunch specials and a happy hour from 3pm-6pm, the owners have over 25+ years of experience in the restaurant industry, and a passion for providing exceptional food and service that will leave you coming back for more. Avoid the stress and traffic of Gainesville and take the short drive to Newberry’s newest Restaurant.
THE FACE OF YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL & STEAKHOUSE
The team at Next Level Orthodontics strives to maintain an environment that is focused on the quality, mutual respect and superior results while having as much fun as possible. They believe the patient must receive exceptional value and service in a way that consistently exceeds expectations. Dedicated and professional, the team at Next Level Orthodontics works synergistically with one goal in mind, to help you get the most beautiful
and healthy smile possible while creating a next level customer experience. Dr. Akhavan and his team are determined to turn his patients into raving fans by embracing creativity, innovation and the most up-to-date technology into practice to achieve the best possible outcome. Welcoming patients of all ages, the team at Next Level Orthodontics is ready to help. Visit them online or call to set up a complimentary consultation.
Corey Amira is an Alachua native and a Custom Home Builder who specializes in delivering high quality construction for his clients. Overseeing the entire home building process, from start to finish. Beginning with detailed planning and design through the final inspection, Corey enjoys helping his clients every step of the way and ensuring his homes are built to the highest standards. Building a home is a big step for you and your family. Amira Custom Homes are there with you every step of the way. A licensed homebuilder since 2015, Corey has the experience to navigate making his homes functional, as well as aesthetic. They guarantee high – quality construction each and every step of the way. With an office on Main Street in Downtown Alachua, Corey focuses on building in Alachua County, as well as Gilchrist and Columbia Counties.
The commitment to you and Florida, from Agents Jes Odom and Dan Shaw along with the team at Farm Bureau Insurance, has never wavered. They believe that your family is part of their family. And protecting their family with local people, great rates and friendly service has always been their pledge. They believe that there’s something special about serving the people where they live. It’s an authenticity that stems from understanding where one another comes from and where we’re going. Whether you need help protecting your home, automobiles or find yourself in need of support with life insurance or estate planning, the team at Farm Bureau is ready to help.
From left to right: Breanna Rongo, Stacy Ochat, Leigh Speight, Dan Shaw-Agent, Jes Odom-Agent, Brooke Boon, Toni Soto
THE FACE OF FOOD & FUN
Pink Flamingo Diner
From
Pink Flamingo is a new kind of diner, located a few minutes outside of Gainesville in High Springs, Florida. Savor the eats from their home-made “scratch” kitchen, then relax at the outdoor Flamingo Diner or play the beautiful, water featured, 18-hole mini golf course. There’s plenty of fun for the whole family. From craft beers and homemade
cocktails to live music on the patio every Friday-Sunday, Pink Flamingo offers an extensive menu including vegan and vegetarian options. Looking for that perfect place to hold your next private event? The team at Pink Flamingo can host private dining indoors for up to 30 people or a semi-private area outdoors. Stop by today and enjoy!
Great Outdoors Restaurant
The Great Outdoors, located in the historic town of High Springs, specializes in hand selected steaks, fresh seafood, signature entrée salads and homemade soups and deserts. The Great Outdoors features a family friendly dining experience for everyone. It’s a perfect place to grab a cold, local craft beer after hitting
the springs all day or for that family gathering. The amazing Patio features luxurious outdoor seating with live music every Friday and Saturday night from some of the area’s bestknown bands. From craft cocktails to specialty desserts The Great Outdoors invites you to make the short drive to High Springs.
From left to right: Joshua Cook, Anthony Paparella, Taylor Dukes, Betty Gleason, Jesse Thomas
THE FACE OF FITNESS
FloMotion Fitness
Haley Sweeney, DPT, ATC, CSCS
Florine Hester CPT-3 Owner Diane Hansis CPT
15315 NW US HWY 441, ALACHUA 352-222-7078 FLOMOTIONFITNESS.COM
IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO REINVENT YOURSELF! FloMotion Fitness is the ultimate garage gym experience where people come together in a non-threatening environment, to work towards their personal health, nutrition and fitness goals. Are you tired of being tired? Not seeing the results you so desperately work for? Together at FloMotion Fitness we can help you achieve your goals! We are all about change; we want to change the way you think about exercise and nutrition. Be your own inspiration and commit to yourself. Don’t let your excuses stop you, call today and try one of our classes. You will get a great workout and maybe even meet your new best friend!
THE
OF PEDIATRIC CARE
Little Pine Pediatrics
From left to right:
Alyssa Edmonds- MA, Savannah Fralick- MA, Kelly Freeman- front staff
Mara Turner- LPN, Sarah Garrett- ARNP, Ronald Emerick- DO, Felicia Reith- ARNP, Lauren WomackARNP, Whitney Holsenbeck- MA, Reagan Trowell- MA, Hannah Linkous- front staff 15551 NW HWY 441, STE 40, ALACHUA 386-518-0102
LITTLEPINEPEDIATRICS.COM
The team at Little Pine Pediatrics consists of experienced, compassionate pediatricians and friendly, nurturing staff members who take pride in giving their young patients the personalized pediatric care they deserve. They understand you have a choice of pediatricians, and look forward to showing you how they differ from other practices. All of their providers are highly educated professionals who have undergone
rigorous academic and clinical training in pediatrics. The highly trained staff at Little Pine maintains a high level of expertise through continuing education in order to provide the most up-to-date care for the young patients they serve. Little Pine Pediatrics believes in a team approach to your child’s health and well being which allows the doctors to collaborate with parents to provide the highest level of care.
FACE
THE FACE OF THE BEST PIZZA IN FLORIDA
Prohibition Pizza
Creating quite the buzz in the pizza industry over the last year. Recently voted “best pizza” in Florida, and one of Our Towns “local favs”, Prohibition Pizza has put Florida Pizza on the map. Featured on Pizza Today’s National watch list, this pizzeria attracts guest from miles around with its unique, flavorful pizzas, gluten free favorites & house-made des-
serts that are the cat’s pajamas. This Prohibition-themed pizzeria isn’t just about delectable pies; it’s an experience drenched in the allure and excitement of the 1920s, a time when creativity flourished despite restrictions. It’s a place where the past meets the present, bringing something special to Florida’s pizza scene right in the town of High Springs.
Top Row - London Potter, Dave Potter, Brandt Potter
Bottom Row- Makayla Raulerson, Kelly Potter
Ziba Ahmadi is not only a Guinness World Record holder for threading the most eyebrows in one hour— twice—but her commitment to excellence has also earned her a place among the top 3% of successful business owners in the U.S., according to Marquis Who’s Who in America. Her loyal clients know that Ziba’s expertise goes beyond threading; it’s about precision, care, and creating the perfect look. With years of experience, Ziba is recognized as the area’s leading expert in eyebrow shaping and hair removal. Threading
may be a straightforward technique, but mastering it requires skill and dedication—qualities Ziba brings to every client interaction. Ziba de Beaute LLC, with locations in NW 43rd and campus location in Gainesville, FL. continues to flourish, driven by over 2,000 five-star Google reviews and the unwavering support of her community. Whether you’re seeking flawless brows or expert hair removal, Ziba is ready to help you look and feel your best. Text today to schedule your appointment and experience the difference!
As a locally owned business, Alachua Blinds and More strives to provide the highest quality products paired with unmatched customer service. Serving the greater north central Florida area, the ir dedicated team works with you to create a solution that works best for your home or office. Clients in our area trust the team at Alachua Blinds and More to provide them the highest
quality blinds, shutters and shades and have been referring their friends and family for over 16 years. The team of expert designers and installers complete most services within a few weeks and offer free estimates. Offering environmentally friendly products, free estimates and discounts to military, veteran and first responders in our area, Alachua Blinds and More is ready to help.
FACE OF TEX MEX Tortillas Tex Mex Jonnathon Muller, Guerby Brizeus
Welcome to Tortillas, Newberry’s newest quick-service Tex-Mex restaurant! Nestled in the Country Way Town Square, Tortillas offers a vibrant and modern dining experience. The menu features a delicious array of freshly prepared tacos, burritos, quesadillas, specialty items and margaritas all made with high-quality ingredients and bold flavors. With a focus on speed and convenience, Tortillas is perfect for a quick lunch break or a casual dinner with friends. The inviting atmosphere, complete with colorful décor and friendly staff, ensures a delightful dining experience. Come and enjoy a taste of Tex-Mex at Tortillas, where every meal is a fiesta!
Celebrate Primary Care is a direct primary care medical practice dedicated to businesses and individuals in the Gainesville and Alachua areas. Providing access to individualized health care without having to jump through the hoops of a traditional practice, Celebrate removes the insurance companies from the healthcare equation. That allows incredible access to your provider – for one low monthly fee. The team at Celebrate Primary Care views the patient-provider relationship as a team of equals singularly focused on helping you reach your health care goals. Insurance free and hassle free care is simply a call away. Committed to your better health, stop by today or visit their website for more information.
dients for your next meal.
THE FACE OF VIDEO PRODUCTION
(352) 359-0555
INFO@SKYPALMSTUDIOS.COM SKYPALMSTUDIO.COM
Sky Palm Studios is a full-service video marketing company based in Gainesville, Florida, dedicated to helping businesses and organizations throughout the state elevate their brand through the power of video. Their team specializes in creating engaging video content and crafting effective social media marketing strategies that drive growth and increase visibility. In today’s digital landscape, video marketing is one of the most impactful ways to connect with audiences, build trust, and tell a compelling brand story. At Sky Palm Studios, they position themselves as problem solvers, offering tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of their clients. From concept to execution, the Sky Palm Team ensures every video not only looks great but also delivers measurable results, making them your go-to partner for digital marketing success.
Sky Palm Studios
From left to right: Gabby Aulisio, Kami Lower, Luke Lower, Justin Short, Kendall Kelly
THE
OF SOLAR ENERGY
EnLight Energy
Explore smarter ways to power your home. Stop worrying about your utility costs and start saving with solar power. You switched all the light bulbs over to CFLs and started running the wash on cold, and only at off-peak hours, but it still isn’t enough. You know there’s more you could do but something’s holding you back. Maybe you feel like it’s too expensive, or too much of hassle. But really, it isn’t at all. EnLight Energy will examine your home free of charge and make unbiased and tailored energy management recommendations. EnLight Energy can work closely with you to adopt solutions that drastically reduce your electric, gas or oil bill, renovate your home to eliminate those energy bills altogether, or if you are in the market, guide you in buying or building a Net Zero Energy Home.
FACE
David Jones, Nick Groth, Nick Tvrdy, Alexander Black, Julio Hernandez, Han Nguyen, Chris Shaw
Your Financial Legacy’s team of Financial Advisors have over 50 years of combined experience helping people retire. They work extensively with employees at the University of Florida, Santa Fe College, School Board, Dept of Corrections, and other state agencies throughout North Central Florida. Well versed in the Florida Retirement System, they are able to provide local individualized financial planning on the
FRS Pension Plan, FRS Investment Plan and Deferred Retirement Option Program (DROP). They are also experts on employer-sponsored retirement plans, such as the 457b Deferred Comp, 403b Retirement Savings Plans, the Optional Retirement Plan (SUSORP), FICA Alternative, Special Pay and more. Complimentary consultations can be scheduled at www.YourFinancialLegacy.com or by calling 352-780-1919.
Respect yourself and your real estate investment — don’t settle for an inattentive, anything-goes property manager! The professionals at Golden Rule Real Estate & Property Management, are bringing service back, and true service means being honest with you. Their property management and community association management services will eliminate all of your headaches by ensuring that your investment and community is protected. Their full service property and community association management will ensure that your quality time is spent on things you enjoy. When you use Golden Rule as your real estate or property Management Company, you are also making a difference, as a company that puts “Humans First Homes Second” they contribute a portion of their proceeds every year to multiple charities.
Crafty Bastards Restaurant & Pub
From business meetings to dining out with your family, Crafty’s is “NW Gainesville’s Best Kept Secret. Crafty’s reputation is de-fined on the creativity of every dish including, crispy naked wings, 1/2 pound all Angus burgers, real shepherd’s pie, fresh beer battered fish n’ chips, and an amazing selection of what may just be your “new favorite” appetizers and handhelds. Crafty’s offers 60 rotating taps and over 750 varieties
of craft beer right next door at their bottle shoppe. Enjoy great M-F lunch specials, Monday’s the BEST All You Can Eat Wings (kids eat free), Tuesday Trivia, Wednesday, Karaoke, and Live musicians Thursday, Friday, and Saturdays. Crafty Bastards is a great place to enjoy your sports on large screen tv’s and they now have a covered outdoor dining area.
Crafty Bastards- Welcome Home!
From left to right: Roman Brunson, Becca Monrabal, Brad Coblentz, John Santos
Susan Hicks is a true Alachua county resident and 7th generation Floridian. Born and raised in Gainesville, Susan’s love for her hometown started at an early age watching her parents run their own business. She saw how her parent’s business helped and supported other local businesses, which in turn, supported them. This sense of community helped Susan to develop a love of people, new connections and
developing relationships that have lasted a lifetime – exactly what you need in a Realtor. Joining her wife, Kristen Rabell at Rabell Realty Group in 2015, Susan loves working with buyers and sellers in Gainesville and the surrounding communities. If you’re looking for your next home, wanting to sell your current home or looking for an investment property, Susan Hicks with Rabell Realty is ready to help.
THE FACE OF TRAVEL EXPERTS
GiaMore Travel
Giancarlo Victoreo, Owner (352) 654-1867
At GiaMore Travel by Dream Vacations, when they say, “dream vacations start here,” they mean it! From your initial contact to the handling of every detail, your experience will be completely hassle-free and tailored to your wants and needs. Whether you’re planning a relaxing escape, a girlfriend getaway, a
man-cation, a romantic honeymoon or a family reunion, your experience will be unlike any other. As an independently owned franchise of Dream Vacations, which is affiliated with the largest vacation retailer in the United States, World Travel Holdings, they offer exceptional insider savings and special fares.
At Thrivent, we believe money is a tool–not a goal. As a holistic financial services organization, and a membership owned fraternal organization, providing financial advice, investments, insurance, banking and generosity programs, we are committed to helping you achieve financial clarity. We are here to help provide the guidance you need to live the life you want. DeAnna Edwards, financial consultant, is invested in things that prepare you for the future. They are ready to have a conversation about whats most important to you and your financial situation. Call today to learn more about how they can help you develop a plan that is unique to your needs.
Third-generation Micanopy resident and builder Tug Huddleston founded Red Door Homes of North Central Florida to bring well-built, affordable custom homes to the land where he grew up. With a combined 60 years of experience, a commitment to meeting deadlines, and prices to accommodate any budget, Tug’s team builds quality homes for families across the area. They know how daunting the construction process can be and that’s why the team at Red Door Homes focuses on maintaining open communication and meeting deadlines throughout the entire building process. Building your dream home has never been easier, or more budget-friendly. With over 30 customizable floor plans, Red Door Homes is ready to build your vision.
Pink Threads was founded by a high school senior with a passion for boutique culture, shopping, and small towns, who also had aspirations of becoming a CRNA (certified registered nurse anesthetist). The boutique opened online in early 2023, and eventually opened its store front in the summer of the same year. The owner is currently a full-time student and is grateful for the support they have received from the community, not only in their hometown, but from towns across the country. At Pink Threads, their mission is to help you recognize your value and beauty.
Alachua Animal Hospital From left to right: Dr. Katlin Stone, Dr. Erin Nadler, and Dr. Megan de la Osa
Alachua Animal Hospital is your local family owned and operated source for top quality, personalized pet care. From general wellness checks to surgical procedures, we offer a wide range of services, and we now offer acupuncture as well! Our state-of-the-art facility includes digital X-Ray, ultrasound, specialized surgical equipment and hospitalization wards. Rest assured that Alachua Animal Hospital is well equipped for whatever your pet may need. Our team is patient and caring, so you will be sure your pet will be in great hands. We offer complimentary wellness exams for all new patients. With over 20 years of combined experience, our veterinarians are ready and able to help your pet in times of need or just general check ups! Right in the heart of downtown Alachua, on the corner of Main and 441, our facility is conveniently located. We look forward to meeting your pet, so call today to book your first exam!
It’s been our pleasure to serve the flooring needs of the Gainesville area for more than 27 years. We’re your family-owned, neighborhood flooring experts. Our flooring team has decades of experience in the industry, and we can help you with your next project each step of the way. We have easy online tools to help you get started on your floor buying journey, like our Flooring Guide. Our Guarantee policy means that if you don’t love your new floors, we’ll replace them for free. Drop by and let us help you choose the perfect flooring for your home and lifestyle.
At Awaken Chiropractic, their goal is to help you function as well and as long as you can so you can enjoy the things in life that really matter. They are focused on improving the health and wellness of our entire community, and their mission is to provide you not only chiropractic care, but also the tools you need to improve your overall health and wellness for a lifetime. The chiropractic adjustments you receive at Awaken Chiropractic are safe and effective for people of all ages, including infants. They offer science-backed, ethical and principled chiropractic care to help alleviate pain and illness. Dr. Shane, Dr. Brittany Semegon and Dr. Sarah Hull are here to help you achieve the highest level of healthy living possible.
Celebrating 20 years in business, Crystal Air & Water is a family-owned and operated company with a team of professionals dedicated to responsiveness, problem resolution, customer satisfaction, and service excellence. Our motto, “We’re Not Comfortable Until You Are,” reflects our commitment to meeting the heating and cooling needs of your home or business with the most effective and energy-efficient products available. We work with you to find the best system replacement for your needs, offering rebates, financing, and ductless options. Additionally, we provide a preventative maintenance membership to extend the life of your equipment, save you money, and ensure your comfort. We also offer comprehensive ductwork inspection and service. As a GRU Partnering Contractor, we service all makes and models and are licensed installers for Trane, York, Mitsubishi, and Rheem in Alachua County.
Right: Kirk Smith, Jackson Smith, Lance Smith, Paula Smith
For the past decade, Kara has been helping people look their best. As an on location, freelance makeup artist, Kara focuses on getting her clients’ camera ready for everything from television appearances to family photos. Her work has appeared on ESPN, NFL PRODUCTIONS, TMZ, MTV, HSN, Oxygen Network, CNN, FOX News, and
MSNBC. She’s had the privilege of working with politicians, Pro athletes, Hollywood actors, beauty queens, brides-to-be, graduating seniors and families of all kinds. With an amazing reputation online and 5-star rated reviews, Kara lives and works in Gainesville, but often travels to assist with weddings, commercial shoots and projects of all kinds.
THE
Located in Alachua and High Springs, Florida Snelgrove Enterprises, Inc., doing business as H & R Block, is owned and operated by Amanda Payne, CFP®. For over 43 years, clients throughout the north Florida area have been relying on this family-run business for all of their accounting and tax preparation needs. Amanda, a business owner herself, is familiar with the difficulties sole proprietors face in meeting their accounting and bookkeeping obligations. In these sit-
uations, they stand by their customers’ side and offer advice, expertise, and support. Thinking about how to handle your upcoming taxes in 2023?
Amanda and her team will work with you to not only file your taxes on time and properly, but work to get you the biggest possible refund being completely transparent on their pricing before you begin the process. To learn more about how they can help you or your business, contact the team at H&R Block today.
FACE OF YOUR
& R Block
From left to right: Phyllis Douglas, Lashunda Walker, Tonnekia Stephens, Amanda Payne, Crystal Hancock, Debbie Pittenger, Kenyata Curtis
Amanda S. Payne has been a financial advisor since 2011, after graduating from the University of Florida. She listens closely to her clients to determine what matters most to them, their goals, and their current financial situations. With the recent addition of her assistant, Madison Payne, they work together to create personalized plans based on specific client information, providing concrete suggestions to help achieve those goals. Amanda believes that each client is unique and deserves guidance tailored to their personal circumstances. Together, they approach each client’s financial life with the understanding that no two situations are the same and that everyone needs to be understood on their own terms. Call them today to help build a plan that can make you feel more confident about your financial future.
THE FACE OF BUILDING BRIGHT FUTURES
Okito America
Joseph Lutz (Chief Instructor), Maria Abelllo (District After School Manager),
Mariana Ramos (Chef), and students
Okito America is Gainesville’s premier martial arts and after-school center, now with three convenient locations: Archer Rd, Newberry Rd, and the city of Alachua’s San Felasco Tech City. Known for its award-winning programs, Okito America has been recognized as the “Best Martial Arts” and “Best After School” center, as well as the “Best Places to Host a Birthday Party” in the Our Town “Faves” Contest. They offer after-school programs with free transportation,
day camps for all school holidays and breaks, and a summer camp that is cool when the weather is the hottest.
Schedule a kickin’ birthday party for your kid, choose between Silent Beat Parties, Martial Arts-themed events, and more. Their newest addition is a full service teaching kitchen that hosts Kids Cooking Classes, perfect for young chefs and adult to learn and have fun. Call them or visit their website to learn more about how Okito America can serve your family’s needs!
THE
HEALTH CARE SOLUTIONS
Allied Marketing Insurance has many solutions for protecting your loved one’s healthcare costs. Starting at ages 0 to 100 plus years, insurance is never a “one size fits all” option. By working with a local agent like Adrian, Karisma, or Kayla, you can be assured they will help you tailor which plans work best for your needs. Allied focuses on educating you first on how insurance works and can help individuals, families, and local businesses navigate the complex
insurance world. By having an educated local agent guide you, you can build trust and confidence in your health insurance decisions. Allied`s team of agents will review your specific needs, including preferred doctors and the type of care that you are looking for, to ensure you are covered for the expected and the unexpected. As licensed agents with Florida Blue, they will help you choose the best solution to protect your loved ones.
Volcanic Sushi+Sake is a Japanese inspired Asian Fusion Restaurant with details on quality fresh food and innovative presentation. Volcanic Sushi + Sake is sure to satisfy your sushi cravings. They have been crowned as the Best Local Sushi in Gainesville for the past 3 years. In addition to Sushi, they offer a wide variety of delicious appetizers, soups and salads. Come in and try the Spring Rolls, Crab Rangoon and Stuffed Wontons. For the main course you can choose from delicious entrees such as, Wok fried rice, Udon noodles, Ramen bowls, Chicken Teriyaki and more! It is their vision to become the most dominant Asian restaurant in the world by providing outstanding innovative quality food, exceptional service and ensure cleanliness. They also strive to provide an exquisite and memorable dining experience to all their guests.
John Usmiller, Candice Duncan, Gavin Cudd
Sitting left to right: Ryan Zachow, Avery Zachow, Sloane Zachow, Lindsey Zachow
If you’re looking for some of the best Italian food you can find throughout North Central Florida, then stop by Pepperoni’s Pizzeria in High Springs, Florida. Since its establishment in 2000, Pepperoni’s Pizzeria has been serving up some of the best pizzas, calzones, entrees, wings and salads in town using premium mozzarella and other top ingredients. They also have great lunch specials, including pizza by the slice, Chicken Parmesan and everyone’s favorite Spaghetti and Meatballs, starting at only $6.99. Or try one of their specialty pizzas, loaded with toppings. Pepperoni’s Pizzeria is locally owned and operated and is proud to serve the High Springs Community and surrounding areas. Located on U.S. Highway 441 in Mills Plaza, stop by or call today and pick up food the whole family will love. Owners Ryan and Lindsey Zachow invite you to taste the quality that’s lasted decades!
FLOORING
The Newberry Floor Store
Left to Right: Kason Carr, Andy Stinton-Owner, Kim Stinton-Owner, Alexa Stinton, Meggan Stinton, Drew Stinton, Tyler Lewis In Front-Trigger 352-472-1331
840 NW SR 45, NEWBERRY NEWBERRYFLOORSTORE.COM
The Newberry Floor Store is a full-service flooring center that has been serving area customers since 2001. With the largest selection of inventory in the area, they are certain that you will find the right style, design and budget to fit your home. The Newberry Floor Store is a family friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The sales staff is non-commissioned and offer years of experience striving to serve each customer with a personal touch. They carry a variety of popular brands including Shaw, Mohawk, Muchsee Wood, Daltile, Happy Floors, Provenza, Stainmaster, St. Jude Carpet Cushion, and Tuftex. We serve Newberry, Alachua, High Springs, Chiefland, Archer, Cedar Key, Steinhatchee and the greater Gainesville area. We offer in home shopping for your convenience. Stop by today for all your flooring needs.
THE FACE OF
THE
OF CUBAN EXPERIENCE
Mi Apá Latin Cafe
Top to Bottom / Left to
At Mi Apá Latin Café, they use authentic, Old World Cuban recipes and give Mi Apá customers the best of both worlds, dishes that are fast and affordable but also authentic, delicious, and made from scratch. From the wildly popular Cuban, Key West, and Ybor sandwiches to the mouth-watering bowls, vegetarian options, and Family Packs, Mi Apá has something for everyone, whether you’re feeding just yourself or your whole family. Don’t forget their award-winning Café con Leche, Café Bombon, iced coffee or Café Cubano to get your day started, either! They have won the Best of the Best Coffee and Our Town Faves for their wide variety of coffee drinks that pair perfectly with their delicious pastries!
FACE
Right: Micah Baunstein, Aaron Gomez, Amanda Lopez, Vanessa Marin, Peter Ynigo ( Founder and CEO ), Pedro Luis Argueta
Hearing problems can be overwhelming and frustrating. It may feel as if there’s nowhere to turn for help. But at Clear Sound Audiology, you can relax and know that you’re in good hands. With a goal to reconnect those with various hearing needs to their families, friends, and to the activities they value most, their friendly and knowledgeable staff is there to help. They assess and explore each patient’s hearing needs, lifestyle, and their budget before recommending hearing instruments. The audiologists at Clear Sound Audiology are highly trained, dedicated, caring, and strive to educate and empower patients with regards to their hearing.
FACE OF MRI
Colorio, Founder,R.T. MR
Titan MRI serves the greater Gainesville & North Central Florida through two area locations. Focused on you, the patient, Titan MRI is committed to providing you with the best customer service experience possible. Available during normal business hours, the staff at Titan MRI understand the hectic schedule most of us lead and can work with you to schedule your appointment on evenings and weekends when needed. Their modern MRI equipment offers one of the largest openings available allowing for comfortable scanning of claustrophobic and larger patients. As the area’s newest, premier independent diagnostic testing facility, the team at Titan MRI is ready to help in any way they can.
Ruz Ogra is a University of Florida Graduate with the Class of 2005 and has worked in the Financial Services Industry for over 18 years. Ruz and his team are here to serve their customers in Gainesville and the surrounding areas of Newberry, The Villages, West Hills, Tioga and more! Ruz and his team are dedicated insurance professionals ready to help life go right with the
right insurance including options for you and your family such as, essential needs of Auto Insurance, Home Insurance, and Life insurance. State farm is the area’s top choice for car insurance. Whatever you drive—whether it’s a business vehicle, commercial auto, or motorhome— coverage from State Farm gives you confidence for the day ahead.
Mooi MedSpa
From left to right: Kyleigh Beecham, Ceann Indeglio, Tracey Botha, Amanda Yingling
(352) 339-4845
2727 NW 43RD ST BUILDING A UNIT 1 GAINESVILLE, FL 32606 TRACEYBOTHA.COM
Mooi Medical Spa and Laser Center LLC is a medical aesthetics practice located in Gainesville, Fl that offers a variety of services for both men and women who are looking to feel refreshed and renewed. Owned and operated by Dr. Tracey Botha, MD., Mooi Medical Spa were named the winners of 2024 Our Town Favorites in 5 categories: Favorite Healthcare Provider, Favorite Cosmetic Surgeon, Favorite Aesthetic Center, Favorite Local Place for Skincare, and Favorite Laser Hair Removal! Services at Mooi Medical Spa and Laser Center include botox, fillers, IPL laser, Instalift® threads, tattoo removal, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), weight-loss tools, awake liposuction, Renuvion®, genital enhancement procedures, incontinence treatment, and more! Call today for more information.
THE FACE OF PHARMACEUTICAL CARE AND WELL-BEING
Curative Medicine
From Left to Right:
At Curative Medicine we take pride in offering a unique blend of expertise to cater to your individual needs. Our dedicated team includes compounding pharmacists, hormone experts, and customer service specialists all with varied backgrounds that converge to prioritize your optimal well-being. Our pharmacy’s holistic health staff is unwavering in their commitment to ensuring your health, comfort, and peace of mind. When you step into our
doors you’ll encounter not only thoughtful service but also an extensive selection of rare and hard-to-find products. When you become a patient of Curative Medicine you’ll gain access to the convenience and assurance of our personalized pharmaceutical team. Our pharmacists are here to help you comprehend your conditions, effectively manage your medications, navigate through insurance processes, and enhance your overall health.
Dr. Jennifer Bennett, Jasmine Arnhold, Cameron Martin, Abby Schuler, Amy Owen, Skylar Parnell, Audrey Fender, Lorraine Mobley RPh
IMPACT Weight Management From left to right: Cindy Ross, April Hulbert, Rose Gleichowski
Your life is unique which is exactly why you need an individualized program tailored to your needs. IMPACT is your expert in healthy weight loss and wellness. With personalized 1:1 sessions, we design health improvement plans that take a comprehensive approach to wellness, addressing the major areas of movement, nutrition, sleep health and stress management. We understand that life is busy and making sustainable habit changes takes time. With 24/7 support from your coach, we help you create action steps and implement them for lifelong wellness success. While we have specialized in weight loss for over 14 years, we do that through improving gut health, balancing hormones, preventing and reversing chronic disease, improving blood work, reducing inflammation and so much more!
Living at home is essential for your loved one’s comfort, but sometimes, specialized assistance is needed. Granny Nannies of Gainesville is dedicated to ensuring you receive the home care you or a loved one require and deserve. Whether it’s short-term care, longterm care, or something in-between, caregivers are available 24 hours a day.
Certified Nursing Assistants and Home Health Aides bring nursing home care
to them. Private duty caregivers specialize in the assisted living of aging seniors and have the expertise, compassion and patience to keep your loved one happy. Granny Nannies offers home care services with no contracts, no upfront costs and no cancellation fees. Home care services are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week throughout Alachua, Bradford, Columbia, Gilchrist, Levy and Union counties.
From left to right: Brittany Bauman, Ginger Troll (dog), Bruce Troll, Jacquie Wilder
Jackson Stoneworks is a locally owned specialty stone manufacturing business founded in 2002 by Tyler Ryals. Today, Jackson Stoneworks is recognized as the premier full service kitchen and bath sales center in Gainesville. Based on their experience as a nationally recognized custom granite counter top manufacturer, you can trust Jackson Stoneworks to provide you with the very best
in kitchen and bath design and installation services. Over 100 of the most popular granite, marble and quartz colors are on display and available for purchase at their Stone Yard, with hundreds more available through their worldwide network of suppliers for delivery to their factory. From cabinets and flooring to counter tops of all kinds, stop by today, take a tour and receive a free granite Lazy Susan.
Medicare is not a “one size fits all” plan. There are many options to choose from and Chris Floyd, with Insight Insurance Group, is here to help. When you or your loved ones turn 65, having a licensed, independent agent, can ease the burden, confusion and stress that often comes with understanding the various Medicare plans available. Chris helps to navigate clients through all of their Medicare options educating them on the different parts of Medicare, the gaps in coverage and ways to cover those gaps. Protecting your health takes Insight and Chris is there to guide you before, during, and after you make your healthcare choices.
Education begins at birth! At O2B Kids, we prepare every preschooler for Kindergarten success by fostering a love for learning through play and exploration. Our fun, engaging curriculum ensures kids are excited to come back every day! Over the past 25 years, O2B Kids has expanded to 69 locations across five states, offering state-approved programs for children from infants to age 13. Our approach encourages kids to think, ask questions, and develop a lifelong passion for learning. With six locations in Alachua County and more opening in 2025, O2B Kids is growing to serve even more families! Visit o2bkids.com to learn more!
Left to right: Antonio Rotolo, Brandon Alfonso, Boris Kuchuk, Jimi Tarantino, Tracey Todd
THE FACE OF SCHOLARSHIP, LEADERSHIP, AND SERVICE
For more than fifty years, Oak Hall School has been committed to providing students with a learning environment that is physically safe and emotionally supportive, where intelligence and compassion are highly valued, and dynamic teachers are dedicated to each student’s success. Under the guidance of an outstanding faculty, Oak Hall students across all grade levels, 3-year-old Preschool through Grade 12, engage in an intellectually challenging academic pro -
gram. Oak Hall is a school with wide offerings in academics, athletics, fine arts, and extracurricular activities. It provides students with opportunities to discover their unique gifts and talents and to develop the confidence that grows from knowing that they have something of value to contribute to others. Oak Hall is a welcoming, diverse, and supportive learning community empowering students to pursue their academic, artistic, and athletic passions.
THE FACE OF COMMUNITY IMPACT
United Way of North Central Florida
In a community where compassion meets action, United Way North Central Florida stands tall as the FACE of community impact in our community. At its core, United Way embodies the spirit of generosity, focusing its efforts on the ALICE population—those households who are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. United Way is a FOR IMPACT organization; it’s a lifeline for families striving to make ends meet. By supporting United Way, you become the face of change, the beacon of hope, and the catalyst for progress. Every donation becomes a thread in the fabric of building stronger communities, brighter futures, and empowered lives. Join us, be the difference, and let’s create a community where everyone thrives, together. United is the way!
From left to right: Dana Clayton, JoeAnn Spencer, Rhonda Johnson, Amber Miller, Madelyn Fleming, Marilyn Taylor
Not pictured: Mary Broadfoot, Victoria Vicary
The Flats at Tioga Town Center offer premium 1-3 bedroom luxury apartment homes in the heart of Tioga Town Center, an award-winning 23-acre mixed-use lifestyle center. Offering exceptional amenities at an exceptional value, Flats residents enjoy a state-of-the-art clubhouse, resort-style pool, game room, media room, fire pit, BBQ grills, pet spa, dog park, climate-controlled package room, private elevators, expansive kitchens, private covered balconies with fans, in-unit washer & dryers, and more. Plus, your favorite brunch spots, boutiques, bars & restaurants are just outside your door! Tioga also plays host to many exciting events, movie nights, and concerts on the Square where guests of all ages can enjoy free, local, outdoor entertainment at the beautiful covered amphitheater. All of this and more make The Flats at Tioga Town Center the Face of the Best View in Town! THE FACE OF
Transportation
From left to right: Chris Cannarozzi, Brittany Bauman, Jacquie Wilder, Ginger Troll (dog), Bruce Troll 5800 NW 39TH AVE STE 103, GAINESVILLE, FL 32606
(352) 824-3109 GENTLEHEARTRIDES.COM
At Gentle Heart Transportation, we are proud to offer compassionate and reliable Non-Emergency Medical Transportation services to our community. Our journey began with the experience and knowledge gained from owning a Granny Nannies franchise, where we learned firsthand the importance of personalized and empathetic care for individuals in need of medical assistance. Our commitment to excellence drives us to go above and beyond
in delivering exceptional transportation solutions tailored to each individual’s specific needs. Whether it’s assisting seniors, individuals with disabilities, or patients recovering from medical procedures, we are dedicated to ensuring a smooth and supportive journey for every client. Join us in our mission to make healthcare transportation accessible, reliable, and compassionate. Experience the Gentle Heart Transportation difference today!
THE FACE OF COMPASSION WITH EVERY JOURNEY Gentle Heart
THE FACE OF MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING
At Arena Counseling and Wellness, we believe that mental health is the cornerstone of overall well-being. Our dedicated team of compassionate and experienced therapists is committed to helping you navigate life’s challenges with care and understanding. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or major life transitions, we offer a safe, supportive space to explore your experiences and work toward healing. From those who have experienced complex and life-altering trauma, to those who simply want to be the best and healthiest version of themselves, our talented team offers therapy services designed just for you. Our approach is holistic, meaning we consider the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—in our treatment plans. With personalized therapy options, including individual counseling, couples therapy, and specialized services for trauma and stress management, we’re here to guide you toward a healthier, more balanced life.
EXPERIENCE
Tami Tomlinson, JD Tomlinson, JD Tomlinson III and Taylor Tomlinson
3580 N. MAIN ST. GAINESVILLE, FL 32609 352-372-0313 TOMLINSONMOTORCO.COM
JD and Tami Tomlinson have been serving the automotive needs of the Gainesville area for 30 years. Now the Tomlinsons are welcoming a new generation into the business. JD3 and Taylor were both All-American golfers and graduates of the University of Florida. They are excited about continuing the traditions of TMC and offering the best car buying experience in the area. Tomlin -
son Motor Company simply offers the nicest vehicles at the best prices. Every vehicle is hand selected, and thoroughly inspected and serviced by a AAA and ASE certified service department.. TMC offers an exceptional product in a low pressure, customer friendly environment. No insulting fees and a non-commission sales staff offers the best buying experience in the industry.
Maria Curatolo, Esq. Maria del Carmen Curatolo
A time will come when you can no longer express your wishes regarding your property and health care. Preparing for incapacity and death is crucial to avoiding a costly and lengthy probate process, family disputes, and excessive state taxes, all while ensuring that your wishes are respected. Maria Curatolo specializes in creating legal solutions to
suit your unique estate planning goals and protect your family’s future. A native Spanish speaker, Maria specializes in this highly specialized area of law and will work with you to tailor a specific plan to address any unique needs and concerns you may have. Call today and let Maria start the process with a no-obligation initial consultation.
Our team started working together in 2005 for a local pool company and have since ventured out as Gator Pool Builders. With over 50 years of combined experience, our team of three guys are Alachua County Residents and Santa Fe High School graduates who have spent our entire career in Alachua County. Gator Pool Builders specializes in residential pools offering a variety of services from new construction to remodels, pavers, hardscapes, outdoor kitchens, maintenance, service, and more. In our spare time we enjoy spending time with our families, staying involved with community sports, hunting, fishing and outdoor activities.
Meldon Law
Carey Meldon-Managing Partner
Meldon Law, established in 1971, has been a steadfast legal advocate for the North Central Florida community. Our paramount focus lies in assisting people who have endured severe injuries. Our firm aims to alleviate the burdens associated with your accident case to allow you to focus on your recovery. Even though we are recognized by the Florida Gators as their exclusive law firm partner, we won’t back down from providing every single person in our community great service and results. Moreover, we have a longstanding commitment to our local communities through initiatives like the Meldon Law TV 20 Scholar-Athlete Program since 1997 and Law Talk Live, our enduring legal-based radio show, airing every Saturday at 10:30 AM on WSKY. With offices in Gainesville, Ocala, Lake City, Williston and Ft. Lauderdale, we stand ready to provide unwavering support to all individuals across the state.
THE FACE OF FAMILY LAW McMillen Family Law
Monica Perez-McMillen, Esq. Hablo Espanol
McMillen Family Law’s mission is to seek justice and be a light during difficult family situations. Family law litigation can be overwhelming, life changing, and stressful. Attorney Monica Perez-McMillen offers free consultations and believes that education, strategy, and seeking peace are critical to the success of her clients cases. Having a well prepared plan and making wise decisions prior
to the start your case is crucial to a successful resolution. Many Family Law cases can be resolved amicably with an experienced and thoughtful family law attorney. Monica focuses on divorces, custody disputes, alimony, child support and a wide variety of other family law challenges. Responsive, resourceful and results-oriented, McMillen Family Law is ready to help when you need it most.
Beauty Lounge & Co. opened their doors in February 2016 and has been providing exceptional service since day one. Specializing in eyebrows, lashes and permanent makeup, they take pride in redefining beauty. Using only the highest quality tools and products in the industry, their highly educated artists truly take pride in what they do. From customized brow shaping to lash lifts, the artists at Beauty Lounge are dedicated to helping clients look and feel their best while simplifying their daily routine. Call today or visit their website for more information on how they can help you enhance your natural beauty.
Left to right- Cindy Saechao, Kinleigh Collins, Nikki Naylor, Ashley Feagle, Kristina Bukas-Johnson
Jeffrey Phillips, MD with Accent Sleep Solutions believes that every person is unique, and because of that individuality, one-size-fits-all solutions are not the answer to getting your best night’s sleep. Having specialized training and board certification in both sleep disorders and otolaryngology (ENT), Dr. Phillips is able to offer his sleep patients a customized treatment plan that fits their needs. In addition to common treatments for sleep disorders (including CPAP machines), Dr. Phillips also treats sleep patients with oral appliances, surgical procedures, and even the innovative Inspire technology. In addition to specializing in the treatment of snoring, sleep apnea, and sleep disorders, Dr. Phillips also maintains a full practice in the medical and surgical treatment of all other Ear, Nose, and Throat problems. Helping people get their best night’s sleep for almost a decade, Dr. Phillips can help you get the rest you deserve and need – call today to start the process to get your best night’s sleep!
Tioga Town Center is an award-winning 23-acre mixed-use lifestyle center featuring over 30 businesses, 184 luxury apartments, retail stores, restaurants, health & fitness center, healthcare and professional services, early childhood education, an amphitheater, electric car charging stations, public playground, ample greenspace, and more. Tioga Town Center was created to provide a sense of connectivity and community within the Greater Gainesville Region. Our goal is to foster an environment where people can “Live, Shop, Dine,
Play” in the heart of a safe, walkable, friendly, local town center. Tioga takes pride in fostering a sustainable environment for local businesses to thrive. Their culture is a reflection of the amazing businesses within the Town Center; these beloved businesses craft their sense of place. Tioga Town Center also hosts many exciting free outdoor events, like movie and concert nights under the stars. All this and more combine to make Tioga Town Center the Face of Eating, Drinking, and Shopping Local!
Daniel Hall, MD with Accent Rhinoplasty is unique in Gainesville in that he is Fellowship trained and double Board-Certified in both Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery and Otolaryngology (ENT)! He has the unique advantage as a Cosmetic Rhinoplasty surgeon in that he is truly an expert in functional and reconstructive nasal surgery, and he understands best how to do nasal surgery to optimize both the cos -
metic and functional result. Dr. Hall can not only help you achieve a nose that suits your face – he will also help you have a nose that breathes clearly!
Dr. Hall’s philosophy of facial plastics is simple – he wants his patients to look their very best in a natural way, while also maintaining optimized airflow through their nose. Call today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hall to help you achieve a natural, functional, and attractive nose!
Bee Print and Design assists businesses of all sizes with quick, outstanding graphic design work and the production of high quality marketing items.They provide printed items (business cards, brochures, postcards) Apparel (shirts, hats, hoodies) Promotional items (Tumblers, keychains, hand sanitizers, and more). If you can envision your logo on something, Bee can make it happen! Their lead Graphic Artist/Owner Brian has over 18 years experience in the marketing and print world. He has designed and produced thousands of products, and also handles the design of many ads in this publication. Brian and the Bee team take pride in offering great products quickly and efficiently while keeping costs fair and affordable.
THE FACE OF DISCOVERING YOUR FULL HEARING POTENTIAL
Audiology by Accent
Ryan Baker, Au.D., Diana Guercio, Au.D., Steven Petrakis, Au.D., Alexandra Brockner, Au.D.
4340 W NEWBERRY RD, SUITE 301 | 352-271-5373
The doctors of Audiology by Accent have dedicated their practice to helping people discover their full hearing potential. As Gainesville’s premier audiology and hearing aid provider, Audiology by Accent stands apart from their peers by focusing on the unique lifestyle and abilities of each patient and developing a rehabilitation plan to meet those needs. Using the latest technology along with highly-personal -
ized care, the doctors at Audiology by Accent have been able to help thousands of North Florida residents maximize their hearing potential and recapture the lost moments of life they had been missing. Audiology by Accent’s unique pricing model allows their patients to get the latest in hearing technology without paying for unnecessary services. Call Audiology by Accent today to discover your full hearing potential!
THE FACE OF CUSTOM CREATED FINE JEWELRY
& WATCH REPAIR
Jewelry Works
David Liles, Valissa Liles, Shandy Liles
6419 W NEWBERRY ROAD (LOCATED IN THE OAKS MALL) (352) 333-0301
18575 MAIN ST SUIT 10 HIGH SPRINGS (386) 853-9898
JEWELRYWORKSGAINESVILLE.COM
Jewelry Works has been family owned since 2006, serving Gainesville and surrounding areas with high-quality repair services, custom created jewelry, and stunning unique fine jewelry found nowhere else. Caring, thoughtful, and focused on the quality of our products and services, we pride ourselves on our high standards while remaining approachable and realistic with our customers.
Our clientele consists of long lasting customers who appreciate our honesty and high skill level, as they know they can trust us with their most treasured jewelry and timepieces. In late 2023 the Liles family was given an opportunity to extend their business to downtown High Springs. They are so grateful for the support and kindness they have received from the community.
Dave’s NY Deli
Authentic NY deli — Serving classic NY deli favorites since 2009. Dave’s NY Deli continues to be the place to go for authentic NY Deli food. Owner, Melissa says, “Nothing beats quality ingredients combined with a friendly staff.” Dave’s NY Deli serves New York size Pastrami and Corned Beef sandwiches, Nathan’s Hot Dogs, NY Kettle Boiled Bagels, Nova Salmon, Philly Cheesesteaks and Cubans, a big variety of sandwiches, Salad and Wraps. They also offer a Kids Menu. Let’s not forget about the dessert favorites such as, Cannolies and Cheesecake from New York. Come out and enjoy Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at Dave’s NY Deli. Now serving beer and wine. Dave’s NY Deli also offers Catering.
12921 SW 1st Road • Tioga Town Center
Monday thru Saturday 8 am to 8 pm Sunday 8 am to 3 pm.
Pepperoni’s Pizzeria
Pizzeria — Since its establishment in 2000, Pepperoni’s Pizzeria has been serving up some of the best pizzas, calzones, entrees, wings and salads in town using premium mozzarella and other top ingredients. We also have great lunch specials starting at only $6.99. All of our specialty pizzas are loaded with toppings. Pepperoni’s is locally owned and operated and is proud to serve the High Springs Community and surrounding areas. We are located on U.S. Highway 441 in Mills Plaza.
19975 NW 244 Street, High Springs (located in Mills Plaza) Monday- Sunday: 11:00am - 9pm
Gator’s Dockside
3842 W Newberry Rd #1A, Gainesville
New Location! 14126 W. Newberry Rd. Jonesville 352-888-4002
Family-friendly — Gator’s Dockside is a sports-themed restaurant that offers a fun atmosphere for the entire family! We’re known for our big screen TVs, great food, and friendly service. Our signature wings are flavored with our tasty wing sauces that have made us famous, especially our award-winning Scooter sauce. We use only the freshest, highest quality ingredients in all our menu selections, including burgers, hearty sandwiches, made-from-scratch ribs, entree salads, and desserts. We also have some of the best meal deals in town, like 99 cent wings on Mondays. Tuesday night is Kids’ Night — kids eat Free with any adult meal purchase. Enjoy 2-for-1 on select house wine, cold beer and liquors all day, everyday. We can’t wait to see you at Gator’s! 352-338-4445 gatorsdockside.com
Mi Apá Latin Café
Cuban — When it comes to authentic Cuban cooking, you cannot go wrong with Mi Apá Latin Cafe. Featuring authentic ingredients and classic Cuban recipes, such as Pollo Asado, Croquetas de Jamon, and the best Cuban sandwiches in Alachua County. With three locations, you’re never far from the best Cuban coffee and Cuban pastries. Visit us for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, seven days a week. Whether you’re dining in, driving through, or picking up your online order, your food will always be hot, fresh, and full of Latin flavor! And don’t forget our daily Happy Hour with half-off iced coffee and Kids Eat Free every Wednesday from 4:00-9:00pm
Alachua – 15634 US Highway 441 (386-418-0838)
Gainesville - 114 SW 34th ST (352-376-7020)
Jonesville - 14209 W Newberry RD NOW OPEN! (352-545-4430)
Cilantro Tacos
Cali-Mex Street Food — This family-owned restaurant that was founded through a passion for great food and hosting dinner parties with friends. Originally from Southern California, their love for Mexican food moved to the wonderful community of Newberry in 2013. They take pride in the quality, freshness, and vibrant flavors of their food — with meats that are never frozen and everything prepared fresh and made-to-order. Enjoy the tastefully marinated meats and savor the mild, spicy, and mouthwatering salsas that are created from scratch. They feel their purpose is to spread happiness, make contributions to the community and create lasting memories of fun, laughter, and great times. When you eat with us, you’re family. So come on in!
Tioga Town Center - 12921 SW 1 Rd Suite #103 352-472-1300
Alachua - 15551 NW US HWY 441 Unit# 50 352-660-3262
Monday - Saturday from 11:00am to 9:00pm
eatcilantrotacos.com
Leonardo’s Pizza
Mouth Watering — Family friendly and locally-owned-and-operated pizza joint with a unique, nostalgic atmosphere that is as distinctive as our delicious food. Chicago-style pizzas, hand tied garlic knots, and Italian baked dinners and salad bar, we know you’ll be back for more. Come and see why Gainesville loves our signature deep dish pizza pie, the Big Leo. Since 1976 Gainesville has grown up on pizza from Leonardo’s Millhopper and we are still going strong! Our dedicated staff (many have been with us for 15-20 years) knows how important it is to treat you properly. We take great pride in our welcoming atmosphere. We can’t wait to make you part of our family.
Deli and Catering — Using only the freshest ingredients and serving the highest quality meats and cheeses, The Paper Bag Deli in Gainesville is quickly becoming the destination for custom prepared meals designed for people with a time sensitive schedule. Serving premium Boar’s Head meats, The Paper Bag has quick serve cold options you can grab and go from the fridge or order hot options from the counter. Have time to stay a while? You can relax on their sunny patio or at the bar-style seating and enjoy a variety of freshly baked artisan sandwiches, wraps, salads and much more. Enjoy your favorite local and domestic beers or order to go! We have many catering options for corporate, schools, and private parties. Call ahead to pick you order today!
Park Lane Apartments- 5750 SW 75th Court Suite 20
New Location!- 11 SE 1st Ave. Gainesville
Open Monday - Friday 10am - 6 pm
Bangkok Square
Authentic Thai Cuisine — Thai cuisine, blending the best elements of the freshest foods. Thai herbs; garlic, basil, ginger, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal root, chili and more, prepared with the finest blending of fish sauce, shrimp paste, and coconut milk. All of our meals are made to order and prepared on site. We specialize in vegetarian, vegan and gluten free orders. All of our foods can be prepared to your satisfaction with mild, medium, hot, or Thai hot, balanced to the four tastes: sweet, sour, salty, and slightly bitter. Meals can be prepared for take out and we cater to any event. We also have gift cards available. Save 10% off your next dining experience when a gift card is purchased.
Two Gainesville Locations: 6500 SW Archer Road & 8181 NW 38th Lane
15202 NW 147 Drive, Suite 1100, Alachua (Rolling Oaks Plaza)
Monday – Sat 11:00am – 9:00pm
Get Full At The Bull — Bienvenido! Welcome! We are a family owned and family friendly business. We have been serving our guests high quality fresh food for over 28 years. We welcome our guests with our Award Winning Salsa and warm homemade chips, add some fresh guacamole and our homemade white queso and you have a great start to a great meal! Try our Fish Tacos, Shrimp Tacos, Fajitas, Aaron’s Overstuffed Burrito, Nachos Supreme or one of our Daily Specials, we have something everyone will enjoy! We serve Lunch 7 days a week till 4 P.M. and our Kids Meals come with a drink and dessert. Check out our menu on our website. Our outdoor patio is perfect for “Para Cenar Afuera”. So, won’t you please come join us and Get Full At The Bull! See you there! 386-418-1039 www.eltorogainesville.com
GIVING THANKS ALL YEAR LONG WITH TIPS ON HOW TO START YOUR OWN GRATITUDE JOURNAL GRATEFUL
Gratitude Journaling for the Soul
WRITTEN BY ASHLEY RODRIGUEZ
WITH THE HOLIDAY SEASON IN FULL SWING, IT’S A TIME NOT JUST TO EXPRESS GRATITUDE BUT TO GENUINELY FEEL IT.
One powerful way to embrace this sense of thankfulness is by writing it down. Studies show that practicing gratitude can bring significant mental health benefits, whether for big things or small. Journaling offers an intimate and effective way to reflect on what you’re grateful for, helping deepen the gratitude experience.
WHAT IS A GRATITUDE JOURNAL? WHY START ONE?
Gratitude journaling can be defined as any place where you can write down what you’re thankful for. This positive take on journaling can be as detailed or simple as needed. You can start with your personal ideas on gratitude, or if you’re stuck on what to write, prompts can help guide your
thoughts on gratefulness. Additionally, journaling can be done in physical notebooks or digitally.
The journal app on newer versions of Apple iPhones could be a great solution for a digital writing medium, especially because it can provide prompts or ideas on what to write about based on pictures and locations you’ve visited. For example, a journal app might offer a reflection prompt such as, “Write about a person in your life you’re grateful for.” So, if the ease of apps like Journal or Day One kick starts your journey on gratitude journaling, take advantage of these platforms.
Physical notebooks can also offer benefits to those looking to bring pen to paper when expressing themselves. Mostly, there is more creative freedom to sprawl whatever visuals or side notes come to mind, and physically writing has also been shown to improve your retention of what you’ve written. Although remembering your entries won’t
make or break your experience, this is a factor to keep in mind when assessing what is important to you.
Research continues to show that focusing on gratitude can improve well-being. One study showed that in an experiment where participants could either focus on hassles, gratitude, or neutral life events – the gratitude outlook prevailed in emotional and interpersonal benefits.
In the space of well-being, gratitude journaling can help lower stress and lower symptoms of depression, according to a study about the role of gratitude in the development of social support stress and depression.
A 2018 st udy also suggests that keeping a gratitude journal among adolescents decreases materialism and increases generosity. So, parents, if you’re wondering what to get your teenagers as a gift this holiday season, consider a notebook adjusted to their style. Thank me later.
Additionally, gratitude journaling can improve sleep quality and duration. Soon enough, you can confidently add a good night’s rest to the list of things you’re grateful for.
Journaling offers an intimate and effective way to reflect on what you’re grateful for, helping deepen the gratitude experience.
WHERE TO START: JOURNALING TIPS AND PROMPTS
Now that you know all the mental and physiological health benefits, the next step is to add this gratitude practice to your routine. To guide your journey, con sider these journaling tips and prompts that will help get the ball rolling:
Get a nice notebook or find a reliable app – What’s better than going to your local office supply store and finding the most visually appealing cover that best represents you? Alternatively, how about finding an app that will let you stay organized or attach photos associated with memories you are thankful for? Sometimes, the aesthetics of the process can keep you motivated when starting a new routine.
Start small, but don’t be afraid to express your biggest feelings –lenge to begin writing what you’re grate ful for, especially when you want it to be groundbreaking and perspective-chang ing. But it doesn’t always need to be a complex idea; it can be something as sim ple as gratitude for being able to eat your favorite meal today or getting to class on time the other day. There is always room for expressing the more nuanced moments in life that still end with why you’re grateful for them.
Get into a habit of journaling – The key to getting into a habit of anything is making sure that it’s a routine that is realistic to you. While some people may be able to write daily, others might find it easier to reflect by the end of the week. Some people might find it easier to write at night when their day has concluded or in the morning when you can set the tone for the rest of the day. Try to experiment with what feels best and most natural to you. Once you’re in a comfortable flow, try to commit yourself to stick to that routine.
Get creative with prompts – Sometimes, starting to think about what you’re grateful for can leave you stuck, and that’s OK. Some days might be easier than others,
and sometimes, it can be easy to focus on the negatives that inevitably come up throughout our lives. But if it’s one of those days where you can’t personally come up with something you were grateful for, let journaling prompts guide your thinking.
Here are some gratitude journaling prompts to open up your mind to your lived experience:
• Write about a person in your life for whom you are grateful.
• What is one good thing that you often take for granted?
• What made you smile today? What made you laugh?
• What makes you the happiest? Is it a person? An activity?
• What is something you’re good at?
• What is your comfort meal?
• What is a simple pleasure you’ve been enjoying lately?
• When do you feel most calm?
• Write a letter to someone who has positively impacted your life.
W hile these are just a few that can spark inspiration, don’t be afraid to branch out and add your own twist to these prompts. You can elaborate as much or as little as you desire. The most important thing is creating a comfortable writing atmosphere for yourself. Emotions of all kinds are welcome but always try to recenter yourself in the positive when practicing gratitude journaling.
SEASONAL STRESSORS
Navigating Your Feelings During the Season of Gift-Giving and Gratitude
‘Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the house... was smoke. You’ve just burnt your third attempt at making a bundt cake you found on Pinterest - how do they make it look so easy? - and you could not be more aggravated. Isn’t this supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year?
Are you the problem?
No, you’re not.
WRITTEN BY LINDSAY SCHINDLER
“ There is this myth that the holidays are the happiest time of the year, and thus you should be happy too,” said Jen Martin, clinical psychologist and founder of Sage Wellness. “But in reality,” she said, “it’s complicated.”
As a kid, sure, the holidays are magical. That doesn’t necessarily go away as we get older, but we certainly grow to understand more, think about more, and see all sides of the holiday season. Suddenly, we don’t see a meal as just a meal but rather for its calories. A gift exchange becomes an opportunity to disappoint someone, and the headcount at Thanksgiving Dinner is slowly dwindling.
to feel a certain way, you only create another stressor for yourself. Instead, psychologists recommend practicing an “attitude of gratitude,” especially during the holiday season.
Mar tin describes gratitude as “the intentional act of noticing and appreciating things in our life.” Gilbert describes gratitude as the “guardian of the soul.”
Gratitude is about appreciating the positive things in your life – big or small. It’s about taking the time to notice things you may otherwise overlook and take for granted. It’s a way to ground yourself and combat anxious thoughts.
“ If I believe, genuinely, that I am enough and have
When you are able to focus on your relationship with someone and appreciate how they make you feel instead of worrying about how you make them feel, you can enjoy their company more and be more present in the moment.
“As we become adults, we change out of our rose-colored glasses for more of what life really is,” said Eric Gilbert, counselor and director for the Rising Calm Center.
It can be so easy - and so normal - to get caught up in these stressors. How do we combat them?
First, it’s important to remember that you’re not wrong for feeling this way. It’s a part of growing up. If we invalidate our feelings, we can never truly address them. There’s no way that you “should” feel. If you put pressure on yourself
enough,” said Gilbert, “then I’m not striving to prove my worth.”
During the holidays, it is easy to try to impress family members you may not see often. You may want to delight them with the perfect gift or for them to see you as successful. While these may seem like positive feelings, they can bring immense pressure.
Instead, being comfortable with yourself and grateful for your life can help reduce this pressure. Gratitude is
about being comfortable and happy within yourself. Gilbert said this makes you less likely to try and manage someone else’s emotions, as you’re able to look at the situation from a different point of view.
Instead of hoping to impress everyone with how your house looks, you are grateful to have a home to live in. Instead of stressing about being likable at Christmas dinner, you are grateful to have this time with family.
A simple shift in perspective can have such a positive impact on the holiday experience.
“It’s important to identify what your personal priorities are during the holidays,” Martin said.
She said to ask yourself what is most important to you. Is your priority spending time with people, gift giving, or having time to yourself to participate in the hobbies you find enjoyable?
“If you know what direction you’re trying to move in,” she said, “you’re going to be more likely to get there, and you’re not going to be as swayed by all the shiny distractions or expectations that people around you might be trying to put on you.”
Setting priorities allows you to adjust how you spend your time to ensure your actions align with your goals. This way, you don’t spend hours stressing over how the table is set if your priority is spending more time with people. If your priority is gift-giving, you can allot your time toward
shopping. This way, you take control and do your best to ensure the goals that matter are met.
This positive attitude is contagious and has a positive impact on your relationships with others. When you are able to focus on your relationship with someone and appreciate how they make you feel instead of worrying about how you make them feel, you can enjoy their company more and be more present in the moment.
There are countless benefits to this attitude of gratitude, and they apply year-round. According to Gilbert, exercising gratitude can help reduce stress levels, combat depression, and increase productivity. It also improves sleep quality, self-esteem, and optimism.
Martin separates the benefits of gratitude into three categories – psychological, physical, and social.
Fr om a psychological standpoint, grateful people increase their life satisfaction by focusing on what they have rather than what they lack. This is particularly helpful during the holiday season, as it can be easy to compare the gifts you receive to those of friends in a different financial situation.
Physically, practicing gratitude consistently enhances dopamine and serotonin, according to Martin. These neurotransmitters improve mood and sleep quality and correlate directly with how you feel physically.
“If you’re grateful for what your body does for you,”
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Gilbert said, “you are more likely to treat it well. You can prioritize regular exercise and healthy eating.”
In terms of social benefits, gratitude has a snowball effect. If you thank someone for doing something nice, it makes them feel good, thus making them more likely to help others. It also makes you want to reciprocate, and the world can always use an extra good deed.
I f you know what you want and appreciate the positive
Grateful people increase their life satisfaction by focusing on what they have rather than what they lack. This is particularly helpful during the holiday season, as it can be easy to compare the gifts you receive to those of friends in a different financial situation.
things in your life, you can convey this to others, improving communication with those around you. This results in happier romantic and platonic relationships. “The key,” Martin said, “is that you will only experience its effects if you are consistent. Whatever we focus on becomes our reality.”
Incorporating an attitude of gratitude into your daily life helps to create habits until they become second nature. Martin recommends keeping a daily log of things you are grateful for. You can keep a gratitude journal, documenting five things from your day that made you happy.
A fun way to make this a more social experience is to have a “gratitude buddy” to whom you text your gratitude daily.
“Keep in mind the locus of control,” Gilbert said. “What are things that are external, and what are things I can control?”
You can take control and implement acts of self-care that will add something positive to your day. Gilbert suggests advent calendars as a great way to enjoy each day of the holiday season.
A g lass-half-full attitude is the key to bringing the magic back to the holiday season. An off-key Christmas carol and a lost dreidel game contain more holiday joy than we get to experience the rest of the year, so why not enjoy it. Happy holidays!
(Center) Eric Gilbert pictured with his family during the holidays.
Turkey Traditions
WRITTEN BY DANA BRYAN
TRADITIONS HELP ESTABLISH FAMILIARITY, BRING A SENSE OF WARMTH, AND EMBRACE COMFORT DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON.
Acr oss the United States, each family has its own Thanksgiving traditions worth following when November 28th comes. However, there are a few traditions that have become commonplace for many friends and families. It can be a fun and unifying experience to know you share a tradition with someone in a different region. These Turkey Day customs can be shared and spread further than one might imagine. Continue reading to discover if one of yours is also a popular Thanksgiving tradition in the U.S.
1) THE MACY’S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE
Every year since 1924, Macy’s has hosted a Thanksgiving Day Parade that many watch and respect. Some view the
floats, singers, dancers, and other performers live and in person in New York City; others watch it in awe on TV. Either way, it has become a classic Thanksgiving tradition, and many kids and adults enjoy it every Thanksgiving. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is the second-oldest in the country. Undoubtedly, the parade’s most iconic feature is the last person who always makes a special visit to help usher in the holiday season, Santa Claus.
2) WATCHING AND PLAYING FOOTBALL
Many families participate in this popular American sport. It is a tried-and-true way of getting spirits high and blood pumping for the day and evening’s festivities. This year, there will be a competitive game between the Chicago Bears and Detroit Lions at 12:30 p.m., the New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys at 4:30 p.m., and the Miami Dolphins
and the Green Bay Packers at 8:20 p.m. There will also be a Black Friday game between the Las Vegas Raiders and Kansas City Chiefs at 3 p.m. Whether watching the games or playing a friendly game in your backyard, it’s bound to be a good time.
3) RUN A TURKEY TROT
Turkey trots are a popular trend across the United States. They are community footraces of different distances that take place around or on Thanksgiving Day. It’s a nice way for the community to be together and burn off calories before a big Thanksgiving meal. Many turkey trots offer a turkey as a prize for the winner, giving it its namesake. Turkey trots are not only popular amongst adults in the community, but they’re also popular at schools. Children often participate to win a turkey for their family’s Thanksgiving dinner.
4) VOLUNTEERING
Giving back on Thanksgiving is one of the most generous ways to spend your time. People often volunteer at soup kitchens, homeless shelters, or other local charities to show gratitude. For those alone during the holidays, volunteering is a way to experience the charm and good-natured personality of others while contributing to a cause greater than anyone. Churches and charity organizations will hold food drives to collect canned goods and other non-perishable items for the less fortunate. These organizations might also host a Thanksgiving dinner so everyone can give thanks for a warm meal on Thanksgiving night.
5) EATING DINNER
Sharing a Thanksg iving meal is the most common tradition in the U.S. Traditionally, a Thanksgiving meal includes a turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, pumpkin or sweet potato pie, and other heavy dishes that’ll have your mouth watering. It’s not Thanksgiving without good people and a good meal to fill your stomach. Mothers, fathers, aunts, uncles, or whoever is known to be in the kitchen in your family spend hours cooking and preparing for this special dinner. It’s a wonderful way to bring everyone together. Even if no words are spoken, the sounds of munching and chewing and the look of puffed-out, delighted, full stomachs bring unity to households every year.
6) FRIENDSGIVING
In many cases, people choose to spend Thanksgiving with their chosen family. Made up of friends, neighbors, acquaintances, or beloved pets, it’s all the same when spending quality time with those you love. This phenomenon gave birth to the term Friendsgiving, a casual Thanksgiving meal spent with friends. It can take place on, before, or after Thanksgiving. It’s a way to feed friendships and show grace and kindness to the people one calls family who aren’t blood-related. Friendsgiving can happen anywhere from dorms to apartments or even in the back of a truck; it’s simply about being together.
7)
EXPRESSING GRATITUDE
In the name itself, before Thanksgiving dinner, it is common to go around the table and share what each person is thankful for. The seriousness of the tradition changes depending on the family or the family member. Kids might say school, friends, or candy, while adults might take it deeper and express gratitude for life-changing moments during the year. It could be a specific experience or a more general statement. It’s a time to laugh and maybe shed tears about all life has given us to be thankful for.
8) A CHARLIE BROWN THANKSGIVING
This animated TV special gained widespread popularity in the 1970s and has become a Thanksgiving staple for many friends and families ever since. Incorporating humor, history, and themes of generosity, “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” revolves around the main character, Charlie Brown, attempting to host a Thanksgiving dinner for his friends while also attending his grandmother’s Thanksgiving dinner. This special brings a warm sense of familiarity, featuring all of the beloved characters, Snoopy, Franklin, Lucy, etc., from the TV show. Since 2020, it has exclusively aired on Apple TV+.
9) BLACK FRIDAY DEALS
Stores across the country offer customers the best deals they’ll see all year on the day after Thanksgiving, commonly known as Black Friday. Although the rise of online shopping has significantly changed this tradition, people are still known to stand in lines for hours before a store’s opening and fight in store for that unbelievably good deal. It is an American tradition worth experiencing at least once, even if only to buy an air fryer for 50% off or a TV for the same price as a cooler.
10) ARTS AND CRAFTS/DIY TURKEY
A classic way to fill time, arts and crafts is an easy and satisfying tradition. It’s become a popular way to entertain the family while cooking dinner. Often, Thanksgiving is thought to be synonymous with drawing at least one hand turkey and decorating it colorfully with crayons, glitter, and different-colored construction paper. Even if a hand turkey isn’t drawn, a centerpiece for the dinner table is crafted, or red, orange, and brown leaves are cut out and strung together to decorate the house. Many choose to keep their crafts fall-themed to celebrate the season, but without a doubt, arts and crafts are a central part of most American Thanksgivings.
Whether cooking, eating, or crafting a turkey this year, may you enjoy each moment of this holiday season. Happy Thanksgiving!
RADIANT CREDIT UNION’S
Hess Haven August 2024 Winner:
Radiant Credit Union is delighted to announce Hess Haven in Floral City as the winner of our August Charity of the Month contest.
Hess Haven is a sanctuary devoted to rescuing and rehabilitating abandoned and neglected animals, giving them a second chance at life in a safe, nurturing environment.
They provide essential care to a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, and farm animals, ensuring each receives the medical attention and support they need to thrive. In addition to their hands-on rescue efforts, Hess Haven actively educates the community on responsible pet ownership and animal welfare, promoting a compassionate approach to caring for animals.
This contribution will aid in their ongoing efforts, helping to cover veterinary expenses, food, and shelter needs, allowing them to continue their critical work in rescuing and rehabilitating animals in need.
We encourage our community members to stay engaged and participate in the selection of future winners.
Voting for the next Charity of the Month is now open, and every vote helps shine a light on deserving organizations that make a significant difference in our community.
Visit radiantcu.org/com to cast your vote and help decide which local charity will be next to receive our support.
Let’s keep the momentum going and continue to uplift those who contribute so positively to our community.
#WeShineBrighterTogether
To nominate a charity or to vote for your favorite nominee visit:
“We feel the best way to find and recognize local charities in our community is by asking you!”
About Radiant Credit Union’s Charity of the Month Program...
The program was started in 2013 as a way for our communities to recognize their favorite local charities. Since that time Radiant has donated thousands of dollars to charities in our area.
Each month Radiant awards the winning charity $1,000. All 501(c)(3) charities headquartered in Radiant’s service area (Alachua, Bradford, Citrus, Clay, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Lake, Levy, Marion, Putnam, St. Johns, Suwannee or Union County in Florida) are eligible to enter the contest.
Entering your favorite charity is easy and you could win $100 if the charity you entered wins. For complete rules and step-by-step instructions go to RadiantCU.org/com. Presented by Radiant Credit Union and Our Town Family of Magazines
School of the Month
August 2024 Recipient: Alachua Elementary School
We are pleased to announce Alachua Elementary School as our School of the Month for August.
In support of educational excellence, Radiant Credit Union has proudly donated $1,000 to the school. Special thanks to Alachua Branch Manager Thomas Jackson for presenting the check to Principal Holly Burton and Vice Principal Isa Carter.
Congratulations to Alachua Elementary for their dedication to fostering student success. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to building a brighter future for students in our community by providing the resources and support they need to thrive.
