Our Town - March/April 2022 (Gainesville) by Our Town Magazine

B O N U S S E C T I O N : A SHOWCASE THAT LIFTS UP THE KIND WORDS IN CUSTOMER TESTIMONIALS FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES AND ORGANIZATIONS

MARCH/APRIL 2022 | VOL. 13 ISSUE 02 | GAINESVILLE EDITION

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GAINESVILLE VO L . 13 N O. 0 2

ON THE COVER >> IN THIS ISSUE WE INVITE

YOU TO HIT THE ROAD AGAIN! ENJOY LOCAL DESTINATIONS WHILE BREATHING IN SOME FRESH AIR. GET TO KNOW A LOCAL CAR CLUB THAT KEEPS THINGS MOVING FOR ITS MEMBERS. LEARN HOW THE GAINESVILLE RACEWAY CONTINUES TO BRING FAMILIES TOGETHER WITH GATORNATIONALS. VROOM! VROOM! IT’S TIME TO BUCKLE UP AND GET GOING...

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FLORIDA DAYCATION

Founded in August 2008, Sun Country Dance Theatre is a Federal not-forprofit 501(c)(3) ballet-based pre-professional performing company. Learn about their annual Spring Concert happening this year.

The charming 100-acre Red, White & Blues Farm offers a variety of activities, including u-picks for their seasonal crops and festivals.

The Sunshine State has far more to offer its guests than just amusement parks. Many of Florida’s best destinations are just a short drive away from us. Learn about a few of them in this feature!

MAR/APR 2022

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MAR/APR

2 02 2

CONTENTS 28 // Y OUNG WRITERS

STORYTELLING What story do you want to tell? Our annual contest for young writers is back again!

40 // A QUARTER MILE OF

MEMORIES Gatornationals proves to be an event that brings families together year after year. Hear how the Gainesville Raceway has impacted one local family.

49 // ROOM AT THE INN The Local - St. Augustine is anything but vintage. Renovated to feel like nostalgic Old Florida, but with the latest technology. 54 // FIELD OF POSSIBILITIES

Gator Grad Crystal Torres has entered the Seattle design scene with her hand embroidered robes.

84 // G AINESVILLE STREET

RODS Car lovers unite at a local club where cruise-ins and an annual car show keep things moving!

92 // N ATIONAL PARKS OF

SOUTH FLORIDA Explore South Florida’s National Parks to see why these unique destinations have been preserved and protected for future visitors.

97 SPECIAL SECTION: A showcase that lifts up the kind words in customer testimonials for local businesses and organizations.

134 // M ISCHIEF, FUN, AND

Learn how to make three adorable holiday decorations that everybunny will enjoy!

FRIVOLITY Learn about the origins of Carnivale and Mardi Gras, and how traditions such as bead throwing came to be.

76 // A DVENTURE BEGINS!

149 // E XPLORING IRISH

68 // COTTONTAIL CRAFTS!

The Adventure Club of Gainesville coordinates events for an array of interests ensuring that for those who seek it – every day can be an adventure.

FOLKLORE Curious about the Saint of St. Patrick’s Day or the origin of a leprechaun? Explore both history and legend of this famous holiday!

COLUMNS

INFORMATION

REVIEWS

47 E MBRACING LIFE

126 C harity Winners

125 R EADING CORNER

by Donna Bonnell

67 N AKED SALSA by Crystal Henry

82 F ARM TALES by Mother Hen

128 R estaurant Guide

by Terri Schlichenmeyer

142 C ommunity Calendar 151 B usiness Directory

154 F UREVER FRIENDS Spotlight on Rescue Animals

The articles printed in Our Town do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Tower Publications, Inc. or their editorial staff. Our Town Magazine endeavors to accept reliable advertising; however, we can not be held responsible by the public for advertising claims. Our Town Magazine reserves the right to refuse or discontinue any advertisement. All rights reserved. © 2022 Tower Publications, Inc.

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PUBLISHER Charlie Delatorre PRODUCTION DIRECTORS Kaloni Dunlap, Brian Knepp

Complete Pregnancy Care from Conception through Delivery

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ericka Winterrowd editor@towerpublications.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dana Bryan, Donna Bonnell, Cameron Cobb Hanna De La Garza, Summer Jarro, Terri Schlichenmeyer, Joanna Grey Talbot, Cynthia Wonders Winterrowd, Hayli Zuccola CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Michael Eaddy Maxson Media, LLC

Anthony B. Agrios, MD Joseph S. Iobst, MD Jean C. Cook, MD

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ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Jenni Bennett jenni@towerpublications.com Nancy Short nancy@towerpublications.com INTERN Hanna De La Garza

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS If you would like us to publicize an event in the greater Gainesville area, send information by the 1st day of the month prior to the next issue. For example, submissions for the March/April issue are due by February 1. All submissions will be reviewed and every effort will be made to run qualified submissions if page space is available. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR We want to hear from you. Send your letters to the attention of the editor at 4400 NW 36th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32606 or editor@ towerpublications.com. Letters must be signed and include a phone number in the event we need to contact you. (Your phone number will not be published.)

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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.

A Publication of Tower Publications, Inc. 4400 NW 36th Ave., Gainesville, Florida 32606 phone: 352-372-5468 fax: 352-373-9178

EDITOR ’ S LET TER

M A RC H/A P R I L 202 2

Destiny of a Detour “Sometimes the most scenic roads in life are the detours you didn’t mean to take.” –Angela N. Blout Some of you may not know this but the pronunciation of my last name is Winter Road, even though it isn’t spelled that way. You can imagine how many times I’ve had to correct the mispronunciation. A lot. I’m a very visual person so I’ve often identified as a snowy road in wintertime, a sort of visual metaphor for the road I have been traveling down since the day I was born a Winterrowd. I’ve never really been one to set a roadmap for the way I wanted my life to unfold. Where’s the fun in that? I like the element of seeing where the wind takes me. However, there are times when a person wants to reach a certain destination or place in life, but a pesky roadblock gets in the way. What comes next is called a detour. And just like in the quote, sometimes this is the most beautiful gift the open road can give you. It’s also quite scary to not know where you’re headed. Since 2020, we’ve all experienced a detour. Collectively, we’ve had to learn how to put the brakes on, pull off onto the side of the road, get out of the car and take a walk. What I learned during that time is just because you have a full tank of gas doesn’t always mean you’ll get to where you think you’re going. And thank God for that because sometimes the detour is so much better.

I’ve written before about my most recent move in life—relocating to South Florida to be closer to my young nieces last year. What you may not know is that move was prompted by a major detour in my own life. I thought I was headed toward a certain destination and then that destination fell apart. As I look back at where I was a year ago and where I am now, I get very emotional because I can feel the hope I had despite the circumstances I was going through. The hope that the detour I was facing could possibly, just maybe, end up pointing me in the right direction of my destiny. This issue’s theme is called “On the Road Again” for a reason. It suggests that we’ve all been on the road before, and we’re willing to get back out there again. I don’t know much, but I do know this—I love where I am today. I’m grateful for the lessons I’ve learned along the way, and there’s no other place I’d rather be. This October I’ll be gaining a new last name—yes, my great detour ended up pointing me in the direction of my fiancé. Will I still identify as that snowy Winter Road? Yes, because the journey continues... I just happened to find my co-pilot along the way.

Ericka Winterrowd, Editor-In-Chief

—CORRECTION— In the January/February 2022 Gainesville edition of Our Town magazine, there was a photographer credit ommision on page 24. The inset photo was taken by Annie Morien of RedPepperPhotography.com.

MAR/APR 2022

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CONTRIBUTOR S

M A RC H/A P R I L 202 2

DANA BRYAN is an assistant at DeFiore and Company Literary Agency. She has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from UF. One day she hopes to write her own novel. dana.bryan4@gmail.com

DONNA BONNELL became the author of her column, Embracing Life, more than a decade 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

CAMERON COBB is a UF graduate with a master’s degree in Mass Communication. She’s also an Air Force veteran. Cameron loves traveling, writing and all animals (her favorite being her rescue dog, Maggie). cameronacobb5@gmail.com

HANNA DE LA GARZA is a third-year journalism major and classical studies minor at the University of Florida. Outside of school, she enjoys finding new places to visit and new activities to try out. hanna.delagarza@ufl.edu

CRYSTAL HENRY 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

SUMMER JARRO is a University of Florida graduate. Along with writing, she loves Disney, watching old films, going to the beach and traveling to new places. summerjarro@gmail.com

TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER

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

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

CYNTHIA WONDERS WINTERROWD

is an award-winning writer who was raised in Illinois and lives in Gainesville. She is proud to be a “Gator Mom” of three daughters, all UF graduates. Cynthia loves sharing family recipes that have been passed down in her mother’s handwritten cookbooks. recipewonders@gmail.com

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HAYLI ZUCCOLA is a New England native who enjoys listening to music and traveling. After graduating high school with her AA degree, she received her Bachelor’s in Journalism from the University of Florida. hayzdesigns@yahoo.com

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SUN COUNTRY DANCE THEATRE The Annual Spring Youth Concert

Sometimes it is fun to dance like no one is watching, even if everyone is. But first, you must learn how. Judy Benton, the founder and artistic director of Sun Country Dance Theatre, started dancing at the age of four. “It’s one of those things in the arts where you get in it as a child and as you grow older, you either find that you have a spark and love for that particular art form, so you want to continue or you don’t, so you go into something else. But if you have that little thing that gets you, that love of dance I guess, then you want to share it with the next generation,” she said. “That’s kind of been my whole life.”

W R I T T E N B Y D A N A B R YA N

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LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD

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SUN COUNTRY DANCE THEATRE >> SPRING YOUTH CONCERT

un Country Dance Theatre will have its annual spring youth concert on April 9th and 10th at the Curtis M. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. The Sun Country Dance Theatre will be restaging one of their original story ballets, “Little Red Riding Hood,” for their main performance. This piece was the first story ballet the company performed in 2013. The company has since expanded tremendously and continues to grow year by year. Right before the pandemic hit, the company moved venues to the Phillips Center. With a bigger and more professional venue, the company is pulling out all the stops. The restaged version of the ballet will have new characters, professionally made costumes and more. The first half of the concert focuses on the story ballet, so that younger dancers can be incorporated into the routine with appropriate roles for their level. The second half of the concert showcases the company’s advanced dancers. The company will bring in guest choreographers from all over Florida to choreograph dance routines. This year, they have three choreographers creating contemporary and modern routines and guest artists from Orlando. “We like to bring in artists to share

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the stage with us to share art throughout the state of Florida,” Benton said. “It’s important to support each other, especially now during these times when everybody’s performances are limited due to the pandemic.” Since the start of the company in 2008, Benton’s goal has been to give back to the community by sharing the joy of dance with others. There was a need for the dancers dancing at the Sun Country Sports Center to have an outlet, so the company was formed. The company has a board of directors that handle all of the business and financial aspects of the company. Benton makes all of the creative or artistic decisions, like auditioning dancers, running the rehearsals, deciding on a venue, etc. The company is also funded through a grant provided by the city of Gainesville. It is a preprofessional company with senior dancers ranging from ages 15 to 18 years old. Benton said she describes the dance theatre as a nonprofit performing company that likes to showcase and give opportunities to youth in the arts while putting on professional quality performances. The company strives to bring the art of dance to everyone. They make it economically possible for children to go to their formal shows at the Phillips Center and enjoy the experience by offering free

SUN COUNTRY DANCE THEATRE >> SPRING YOUTH CONCERT

tickets to those under the age of 11. They also offer years. She is currently teaching the children and several hundred complimentary tickets to a wide grandchildren of dancers she taught in the past. variety of organizations around town, including the Her favorite part? The show. She works with the Ronald McDonald House, Big Brother Big Sisters, dancers and watches them get better and better every day. They work hard to put together this final and retirement communities. In the past, the company worked with the Head project at the end of the season. “It’s nice to know Start program to provide dance workshops or classes that all the hard work I put in made them have a good at schools to children from low-income famDance instills countless principles and skills that can ilies around the combe useful in life, like patience, time management, and munity. They would responsibility. The company gives dancers a way to divide the children into smaller groups, teach hone their skills and craft as a performer and as an artist. a routine, and give a short performance. “So many of the teachers would say ‘You know, these experience,” she said. “[The show] made them happy, kids wouldn’t have this if you didn’t come and do and they’re proud of themselves. That’s what’s truly workshops and camps,” Benton said. “To be there important.” Most dancers start training with Benton when and see the love and appreciation that the kids have when you’re there. That’s the satisfaction right there, they are just toddlers, so Benton develops a close seeing that.” Benton has taught dance for over 45 relationship with each of them. Andie Pomeranz, MAR/APR 2022

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SUN COUNTRY DANCE THEATRE >> SPRING YOUTH CONCERT

the dancer performing as Little Red in “Little Red Riding Hood,” said “Ever since I can remember this company has been my family, and I am so fortunate that I will be able to share the stage with some of my best friends.” Dance instills countless principles and skills that can be useful in life, like patience, time management, and responsibility. The company gives dancers a way to hone their skills and craft as a performer and as an artist. After working on this show since September and being dedicated to dance their whole life, the dancers of Sun Country Dance Theatre are excited to showcase their talent and abilities in April. Bella Waldo is one of the company’s graduating seniors and has been a member of the company for five years. She said, “Being a part of this company is so special, and I’m grateful that I get to share my love of dance with others.”

BUY TICKETS TODAY!

The featured original story ballet based on a fairy tale, “Little Red Riding Hood,” was choreographed by Judy Benton. The performances are on Saturday, April 9, 2022, at 7pm and Sunday, April 10, 2022, at 2pm. Tickets for the 14th annual spring youth concert are available through the Phillips Center Box Office. Call (352) 392-ARTS or (800) 905-ARTS. Tickets are also available online at https://tickets.performingarts.ufl.edu. Tickets for children 11 and under are free at the Box Office, not online. All other tickets are $15.

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Shoppes at Thornebrook Village

Thornebrook Village offers a variety of fine shoppes from local handmade chocolates to unique artwork, a selection of shops and services that cater to your every unique need — including a variety of unique dining experiences for all occasions, whether you’re grabbing a fresh morning breakfast, meeting friends for lunch or dining on our patio enjoying the lovely Florida nights. Events held regularly in the square are always free of charge and great family entertainment!

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YOUNG WRITERS STORYTELLING

Attention all young creative minds out there—have you ever dreamed of having your original fiction story in print? Now is your chance to put pen (or type) to paper and enter Our Town Magazine’s Storytelling Contest! We at Tower Publications would like to encourage you to become the next Beatrix Potter (“The Tale of Peter Rabbit”) or E. B. White (“Charlotte’s Web”).

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COMMUNITY CREATIVITY

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e know there are many talented families in our community and we are anticipating some really great stories. Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles or neighbors—if you know of a young writer, please encourage them to join the fun and enter our contest. It is very possible that someone is right here among us who will become the next famous author and only needs to be inspired to believe in themselves. So, our challenge to you is to spread the word and encourage these young talents to write their original story. Teachers, this could be a great opportunity to assign a writing project for your students, reading the finished works aloud in class and taking a vote for the top stories to submit to our magazine. Have fun with it! Young writers, grades 4-12, are invited to submit their original story between 500 to 1,000 words to be considered for the grand prize of having their work published in the May/June issue of Our Town. Consideration for originality and creativity will be judged by a panel of professional writers on our staff. We are so excited to receive the submissions. Write on! For more information contact editor@towerpublications.com 30 |

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CRITERIA FOR STORY SUBMISSIONS: YOUNG WRITERS: GRADES 4-12

Deadline: April 6, 2022 •Main character must have a super power of some kind. •Story must involve a baby animal and nature. •Main character must have “thought” or dialog involving other characters. •Must have an uplifting plot or good moral to the story (Such as Aesop’s Fables). •Story should be 500-1000 words in length. •Submissions must include: Title of Story, Writer’s Name, Age, School/Grade, & Contact info. Submissions can be emailed to editor@towerpublications.com.

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250+ categories • Easy online voting • Food, Shopping, Health, Culture, Nightlife and more!

Who’s your fave? Everyone has their favorites, and now its time to vote for yours! Join us in voting for the 2022 Our Town Favorites — a true community choice award brought to you by our area’s only county-wide community magazine, Our Town Magazine.

Vote as often as once per day, per category. Valid email address helps us ensure the voting process is fair. Each voter will be entered to win one of 3 prize packs!

Voting is Open Mar. 1 – Apr. 22, 2022 TOP FINALISTS AND WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED IN A SPECIAL SECTION OF OUR TOWN MAGAZINE IN THE JULY/AUGUST 2022 ISSUE.

OurTownFavorites.com 34

Winners in each category will receive a complimentary certificate as the Our Town FAVE in their category. All finalists and winners will be provided their respective badge for promotional use. Any local business or personality is eligible to win without obligation. | OUR TOWN MAGAZINE MAR/APR 2022

DOWN ON THE FARM

RED, WHITE & BLUES FARM WELCOMES VISITORS OF ALL AGES

Farm-Fresh Fruit and Family Fun W R ITTEN BY H A NNA DE L A GA RZA

Planted in a small town that is often overlooked by many, the Red, White & Blues Farm located in Williston, Florida is a hidden gem that is gradually becoming a popular travel destination. This charming 100-acre farm offers a variety of activities, including u-picks for their seasonal crops and festivals. Red, White & Blues first began in 2010 as a family-owned and commercially picked blueberry farm. Created and run by Terry Robinson and his son Devon Robinson, it started off as a humble operation that has now expanded to offer several different events and services. Both Terry and Devon Robinson were big on horticulture, so they formed a team that effectively produced a fruitful farm and a successful business. Devon Robinson dealt with the commercial side of the operation, including growing the fruit, harvesting, and overseeing the packing facility while Terry Robinson focused more on agritourism, a form of commercial enterprise that links agricultural production and/or processing with tourism.

Their packing facility was built in 2015, and in 2016, the Robinsons were able to run their fruit through the new facility. Their berries were shipped out to stores both in and out-of-state, reaching northern markets like New York, Boston and Chicago. In June 2021, Terry Robinson made the decision to retire, so ownership of Red, White & Blues was transferred to H&A Farms. Founded by a fourth-generation farming family, H&A Farms has by volume, the largest blueberry farm east of the Mississippi River. The shift in ownership was a smooth transition as Terry Robinson and H&A Farms had already been partners. When the farm initially opened, it was only opened to the public during the spring for their annual blueberry u-pick. For the rest of the blueberry season, it would only be opened for commercial picking. Despite only offering the blueberry u-pick at the time, the farm still saw a large turnout, primarily from Williston residents. Even now, the blueberry u-pick remains its most MAR/APR 2022

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FARM FUN >> RED, WHITE & BLUES FARM

highly-anticipated event of the year. One of the reasons it is in demand is because of the quality and variety of berries. The entire farm is organized by type of blueberries, with colored markers indicating which bush has which blueberries. When guests first enter, they are greeted by a sign that lists the several types of berries that they grow, including: Emerald, Sweet Crisp, Springhigh, Prima Donna, Meadow Lark, Farthing and Jewel. Each kind offers a distinct flavor that is different from the other, giving visitors the option to choose the variety that fits their taste the best. A lot of the structures that are now on the farm were built while the Robinsons were still owners. Throughout the years, they have made several additions, including a stage, café, store, silo and more. The inclusion of these structures has increased the opportunity for activities that Red, White & Blues has to offer. Both in the store and at the café, it will often sell meals, snacks and even desserts that incorporate their produce. After spending time in the field picking fruit, guests can enjoy a refreshing blueberry lemonade or a delicious piece of blueberry pie. In recent years, Red, White & Blues has created more space for different types of crops. Now, it has eleven acres of strawberries, three acres of peaches and even 22 acres of sunflowers. Strawberry season lasts from early December through March, blueberry season is from late March to early June and peach season is from mid-May to mid-June. Its sunflowers are sold virtually year-round. The farm has shifted from only being open to the public for three months to being open for nine to ten months out of the year. As mentioned before, Red, White & Blues also holds festivals. Its most notable one is the Fall Festival that is held in September. Last year, guests who purchased tickets to the event were able to enjoy a myriad of activities, including a petting zoo, sunflower u-pick, pumpkin patch, food trucks, games, live music and more. This year, the farm is also planning to hold a blueberry festival during the spring.

The variety of entertainment offered makes Red, White & Blues the perfect location to take family and friends. The variety of entertainment offered makes Red, White & Blues the perfect location to take family and friends. Colleen Murphy, a resident in Williston, has attended both the blueberry and strawberry u-pick. She said, “It’s a great place to go if you want to get out of the city and experience the rural life. It’s quiet and peaceful.” A majority of the guests that visit the farm are parents and their kids; however, there is fun for people of all ages. In recent years, it has attracted a younger crowd, including college students. There has been a growth in interest to eat local, fresh MAR/APR 2022

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food. This combined with the fact that visitors get to pick their own fruit makes the experience enjoyable for all. Jeff Manley, director of agritourism at H&A Farms, said that he is pleased with the attendance at Red, White & Blues’ events. “We’re just humbled, really, by the support and attendance from our local communities,” Manley said. “We have made a commitment to agritourism. It is not just the u-pick. We have live music on weekends, a treehouse village, giant slide, cornhole, family tug of war, and so much more to stay busy for hours.” Red, White & Blues does not only use the land for its events, but they also allow outside parties to rent it for events. Manley shared that they have had companies hold corporate functions on the property, and he said that H&A Farms is open to working with interested individuals to host many different types of events. Anyone who is interested in doing so can contact the company through the Red, White & Blues website. H&A Farms hopes to see Red, White & Blues used for a variety of purposes, including school field trips. Students would have the opportunity to go on an educational tour through the farm, learning about agriculture and the operations that occur. Not only is this farm creating opportunities for guests, but it

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is also creating job opportunities for local residents. Currently, they have around 35 to 40 employees on site for their strawberry season. During the fall season, when it was the busiest, the company hired 70 employees. This included employees in the store and café as well as employees working on the farm. Red, White & Blues Farm, as a whole, has become an extremely successful venture. It was created with the purpose of fostering a fun, wholesome experience while incorporating agriculture. Those looking for a fun day trip idea should look no further. This farm has enough activities for a sweet afternoon of fruit picking, games and much more!

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A QUARTER MILE OF MEMORIES AT GAINESVILLE RACEWAY Learn about one Gainesville Family’s Passion for Drag Racing

Every March if you find yourself in northeast Gainesville you have probably heard a dull roar and then bursts of acceleration as two 11,000 horsepower vehicles race each other. Fans of drag racing have been gathering at Gainesville Raceway, located on N County Road 225, since its grand opening in 1969. W R I T T E N B Y J O A N N A G R E Y TA L B O T

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P H O T O G R A P H Y: C O U R T E S Y O F T H E M AT H E S O N H I S T O R Y M U S E U M

GATORNATIONALS

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GAINESVILLE RACEWAY >> A FAMILY AFFAIR

(Top left) Gainesville Raceway in the 1970s, courtesy of the Matheson History Museum; (top right) Champion NHRA driver and team owner John Force, courtesy of Leah Bryant.

he brainchild of Jim Raulerson, a Gainesville native and U.S. Navy veteran, the raceway was built by his company Raulerson Construction Co. in 1968 and the drag strip had its opening weekend in December of that year before everything was completed. According to the Gainesville Sun, 50 to 100 cars from over the southeast were expected to attend and admission prices ranged from $2-$4. Raulerson also explained why he wanted to build the raceway – “A sanctioned drag strip is an asset to a community. It reduces incidents of street racing and highway accidents and develops knowledge and respect in young people for machinery.” One such young person was Gates Bryant. In 1968-1969 he was a senior at Gainesville High School and living in the Stephen Foster neighborhood of northeast Gainesville. The raceway was constructed practically in his backyard. He and his older brother, Ray, attended the opening events at Gainesville

Raceway. The next year Gates was one of the many spectators at the inaugural run of Gatornationals, the only annual National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) event at the raceway, in 1970. He said, “The die was cast. I was drawn to drag racing, as opposed to other motor sports, because my teen years and early driving experiences were during the height of the muscle car era. Straight line acceleration was the name of the game.” Joe Halberstein, the sports editor of the Gainesville Sun in 1969, attended the grand opening and shared about the experience with his readers. The raceway invited reporters to the track on Friday for a tour and by his own admission Halberstein “didn’t know an E.T. from…well, a Double-A Fuel Dragster.” He explained that “drag racing, putting it simply as possible, is a test of a man’s driving ability and his car’s performance ability over a quarter-mile straightaway. The purpose is to cover that quarter-mile in the fastest E.T. (elapsed time). The various cars will go from a conversative speed limit 70 (4-lane roads) to an eye-popping and ear-splitting 200-plus miles per hour.” By the

P H O T O G R A P H Y: G AT E S B R YA N T, L E A H B R YA N T

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GAINESVILLE RACEWAY >> A FAMILY AFFAIR

end of his visit to Gainesville Raceway Halberstein said “Jim Raulerson has himself a ‘winner’ and Gainesville has a major sport on its doorstep prepared for a long stay.” Gates Bryant is one of the people who have helped keep Gainesville Raceway on the NHRA circuit because he has missed only a few Gatornationals. After the opening races his attendance was hit or miss and then from 1987 on, except for when they were canceled in 2020 by the COVID-19 pandemic, he hasn’t missed a race. In 1977 he married his sweetheart Patti, a transplant from the Florida panhandle, and they established their home in Gainesville. Their children, Leah and Curtis, were born in 1979 and 1982, respectively. Drag racing and an annual visit to Gatornationals quickly became a shared family passion. Gates first took Curtis to Gatornationals in 1990 when he was seven. In 1992 they witnessed Kenny Bernstein’s record-breaking 300+ mile per hour run. That run is still Curtis’s favorite memory: “On that Friday, at 4:44 pm, Kenny Bernstein became the first drag racer in history to break the 300mph barrier in the

quarter mile. He ran 301.70 mph. I remember when his time and speed were posted on the giant electronic board at the end of the track the fans in attendance went absolutely nuts. People were shouting and cheering like they’d just witnessed the first moon landing. I did not fully grasp the importance of what I’d seen until dad explained to me that no one had ever reached 300mph in the quarter mile. What we witnessed that day is considered one of the most important milestones in automotive motorsports history and I was there as a wide-eyed 9-year-old boy to see it happen with my dad - priceless!” Throughout the years the Bryant family has spent countless hours sitting on the metal bleachers watching the races, walking through the pits, and following the careers of their favorite drivers. It’s easy to see why they chose drag racing over other forms of auto racing. Leah sums it up: “The sheer power that blows down that racetrack during Gatornationals is almost incomprehensible. I remember the first time I went with a few family members, and we stood near the start line when

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GAINESVILLE RACEWAY >> A FAMILY AFFAIR

a couple of the top fuel funny cars took off. We of course had to have hearing protection because it’s extremely loud, but I wasn’t prepared for the internal organ rearrangement I got as well! That initial blast of force rolling off those cars will nearly knock you off your feet! It just vibrates inside your chest until it has completely taken your breath away. It’s incredible!” Her mom, Patti, has a similar reason for her love of drag racing: “I love drag racing because of the immediacy of the racing experience. No other professional sport even comes close. At our track particularly, the spectator is only yards away from the action. It’s pretty awesome to not only hear but feel the effect of 22,000 horsepower when two top fuel dragsters come roaring down the track at over 300 mph! You can also have the ultimate fan thrill of meeting, talking with and getting autographs from the drivers in the pit area between races—and watching their crews do a complete engine breakdown and rebuild between each race—because every admission ticket is a pit pass as well.” Fully invested as drag racing fans, the Bryant family decided to bring that love home with the purchase of two muscle cars of their own. In 1999 they purchased for Curtis a 1969 Pontiac Firebird in Jacksonville and began a major overhaul to make it roadworthy. The next year in April of 2000, they raced it for the first time at Gainesville Raceway in one of the test-and-tune events that they hold year-round.

Throughout the years the Bryant family has spent countless hours sitting on the metal bleachers watching the races, walking through the pits, and following the careers of their favorite drivers. It’s easy to see why they chose drag racing over other forms of auto racing.

(Top) Leah, Judah, and Curtis at the 2019 Gatornationals; (bottom) Judah with Pro Stock driver Greg Anderson in 2013, courtesy of Leah Bryant.

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In 2006 Gates bought a 1979 Pontiac Trans Am for himself and began a father/son project that lasts to this day. He said, “Those days and sometimes evenings that we would spend at the track together I would not trade for anything. Since 2006 Curtis and I have lined up, on occasion, to make a run side by side. He always wins; his car is quicker, what can I say. I will always have fond memories of Gainesville Raceway and how it came to mean more than just fast cars.” Curtis has equally fond memories of this time with his dad: “My other favorite memory (and this is the greater of the two) is not a single moment or event from any particular year. It’s the accumulated memories of a lifetime of shared experiences with Dad out at Gainesville Raceway during Gatornationals. Our trips out there have been like an annual pilgrimage. As a young boy it was wonder of wonders to be with your dad at a place where the cars were faster and louder than anything you thought could be

real and the drivers were something like the fighter pilots of the motorsports world and with each pair of cars that went down the track you held your breath thinking surely no man or machine could withstand the violence of it all. We walked the length and breadth of the giant complex oblivious to fatigue in order to be sure we had not missed anything and then we rode home in Dad’s ‘79 Chevy Blazer and knew each time that we’d been a part of something grand and timeless.” In 2005 the next generation of Bryant motorheads was born. Leah’s son, Judah, joined the family and he grew up learning all about cars and racing. Just like his Uncle Curtis he has been attending Gatornationals since he was five or six. Leah said one of her favorite memories is from several years back when she and Judah were walking in the pits looking for drivers to get autographs from. “We stopped at top fuel dragster driver Clay Millican’s pit. We didn’t see him at first, but one of his crew guys saw Judah standing there eagerly looking around and he came out to where we were. I think Judah said something like he was hoping to get Clay’s autograph and the fellow said he could probably help him out. He asked me if Judah could walk back in the pit with him and I said of course! He ended up giving Judah a piston they had taken from Clay’s top fueler and then Clay signed it for him! As you can imagine, Judah was over the moon. And he still has, and treasures, that piston. That’s one of the coolest things about Gatornationals: the ‘superstars’ of the sport are so accessible, and they truly seem to love their fans and enjoy interacting with them.” Gainesville Raceway founder Jim Raulerson passed away in 2008 but his legacy lives on not only in the Bryant family but in the thousands of racing fans that descend on Gainesville every year for Gatornationals. If you have never attended a drag race, maybe this year is the year. Stand at the starting line and feel for yourself what makes drag racing exceptional. Gatornationals will take place on March 10-13 this year. Visit: gainesvilleraceway.com for more info and to purchase your ticket.

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COLUMN

Embracing Life BY DON N A BON N E LL

THE 1989 OLDSMOBILE CUSTOM CRUISER When I saw Phyllis Shepard’s 1989 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser, I knew everything was copasetic in the world. Every Sunday for nearly two decades her station wagon was parked alongside the highway at the entrance of our church. She almost always arrived early. Therefore, her automobile served as my personal welcome sign to our beautiful building and wooded grounds. For the majority of those years I thrived by maintaining a hectic schedule. In order to survive, I allowed time each week to replenish my soul. Self-preservation included keeping my Sunday morning routine simple. My restoring ritual began when I made eye contact with the Oldsmobile Cruiser. It seemed to smile as I drove past it to the parking lot. The rejuvenating process began as I slowly strolled to our sweet sanctuary. I proceeded to secure a secluded seat in the back row. Then, silently soaked in spiritual guidance and left promptly after the final prayer. My weekly journey empowered me to face the following week. For the most part, I remained anonymous. One weekend I decided to step out of my comfort zone and attended an extracurricular church activity. At that function, I had the pleasure of getting to know the owner of the Custom Cruiser. Like her car, Shepard is classic. She describes herself as, “Someone who believes in commitment to everything (people, pets, homes, cars, etc.). I keep my cars until I can’t keep them anymore.” Her beloved 1989 Custom Cruiser became her pride and joy when she purchased it in 1999. The Oldsmobile wagon had already recorded a little over 160,000 miles when Shepard became its new owner. For ten years she drove her faithful friend to work. Their journey added approximately 500 miles weekly to the Cruiser’s odometer. The story does not end yet. It kept her on the road for many more years. I probably had as many miles on me as did the Oldsmobile when Shepard saw my value. Magically (maybe) she became my mentor and I got more involved with our church. This was not a planned program; never discussed; just evolved. Fast

forward a few months and I was elected to serve as Secretary of the Board. I guess, like the classic car, I had more miles to roll. As I was settling into my new responsibilities, the COVID pandemic slammed down on everyone’s brake pedal. Society screeched to a sudden halt and our beloved church was forced to close its doors. The symbolic station wagon was not parked in its sacred space for about a year. Its absence denoted closure. Everything was not as it should be on Earth, at least temporarily. Fortunately, with the technical expertise and giving nature of a few folks (including Shepard), the Board quickly assembled a way to broadcast online. That link served as a lifeline during the long periods of isolation. It was during that time that Shepard fueled my spirit with courage. She convinced me that I had the ability to speak at a Zoom Sunday service. It is with a great deal of pride to report that I accomplished that goal. Finally, the shutdown ended, and the endearing vintage vehicle once again nestled in its sacred spot. Everything seemed back to (the new) normal, until one Sunday a modern vehicle was parked in its place. I was stunned and a bit scared to learn why. Shepard and the wagon were in a wreck. My friend was fine, but her nine-passenger comfy coach did not fare as well. Due its age and 500,000+ mileage, the cost to repair the damage was more than the car’s current market value. The stately sedan was a loaner; only a short-term ride until a deal could be negotiated. Sometime after Thanksgiving, a 1992 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser assumed the prominent position. Its appearance was a heavenly surprise on that sunny Sunday morning. For me, it was a significant symbol. Oddly, it represented hope for the year(s) ahead. Regular readers know how much I value unexpected unusual messages. The lesson I learned from this experience is to remain committed to my future growth and stay grounded by the values learned from the past. As a senior citizen, I am eternally grateful. Note: The station wagon saga continues. One term of her agreement with the insurance carrier was that Shepard could keep her 1989 Oldsmobile. Its next home is yet to be determined. Even though the retired Oldsmobile is injured, Shepard believes it still has a purpose. She is waiting for divine guidance.

DONNA BONNELL BECAME THE AUTHOR OF HER COLUMN, EMBRACING LIFE, MORE THAN A DECADE 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 MAR/APR 2022

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LOCAL TR AVEL

A NEW SPIN ON HOSPITALITY

Room at the Inn Are Digital Properties the Future of Hospitality? Leila and revenue and website traffic, reduce operational costs, improve product and service quality, and improve customer outcomes. Adam Bedoian, owners of The Local - St. Augustine, think so. With the flamingo pink façade, kitschy palm frond wallpaper, The Local - St. Augustine is powered by Virdee, a technology and seaside artwork, one might think they’ve transcended back company providing virtual reception and user interaction softto the 1950s when roadside motels were the standard accom- ware, so guests can bypass the front desk and use their phone as a key to their room. modation offered in the Sunshine State. Today, checking into “Adam and I both have extensive backgrounds in the hospiThe Local - St. Augustine is anything but vintage. New owners, Leila and Adam Bedoian, purchased the 21-room property back tality industry,” explained Leila Bedoian, co-owner of The Local in July and have been renovating it to feel like nostalgic Old - St. Augustine. “While we were excited to open this property to our guests, at the same time, we wanted to find an innovative Florida, but with the latest technology. The Local - St. Augustine is a digital property with digital check-in/check-out and an app that acts as the front desk, verToday, checking into The Local - St. Augustine ifying identification and granting access is anything but vintage. New owners, Leila and to a guest’s room with a digital key using Adam Bedoian have been renovating it to feel like Bluetooth technology while also providing a platform for guest services. According to nostalgic Old Florida, but with the latest technology. HotelTechReport.com, digital transformation for hospitality properties can increase digital MAR/APR 2022

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The Local - St. Augustine was founded in 2021 by Leila and Adam Bedoian, owners of Lead Hospitality Inc. The Local is a pet-friendly, 21-room boutique-style inn that caters to the modern traveler with a digital check-in and check-out process and concierge app to help guests plan their St. Augustine vacation.

alternative to having to be on-site 24 hours a day. That’s where the digital experience comes in. Guests book their stay on our website and download our app for easy check-in and check-out directly from their phone, which doubles as their room key. The app also features information on local attractions, events, where to eat, and more. While the digital component of our property is unique, customer service will always be our top priority.” Located at 512 Anastasia Boulevard, just south of the Bridge of Lions on Anastasia Island, The Local - St. Augustine was previously known as Island Shores Inn. Today, the property has been revamped with updated rooms, all-new landscaping, improvements made to the pool and other exterior amenities, and partnerships with DRIFTERS Beach & Bike Rentals for on-site bicycle rentals and complimentary gym access to Anastasia Fitness. The Bedoians are currently building a garden lounge area and hospitality suite with coffee and music to add to the guest experience. For more information, visit www.thelocalinns.com and follow along on social media @thelocalstaugustine

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THE LOCAL INN >> ST. AUGUSTINE TRAVEL

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FIELD OF POSSIBILITIES Embroidered Musings by Crystal Torres

The mind is the one place where true magic and uninhibited creativity exists – taking the simplest thoughts, ideas or concepts and releasing them into a world of imagination and endless possibilities. More so, when tended to, these glimmers of light in the darkness can be spun into something beautiful, full of wonder and pure artistry for those who choose to bring their inspirations to life through the written word, drawings, making something more three-dimensional or, in the case of Crystal Torres, a combination of the three. S T O R Y B Y H AY L I Z U C C O L A PHOTOG R A PHY BY M A X SON ME DI A , LLC

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CRYSTAL CLEAR

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Florida native and University of Florida graduate, Torres always knew she wanted to leave her home state behind in search of a new opportunity and after losing her mom, it was finally time for a change – a major one at that. Eight years ago, Torres hopped across the coast to live in Seattle where she could use her background in urban planning in a city that was more progressive in developing unique prospects in the field. Throughout this journey, sketching her ideas and journaling her thoughts were customary, but like most people, the revised “roaring ‘20s” of 2020 inspired her to add fuel to the visionary fire and transform these poems and drawings lingering in her mind or noted in the pages of a sketchbook into something more. “I think the idea behind it is really creating a space for myself to have the freedom to express my kind of creative pursuits in any form that I’m interested in at this point,” she said. “Over the first year-plus of COVID I just kind of dug into that more and had this idea of a series of drawings, or something that I wanted to do, and from there it became more clear to make a wearable piece of art.” Though Torres had zero experience in making clothes, the designs she had in her head were clear and incessant, now she had to make them a reality. “That series or the idea of the series, I couldn’t get out of my head and knew I had to bring it to life. I could so clearly see it and knew I just needed to figure each step out along the way – through trial and error – to make it happen,” she said. The primary focus of her vision revolved around robes, but when her original plan to repurpose thrifted garments was unsuccessful, she had to grasp a new skill to complete the picture she had her heart and soul set on.

Though Torres had zero experience in making clothes, the designs she had in her head were clear and incessant, now she had to make them a reality. “To really bring that idea to life and the way that I saw it in my mind, I needed to learn how to sew,” she said. Eventually, Torres fashioned a basic pattern for a shorter and longer robe to be a canvas for her hand-embroidered designs. “I think robes just have an interesting history and there’s almost something sacred about them as they’re often associated with rituals or just something more mysterious, more unknown than just a T-shirt for a T-shirt’s sake,” she said. “These robes are more about a piece of art that yes is wearable, but also is a kind of contemplation on something bigger than just a cool design.” Apart from choosing to work with robes as the base for her wearable art, Torres also prefers to hand embroider symbols and images rather than rely on the use of words to tell the story 56 |

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DESIGNS BY TORRES >> FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION

In addition to learning how to sew, Torres also learned how to embroider and embroiders each robe’s design by hand.

she associates with each piece. “I think there is something really powerful about symbols maybe because they have been used for so long as a way to communicate something beyond words that we intuitively all connect to. I’ve not yet wanted to embroider words, but rather let the symbols evoke feelings and thoughts on their own,” she said. Not taking into account the linen prototypes of the past, Torres’ first completed set of robes was a four-part series entitled “Conversations with Self,” which toyed with the balance between the use of black fabric against contrasting white thread. “I think there’s an interesting relationship of the black and white on these pieces,” she said. “The black fabric being this potential of something and the white thread kind of being that creative life force that manifests itself into something that actually exists. So it’s this play between the two that makes it possible. They both have to exist together. While impactful on their own, similar to certain paintings or drawings, Torres designed “Conversations with Self” to break a bigger concept she had in mind into four individual parts. “I am interested in the idea of having pieces that are related and speak to each other and build upon each other to create a story,” she said.

While this particular set of robes, which included “The Reach,” “Glimpses,” “Integration” and “Field of Possibilities,” worked together, not every robe she completes is meant to correspond to another design, but rather can act as a standalone piece. Some of those finished compositions include “Cosmic Hum,” “Cosmic Serpent” and “This & That,” all of which, though individual designs, could inspire a series in the future. In addition to using colors and symbols to demonstrate her ideas, Torres has also dabbled in other techniques to get her message across like using mesh to construct empty spaces she refers to as the voids or accompanying the posts of her work with the thoughts and poems behind them. While she’s already sold several of her creations at local makers markets, Torres is unsure if this venture will turn into a business or remain a personal outlet for self-discovery. “It’s more of a drive for my personal freedom of expression, freeing myself of doubt of questioning and really just allowing myself that freedom to explore these concepts and ideas that I’ve been thinking about forever,” she said. “Really it’s been this journey of coming back to myself. That’s what this whole robe thing has been for me and so with each one, it’s really marking a place on this never-ending journey of coming back to yourself, MAR/APR 2022

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DESIGNS BY TORRES >> FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION

coming back home.” Though Torres is keeping the theme for her next collection under wraps while she finalizes the concept, it’s set to include 13 new pieces she plans to release in the spring of 2022. From a flicker of an idea to a fully-fledged materialization, while at its core was a way for Torres to find herself and tap into her creativity, it also allowed her to share her imagination with the world and forge the basis for a whole field of possibilities. “I think it’s just a really beautiful feeling to have finally given myself this freedom to create and now I’m just excited for the rest of my life to continue,” she said. “To give myself that freedom and pursue the truest form of self-expression that feels right for me.” To stay up-to-date on Torres and her wearable artistic creations, you can follow her on Instagram: @___torres.___

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FLORIDA DAYCATION Some Of Florida’s Best Destinations are Just a Drive Away

Our town has plenty to offer locals – charming shops, restaurants that appeal to every taste, botanical gardens, state parks as well as museums and many outdoor activities, but sometimes one can use a change of scenery. Luckily, Gainesville is a central location to some of Florida’s must-visit attractions. W R I T T E N B Y H AY L I Z U C C O L A

C EDA R L A K E S WO O DS A N D G A R D EN S 60 |

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SUNSHINE GETAWAYS

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C EDA R K E Y

CEDAR LAKES WOODS AND GARDENS Distance from Gainesville – Approx. 25 Miles Within Williston, an almost hidden escape is waiting to be explored. One would never guess that beyond miles of country roads and farm land, an enchanting place filled with cascading waterfalls, blooming gardens and vibrant koi fish is actually in the center of it all. Located at 4990 NE 180th Ave, Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens infuses a Japanese flare to acres of botanical gardens and stone-surrounded lakes, all of which were created by hand. Dr. Raymond Webber discovered the 100-year-old lime rock abyss with hope of molding it into a large fishing pond. After 23 years of creating unique pathways, large rock walls and placing hundreds of species of plants throughout the garden, Webber decided to open the property to the public in 2014. However, Webber, along with two swans, several koi fish and a 100-pound catfish named Big Ben still live on the garden property – talk about a backyard view. The park is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Tuesday and is closed on Wednesdays. Entrance into the gardens is $12 for adults and $7 for children ages 6 to 13. To find out more about the gardens and learn about upcoming events, visit the garden’s website at www.cedarlakeswoodsandgarden.com.

W E E K I WA C H E E S P R I N G S S TAT E PA R K

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C R Y S TA L R I V E R

DEVIL’S DEN Distance from Gainesville – Approx. 25 Miles Just a short walk from Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens is another Florida gem. Located at 5390 NE 180th Ave, Devil’s Den Springs provides a rather exclusive underground spring for those who want to experience scuba diving and snorkeling in a prehistoric cave. The spring is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. To find out more about visiting this hidden springs, visit the Devil’s Den website at www.devilsden.com/home.html.

CEDAR KEY

D E V I L’ S D E N

Distance from Gainesville – Approx. 57 Miles Cedar Key is the perfect retreat for fishing aficionados but is also an artist village home to the annual Old Florida Celebration of the Arts festival held every April and according to cedarkeyartsfestival.com was voted by Art Fair Calendar as one of the “Top Ten Best Art Fairs in America.” While taking in some of the local art, enjoy a sunset off the coast or some of the local seafood this historic town has to offer.

CRYSTAL RIVER Distance from Gainesville – Approx. 65 Miles Crystal River is nicknamed the manatee haven for a reason. Visitors can swim with the local manatees, visit them along with other creatures at the Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park or just celebrate these sea cows’ calm, vegetative lifestyle at the annual Florida Manatee Festival. Besides manatees, Crystal River is a town dedicated to the outdoor adventurer with wildlife refuges, golf courses, several parks and even a sugar mill ruin.

S T. A U G U S T I N E

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ST. AUGUSTINE

DAYCATIONS IN FLORIDA >> DESTINATION SUNSHINE

Distance from Gainesville – Approx. 73 Miles Take in Florida’s oldest city with a drink from the Fountain of Youth or a visit to Castillo de San Marcos, which is the oldest masonry fort in the United States. If St. Augustine’s over four-century history doesn’t pique your interest, the town also offers an array of specialty shops and restaurants along the historic St. George Street.

WEEKI WACHEE SPRINGS STATE PARK Distance from Gainesville – Approx. 110 Miles The Seminole Indians named this spring “Weeki Wachee,” which means “little spring” or “winding river.” But it’s not that little. In fact, according to the Weeki Wachee website, the spring is so deep that the bottom has never been found. Since opening in 1947, Weeki Wachee is not only known for its beautiful springs that pour in 117 million gallons of fresh water from its subterranean caverns every day, it is actually a must-visit roadside attraction because it features live mermaids – aquatic performers who strap on their tails and swim beside turtles, fish and otters for the applaud of crowds. Admission into the park is $13 for adults and $8 for children ages 6 to 12 and includes access to the mermaid shows as well as Buccaneer Bay, which is Florida’s only spring-fed waterpark.

BOK TOWER GARDENS Distance from Gainesville – Approx. 142 Miles Located in the city of Lake Wales at 1151 Tower Blvd. is the historic landmark of the Bok Tower Gardens. Established in 1929 by Edward W. Bok and designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr., Bok Tower Gardens combines features of 126 different species of birds; 50 acres of gardens consisting of perennial, annual and endangered plants; and a reflection pool all of which surround the stunning 205-foot Singing Tower. The tower is home to the carillon, which according to boktowergardens.org “is a musical instrument consisting of at least 23 cast bronze bells that are precisely tuned and arranged in chromatic progression so that music in any key can be played.” This particular carillon, which is made out of 60 different bells that range from 16 pounds to almost 12 tons, helps spread music throughout the gardens every day at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. The gardens are open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and admission is $16 for adults, $5 for children ages 5 to 12 and $5 for dogs.

SOLOMON’S CASTLE

B O K TO W E R G A R D E N S

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Distance from Gainesville – Approx. 207 Miles Featured on PBS and BBC, as well as in articles from Better Homes & Gardens, The Wall Street Journal and The Boston Globe among other magazines, newspapers and television programs is Solomon’s Castle. Located at 4533 Solomon Road in Ona, this unusual castle was created by artist Howard Solomon. Covered in shiny printing plates, over 80 stained-glass windows and surrounded by metal sculptures, this castle acts as

KEY WEST

S O LO M O N ’ S C A S T L E

a tourist destination as well as Solomon’s art studio and home. This unusual destination and the Boat-In-The-Moat restaurant are open to the public from October 2 through August 1 every Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

FLORIDA CAVERNS STATE PARK Distance from Gainesville – Approx. 216 Miles Located at 3345 Caverns Road in Marianna, the Florida Caverns State Park is the only state park in Florida that offers cave tours to the public. Explore the 38-million-year-old geological history that lies beneath Florida’s surface and take in the beauty of the cave’s speleothems – or rock icicles – that took thousands of years to form. The park is open every day from 8 a.m. until sundown and cave tours are available Thursday through Monday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission into the park is $5 per vehicle and an additional $10.75 per-person age 13 and up or an additional $5 for those ages 3 to 12 to participate in a tour of the cave.

KEY WEST Distance from Gainesville – Approx. 497 Miles Not really a “day trip,” but the United States’ southernmost point is a must-see for any Florida resident. The top attractions in Key West include a visit to Mile Marker 0, taking a photo at the Southernmost Point buoy and ending the day with a view

of the most vibrant, breathtaking sunset on the East Coast. For those interested in Key West’s haunted history, take a spine-chilling ghost tour to learn about some of the city’s most terrifying stories like the unforgettable tale of Robert the Doll who was the inspiration for the horror film “Chucky.” If sitting down for a spooky story isn’t appealing, enjoy some of the colorful shops and delectable cuisine Key West has to offer. A perfect place for the taste buds is the Blue Heaven restaurant located at 729 Thomas St. Enjoy an outdoor breakfast with the company of some local chickens and baby chicks while devouring a Key West spin on a breakfast classic of eggs Benedict with a key lime-infused hollandaise sauce or enjoy an enormous slice of key lime pie that looks and tastes like a cloud puff from heaven. For literary enthusiasts and cat lovers alike, stop by the Ernest Hemingway house, home of the renowned novelist and around 40 to 50 polydactyl – six-toed – cats. Though it only spans a little over five miles, Key West offers something for everyone. All in all, the Sunshine State has far more to offer its guests than amusement parks, beaches and the fresh taste of orange juice. As one can see, some of its best attractions are just a day drive away.

F LO R I D A C AV E R N S S TAT E PA R K

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B Y C R Y S TA L H E N R Y

TRAVELS OF A SOULFUL SISTERHOOD There is no breath of life as sacred or as pure as a getaway with one’s friends. As the world shut down for the pandemic, I was grateful for the privileges we had, and I was devastated by the losses we suffered. But one of the smallest things I didn’t realize I’d missed were the chances I got to sneak away with a group of women who know me best. In November, I got the gang together for dinner to celebrate a friend of ours who was moving back to San Diego. We hadn’t all gotten together like that since the start of the pandemic, and it was like taking a cleansing sigh when I didn’t even realize I’d been holding my breath. After dinner I jumped in the group chat and told the girls it was time we planned a trip. We’re all vaxxed and waxed and ready to get back out in the world. It was just a matter of when and where. Most of the time I plan a trip, I choose the destination then I carve out time. But knowing our schedules I figured we’d better settle on a weekend before we pick an adventure. We found a spot in January that worked for most of us, and I hopped online to see what was available. There was a fare sale, so I compiled a list of eight of the cheapest places to fly, and we took a vote. I don’t think I ever would’ve chosen Memphis had it not been for this approach. I almost always gravitate toward a beach getaway or a weekend in Vegas. But Memphis was cheap, and I found an adorable AirBnb that would house us. I’d blasted the invite out to a wide net. My friend connections are a bit like a spider web, with some girls being friends on their own and some friendships with me as a connector. The small group that ended up signing on for the trip were all in the connector crew. None of them were super close pals with each other necessarily. But they were definitely all friendly, and they were all my besties. Each of these ladies are a part of my soul. Some women say they get everything they need from their marriage. But I don’t get that. My husband serves so many needs, but he is not my everything. And I don’t expect to be his. My gawd, what kind of pressure would that be if I was?

My husband is the person I chose to build a family with. He’s the person I’ll grow old with and shop for Depends with. But he’s not the end-all-be-all of my emotional needs. Jessica is my wise, empathetic sounding board and cheerleader. She’s got a TikTok psychology degree, and she should probably start charging me for her time. Jenna is who I call when I need to say something hideous and raw over tacos and coffee at a moment’s notice. We hardly take a breath between words when we see each other. And Amy is my rational-brained friend who’s been there through thick and thin. She doesn’t always take my side blindly, which is why I desperately need her in my life. She’s also always up for bloody mary’s in Vegas like no one else I know. None of us had ever been to Memphis, but I took over as travel agent right away. God help us. I’m absolutely the least organized of the bunch. But that’s probably why they let me take over. They’re the planners of their family, and sometimes it’s nice to have someone else do the planning. I looked into a food tour, and a few little landmarks to visit. But I wanted to keep things fast and loose because one of the best parts of any girls’ trip is sitting in the living room, drinking coffee and spilling your guts without a single thing on your schedule for the day. We started the trip with brunch before our flight, and then we threw basically all my plans out the window. The first night we got off the plane and stopped by Target for hats and gloves because we were freezing. We ended up loading our cart with more junk food than we’d be able to finish over the weekend, but we were so hungry after our haul that we grabbed fried chicken from a local place, and we scouted out a donut shop to come back to later. That night we opened a bottle of wine and released all the laughs and gripes we’d saved up for an entire pandemic. The next morning we drank our coffee slowly, then we wandered downtown, and we let Yelp tell us where to grab our next meal. It didn’t let us down one single time. The weekend was full of music, barbecue, cocktails, and some phenomenal philly cheese steak fries. We laughed until 2 a.m. and we stayed in our pajamas until noon. We skipped the food tour, and instead we found the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was shot. And we soberly toured the National Civil Rights Museum. We ate in a restaurant down a small alley, and we wandered into the luxurious Peabody Hotel just in time to see its famous resident ducks parade down a red carpet into an elevator to head up to their roost for the night. The weekend was nothing I’d planned for and everything I wanted it to be. I was glad we took a chance on Memphis because I can’t think of a better place to recharge my heart with those missing pieces, than that soulful Tennessee town.

CRYSTAL HENRY 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 MAR/APR 2022

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COTTONTAIL CRAFTS! DIY Easter Decorations

As Easter hops into town, lots of bunnies and chicks will be appearing in local shops and retail stores. But before you spend the cash on storebought goods, consider these DIY Easter crafts to make with your kiddos. It’s a great opportunity for some family bonding and in the end you’ll have some adorable decorations that will add cheerful fun to your home. What could be better than that? S TORY A N D PHOTOG R A PHY BY ERICK A WINTERROWD

*Adult supervision required for all projects. WARNING: Adults may find these crafts highly entertaining as well. 68 |

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HIPPITY HOP

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BUNNY FOO-FOO CLOTHESPINS This craft is absolutely charming and oh, so simple. Both rustic and whimsical, these bunnies will definitely hop their way into your heart!

SUPPLIES: • Clothespins • White spray paint • Pink Sharpie paint pen • Black Sharpie • White pom-poms (for bunny tail) • Super Glue

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STEP ONE Place a wooden clothespin on a piece of newspaper or cardboard outside. Spray one side at a time with white spray paint. Allow each side to dry before coating the other with paint. Be cautious of any overspray, especially if it is windy.

STEP TWO Let the painted clothespins dry.

STEP THREE Use the pink sharpie paint pen to draw lines in the middle of your bunny’s ears. Then dot two eyes and draw some

whiskers with a black sharpie at the middle of the clothespin’s clasp. Allow time to dry.

STEP FOUR Next, you will Super Glue your bunny’s white pom-pom tail on the back of the clothespin. Allow the glue on the little cottontail to dry. Now it’s time to hop around the forest with your finished bunny foo-foos. Maybe you’ll even find a cabbage patch or some carrots. Better HOP to it! Source: club.chicacircle.com

CHICKADEE ROLLS Nothing evokes the feeling of spring more than little baby chicks. Am I right? Let’s bring nature indoors by making your own adorable and fuzzy chickadees.

SUPPLIES: • Paper roll • Construction Paper (orange color) • Scissors • Glue • Wiggly eyes • Colorful feathers STEP ONE Take a colorful paper roll and glue on a pair of wiggly eyes.

STEP TWO Next, cut out your chickadee’s beak using construction paper. If you cut out the shape of a diamond and then fold it in half, it gives a nice beak-like appearance. Now glue one of the folded sides onto the paper roll, just below the wiggly eyes.

STEP THREE Pick out some feathers and glue on each side of the chickadee, giving him some fuzzy wings. Now your chick has hatched! Proceed to make a whole flock of these little babies; they will add so much fun to the rest of your Easter décor. Just make sure you feed them plenty of jellybeans, they’re newborn chicks after all.

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DO IT YOURSELF >> EASTER DECORATIONS

STRINGS ATTACHED EGG TREE

STEP FIVE

These eggs are just too cool. And they are so versatile in how you can display them. On a string, in a basket, or even hidden in an Easter egg hunt ... the sky’s the limit! However, the egg tree is definitely my favorite. Who said trees are only for Christmas? By the way, this craft makes an eggcellent centerpiece for your Easter Sunday brunch!

Tie a string around the knot of the balloon and hang them to dry overnight.

SUPPLIES: • Balloons • Fabric Stiffener (such as Stiffy, available at craft/fabric stores) • Embroidery floss in various pastel colors • Scissors • Pin • Tree branch • Spray paint (white or pastel color of choice) • Thread • Glass vase • Jellybeans STEP ONE Begin by blowing up the balloons. Only blow them up part way, until they are the size of an egg. Tie them shut.

STEP SEVEN Now you can take some thread to attach a loop at the bottom of the egg. This will be used to hang the egg as an ornament on your tree.

STEP EIGHT Find a small branch from a tree, and spray paint it either white or another pastel color of your liking. Allow time to dry.

STEP NINE Now it’s time to place your tree branch in some kind of vase or tall glass that will serve as the base of your tree. I like to use a clear glass vase that can be filled with colorful jellybeans, which help hold the branch in place.

STEP TWO

STEP TEN

Cut one-to two-foot lengths of embroidery floss. It is much easier to have them cut ahead of time because your hands will be getting very messy.

With your tree in place, all that’s left is adding your egg ornaments.

STEP THREE Pour some fabric stiffener into a little cup or dish. Then soak a length of floss in the cup. Pull out the floss through your fingers, removing the excess fabric stiffener.

STEP FOUR Now, wind the floss all around the egg. Continue with the other pieces of floss until the egg is as covered as you want. Different shades look great together, or you can do the egg one solid color. Different shades of one color look good too (such as light pink and dark pink).

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STEP SIX The next day, pop the balloon with a pin. It will crinkle up and shrink inside; pulling with it any excess fabric stiffener that was on the sides of the balloon. Then carefully remove the balloon through one of the openings in the floss.

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Once that’s done, expect the Easter Bunny to arrive at any moment. Don’t wait for him though; he only hops along when you aren’t looking! Source: marabous.com Hoppy Easter, everybunny!

MAR/APR 2022

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LET THE ADVENTURE BEGIN! The Adventure Club of Gainesville

From the adrenaline rush of skydiving, whitewater rafting and hang gliding to the outdoor experiences of horseback riding, hikes and birding; the calming activities of game nights, book clubs and cook-outs to more niche opportunities like hot air balloon rides, windsurfing and snorkeling, the Adventure Club of Gainesville coordinates events for an array of interests ensuring that for those who seek it – every day can be an adventure. W R I T T E N B Y H AY L I Z U C C O L A

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BORN TO WANDER

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s an empty nester, in 2004 Nancy Henry began searching for ways to fill her free time and while on a kayaking trip, was introduced to the diverse offerings and socialization element of the Adventure Club of Gainesville. What was once operated as a business was shifted into being run exclusively as a club when Henry took on a leadership role in 2013. Since then, she’s welcomed and encouraged other members to become event leaders for the activities and adventure opportunities that they’re passionate about whether that’s organizing themed parties, scheduling meet-ups or informing others of local happenings from concerts and triathlons to plays and sporting events. “We’re one club and you can do anything or nothing at all – it all just depends on what suits your fancy because even though I do the hiking and the biking and the races, I also like to join in on the book club,” Henry said. Though she tends to gravitate toward exercise-based pursuits, Henry’s favorite adventures are the newfound kind. “What’s bad about being in the club for as long as I have is sometimes I get tired of whitewater rafting and zip lining because I’ve done it so many times so usually what’s new and exciting and unusual is what I like the best,” she said. “My bucket list, as much as I cross off in a year, things get added every year.” While the majority of events are local, that doesn’t mean a road trip is ever out of the question. Members like Henry have hiked portions of the Appalachian Trail, wandered through Acadia National Park and have headed north to the mountains to experience the rush of whitewater rafting. Because the club caters to multiple interests, being a part of such an organization allows members to delve deeper into their previously-held passions or step outside their comfort zones to uncover something they may not have tried otherwise. “I can definitely say I was adventurous before the Adventure Club, but I would have never dreamed that I would have cycled 100 miles in one day or done a triathlon or run a half marathon before I joined the club. So it’s gotten me off the sofa [and] made me much more active,” she said.

“We’re one club and you can do anything or nothing at all – it all just depends on what suits your fancy because even though I do the hiking and the biking and the races, I also like to join in on the book club,” Henry said. Though Covid slowed down the amount of certain social gatherings such as the ever-popular potlucks and game nights, the club still tries to feature 10 to 20 events each month – including seasonal celebrations like the orphan thanksgiving, 78 |

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mouthwatering Pi day party or Halloween bash – to encourage current members and prospective ones to get outside the house and have fun. “A lot of people say ‘I’m just not that adventurous, I don’t know if I can do what you all do’ and I usually say ‘you don’t have to,’ you know, you can just join. One of my members just joined for the book club and so she doesn’t have to do the crazy things we do,” Henry said. “I didn’t ever think I was going to go skydiving and now I’ve been three times so you just never know what you’re capable of doing until you try.” Ana Logan, a University of Florida alumna, moved back to Gainesville four years ago leaving the hustle and bustle of Miami to retire close to her daughter. “I retired early because there was still so much that I wanted to do and I wanted to retire while I still could do those things,” she said. Coming from a city where she was used to having her pick of dozens of organized events available on any given day, Logan made the transition to a smaller town more seamless by joining the Adventure Club, which allowed her to maintain her desire to stay active, social and like most members, gave her the drive to try something different. “The first time you come into a group, there’s always some trepidation and some awkwardness, but I feel like this is a very friendly and warm group that is very inviting and [the members]

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For thrill-seekers and social butterflies, those who seek excitement in the unfamiliar and those who find the most exhilarating journey in the words of a good book and everyone in between, the Adventure Club provides an escape and can help answer the question: What am I going to do today?

Apart from having a positive impact among their roughly 150 members, the Gainesville-based club also runs on the principle of giving back to the community by participating in annual events like March for Babies, which they’ve raised over $1,000 for in the past; making monetary donations and providing meals multiple times a year to Ronald McDonald House; serving dinner to the homeless at St. Francis House; organizing food drives and fundraisers; getting involved in charity bike rides and rounding out the list with their biggest event of the year: the Teddy Bear Holiday Party. This yuletide event ignites the spirit of giving with members donating over 100 new bears every year, which are then distributed to the Gainesville Fire Department, the Gainesville Police Department, Shands Hospital and Ronald McDonald House to gift to children in need. For thrill-seekers and social butterflies, those who seek excitement in the unfamiliar and those who find the most exhilarating journey in the words of a good book and everyone in between, the Adventure Club provides an escape and can help answer the question: What am I going to do today? “This is a very warm and inviting group, don’t be afraid,” Logan Said. “Come out and you’ll make lots of friends and have fun doing so.”

GOING FOR IT >> ADVENTURE CLUB

are there to assist as well,” Logan said. “If you have always wanted to do a triathlon but don’t even know where to get started, there are people in the group that can support you. My first triathlon I did with Nancy, and it was awesome because I felt like I was with somebody who knew what they were doing and it kind of helped me to meet my goal of finishing one. I wasn’t interested in placing, I just wanted to finish, but eventually, the following year I placed – I placed second in a couple of races.”

To learn more about the adventure club or to become a member, visit their website at adventureclub.info.

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COLUMN

From Mother Hen FARM TALES

MY PONY GIRL One of the perks of being a country kid is that you start driving at an early age. I was the tender age of twelve when my mother allowed me to drive on the back roads behind our home to take my dad his evening meal out in the field. It wasn’t really unusual to start learning to drive young back then, as I had boy cousins younger than me who were helping their fathers by driving tractors and pickup trucks. I must have been quite a sight to see driving our family car, though, as it was a used 1960 white Cadillac Coupe De Ville with those huge fins that were in style at that time. By the time I was 15 and got my official driver’s permit, I was pretty comfortable behind the wheel. Driver’s Ed was required in high school, and I remember that my teacher was so comfortable with my driving abilities that he would just tell me to “drive around town” while he read the newspaper in the passenger seat. For my 16th birthday my dad felt I was ready to have my own car. That was a very big deal. I later learned that my mom did not approve of me getting a car. She was worried that it could lead to trouble. . . spelled B-O-Y-S. My father could still remember what it was like when he was young and had to share the family car. He didn’t want that for me and insisted that I could be trusted. The only way my mother relented was to lay down some ground rules: 1) No boys sitting in my car, 2) No boys riding in my car, 3) No boys DRIVING my car. My first car was a silver blue ’64 Chevy Impala convertible. I loved it because it matched my blue eye shadow. My girlfriends and I were uptown every Friday and Saturday night—and usually Sunday afternoons, too. Lots of good memories in that car. . . and no, I never broke any of my mother’s rules. As much as I loved my Chevy, my heart’s desire was for one of the new style automobiles Ford had recently produced. The Ford Mustang was introduced April 17, 1964. The “Pony Car” as it was affectionately called caught my eye right away. When my dad first took me to look at cars he was not sold on the small size of the Mustang. He felt it was

too light weight and could easily flip over. Too dangerous for a new driver, he said. Then he located the used silver blue Chevy that matched my eyeshadow and I did have to agree that it was beautiful. I put my pony dreams aside. Four years passed, and my Chevy started having some problems. By then I had moved from home and was working as a secretary at a university an hour’s drive away. My father felt I needed a more reliable car for the drive back home on the weekends when I would visit. He started scouting the area used car lots for a suitable replacement. On one such weekend when I was home, he came in the kitchen and said he wanted to take me to see a car he found that I might like. I couldn’t believe my eyes when we walked up to a ’67 Ford Mustang convertible! She was a real beauty—a lime gold body with black leather seats and black convertible top. She had all the available upgrades, even a factory installed air conditioner. We were told it was originally owned by a doctor’s wife, and the doctor had ordered the top-of-the-line edition with all the bells and whistles for her. But after driving it two years, his wife felt it was too small for her and their two children. I was speechless but, when I found my voice, I asked my dad what changed his mind about the small size of the Mustang. He said Ford made the Mustang a little larger now and especially the convertibles had heavier bodies. I couldn’t believe my luck. I swore I would keep that car my entire life. . . and I almost did. Time changes things, and little by little my sweet Pony Girl gave in to rust and disrepair. I kept her until 2001, when I passed her on to a cousin of mine who was looking for a Mustang to restore and drive in parades back in my home town. What better golden years for my Pony Girl than that, I thought. And so, this is where she is now. She has a whole new persona as a

For my 16th birthday my dad felt I was ready to have my own car. I later learned that my mom did not approve of me getting a car. She was worried that it could lead to trouble. . . spelled B-O-Y-S. candy apple red convertible, and can be seen every Labor Day weekend during my home town’s annual Cruise Night, parading on the same streets I drove when I was in my 20s. Sometimes my cousin will see me in the crowd, and motion me to join him for one more spin around town. And just like that, the years melt away and I’m back in time with my Pony Girl. That top-of-the-line used Mustang cost us $2,000 when we purchased it. I remember because I promised my dad I would pay him back in installments. I thought that was a lot of money, and of course back then it was.

MOTHER 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.

I think my father would faint if he walked onto a car lot today. An average car now costs more than buying a home did back then. I also think my dad would have a hard time wrapping his head around in-dash GPS systems that talk to you, lane assist that beeps when you cross into another lane, heated seats, air bags and automatic windows. Well, I do think he’d appreciate the automatic windows. Back then we had to manually roll up the windows when a car approached us on gravel roads. If we didn’t, the dust kicked up by the oncoming car would cover our hair and clothes. Those early days when I first took to the back roads taught me well. I may have learned to drive on gravel roads, but later I became confident driving in Miami, Atlanta, and even Los

Angeles. Once, while driving along the Pacific Coast Highway in a rental Mustang convertible, my chicks told me they were impressed with my driving skills. I answered with the wind blowing my hair and the Pacific Ocean on my right, “There’s nothing to it girls, just look cute and stay in your own lane.” My Pony Girl would be proud that I still remember…

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GAINESVILLE STREET RODS Members Prepare for Car Show

Ever since he was a kid, Chuck Lobsiger has loved cars. “It’s just something I’ve always been enthused by,” Lobsiger said. “There’s just nothing like the sound of a hot rod car or even a new car.” Over the years Lobsiger has been the owner of several older cars and newer cars including a vintage 1969 Camaro, a few four-wheel trucks and more recently a 2016 SS Chevrolet Camaro. W RIT TE N BY S UMMER JA R RO

P H O T O G R A P H Y: E R I C K A W I N T E R R O W D

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VROOM! VROOM!

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ith his love of cars, Lobsiger, of Alachua, wanted to meet others in the area who have the same interest as him, which is why about four years ago, he joined the Gainesville Street Rods. Today, he

is the president of the club. The Gainesville Street Rods is a club in the Gainesville area where lovers of cars join together to hang out and talk about their same interests. It includes about 135 members. No one is obligated to own a car to join the club and it is open to people of all ages. The group is also trying to bring in more younger members. “If we want the club to continue we need to bring in new members, younger members,” Lobisger said. The group holds monthly meetings as well as monthly cruiseins in Gainesville at the parking lot at the Publix at Springhill Commons. At the cruise-ins, members display their cars for local

people who enjoy cars,” Lobsiger said. Lobsiger joined the Gainesville Street Rods four years ago after he moved to the area and was looking to start a Camaro Club, which is a car that he owned at the time. He attended one of the Gainesville Street Rods’ cruise-in events where he spoke with members and after, joined the club as a member. He likes that he can be part of a group with people who enjoy the same things he does. “It’s being around people who have that interest,” Lobsiger said. Although he no longer has his 2016 SS Camaro, Lobsiger is still able to be part of the club and he is looking for a new car. “People still can’t believe that I sold it, and there were no different reasons for me selling it,” Lobsiger said. “I kind of just wanted to move on to something different.” He wants to get an older car he can work on. When he still had his Camaro he showcased them at the club’s cruise-in events and also at the club’s annual car show. “I loved it,” Lobsiger said.

“The enjoyment of working on something and being able to drive it or go places with it, it’s a good feeling of accomplishment,” Mullinax said. “That you’re able to create something that other people enjoy or that you personally mostly enjoy as well.” residents to check out and mingle with the car owners while learning more about the vehicles. A popular event put on by the members of the club is its Annual Car Show. The event is back this year and will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on March 19 at Santa Fe College. “It’s just a bunch of people who enjoy the fellowship of other 86 |

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Jeff Mullinax has been a member of the club since 2000. He also joined when he heard there was a club in the Gainesville area for car enthusiasts like him. “I got hooked and have been a member ever since,” Mullinax said. “It’s just a wonderful group of people.” His wife is also a member of the group with him. Mullinax

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CAR CLUB >> GAINESVILLE STREET RODS

has been a car owner for many years. He has owned multiple types of cars including a 1934 Coupe. Mullinax likes cars because it is something he can work on, he said. “The enjoyment of working on something and being able to drive it or go places with it, it’s a good feeling of accomplishment,” he said. “That you’re able to create something that other people enjoy or that you personally mostly enjoy as well.” He has showcased his cars at the club’s cruise-ins and car shows in the past. Mullinax likes being able to converse with the attendees, he said. “People like to reminisce and say their dad had one or they grew up with one,” he said. “Just interacting with people you get all kinds of questions.” Mullinax will have his car showcased again at the car show this March. This year is the 40th Annual Car Show put on by Gainesville Street Rods. The event is open to anyone with any type of car whether it’s an older car, truck, rat rod or motorcycle. They do not have to be a member of the Gainesville Street Rods to join the event. “We draw people in from all over Florida and even south Georgia,” Lobsiger said. During the event there will be food, vendors, entertainment, drawings, door prizes and a trophy presentation on some of the best cars displayed. The awards portion of the event is only available for non-club members. Members of the Gainesville Street Rods cannot participate but they can have their cars displayed in a separate area during the event. More than 200 car owners have come to the show to display their car at past events. Admission to have a car included in the show is $25. The event is free for spectators. There is no early admission to have a car displayed at the event. Interested car

owners can register their car for the show only on the day of the show. In the past those wanting to display their car line up at Santa Fe College as early as 7 a.m. to be included and Lobsiger expects the same to happen again this year. This year’s car show is the first show the group is putting on in the past two years because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Lobsiger and other members are excited to bring the show event back but they are making sure to still be cautious and take the proper precautions, Lobsiger said. “I feel pretty confident,” Lobsiger said. “So far everything is good.” Money raised during the car show goes to Stop Children’s Cancer, an organization in Gainesville focused on providing the proper funding for research, cures and treatments to stop childhood cancer. Gainesville Street Rods has raised money for Stop Children’s Cancer at its car shows for more than 30 years. In total, the club has raised $205,650 for the organization. Lobsiger hopes to raise a good amount of money for the organization at the upcoming car show. “We always like to better our previous year’s show,” Losiger said. “This has been a really difficult year as everybody knows. Things are still up in the air.” The members are excited to bring the car show back again this year after the hiatus. “We’re ecstatic,” Mullinax said. “The few vendors that I’ve heard or talked with are excited that they are able to get back and help us put on the show.” For more information on Gainesville Street Rods, the group’s meetings, cruise-ins or the upcoming car show, visit: www.gainesvillestreetrods.com or call 352-658-1477.

The Gainesville Street Rods celebrate their 40th Annual Car Show this year. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on March 19 at Santa Fe College.

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Parade of

HOMES 2022

The 2022 Spring Parade of Homes™ is coming up May 14-15th & May 21-22nd. Mark your calendars for this highly anticipated county-wide event! Since 1958, the Builders Association of North Central Florida (BANCF) has proudly hosted the Parade of Homes™, featuring over 2,200 homes in over 300 neighborhoods throughout Alachua County. Parade homes are open to the public from noon to 5pm each day, and admission is free. Come out and tour a collection of beautiful homes throughout numerous neighborhoods in our community.

What is the Parade of Homes™? The Parade is a variety of brand-new homes in the community showcasing the latest in home design and décor, with the most up-to-date energy saving construction techniques, and the newest in land development. The wide array of interior and exterior designs, floor plans, sizes, and neighborhood amenities are what makes the Parade of Homes™ so special. When you visit the Parade of Homes™ you are getting a glimpse of all the housing choices available in our community. You can plan your personal route of the homes and tour at your own pace. Builders and their representatives will be on-site during the Parade to 90 |

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answer questions and provide information to interested buyers. Each Parade Home is a collective effort of numerous people who combine their talents and resources to show the public the newest ideas in the housing industry. Builders, developers, subcontractors, lenders, suppliers, designers, and many others have put their best foot forward to present everything the building industry has to offer. Whether you are a potential home buyer or looking for ideas for your current home, the Parade of Homes™ has something for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions about the BANCF Parade of Homes™ How do I know which neighborhoods are participating and where can I find them?

I'm a builder. How can I put one of my homes in the Parade?

Neighborhood locations will be available on the BANCF website: www.bancf.com in the weeks leading up to the Parade.

There are many steps to entering a home into the Parade. Email emily@bancf.com or call the BANCF office at (352) 372-5649 for more information.

Where can I get a Parade Magazine? Parade magazines will be inserted into the next edition of Our Town Magazine and will be available at every one of the parade homes with copies at the BANCF office as well. A digital copy will also be featured on the BANCF website. Floor plans, renderings and features of the homes are included in the Parade magazine.

Are the homes showcased in the Parade of Homes™ for sale? Some homes in the Parade may be for sale, others may have been purchased prior to the Parade. Please contact the builder to find out information on any particular home in which you have interest. The builder’s contact information is conveniently located on each of the home pages of the Parade magazine.

Are the home prices listed in the Parade Magazine? The prices for individual homes are not listed in the Parade magazine or on the website. You must contact the builder of the home. The builder’s contact information will be located on each of the home pages in the Parade magazine.

Parade of

HOMES 2022

May 14-15th • May 21-22nd

I own a business in Alachua County. Can I advertise in the Parade Magazine? Advertising in the Parade magazine is a benefit available exclusively to BANCF Members. If you are not yet a member of BANCF, information on joining and a membership application can be found at www.bancf.com. If you are a member and would like to find out more, contact an advertising representative at Tower Publications or call the BANCF office at (352) 372-5649.

I missed the last Parade. Is there any way I can look at previous Parade magazines? Yes! You can view all floor plans, renderings, and features from past Parades on the BANCF website: http://www.bancf.com/events/parade-of-homes. If you would like a copy of a specific magazine, you can call the BANCF office at (352) 372-5649. The Parade is very well attended each year with parade visitors either looking to buy a new home or getting ideas to enhance their own home. The Builders Association of North Central Florida looks forward to seeing you May 14th, 15th, 21st, and 22nd. For more information, please visit www.bancf.com.

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NATIONAL PARKS OF SOUTH FLORIDA The Real Home of “The Swamp”

Following the Florida coastline to the southern tip of the state is what I imagine slowly sticking your face over a pot of boiling water would feel like. The humidity even in the early months of springtime can feel thick, wrapping around your skin until it’s almost suffocating. Despite the unpleasant temperatures, South Florida offers three national parks that are filled with colorful flowers, chirping birds and tropical marshes, while providing a safe haven for threatened and endangered species. The Everglades, Big Cypress and Biscayne, which are the true home of the gators and the swamp, are just itching to be explored!

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NATIONAL TREASURES

SOUTH FLORIDA >> NATIONAL PARKS

THE EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK In its prime, the Everglades spanned across over 7 million acres of wetland. Designated as a national park in 1934, the park borders would cover 1.5 million acres of this South Florida landmark. According to the National Park Service website, the Everglades park holds the titles for largest continuous stand of sawgrass prairie in North America, the largest mangrove ecosystem in the western hemisphere and the largest designated wilderness in the United States. It’s also the only subtropical preserve in North America. Besides being admired for its massive size, the greatest asset the Everglades provides is that it is home to 13 endangered and 10 threatened species of animals including the Florida Panther, the West-Indian Manatee, the American Alligator and several types of turtles including the Atlantic Ridley, the Leatherback and the Hawksbill turtle. Walking across the boardwalks at various visitor centers make you feel as though you’re instantly engulfed by nature. Trees surround you and birds sing to one another while tourists quietly eavesdrop. Nearby, alligators swim and often hide in the marshy lakes while other creatures keep a safe distance. The Everglades is also home to the American Crocodile, making South Florida the only place where both the American Alligator and the American Crocodile can coexist. Besides being an ideal place for bird watchers and all-around nature lovers, the Everglades is also an ideal place for adventure 94 |

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seekers. The Tamiami Canal, which flows east to west from the Everglades to Miami, is inundated with airboat tours for people to see the sights while embracing their inner Horatio Caine from the opening credits of “CSI: Miami.” While the Everglades is by far the largest national park Florida has to offer, two other parks are also must-see attractions.

BIG CYPRESS NATIONAL PRESERVE Big Cypress National Preserve runs along the Everglades but spans only about 729,000 acres of freshwater swamp. According to the National Park Service, Big Cypress National Preserve was created in 1974 in order to protect “the water quality, natural resources, and ecological integrity of the Big Cypress Swamp.” After hiking along the trails, Big Cypress is more like a large forest rather than a swamp. Of course, there are some marshy spots hiding under thick layers of sawgrass, and lakes filled with alligators and crocodiles certainly exist throughout the preserve, but a vast majority of the park has large cypress trees that the endangered and rarely seen Florida Panther hides behind. Meanwhile, flowers bloom in the sunshine while butterflies and birds such as warblers, cranes and egrets fill the sky and the sound waves. Big Cypress thrives on water from rainfall. According to the National Park Trip Planning Guide, Big Cypress receives “55 inches of rainfall each year, flooding the cypress strands and

SOUTH FLORIDA >> NATIONAL PARKS

prairies with a shallow sheet of life-giving water.” The benefits of rainfall don’t stop there. According to the guide, this rainwater then “flows through the Preserve into the Ten Islands area along the Gulf of Mexico,” which gives nutrients to sharks, crabs and snook.

BISCAYNE NATIONAL PARK While the Everglades and Big Cypress are by majority landbased parks with lakes and swamps dispersed throughout, Biscayne National Park, located on the outskirts of Miami is a snorkeler’s or boater’s dream surrounded by sparkling water that protects colorful coral and other marine life. Although there are canoe rentals onsite, this National park offers some islands that can only be reached by boat. If you’re planning a trip to Biscayne, keep in mind that the park calendar lists when guided boat tours are available; you don’t have to restrict yourself to the shoreline but instead truly get a glimpse of what Biscayne has to offer. So for your next in-state vacation, skip the long lines at theme parks and instead explore South Florida’s National Parks to see why these unique destinations have been preserved and protected for future visitors.

South Florida offers three national parks that are filled with colorful flowers, chirping birds and tropical marshes, while providing a safe haven for threatened and endangered species.

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Our Town

GOOD THINGS HAPPEN WHEN YOU CELEBRATE KIND WORDS… The purpose of this special section is to build community, appreciation and hope. In the following pages you’ll find words of encouragement. These are testimonials from local people sharing what they love about the people and places that support our community and need your support. We hope you’ll find some places you love, and encourage them too ;)

MAR/APR MAR/APR 20222022 OUR TOWN SHAREMAGAZINE THE LOVE

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We are a family-owned business, originally from the coasts of Southern California, & brought our love for Mexican cuisine to the wonderful community of Newberry, Florida in 2013. We think you of, our patrons, as FAMILIA, & our goal is to always make you feel welcome and satisfied each time. We pride ourselves in the quality, freshness, & vibrant flavors of our food. Our meats are never frozen, and every meal is prepared fresh and made to order. From our fresh Pico de Gallo to our hand-smashed guacamole, you will savor the mouthwatering flavors.

“Always fresh, well prepared food. Warm hearted owners who stay involved. Great local joint, and the food truck is spotted all over.” — Bobby P. Freshness You Can Taste

“For the second time in a year, I arranged to have Nathan bring his food truck out to feed about 60 employees. Nathan is very nice, professional and does what he says he’s going to do.” — Paca S.

Cilantro Tacos 12921 SW 1 Rd, Newberry 352-472-1300 98 |

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“First time here and I loved it! You can tell they really take their time with the food and it’s great quality. I cannot wait to return! Thanks for the excellent food and service and I appreciate all your hard work during these times.” — Leslie B.

FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers in Gainesville, FL and Chiefland, FL is a medical and scientific-based physical therapy and fitness organization, with a broad range of expertise. Spelled different because we are different! Founded in collaboration with a medical doctor, physiologists, licensed therapists, and service business experts, we provide prescribed physical therapy and medically-based physical fitness. Our goal at FYZICAL is to help you discover how to achieve the pinnacle of healthy living, expand your boundaries, feel younger, and revitalize your health.

“As a cancer survivor, I faced major problems with balance, neuropathy and strength. The dedicated staff at Fyzical provided me with a detailed exam and then an individualized plan to work on my issues. I

“Spelled Different, Because We Are Different.”

Fyzical Therapy & Balance Centers 5201 NW 34th BLVD, (In YMCA) Gainesville 1315 NW 21st Ave., Chiefland 352-240-1136

fyzical.com/gainesville

am grateful to have found this PT clinic where every staff member showed me kindness.” — Faye H.

“I am really impressed with Fyzical. When I first met Bruce about 5 years ago I was really amazed with his knowledge base. I knew I was going blind which relates to balance, Bruce was able to relate to my feet as it relates to balance. Paige and Faith have been amazing.

I couldn’t imagine going anywhere else for my PT needs.” — J. Jopling MAR/APR 2022

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At Celebrate Primary Care we offer affordable and personal health care. We are a direct primary care medical practice serving businesses and individuals with offices in Gainesville and Alachua. Ultimately, that means you or your employees get excellent medical care, when you need it, without having to jump through the hoops of a traditional medical practice. Because we have taken insurance companies out of the primary care equation, costs come down. Imagine a healthcare provider that knows you, and is only an email or text away.

“I love that I will have direct access to my provider (phone, text, messenger and email) and won’t have to wait days or weeks to be seen. I’ll keep my health A Personal Relationship with your Medical Provider

Celebrate Primary Care 1216 NW 22nd Ave. | 919 NW 57th St. (352) 474-8686 100 |

celebrateprimarycare.com

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insurance for emergency care and specialists, but financially this just makes sense. If you’re looking for something better, you should definitely check this place out!” — Monica S. “I just had a patient who is a patient at Celebrate Primary Care, she just went on and on about what an amazing amazing practice y’all have! She’s never experienced such personalized medical care. You are doing great things for people!” — Courtney G.

25 years ago, Tomlinson Motor Company opened the doors with the idea of creating a “car buying experience the way it should be”. TMC has a long-term, knowledgeable, non-commissioned staff who has been essential in the dealership’s success. The same philosophy applies to their Service Department. Tomlinson Motor Company’s experienced mechanics are ASE Certified and work on all makes and models. Not only does it inspect and certify all Tomlinson Motor Company’s inventory, it provides a fair and friendly place for all of their customers’ automotive needs.

“I could not have asked for a better experience getting my car! The guys at Tomlinson Motor Company in Gainesville are the BEST! John David “JD” was so patient, consistent,

MOTOR COMPANY Car buying the way it should be!

and helpful with getting me the exact car I wanted and needed! If you are looking for a car this is the place to go!” — J. Harvey “Tomlinson is wonderful!! I purchased my car in August of this year.

Tomlinson Motor Company 3580 N. Main St. Gainesville, FL 32609 352-373-6851 (service) | 352-500-AUTO (sales)

tomlinsonmotorco.com

Bill Carter took care of me the whole way through. The process was fast, easy, welcoming and overall satisfactory. I’m in love with my new car... so much so my sister is purchasing from Tomlinson as well. Highly

recommend. A good and honest business with more than fair prices.” — M. Fitzsimmons MAR/APR 2022

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What if your home was filled with beautiful memories of those you love most? Museum-quality art, custom books, and matted prints that tell the story of your family in a way that can be held, enjoyed, and passed on for years to come. When you book a portrait with Adrienne Fletcher Photography, you’re booking a full-service experience that will not only help you plan and capture precious family moments but also ensure that you get them printed and installed in your home so that you can enjoy them in a way that truly makes a house a home.

“We had a fantastic time working with Adrienne! She paid close attention to detail and managed to capture the essence of who we are in this season of life. Cannot wait to work with her again!!”

Weddings. Portraits. Life.

Adrienne Fletcher Photography Call for appointment 352-514-7277 102 |

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— Zakiya Smith-Dore

“Adrienne is extremely helpful, prompt, and professional. Working with her you can tell she is very experienced and knows her way around the lens. She

helped us elevate our Family business and we at Cilantro Tacos could not ask for a better photographer! Thank you Adrienne ” — Nate Meth

Gentle Dental Care has been a leader in the Gainesville dental community since 1978. They take great satisfaction in helping you maintain optimal dental health. Devoted to comprehensive and preventive patient care, the staff at Gentle Dental Care believe their patients should have as much information as possible in order to make important, informed decisions regarding their dental health and treatment options. The most important member of their team will always be you! Stop by today and meet the family at Gentle Dental Care.

“Dr. Webb will treat you like family.” — Rod S. Your health and safety are our greatest concerns!

“Always smiling and always a pleasant experience which is weird when you consider that it is the dentist. Love Dr. Jordan and Dr. Patti.” — Tony M.

Gentle Dental Care 3655 SW 2nd Avenue 352-378-2555

“The Gentle Dental Care staff were very friendly, kind, and concerned about my welfare. I would definitely recommend them if you are looking for a new dental professional to take care of you!” — Michelle G.

GainesvilleDentist.com MAR/APR 2022

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Excited with the incredible opportunity to serve his hometown area, Joseph Stankus and the team at Stankus Family Care offer a wide variety of services that meet the varied needs of their patients. Whether young or old, insured, or self-pay, Stankus Family Care offers something for everyone. Specializing in well visits, sick visits, skin checks, weight loss, and men’s health, they are ready to help in anyway they can.

“This is a great Family Care practice. It seems rare to find a practice that puts an emphasis on the patient over the administrative aspects of healthcare. Joseph Stankus and his team ensure that people

Healthcare with Heart

are taken care of here.” — David R. “Joey has been my entire family’s health care provider for many years.

Stankus Family Care 18743 NW 234th St. High Springs, FL 32643 386-454-0721 104 |

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He and his entire staff are always very kind and listen to all your needs. His office’s motto is “ Health Care With Heart” this describes them perfectly. Thank

you for all you do for my family and the community” — Angie E.

Sweet,Tasty, Spicy, Hot, Vinegar, Smokey. Just a few adjectives that will come to mind when you visit Top Hog! We take our time to make our recipes with love. We make our recipes in small batches to make sure that everything you order is fresh and up to our customers high standards! To give our meats a distinct Florida flavor, our meats are smoked with a mix of Florida woods, like orange wood and oak. Family style meals or meat sold by the pound with your choice of sauce available. Check our website and facebook for our full menu and daily specials.

“Love the food! Great service and cleanliness...quick good food fast! Check them out! Pulled pork plate 2 sides is the best!” — Shelly H. “Came last week for the Cuban and that was a great take on it with

Family Style BBQ

Top Hog 14128 West Newberry Rd., Jonesville 352-331-6035 6500 SW Archer Rd. (Kanapha Station) 352-554-4019

www.top-hog.com

the pork!! Even better coming back a week later and getting the cheese

Be back again soon. So good and my new HOT SPOT to come to at TOP HOG!!” — Paul Joseph V.

steak and that was very good!! Lots of steak there!!

“Great sides and some of the best sandwiches.

Sweet

tea chicken is juicy, tender, and full of flavor. House made sausage is amazing.” — Ahren T.

MAR/APR 2022

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Daughtry Tree Service serves both residential and commercial clients. We are fully licensed and insured to work in the beautiful state of Florida. We are experts in local trees, shrubs, bushes as well as the climate in north central Florida, and can handle all your tree service needs. With over 30+ years working in the tree care industry, be assured with great confidence that our team will provide the dependable and expert tree services at affordable prices. No job is to big or small. We have the expertise and equipment to tackle them all.

“Everything was top notch from the initial estimate with Emery to when they drove away with my yard looking immaculate. Emory was

professional and friendly and they performed the work flawlessly. I had several trees removed, dead limbs removed No job is too big or too small

Daughtry Tree Service 26106 NW 3rd Ave, Newberry, FL 32669 (352) 660-0367 106 |

daughtrytreeservice.com

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from other trees, and the canopy raised throughout the yard. I would not hesitate to use them again and I definitely will recommend their service to anyone who asks.” — Paul Manning “They did a fantastic job of removing two dead palm trees and trimming the remaining three palms for us. Would

definately recommend you call them for your tree maintenance needs.” — Duane Tully

Social at MidTown is Gainesville, FL’s premier upscale sports restaurant and rooftop bar. With 32 craft beers on tap, happy hour and daily specials, unique handmade craft cocktails, as well as a full menu with a wide variety of delicious food, we are your go-to social destination, any day of the week. We are also the best place in town to watch the big game, with 60 flat screen TVs playing all your favorite sports, there’s something for everyone. Don’t wait any longer! Come enjoy yourself at Social at MidTown today.

“Great food, a lot of great choices. Mojo pork tacos excellent, the plantains in it are an awesome touch. You can never go wrong with the Tuscan sandwich.” — Jorge G.

Premier upscale sports restaurant and rooftop bar

“Fantastic menu. Red fish over grits is a spicy explosion of flavor. Filet mac & cheese is creamy goodness to die for. Exceptional local draft list. Craft cocktails too. Quick, competent service. Highly impressed!” — Craig D.

The Social at Midtown 1728 W University Ave. 352-373-7383

“The fun place for pre game meeting other Gators. The drinks and food is

thesocialgnv.com

lots of fun for everyone.” — Guy T.

great and bar tenders & waitress are very friendly a accommodating. Just MAR/APR 2022

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Come see why so many people love the Copper Monkey. We are known for providing legendary burgers and delicious food in a casual dining setting. If you missed legendary burgers like The Monkey’s Uncle, The Ranch Burger and the Orange and Blue Burger, your wait is over. These are just a few examples of why we have been voted “Our Town’s Favorite Burger”. Open for both lunch and dinner, Copper Monkey is always here for that cold beer after work or to meet up with friends and family for an evening of wonderful memories, just like old times!

“Friendly service with an excellent variety of food. The burgers are fantastic and on special every Monday night! Family friendly, country atmosphere makes this place an easy local gem!” — J. Cucchiara

Your wait is over — our legendary burgers are back!

Copper Monkey West 14209 W Newberry Rd, Jonesville 352-363-6338 108 |

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“The food and bar staff are the best!! My

go to spot for cold

drinks and great appetizers. Burgers and soup are always great.” — Denise Rose

“I am so happy to have this restaurant in Jonesville! I frequent here often with my family as well as business meetings for lunch. Friendly and efficient staff. Great food with plenty of choices.” — Nancy Short

A family owned local business with over 20 years of pawn broking experience; Pawn Pro offers their customers the best deals and the most money for their unwanted items. They take pride in offering top dollar for jewelry, broken jewelry, electronics, tools and much more. Available 6 days a week Chris strives to create a pleasant experience regardless of what you may be looking to buy or sell. Isn’t it time you got rid of some of those unwanted items? Let the Pawn Pros help!

“First rate service - Something for everyone - great prices, great service, friendly and family driven definitely the raiser of standards and the breaker of the stereotypical mold - not your typical pawnshop - friendly and family oriented. Be

Hometown Local Business

Pawn Pro, LLC 25040 W. Newberry Road, Newberry 352-327-9067

pawnprollc.com

expected to be impressed!” — Jay M.

“I’ve been a customer for 15 years, YES 15 years and never a regret, always treated well, you can’t find better deals and the owner goes above and beyond on every transaction.” — John C.

“Great place. Very helpful and knowledgeable staff. Chris is sincere and a real professional” — Bill M.

MAR/APR 2022

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The mission of St. Francis House is to create new futures for families with children through permanent and stable housing. Our core values are Compassion, Dignity and Respect. There are over 2,000 homeless families in Florida. It’s estimated there are more than 200 homeless families in Alachua County. In 2020, St. Francis House helped 108 families and 159 children obtain permanent, stable housing. To view our 2020 Annual Report and learn more about our successes in 2020 email us at info@stfrancishousegnv.com!

“I came to St. Francis House for help. The case

Creating New Futures for Children and Families

St. Francis House, Inc. 413 South Main Street (352)-378-9079 110 |

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managers were great. They helped me find a new job, enroll my 4 and 6 year olds in day care and school. They helped me find a new safe home for us. Two years later, I am now working on a military base, have full-time employment, full benefits, a beautiful home in a great neighborhood, and a new future– all thanks to St. Francis House.” — Former Resident

“St. Francis changed my life forever. They gave me a place to live while I was homeless. They gave me food, clothing, everything I needed. Working with the case managers, I was able to find work, childcare, and build a future for my family. I have been employed fulltime and permanently housed for over 8 years and couldn’t have gotten here without the help of St. Francis House.” — Former Resident

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. If you love your Happy Hours, Crafty’s has quite arguably-the BEST happy hours in town. Monday’s the BEST All You Can Eat Wings (kids eat free), Tuesday Trivia, Wednesday, Karaoke, and Live musician Thursday, Friday, and Saturdays.

“Crafty’s is becoming a regular stop for me. Their beer on tap selection is huge! They also have great food, burgers, and wings. Super friendly staff and next door is their Bottle

Your Neighborhood Craft Beer Restaurant and Pub

Crafty BastardsRestaurant & Bottle Shoppe 4860 NW 39th Ave. Magnolia Parke 352-872-5970

Shop with a huge variety of beers for purchase! Can’t beat that! 5 stars!” — C. Bobowiec

“Great food (especially the sweet potato fries), nice atmosphere, speedy and efficient service, and everything served with a smile. The back room is a great place for a meeting, too.” — F. Capone

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No matter what your taste buds are craving, you’ll find classic meal favorites and organic vegan options- Fresh and made to order, including the full menu of unique craft cocktails, beer and wines. Then “swing a club” at the Pink Flamingo “water-featured” Mini Golf course located just out back. Whether you relax outside at the Flamingo bar or watch others play the 18 hole course, the entire family is invited to come spend the day. There’s something for everyone! Follow the flock to the Pink Flamingo Diner and Mini Golf in historic High Springs.

“Excellent food! The revitalized inside is fantastic! The staff were incredibly gracious and engaging. Such a great energy here, and I’m glad this is in High Springs.” — Eric

A unique “destination” Diner experience for the whole family

Pink Flamingo Diner 19726 US 441, High Springs, FL 32643 386-454-5775 112 |

PinkFlamingoDiner.com

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“My husband and I came in for lunch today and really enjoyed it! He got the High Springs Heaping and I got the California Chicken. I liked getting the mixture of French fries and fried pickles with my sandwich. (Mine would’ve been killer with bacon added *hint hint*.) Service

was great and the restaurant looks so nice after the remodel. Good job, we’ll be back!” — Tiffany

The Fiesta Media is a Live Streaming Agency that focuses on producing podcasts, talk shows and any type of Live Streaming Event. Founded by entertainer & entrepreneur Elio Piedra and sponsored by Jorge Villalobos from The Best Restoration & Sharp D-Signs, The Fiesta Media collaborates with our area’s most remarkable businesses to create original content. With more than 10 area podcasts now in production, Elio and his team work to bring our community together and provide value to clients looking to boost their business in this new age of digital marketing.

“Our experience with Fiesta Media has been incredible. Our weekly podcast with Elio has really increased our Facebook numbers and we have more people interested in what we do.”

Boosting brands around the world

The Fiesta Media A Full Podcast Production Company 352-327-5089

TheFiestaMedia.com

— Kristen Rabell & Rebecca Johnson

“Working with Elio and his team at Fiesta Media has been absolutely phenomenal. I needed someone who could not only produce great work, but be on top of things, and he’s done just that!” — Purdeep Sangha MAR/APR 2022

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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 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. Little Pine 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.

“Wonderful staff! they treated my son like he was their own. They’ll work with you for even same day appointment… I have not one negative thing to say.” — Kellye G.

Lifelong Partners in Your Child’s Health

Little Pine Pediatrics 15551 NW Hwy 441 Suite 40, Alachua 386-518-0102 114 |

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“Everything was perfect. The staff were amazing, so nice. The doctor was so sweet to my girls, and I felt that he was extremely knowledgeable “and did not leave out a single detail. The nurse was very kind and welcoming. You could tell that this is a great place! Loved our visit!” — Tonya D.

Looking for the freshest seafood? — The Ballyhoo Grill is the place for you! With fresh seafood arriving daily, Try the amazing North Atlantic Cedar Plank Salmon, grilled on a cedar plank for a rich, smoky flavor. Other great eats include fresh and hand-cut choice steaks. We’re serving up everything from salads and pastas to delicious burgers and sandwiches. make sure you try the incredible Bananas Fosters. Dine in or outdoors on their patio. Happy hour is 2-7pm daily with extended happy hour until 9pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

“My boyfriend and I had a wonderful dinner here. Probably our new, favorite place to eat out. The

food was very delicious and they gave great proportions. They actually had some of the

best seafood I’ve had since being in Gainesville. My boyfriend loved his

Serving Gainesville since 1998

steak — very juicy, no fat, cooked perfectly and the meat really felt like it just fell apart in your mouth. It was that delicious! Very fast service when we went. Will definitely be back.” — Polly Hwu

Ballyhoo Grill 3700 Newberry Rd 352-373-0059

ballyhoogrill.com

“I love the staff. They are so friendly and helpful. If you haven’t tried dining at Ballyhoo, you won’t be disappointed.” — Thomas Pernice MAR/APR 2022

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We’re a credit union, a not-for-profit financial institution proudly serving our community and members for over 60 years. With all the choices out there, why pick Radiant Credit Union? YOU OWN US. Our members aren’t just customers, they’re owners. This means when you join Radiant Credit Union, you get a voice in how we do business. As a not-for-profit cooperative, we return our profits to our member-owners in the form of better rates, lower fees, a higher return on deposits, and personalized service. Join us today and start enjoying the benefits of membership.

“Today with the help of my Credit Union, I was able to help a lot of great people. And if you are looking for a great place to do your banking, check out Radiant Credit Union. Thanks to Radiant Credit Union!” — A Very Happy Member

Radiant Credit Union 10 local branches 352-381-5200 116 |

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“I am so happy and proud to have businesses like you in our community who give so much back. In the last couple of years, your generosity has been amazing, and you have helped so many children and other worthy causes. So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you!” — Jordan M.

Come on Get Happy and Welcome to the Family! It won’t take long to realize why our Places are special. It’s more than exceptional food and treats, and heartwarming treasures. From the moment you enter, you’re WELCOMED. As you depart, you’ll know you’re VALUED and APPRECIATED. In between, enjoy delicious authentic pizza, salads and desserts made with love, and scrumptious real Italian Ice, frozen custard and espresso that’s “next level” in taste and quality! Sample away, then MIX IT UP-whatever makes you happy!

“This is truly a “happy place”. I was blown away by the

kindness of the owners as well as the taste and quality of the custard and Italian ice. Make sure you check it out!” — Shelby Anderson

Come on Get Happy

My Happy Place/My Pizza Place On Main, LLC 14925/14933 Main Street Alachua, FL 32615 386-433-6272 | 386-462-0661

myhappyplaceonmain.com mypizzaplaceonmain.com

“Wow! This place blows any other Ice Cream (Custard) or Italian Ice place around out of the water!! This is no ordinary Ice Cream or Italian Ice. The flavors are

so rich and satisfying. The owners make your experience super enjoyable and you can tell they absolutely love what they sell...I promise you won’t be disappointed!” — Shauna Jones

“Phenomenal foods! Cooked perfectly every time and great options! My go to pizza place!” — Spencer Colson

MAR/APR 2022

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At Studio32 Orthodontics we understand the importance of a gentle hand and a warm smile and strive to make braces and Invisalign fun as well as functional. We are committed to helping our patients achieve their most brilliant, healthiest smile in a relaxing and friendly environment. Every patient is given the personal attention they deserve and every smile created is a work of art.

“They are the BEST! The staff & Doctors are so amazing,

Get Your Smile On

friendly, and courteous. If I could give them more stars I would! The office is always clean, and playing awesome music. During covid they followed all procedures and kept everything so clean and tidy.” — Melissa Banda

“Studio32 is the absolute BEST!! From the staff to the

Studio 32 Orthodontics 2222 NW 40th Terrace, Suite B Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 336-2222 118 |

www.studio32ortho.com

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Doctor to the fun decor in the office, everything is centered on your comfort and satisfaction as a patient. Each staff member is very knowledgeable and supportive as well. The atmosphere in the office is calm and peaceful. I can’t recommend Studio32 enough!” — RaeAnne Nettles

Our 7,000 square foot venue can host up to 250 guests and is equipped with all of your event needs. The open-air barn and lush grounds provide room for social distancing as well as many great photo opportunities. Our barn twinkles at night with thousands of lights and has a showstopping floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace. Rustic elegance is everywhere! Our full-time Events Director can help you from start to finish. Whether it’s your wedding, bridal/baby shower, or family reunion, we are your “gathering place”. If you can dream it, we can make it happen!

Clark P lantation Event Venue A gathering place for all occasions!

“We are so so so happy we choose Clark plantation as our venue, Debbie made our wedding go smoothly and looked exactly how I imagined it.

It’s beyond beautiful and everyone we spoke with was helpful and friendly.” — Suzi K.

Clark Plantation is the best venue to have your wedding! From the breathtaking ceremony space that’s surrounded Clark Plantation Venue 3682 SW 202nd Street Newberry, FL 32669 352-304-9652

www.clarkplantation.com

by huge grandfather oaks to the beautiful brand new pole barn, Clark Plantation has everything you need for a wedding. This venue is definitely your one stop shop because it also comes with your very own wedding coordinator! Ms. Debbie and their staff truly made my day extra special.” — Deanna J. MAR/APR 2022

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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. Our team is patient and caring, so you can be sure your pet will be in great hands. We offer complimentary exams for all new patients, so give us a call today! We’re located right on the corner of Main Street and 441 in downtown Alachua!

“I’ve have been to all the other vet in the area and hands down they have the best service and affordable prices. I will continue to bring my pets here even though it’s a 40 minute drive.” — Robert D

“Wonderful people, my dog got hit by a car and they took him Alachua Animal Hospital 15100 Main Street Alachua 386-588-3219 120 |

www.alachuavet.com

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right in even though we had never been there and took wonderful care of him. Very

professional and caring. Dr. Nadler is the best vet

I have ever been too. Love Alachua Animal Hospital.” — Ruth Mc L

Our Goal at Bangkok Square Restaurant is to be a place where you always know you will get the best authentic fine Thai cuisine. We feature a cozy dining room with soothing warm tones and comfortable furnishings. You will enjoy a relaxing and pleasant atmosphere while indulging in our delicious selections. We enjoy sharing the most fragrant, interesting and flavorful dishes from all over Thailand. Our mission is not only to offer delectable food, but to also offer friendly, efficient service because our visitors satisfaction is paramount.

“We love Bangkok Square! The pad Thai is a favorite! The

vegetarian options are yummy. The veggies are nicely cooked and big beautiful chunks. The people are so kind and respectful”. — S. Vani

Family-Owned Serving the Best Authentic Thai Cuisine

Bangkok Square 2 locations | 8181 NW 38th Ln. | 6500 SW Archer Rd. 352-375-4488 Archer | 352-672-6969 39th Ave.

bangkoksquarefl.com

“I had a great experience here. The servers are very polite and food was full of savory umami flavor. I Had the chicken padthai and crab meat soup for lunch. Lunch came with crunchy egg rolls and food came out hot and yummy. The price is extremely reasonable”. —Song N

“The only place I get Red Curry from. Always tastes great. The atmosphere there is really relaxing as well. Good place to

have a small get together. They also have outside seating!” — S. Mariee MAR/APR 2022

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The Great Outdoors Restaurant specializes in hand-selected steaks, fresh seafood, signature entrée salads, homemade soups and desserts. It’s a perfect place to grab a cold, local craft beer after hitting the springs all day or for your family gathering. The amazing patio features luxurious outdoor seating with live music every Friday and Saturday night from some of the area’s best known bands. From craft cocktails to specialty desserts the Great Outdoors Restaurant invites you to make the short drive to High Springs.

“New owners & its great! We loved it before and still do! Great entertainment outside! Dining inside is pleasant too. Great place to bring friends from out of town and to celebrate those special events!” — Shelley

Finally this place is back to rockin! Great service. Great food and drink. Great atmosphere. I can’t wait to be a regular since the music is

“I just moved here in Jan 2020. Then Covid hit.

Great Outdoors Restaurant 65 N Main St, High Springs 386-454-1288 122 |

GOhighsprings.com

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now back! Love this place! So glad I move to High Springs. Come check this place out. You’ll love it!” — Randy

At Nature’s Pet Day Spa, we bring the world-class care and attention your pets deserve. Led by the award-winning coach and grooming expert Lisa Jordan, we’re a woman-owned, local business built on compassion and a commitment to excellence. By using natural products, we focus on your pet’s health. Add a caring atmosphere, and you’ve got a day spa you can trust with your pet’s happiness and well-being.

“I absolutely LOVE this salon! Their products are amazing too!” — Turi D. “I am very pleased for a first-timer and so is Goldie! I’m sure she can’t

The world-class care and attention your pets deserve

Nature’s Pet Day Spa 500 NW 60th St, Suite C 352-331-8681

naturepetsgrooming.com

wait for her next spa day with such wonderful people! A big thanks to everyone who works there.” — Angela V. “I’ve been taking my two dogs there for many years and have always been happy with the groomers — I’ve used a number of them, but especially love Ashley. They are wildly popular in Gainesville, so book early for an appointment.” — Vassiliki S. MAR/APR 2022

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The End. Or is it really just the beginning? Now it’s up to you to say something nice or share a positive experience. We encourage you to take a moment and tell us what you love about these or other local businesses. Words matter – and what we say can have a meaningful impact. Share The Love by posting on our Facebook page and telling us more about the people and places you LOVE. Love on!

This special section was brought to you by Our Town Magazine and Adrienne Fletcher Photography.

Our Town

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: Our Town does not endorse any business, product, place or service. Nor does the content of this publication intend to do so, but rather is for your entertainment and informational use. The content used in this publication was collected through various online and offline sources. We have not independently verified any of the claims made in this publication and have no liability for the completeness, accuracy or fitness of any of the information. That means you are solely responsible for verifying any claims. ©2019 Tower Publications, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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BOOK REVIEW

TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER’S

Reading Corner

THE FIELDS: A NOVEL by Erin Young C.2022

FLATIRON BOOKS

27.99

352 PAGES

HAVE YOU TAKEN YOUR MEDS YET TODAY? Everybody, it seems, is on something or other: pills for blood pressure, heart health, asthma, or chemo. Pills for your eyes. Pills for your bones. Pink ones for aches, red ones for sinus issues, purple ones for stomach problems, and in the new book “The Fields” by Erin Young, some white ones for murder. She smelled the body long before she saw it. As Sheriff of Black Hawk County, Iowa, Riley Fisher had seen corpses before but this one really shook her. The dead woman had been nearly ripped apart before she died in an Iowa cornfield, but what bothered Fisher more was that she knew the deceased. Years before, Riley Fisher had been best friends with Chloe Clark and her little sister, Mia. The girls had been like sisters when the older two had been in high school, but a secret blew them apart and ruined their childhoods. And now, Fisher was looking at her friend, dead. Who would kill someone as nice as Chloe Clark Miller? And what was she doing in the middle of a cornfield that she didn’t own? Those were two questions that Sheriff Fisher had to know, but others at her workplace had reservations: could Fisher keep her long-ago friendship with the dead woman out of the equation? And then another body was found nearby, mutilated in a way that was similar, and with a few more clues. It was unlikely that the two dead women knew one another, but Chloe’s husband might’ve known more than he was telling. Some down-on-theirluck local addicts talked about a white van that had been seen snatching people off the street, while others whispered about a “terrorist” organization that was working against an incumbent politician with ties to a powerful corporate seed company. Then a teenage girl went missing, her mother disappeared, and the sister of a Black Hawk County farmer couldn’t be found. And neither could Sheriff Fisher’s niece... For fans of thrillers, “The Fields” has everything you want: some twists and switches, a little angst, a couple of McGuffins,

and some perfectly gruesome corpses. But there are some things that are going to rankle you, too. First, there are too many characters inside this book – at least twenty names to remember, some of which are just outside the main circle but are nonetheless important. The “secret” that riles Riley Fisher ekes out slower than an ice melt in January, and once it’s (finally!) revealed, it’s pretty tame – especially when that thread is up against the four much bigger plots that weave inside this one book. All that leaves readers with the feeling of being surrounded by five stages, different plays, same characters. You scarcely know where to look next. You can look for “The Fields” – indeed, author Erin Young adds authenticity to her location and the solving – but the tornado of plots and characters are really pretty overwhelming. You might enjoy the excitement of this book, or it might be too much to swallow.

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 50 MAGAZINES THROUGHOUT THE U.S. AND CANADA. bookwormsez@yahoo.com

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Charity of the Month

CONGRATULATIONS CHARITY OF THE MONTH WINNERS December 2021 Winner

January 2022 Winner

Cat’s Alive

Keep Alachua County Beautiful for the Strong Roots Movement

Cats Alive is a volunteer organization serving the Fort White area. They work to advocate the well-being of outdoor cats through a Trap, Neuter and Return (TNR) program, including outreach and education within the community and providing assistance to caregivers.

Keep Alachua County Beautiful is partnering with the Strong Roots Movement to address food security issues within the Gainesville community. Strong Roots Movement has already established a youth garden at the Porters Community Center. The garden is tended during the after-school program at Porters where the children learn about nutrition and the connection between food production and environmental quality. The leaders of this project, Merina Ingram, Shannon Regan, and Teagan Milford all possess agriculture-related academic backgrounds.

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Facebook.com/RadiantCU

“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 501c3 charities headquartered in Radiant’s service area (Alachua, Bradford, Citrus, Clay, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, 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/CharityOfTheMonth.

School of the Month About the program...

January 2022 Recipient

Radiant Credit Union introduced its School of the Month program to help schools in our communities in need of additional support. The program provides a $1,000 donation to the selected school’s general fund for their use. This allows the school leadership to best determine how the funds can best help those at the school – food, supplies, books, backpacks, etc. Each month, Radiant Credit Union selects a local community and coordinates with local branch leadership to determine a school in their area in need of support. We are excited to provide such support in the communities we serve and call home.

Lake Forest Elementary, Gainesville Lashawnda Bien-Aime, Radiant Credit Union’s Downtown Gainesville Branch Manager presented the check to Lake Forest Principal Beth LeClear.

Presented by Radiant Credit Union and Our Town Family of Magazines

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Restaurant Guide

Scuola Pizza Greek and Italian Cuisine— At Scuola Pizza, their goal is not only to provide delicious pizza and entrees, but also to enhance the casual dining experience. When the Sinis family moved to Gainesville from Greece, their goal was to open a restaurant where the ambiance was as unique as the signature dishes. Influenced by European culture and Mediterranean cuisine, Scuola Pizza serves delightful Mediterranean dishes in a relaxing atmosphere of books and vintage decor. With outdoor seating available and spacious dining room, Scuola Pizza offers a variety of daily and weekly specials. Dine-In or Carryout available. Call or stop by today.

5204 NW 34th Blvd. Tue. - Thurs. 11am- 9pm Friday and Saturday 11am - 9:30pm Sunday 4pm—9pm

(352) 451-4122

scuolapizzagainesville@gmail.com

Brown’s Country Buffet

Casual — Country-style cooking at its finest, just like Grandma’s house! A buffet style restaurant, Brown’s Country Buffet is open seven days a week! Foods like fried chicken, grilled pork chops, real mashed potatoes, steamed cabbage, banana pudding and coconut pie, just to name a few, are served in a laid-back, relaxing environment. We offer AYCE fried shrimp on Friday nights from 4-8 along with whole catfish & ribs. In addition to their buffet, Brown’s also offers a full menu to choose from. Serving lunch and dinner daily and a breakfast buffet Friday-Sunday until 10:30am, you’re sure to leave satisfied, no matter when you go. So, when you’re in the mood for some good home cooking, Grandma’s style, visit Brown’s Country Buffet.

14423 NW US Hwy 441, Alachua, FL 32616 Monday-Friday 7:00am - 8:00pm Saturday 7:00am - 2:00pm Sunday 8:00am - 3:00pm

386-462-3000

brownscountrybuffet.net

Stone House Grill

Great steaks, seafood and more — Visit us at Stone House Neighborhood Grill for the ultimate dining experience. We are a full-service restaurant located in Newberry, Florida. The owners and operators have over 20+ years of experience in the food service industry, and a passion for providing exceptional food and service that will leave all customers coming back for more. Enjoy our unique variety of menu options for lunch or dinner. Lunch specials Monday-Friday. Happy hour 3-6 Monday through friday.

1759 SW 248th Drive Newberry 32669 Monday - Thursday 11am-10pm Friday & Saturday 11am-11pm Sunday 11am-9pm

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www.stonehousenewberry.com

Restaurant Guide

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 Archer-M,W,TH, Friday 11:00am-3:00pm • Saturday-Sunday 12:00pm-3:00pm 38th Ln.-T,W,TH, Friday 11:00am-3:00pm • Saturday-Sunday 12:00pm-3:00pm Dinner: Sunday-Thursday 5:00pm-9:30pm • Friday-Saturday 5:00pm-10:00pm

352-375-4488 Archer 352-672-6969 39th Ave. bangkoksquarefl.com

Ballyhoo Grill

Looking for the freshest seafood? — The Ballyhoo Grill is the place for you! With fresh seafood arriving daily, Try the amazing North Atlantic Cedar Plank Salmon, grilled on a cedar plank for a rich, smoky flavor. Other great eats include fresh sushi and hand-cut choice steaks. We’re serving up everything from salads and pastas to delicious burgers and sandwiches. make sure you try the incredible Bananas Fosters. Dine in or outdoors on their patio. Happy hour is 2-7pm daily with extended happy hour until 9pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

3700 Newberry Road, Gainesville Sunday-Thursday: 11am-9pm Friday & Saturday: 11am-10pm

352-373-0059

www.ballyhoogrill.com

I Love NY Pizza

Pizzeria — We are a family owned, family friendly restaurant that serves authentic New York style pizza and delicious Italian entrees. We offer dine, take out, delivery and catering. We make everything fresh and with high quality ingredients from our dough, to our sauce, to each of our dishes — including classics such as Baked Ziti, Chicken or Veal Parmigiana, Chicken Marsala or Alfredo, and many more. If you are in the mood for pizza, you can “take and bake” at home or let us prepare you one of our specialty Brick oven pizzas. So many choices of specialty pizzas, try them all! Pizza by the slice is available for lunch or dinner! Let’s not forget about the Stromboli, Calzones, Salads, Desserts and yes, we have a kids menu too! What ever you choose, we guarantee to bring you all the unique flavors of New York City. Visit our website for a full menu and coupons. 2645 SW 91st St, Haile Plantation (Market square) Gainesville Monday-Saturday 10:00am – 9:00pm Closed on Sundays

352-333-6185

www.ilnyp.com

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Restaurant Guide

Cilantro Tacos Authentic Mexican — BA 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 Monday - Saturday from 11:00am to 9:00pm

352-472-1300

eatcilantrotacos.com

Dave’s New York Deli

Authentic NY deli — The Reviews are in and here’s what customers are saying about Dave’s NY Deli Tioga Town Center! “Best Reuben, Best Pastrami and Best Philly. Dave’s continues to be the place to go for authentic NY Deli food and Philly Cheesesteaks. Owner Dave Anders says “Nothing beats quality ingredients combined with a friendly staff. Dave serves New York size Pastrami and Corned Beef sandwiches, Cheesecake from New York, Nathan’s Hot Dogs, NY Kettle Boiled Bagels, Nova Salmon, Knish, Cannolies, Philly Cheesesteaks, Cubans, Subs, Kids Menu and more.” Come out and enjoy Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at Dave’s NY Deli. Now serving beer and wine.

12921 SW 1st Road • Tioga Town Center Open 7 Days

352-333-0291

www.DavesNYDeli.com

Copper Monkey West Restaurant & Pub — We are located in the heart of Jonesville, this All-American dining is convenient to all neighborhoods in Gainesville, Alachua, Newberry, High Springs and beyond. Our family-friendly dining features great food at a great price. Whether you come in for the “best burger in town” or try any one of our freshly made salads, pastas or sandwiches, you will not leave disappointed. Our USDA choice steaks, served with 2 sides, offer a great alternative for the perfect celebratory meal. We also feature a full-service bar with signature drinks.

14209 W Newberry Road, Jonesville, FL 32669 Across from the Steeplechase Publix Sunday-Thursday 11:00am - 11:00pm Friday-Saturday 11:00am - 11:00pm

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mycoppermonkey.com

Restaurant Guide

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.

4131 NW 16th Blvd (Millhopper) Sunday - Thursday: 11:00am - 9:30pm Friday - Saturday: 11:00am - 10:30pm

352-376-2001

leonardosmillhopper.com

That Bar and Table Neighborhood Bar and Restaurant —Located in the Haile Market Square Publix center, we are locally owned and operated, family friendly (including dogs!), and offer indoor and outdoor dining! Lunch specials available Mon-Fri and brunch is served on weekends. Daily specials include Cluckin’ Monday, Taco Tuesday, Burger Wednesday, Wine-Night Thursday, and amazing weekend Chef’s specials beginning each Friday! Our scratch kitchen is prepping daily to deliver amazing wing dishes, glorious ½ pound burgers, and a wide selection of appetizers, sandwiches, salads, and dinner entrees. Our skilled bartenders will serve up your favorite cocktail or can recommend one of our house favorites! See you soon! 2725 SW 91st St, Gainesville 11-9 Sunday, Monday, Tuesday 11-10 Wed-Sat

352-331-6620

thatbarandtable.com

Rock N Roll Sushi

American-style Sushi — Founded on great food and rock ‘n’ roll music, we boast concepts and flavors that are big, bold, and loud. We’re the only place to experience the rock you love and the rolls you love with the ones you love. Meals at Rock N Roll sushi are multi-sensory events to remember, with culinary concepts and flavors that are louder, bolder, and bigger than the competitions. Our menu items are deliciously twisted and made fresh for everyone. And, like rock ‘n’ roll, they bring people together. Since day one, the most rewarding part of our work has been seeing guests fall in love with our amplified dining experience and become fans who return again and again.

13005 SW 1st Rd Suite 137, Jonesville, FL 32669 (Tioga Town Center) Sunday - Thursday: 11:00am - 9:00pm Friday - Saturday: 11:00am - 10:00pm

352-225-3087

rocknrollsushi.com

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Restaurant Guide

Piesanos Stone Fired Pizza Italian Restaurant — Piesanos is a locally owed and operated restaurant that is proud to use only the finest ingredients available, including Grande brand premium mozzarella. We are a full service dine in restaurant with an attached take out center and also offer catering. Our dough is made fresh daily and all of our pizzas are baked directly on the stone in our unique Granite Stone Fired Pizza Oven. We offer a great variety of Specialty pizzas, such as our Pizza Antico-(ultra thin crust- Fresh Mozzarella, mini cup & char pepperoni & fresh basil) Specialty Pastas, Calzones, Fresh soups and salads, classic italian entrees, and a great selection of craft beer.

For full menu and list of locations visit: PIESANOSTOGO.COM Now Serving: Gainesville, Ocala, The Villages, Clermont & Windermere, Coming soon: Lake City & St. Augustine Mon-Sun: 11am-10pm Order online or Download our App: PIESANOSTOGO.COM

Crafty Bastards Restaurant - Pub — Crafty Bastards Restaurant has lunch specials M-F 11am4pm. Come see our NEW Menu items, including fresh salads and soups. Don’t worry, we still proudly serve what you have voted, the best Wings, Burgers, Fish n’ Chips, and REAL Shepherds Pie around! While also offering entertainment every day of the week, we have the largest selection of 60 Craft Beers on tap, and next door at the Bottle Shoppe, we offer over 750 varieties of Craft Beer with Free Beer Tastings every Thursday. 6p-8p. Visit our social media and web for ongoing events and new craft beer. Private party room for office or birthday parties available. CRAFTY BASTARDS - WELCOME HOME! 4860 NW 39th Ave. ( Magnolia Parke, between Starbucks and TiresPlus) Open at 11am every day

352-872-5970

www.thecraftybastards.com

Top Hog Family Style BBQ — Sweet,Tasty, Spicy, Hot, Vinegar, Smokey. Just a few adjectives that will come to mind when you visit Top Hog! We take our time to make our recipes with love. We make our recipes in small batches to make sure that everything you order is fresh and up to our customers high standards! To give our meats a distinct Florida flavor, our meats are smoked with a mix of Florida woods, like orange wood and oak. Family style meals or meat sold by the pound with your choice of sauce available. Check our website and facebook for our full menu and daily specials. Think of us for your next family gathering, office party or tailgate party and let the TOP HOG cater your next event! We are not a chain, we are one of a kind, we do it our way.

14128 West Newberry Rd., Jonesville (Next to Steeplechase Publix) NOW OPEN! 6500 SW Archer Rd. (Kanapha Station) Open 7 days 11:00am - 2:00pm and 4:30pm – 9:00pm

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www.top-hog.com

Restaurant Guide

El Toro 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!

15202 NW 147 Drive, Suite 1100, Alachua (Rolling Oaks Plaza) Monday – Sat 11:00am – 9:00pm Sunday 12:00pm – 8:00pm

386-418-1039

www.eltorogainesville.com

Mi Apá Latin Café Cuban — When it comes to authentic Cuban cooking, you cannot go wrong with Mi Apá Latin Cafe,” said Trekbible in their article, top 8: Best Restaurants in gainesville, FL. Featuring authentic ingredients and classic recipes, such as Pollo Asado, Vaca Frita, Medianoche sandwiches, and their local favorite, Cafe con leche, we bring the tastes of Cuba to Gainesville and Alachua. Whether you’re dining in our sunny patio or picking up your online order, your food will always be hot, fresh, and full of Latin flavor! And our Gainesville location even has a drive-thru, as will our new Jonesville location, opening Summer of 2021! Don’t forget 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)

MiApaLatinCafe.com

Mr. and Mrs. Crab

Customized Seafood Experience — Mr. and Mrs. Crab’s hand-held seafood integrates American country taste with traditional Szechuan spices to create a unique taste. After you’ve decided what types of seafood you would like to indulge yourself in, our chefs will have your food cooked to perfection and placed in our specially designed seafood boil bags to be tossed in one of our mouthwatering seasonings. We have a vast selection of seafood to choose from, accompanied by our famous Mr. & Mrs. Crab house seasonings. We can’t wait for you to try our Asian-inspired, Louisiana style seafood boils. We’re confident after you’ve had a taste, you’ll be sharing your Mr. and Mrs. Crab story with all your friends!

(Butler Plaza Central) 3246 SW 35th Blvd, Gainesville, FL 32608 Sun to Thur 12 pm - 10 pm Fri and Sat 12 pm - 11 pm

(352) 554-5968

www.mmcseafood.com

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MISCHIEF, FUN, AND FRIVOLITY A Brief History of Mardi Gras

Carnival, which begins on Epiphany (January 6th) and ends on Mardi Gras, developed in the Middle Ages as a response to the Christian religion’s observance of Lent – the six weeks between Ash Wednesday and Easter. It was seen as a time to let loose, celebrate, and feast before beginning the religious disciplines of Lent – prayer, meditation, fasting, study, selfexamination, and charitable works.

W R I T T E N B Y J O A N N A G R E Y TA L B O T

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FAT TUESDAY

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SEASONAL HISTORY >> MARDI GRAS

(Top) 1900 Mardi Gras parade on Canal Street, (bottom) 1903 King’s Parade on Canal Street, courtesy of the Library of Congress.

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SEASONAL HISTORY >> MARDI GRAS

ccording to the official New Orleans Mardi Gras website, “The origins of Mardi Gras can be traced to medieval Europe, passing through Rome and Venice in the 17th and 18th centuries to the French House of the Bourbons. From here, the traditional revelry of ‘Boeuf Gras,’ or ‘fatted calf,’ followed France to her colonies.” The first Mardi Gras celebration in the United States did not take place in New Orleans but in what is now Mobile, Alabama. French-Canadian explorer Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville landed there on Fat Tuesday in 1699. He named the spot Point du Mardi Gras and held a celebration. The annual celebration came to New Orleans when the city was founded in 1718. In 1762 and 1763 France ceded Louisiana to Spain and they banned Mardi Gras. Forty years later the territory returned to France’s control in 1803 and twenty days later they sold it to the United States. Mardi Gras returned after Louisiana became a state in 1812. Carnival and Mardi Gras have changed over the years, but some things have been a part of it from the beginning: masks and costumes, parades, and “throws” – the tradition of throwing things to spectators. In 1835 author James R. Creecy witnessed that year’s Carnival festivities and described it in his book Scenes in the South, and Other Miscellaneous Pieces: “Shrove Tuesday is a day to be remembered by strangers in New Orleans, for that is the day for fun, frolic, and comic masquerading. All the mischief of the city is alive and wide awake in active operation. Men and boys, women and girls, bond and free, white and black, yellow and brown, exert themselves to invent and appear in grotesque, quizzical, diabolical, horrible, humorous, strange masks and disguises. Human bodies are seen with heads of beasts and birds; snake’s heads and bodies with arms of apes; man-bats from the moon; mermaids, satyrs, beggars, monks, and robbers, parade and march on foot, on horse-back, in wagons, carts, coaches, cars etc., in rich confusion up and down the street, wildly shouting, singing, laughing, drumming, fiddling, fifing, and all throwing flour broadcast as they went their reckless way, regardless of the recipients’ comfort, and careless of their eyes or clothes; laughing loudly

Carnival and Mardi Gras have changed over the years, but some things have been a part of it from the beginning: masks and costumes, parades, and “throws” – the tradition of throwing things to spectators.

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SEASONAL HISTORY >> MARDI GRAS

at threatened punishment, and adroitly escaping all attempts at redress.” Although Mardi Gras celebrations are held throughout the country, the one held in New Orleans has become the most wellknown. It’s characterized by masquerade balls, banquets, and a series of parades with elaborately decorated floats carrying costumed people throwing souvenirs to the crowd. In the 1870s some Carnival krewes began to scatter candies and peanuts to parade watchers. The Krewe of Rex began throwing necklaces made of glass beads in the 1920s and the tradition was born. Each parade and float are sponsored by Carnival Clubs (or krewes), which are private, non-profit organizations that work throughout the year to plan and fundraise for their floats and parades. The oldest krewe in New Orleans is the Mystick Krewe of

Comus, which first paraded in 1857. The Krewe of Rex and Krewe of Momus joined in 1872. That year the official colors of Mardi Gras – purple, gold, and green – were chosen by the Krewe of Rex, although the reason for their choices is not known. As with everything at that time in the American south, Carnival Clubs were segregated and only allowed white, male members. In 1909 the first krewe of Black members was founded – Krewe of Zulu. Other Black citizens formed loose-knit associations with invented Indian names and paraded through their own neighborhoods. The first all-female krewe – Krewe of Iris – was founded in 1917. The 1960s and 1970s saw the founding of even more krewes with membership open to more people, not just the social elite. Yet, the oldest krewes still excluded people based on race. Today there are over 70 registered Carnival krewes in New Orleans.

Photo courtesy of the Library of Congress

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In 1991 New Orleans City Councilwoman Dorothy Mae Taylor, the first Black woman to serve on the council, sponsored an ordinance to withhold city-issued parade permits from any Carnival krewe discriminating “on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, physical condition or disability.” The City Council voted to require the krewes to integrate by 1994 or lose their right to parade. The Krewe of Rex agreed to comply but Comus, Momus, and Proteus opted to withdraw instead of integrating. Two Federal courts later decided the ordinance violated the laws of free association, so the segregation of krewes remains legal. Carnival and Mardi Gras have different names around the world, but it

In 1872 the official colors of Mardi Gras – purple, gold, and green – were chosen by the Krewe of Rex, although the reason for their choices is not known. is celebrated everywhere that you find branches of the Christian religion, especially Roman Catholicism. Some of the more well-known celebrations take place in Germany, Brazil, Italy, Switzerland, and Trinidad and Tobago. The most spectacular celebration takes place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, each summer. It was declared an official holiday in 1935. Instead of krewes the Brazilians have neighborhood organizations called escolas de samba or samba schools. The Italians call this holiday Carnavale and it ends on Martedi Grasso, which means “Fat Tuesday.” Their celebrations - the most famous taking place in Venice - include parades, mock battles, open-air banquets, bonfires, and masquerades. No matter where you choose to celebrate Carnival and Mardi Gras, you can be assured it will be filled with fun, good food, music, and endless memories.

Make time for the important things!

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Parade of

HOMES 2022

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Frequently Asked Questions about the BANCF Parade of Homes™ How do I know which neighborhoods are participating and where can I find them?

I'm a builder. How can I put one of my homes in the Parade?

Neighborhood locations will be available on the BANCF website: www.bancf.com in the weeks leading up to the Parade.

There are many steps to entering a home into the Parade. Email emily@bancf.com or call the BANCF office at (352) 372-5649 for more information.

Parade of

HOMES 2022

May 14-15th • May 21-22nd

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COMMU NIT Y C A LENDA R

M A RC H/A P R I L 202 2

SPRING GARDEN FESTIVAL

Saturday, March 19 – Sunday, March 20 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, 4700 SW 58th Dr.

GAINESVILLE – The Spring Garden Festival features about 125 booths offering plants, landscape displays, garden accessories, arts and crafts, educational exhibits and, of course, foods. The event also features a children’s activity area, live entertainment and live auctions. $10 adults, $5 ages 3-13. A two dollar discount is given for Kanapaha members. kanapaha.org

virtuoso of the violin, Itzhak Perlman enjoys

PILOBOLUS

SPRING FLING

a superstar status rarely afforded to classical

Tuesday, March 1 at 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, March 3 at 9:30 a.m.

musicians. Rohan De Silva has written the

Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

Gainesville Garden Club, 1350 NW 75th St.

book on performing with the world’s greatest

GAINESVILLE – For this 50th anniversary

GAINESVILLE – Join the Gainesville Garden

violinists. Alongside Perlman, De Silva has

celebration, Pilobolus questions its own

Club for their Spring Fling event featuring a

performed multiple times at the White House,

“givens,” turns its traditions sideways, and

Kokedama workshop and brunch. Kokedama

and will return to Gainesville for another

brings its past into the future. As fresh and

is a creative botanical technique for growing

powerful evening of musical excellence.

vibrant as ever, Pilobolus –that feisty arts

plants in a moss-covered ball of soil and the

Tickets: $10 - $75. performingarts.ufl.edu

organism– puts the “Oh!” in Big Five Oh!, and

workshop will show guests how to make and

continues to morph its way thrillingly into

care for them. Shop and social begins at 9:30

audiences’ hearts and minds. Tickets: $10

a.m. and the workshop begins at 10:30 a.m.

ARTSPEAKS: COURAGEOUS YOUNG VOICES

- $45. performingarts.ufl.edu

The event will also feature brunch, a bloody

Sunday, March 6 at 4 p.m.

mary bar and prizes. Tickets are $35. ggfl.org

The Historic Thomas Center, 302 NE 6th Ave. GAINESVILLE – Each year Teens from Alachua

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ITZHAK PERLMAN AND ROHAN DE SILVA

County and the surrounding area come

Thursday, March 3 at 7:30 p.m.

Center to share their Powerful Voices

Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

through the Art of Poetry & Spoken-Word.

GAINESVILLE – Undeniably the reigning

ARTSPEAKSgnv.org

together at the beautiful Historic Thomas

LIVING ON LOVE

TOT TROT: REPTILES & AMPHIBIANS

GAINESVILLE – More than 35 million people

Friday, March 11 – Sunday, March 27 (Previews March 9 - March 10)

Sunday, March 13 at 12:15 – 2 p.m.;

hit phenomenon that is Blue Man Group and

Hippodrome State Theatre, 25 SE 2nd Pl.

Monday, March 14 at 9:15 – 11 a.m.

now it’s your turn! Blue Man Group premieres

GAINESVILLE – When world-renowned

Florida Museum of Natural History,

in Gainesville for a one-night engagement on

soprano Raquel De Angelis’ husband Vito, the

3215 Hull Rd.

their new North American tour. It’s everything

larger-than-life maestro, becomes enamored

GAINESVILLE – Get your toddler excited about

you know and love about Blue Man Group—

with the lovely young lady hired to ghostwrite

science and natural history! Join Discovery

signature drumming, colorful moments of

his largely fictional autobiography, sparks fly,

Zone nature ambassadors for an exciting

creativity and quirky comedy—the men are

silverware is thrown and romance blossoms

and interactive nature walk. Each program

still blue but the rest is all new! Featuring

in the most unexpected ways in this hilarious

highlights an outdoor area and encourages

pulsing, original music, custom-made

comedy! thehipp.org

exploration with a closer look at nature and

instruments, surprise audience interaction,

Museum objects. Recommended for children

and hilarious absurdity, join the Blue Men in

ages 2-5 years old. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

a joyful experience that unites audiences of

DAUGHTERS OF THE MOCK Friday, March 11 – Sunday, March 27

around the world have experienced the smash

all ages. performingarts.ufl.edu

Actors’ Warehouse, 619 NE 1st St.

QUARTET AMABILE

GAINESVILLE – Love can be complicated.

Sunday, March 13 at 2:00 p.m.

This is a Southern Louisiana-set story about

Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

LIVE & LOCAL WINTER CONCERT SERIES

a mock curse that a Creole grandmother has

GAINESVILLE – Quartet Amabile has

Thursday, March 17 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

passed down from generation to generation

performed with musical greats like pianist

Bo Diddley Plaza, 111 E University Ave.

to protect the family’s women from abuse. The

Martha Argerich and worked with the

GAINESVILLE – Live & Local is a FREE, all ages

women battle over tradition versus modern

Shanghai and Vienna String Quartets, Sadao

concert series featuring Gainesville’s best

times. actorswarehouse.org

Harada, Koichiro Harada, and Nobuko Imai.

and brightest emerging talent. On March 17,

The quartet currently studies with Kazuhide

Dion Dia Records will show showcasing their

Isomura of the Tokyo String Quartet, at the

incredible talent in a rescheduled performance

Manhattan School of Music. Tickets: $10 -

from last summer. musicgnv.com

$35. performingarts.ufl.edu

FUN WITH FLOWERS

DANCE ALIVE NATIONAL BALLET PRESENTS CHAMPAGNE GALA

THE PRODUCERS Thursday, March 17 – Sunday, April 10

Tuesday, March 15 at 10 a.m.

Gainesville Community Playhouse,

Gainesville Garden Club, 1350 NW 75th St.

4039 NW 16th Blvd.

GAINESVILLE – Hands-on floral design

GAINESVILLE – The plot is simple: a down-

program includes lecture, demonstration

on-his-luck Broadway producer and his mild-

and materials. Coffee social begins at 9:30

mannered accountant come up with a scheme

a.m., class starts at 10 a.m. The cost is $20

to produce the most notorious flop in history,

and reservations should be made a week in

thereby bilking their backers out of millions of

advance - call 352-331-0426. ggcfl.org

dollars. Only one thing goes awry: the show is a smash hit! At the core of the insanely funny

Saturday, March 12 from 6 – 10 p.m.

BALLETX

adventure is a poignant emotional journey of

Legacy Park Multipurpose Center,

Tuesday, March 15 at 7:30 p.m.

two very different men who become friends.

15400 Peggy Rd.

Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

gcplayhouse.org

ALACHUA – A fabulous fundraiser featuring

GAINESVILLE – BalletX unites distinguished

the extraordinary ‘Dancing with the Stars’,

choreographers with an outstanding company

this event has it all! Dining, dancing,

of world-class dancers to forge new works

IRISH CELEBRATION WITH GFWC

silent auction, Dance Alive dancers and

brimming with athleticism, emotion, and

Thursday, March 17th from 5 - 9 p.m.

celebrity stars, it is without doubt the

grace. With an insatiable sense of adventure

The High Springs Brewing Company .,

most entertaining event in town. Chaired

they dance at the limits of contemporary

18562 NW 237 St.

by the charming Susannah Peddie, hosted

ballet, leaving audiences breathless. Tickets:

HIGH SPRINGS – The GFWC High Springs

by the terrific Eric Godet, with stunning

$10 - $40. performingarts.ufl.edu

New Century Woman’s Club will be serving

décor by Unforgettable Events, dancing

homemade Sheppard’s Pie, Corned Beef

to the amazing Gosia and Ali band, and

BLUE MAN GROUP

Sliders, Hot Dogs, and Irish cookies. Come

fabulous food by Blue Water Bay, prepare

Wednesday, March 16 at 7:30 p.m.

and enjoy, we’ll also have craft beer and wine.

to be transported! champagnegala.org

Curtis M. Phillips Center for the

gfwchighspringswomansclub.org

Performing Arts, 3201 Hull Rd. MAR/APR 2022

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distinguished Gator VIP speakers, military

shop local and statewide artists and vendors,

aircraft displays pilot workshops, classic cars,

and see some of our most popular events–

food trucks, live music and plenty of vendors.

including our Idolfest, Maid Cafe, and Drag

uac.aero

Show! SwampCon is family-friendly, LGBTfriendly, and free for everyone, not just

CHRIS BOTTI

students. Come visit SwampCon for the 11th

Tuesday, March 22 at 7:30 p.m.

year running! swampcon.org

Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road at home in pop, jazz, and rock; a brilliant

INDIAN INK: MRS KRISHNAN’S PARTY

bandleader who lets his players shine; and

Wednesday, March 30; Thursday, March

a born showman radiating irresistible delight

31; Friday, April 1 at 7:30 p.m.

at being onstage, Botti is the complete

Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

package—and an absolute treat to experience

GAINESVILLE – It’s a comedy, it’s a dinner, it’s

live. See him light up an audience and

the party of a lifetime—and you’re invited!

recognize why musical stars including Sting,

Come take a seat around a dining table in the

Paul Simon, Tony Bennett, and Yo-Yo Ma have

back of Mrs. Krishnan’s convenience store to

been eager to share the stage with Botti.

celebrate the South Indian festival of Onam,

Tickets: $10 - $75. performingarts.ufl.edu

a time to celebrate life, death, and rebirth. Sit

GAINESVILLE – A dazzling trumpeter equally

FANTASTIC FOSSILS 5K WITH THE FLORIDA MUSEUM

back and enjoy as song, dance, and food come

Saturday, March 26 from 8 – 10 a.m.

together in this immersive and interactive

GAINESVILLE – Come celebrate the

DANCE ALIVE NATIONAL BALLET PRESENTS: CARMINA BURANA

Florida Museum of Natural History’s first

Friday, March 25 at 7:30 p.m.;

performance is exclusively for UF students.

live 5K in three years! The race will be a

Saturday, March 26 at 7:30 p.m.

performingarts.ufl.edu

combination of trails in the UF Natural

Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

Area Teaching Laboratory and campus

GAINESVILLE – With a rousing clash of cymbals,

SPRING WINDS

roads. Not in Gainesville? The museum

defrocked monks burst onstage to set the tone

Thursday, March 31 from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.

is keeping the virtual option for people

for this extraordinary ballet choreographed

Santa Fe College of Fine Arts, 3000 NW 83 St.

who want to take part remotely. Everyone

by Tom Pazik. Somber, joyous, miraculous, it

GAINESVILLE – For an enchanting musical

who participates, in-person or virtually,

creates an odyssey from Adam and Eve to the

evening, join us for the SF Springs Winds

will receive a shirt and medal. Tickets

Apocalypse. Dance Alive National Ballet joined

concert presenting an evening of traditional

are $25 - $30. floridamuseum.ufl.edu/

by the University of Florida. Tickets: $25 - $45.

concert band classics featuring solo

event/5k/

performingarts.ufl.edu

performers and small ensembles all under

Florida Museum of Natural History, 3215 Hull Rd.

performance-party hybrid where no two nights are the same. Wednesday, March 30

the direction of Dr. David Smith in the Lyceum

THE FULL MONTY

ELEMENTS OF STYLE

Concert Hall. sfcollege.edu

Friday, March 25 and Saturday, March 26

Friday, March 18 – Sunday, April 3

from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.

THE JUNGLE BOOK

Acrosstown Repertory Theatre,

Santa Fe College of Fine Arts, 3000 NW 83 St.

Friday, April 1 – Sunday, April 24

619 S Main St.

GAINESVILLE – A Dance Theatre of Santa

High Springs Playhouse,

GAINESVILLE – A raucous, pop-rock-musical

Fe performance featuring a variety of styles

23416 W US Highway 27

send-up of gender expectations and

in new works created by the Dance Theatre

HIGH SPRINGS – One of literature’s most

stereotypes that takes it all off. Based on the

of Santa Fe co-directors, Sarah Harkness

enduring classics is brought vividly to the

cult hit film of the same name, The Full Monty,

and Melissa Brenner, with more works by

stage in this exciting adventure of Mowgli, the

a ten-time Tony Award nominee, is filled with

adjunct faculty, Herman Ramos and Mohamed

Indian boy, raised by caring wolves, befriended

honest affection, engaging melodies, and the

DaCosta. Tickets: $9 - $15. sfcollege.edu

by Bagheera, the Panther, and Baloo, the

most highly anticipated closing number of

Bear, and threatened by Shere Kahn, the evil

SWAMPCON

tiger. Also present are an array of other jungle

Saturday, March 26 – Sunday, March 27

creatures who inhabit this action-filled play.

GATOR FLY IN AND ARMED SERVICES APPRECIATION DAY

Reitz Union, 686 Museum Road

highspringsplayhouse.com

Saturday, March 19 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

hosted at the University of Florida’s J. Wayne

University Air Center, 4701 NE 40th Terr.

Reitz Student Union by the Gator Anime club.

GAINESVILLE – Enjoy this free event featuring

Celebrate anime, gaming, and pop culture,

any show! acrosstown.org

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GAINESVILLE – A free multi-genre convention

GEORGE HINCHLIFFE’S UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN

Friday, April 8 at 7:30 p.m.

GAINESVILLE – Join us for a cool spring

Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

concert of hot jazz featuring the Santa Fe Jazz

FLORIDA MUSEUM’S SPRING PLANT SALE

GAINESVILLE – These “ukes” delight, inspire,

Band under the direction of Dr. David Smith.

Friday, April 22 – Saturday, April 23

and surprise audiences with their dizzyingly

In this upbeat, fun concert, you can expect

from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday, April 24

diverse repertoire and whimsical sense of

to hear the sound of great jazz composers

from 1 – 5 p.m.

humor. Their performances even include a

through the years in the Jackson N. Sasser

Florida Museum of Natural History,

bit of audience participation. So bring your

Fine Arts Hall. Tickets: $9 - $15. sfcollege.edu

3215 Hull Rd.

ukulele and get ready to be a part of the

GAINESVILLE – The Museum’s Earth Day

concert! Tickets: $10 - $40. performingarts.

YASMIN WILLIAMS

plant sale is one of the largest of the year,

ufl.edu

Friday, April 15 at 7 p.m. & 9 p.m.

featuring more than 100 species of Florida-

UpStage at the Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

and pollinator-friendly plants. Discover which

FAMILY FARM & FIELD DAY

GAINESVILLE – Often playing with her guitar

pollinator species you can attract and learn

Saturday, April 9 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

lying horizontally across her lap, Williams

about the butterfly-friendly plants that work

2802 NE 8th Ave.

incorporates intricate fingerstyle, percussive

best in your landscape. Accent, host, native

GAINESVILLE – Free event and fun activities

foot tapping, and multi-instrumental dexterity

and nectar plants are available for purchase,

for the entire family! Check out the SBAC

in a mind-boggling combination. You can’t

with proceeds benefiting the Butterfly

Farm to School to Work Hub and join in

help but ask yourself: how are all of these

Rainforest exhibit. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

the fun with booths provided by many

sounds made by just one musician playing

community supporters. facebook.com/

in real time? performingarts.ufl.edu

AlachuaCountySchoolMeals

PIONEER DAYS Saturday, April 23 and Sunday, April 24

BAT APPRECIATION DAY

from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Saturday, April 16 from 12 – 4 p.m.

James Paul Park and City Hall,

Tuesday, April 12 at 7:30 p.m.

Blackadder Brewing Company,

23718 W US Highway 27

Squitieri Studio Theatre in the Phillips

618 NW 60th St. Suite A

HIGH SPRINGS – Annual Arts, Craft & Music

Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE – Join Lubee Bat Conservancy

Festival presented by the High Springs

GAINESVILLE – First-prize winner for piano at

for Blackadder Brewing Company’s 5th Annual

Chamber of Commerce located in downtown

the 2019 Young Concert Artists International

Bat Appreciation Day. While chatting with one

High Springs. Festival will feature crafters,

Auditions, Albert Cano Smit brings both poetic

of their bat experts, get introduced to their

artisans and food vendors; live music; kid’s

and narrative qualities to his recitals. A master

education ambassadors or take part in bat-

korral; free admission and free parking.

in the making, the young pianist currently

inspired activities and crafts. Local vendors

highspringschamber.com

studies with Robert McDonald at The Juilliard

will be on sight too helping to celebrate all the

School where he recently received the Arthur

bat festivities. All proceeds will benefit Lubee

KITCHEN GARDENS TALK

Rubinstein Piano Prize. He has performed all

Bat Conservancy. blackadderbrewing.com

Saturday, April 30 at 10 a.m.

ALBERT CANO SMIT, PIANO

over the world and been deemed “an artist

Gainesville Garden Club, 1350 NW 75th St.

to watch” by the Montreal Gazette. Tickets:

FUN WITH FLOWERS

GAINESVILLE – Join the Gainesville Garden

$10 - $35. performingarts.ufl.edu

Tuesday, April 19 at 10 a.m.

Club for a Kitchen Gardens talk and plant

Gainesville Garden Club, 1350 NW 75th St.

sale. ggcfl.org

ZACH WILLIAMS – SPRING 22 TOUR

GAINESVILLE – Hands-on floral design

Thursday, April 14 at 7 p.m.

and materials. Coffee social begins at 9:30

Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

a.m., class starts at 10 a.m. The cost is $20

GAINESVILLE – Join Zach Williams and special

and reservations should be made a week

guest Anne Wilson for a night of music and

in advance - call 352-331-0426. ggcfl.org

program includes lecture, demonstration

ministry that will fill your heart and have you singing along all night long! Grammy award

SING INTO SPRING

winner Zach Williams and his signature

Thursday, April 21 from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.

blend of southern rock, country and faith-

Santa Fe College of Fine Arts, 3000 NW 83 St.

filled songwriting are truly unlike anything

GAINESVILLE – Springtime at the Jackson

else in Contemporary Christian music today.

N. Sasser Fine Arts Hall is best celebrated

performingarts.ufl.edu

with a true variety choral concert, with different types of music from different eras.

JAZZ UP SPRING!

Directed by Lynn Sandefur. Tickets: $9 - $15.

Thursday, April 14 from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.

sfcollege.edu

Santa Fe College of Fine Arts, 3000 NW 83 St.

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PALEONTOLOGY IN THE PARK Second Sundays from 2 – 3 p.m. Depot Park, 200 SE Depot Ave. GAINESVILLE – Join Depot Park Ambassadors on the second Sunday of each month in the Play Area for paleontology and fossilrelated activities, learn about the unique fossils hidden throughout the Blue Grotto and have some fun along the way. Each month will be slightly different as we dig up fun new activities for kids of all ages. The fossils embedded in Depot Park’s Blue Grotto were provided by the Florida Paleontological Society, Florida Geologic Foundation & Florida Museum of Natural History. depotpark.org

CREATIVE COOKING / BALLROOM

HELLZAPOPPIN

Fourth Tuesdays at 11 a.m. Gainesville Woman’s Clubouse,

Sunday, April 17 at 7 p.m. Vivid Music Hall, 201 W University Ave.

2809 W University Ave

GAINESVILLE – Hellzapoppin is the world’s largest international touring rock-n-roll circus

GAINESVILLE - Creative Cooking with the

sideshow. Hellzapoppin features record breaking death-defying LIVE stunts using the

Gainesville Woman’s Club meets the fourth

human anatomy and demonstrations of mind over matter, like fire eating, magic and

Tuesdays at 11:00 a.m. of each month, except

illusions, acrobatic stunts, hand balancing, foot archery, sword swallowing, juggling,

December and May to share ideas, recipes,

unicycling and human curiosities such as a real live half-man that is cut in half at the

tasting parties, and demonstrations. gfwc-

waist and walks bare-handed on razor sharp broken shards of glass...while on fire!

fl-gainesvillewomansclub.org

hellzapoppin.com

RECURRING EVENTS FROGS AND FRIENDS FRIDAYS

GAINESVILLE SHRINE CLUB MARKETPLACE great conversations with us. All riding levels

Fourth Saturdays from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

welcome. Tickets are $75 per-person.

Gainesville Shrine Club, 8100 SW Archer Rd.

haileequestrian.com/events

GAINESVILLE – The Gainesville Shrine Club’s MarketPlace is a yard sale/ flea

First Fridays from 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.

GUIDED WALK AT KANAPAHA

market with proceeds benefiting the local

Morningside Nature Center,

First Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Shrine Club. Contact David Jones at 336-

3540 E University Ave.

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens,

430-910 to reserve your vendor spot.

GAINESVILLE – Every first Friday of the month

4700 SW 58th Dr.

gainesvilleshrineclub.org

at Morningside Nature Center’s outdoor picnic

GAINESVILLE – Enjoy a guided tour through

pavilion (Screened pavilion located at the

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens starting at 10

BIRD WALKS AT THE WETLANDS

end of the park drive) kids, accompanied

am the first Saturday of every month. Regular

Wednesdays from 8:30 – 11 a.m.

by an adult, can join Morningside’s animal

admission price applies for non-members.

Sweetwater Wetlands Park,

caretaker for a free fun Friday! Come and

kanapaha.org

325 SW Williston Rd.

learn about our amphibian and reptile friends!

GAINESVILLE – Discover the rich diversity of

This event requires pre-registration. For more

JAZZ ON THE GREEN

birds at one of north central Florida’s premier

information please call 352-393-8240.

Second Saturdays from 7 – 9 p.m.

birding hotspots during a 2-3-hour guided

Celebration Pointe, 5001 Celebration

walking tour. Join us to see why Sweetwater

HAILE EQUESTRIAN RIDE & WINE

Pointe Ave. Suite 140

Wetlands Park is the most popular birding

GAINESVILLE – Join Celebration Point every

destination in the Gainesville area. Walks are

First Fridays at 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

second Saturday of the month for live music,

free with park admission fee ($5/vehicle)

Haile Equestrian, 7680 SW 46th Blvd.

food, drinks and more! Spread a blanket under

and are offered every Wednesday morning

GAINESVILLE – Enjoy an adults-only evening

the setting sun, and catch some beautiful

from September 1st though the end of May.

of horseback riding, wine, charcuterie and

music on the green. celebrationpointe.com

alachuaaudubon.org

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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

ALACHUA COUNTY FARMERS’ MARKET Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. 5920 NW 13th St.

GAINESVILLE CARS & COFFEE

GAINESVILLE – Don’t forget to bring shopping bags, your grocery list, and plenty of small bills. This market prides itself on being a

Second Sundays from 9 – 11 a.m.

grower’s only market – meaning the vendors

Whole Foods Market, 3490 SW Archer Rd.

selling produce, plants and other products

GA I N E SV I L L E – A g a t h e r i n g fo r

must have grown the items themselves.

automotive enthusiasts of all types

441market.com

from exotics and classics to imports and jalopies. The meet is free to attend;

HAILE FARMERS MARKET

coffee will be provided to attendees,

Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

as well as breakfast items for sale.

Haile Plantation Village

gainesvillecarsandcoffee.com

GAINESVILLE – Take a stroll down the treelined streets of the Haile Village Center to browse for groceries, prepared food and

BARNYARD BUDDIES

handmade gifts then continue on for more

Wednesdays from 3 – 4 p.m.

shopping or brunching at the Village Center’s

Morningside Nature Center,

locally-owned shows and restaurants.

3540 E University Ave.

Covid-19 recommendations: maintain

GAINESVILLE – Morningside Living History

physical distance, don’t touch products, one

Farm is hosting an in-person, socially distant

customer served per vendor at one time and

Barnyard Buddies program! This one-hour

protect yourself and others by wearing facial

program is free, but online pre-registration

coverings. hailefarmersmarket.com

through Eventbrite is required on a firstcome-first-served basis. Youngsters, with

SATURDAY MORNING QIGONG

an adult, can meet and greet farm animals

Saturdays from 8:30 – 9:30 a.m.

by helping staff with afternoon feeding on

Tom Petty Park, 400 NE 16th Ave.

the Living History Farm.

GAINESVILLE – Join holistic resilience coach Tia Ma Saturday mornings for an inclusive,

RUNNING TABS

drop-in class. $10.00 Donation. Come activate

Wednesdays at 6:15 p.m.

your Qi, and play Qigong. facebook.com/

First Magnitude Brewing Company,

QigongwithTiaMa

1220 SE Veitch St. GAINESVILLE – Running Tabs is a fun, open

GHFARMERS MARKET

group aimed at promoting runners and

Sundays from 2 – 5 p.m.

the running community throughout the

Gainesville Health & Fitness,

Gainesville area. Runs are free and open to

4820 W Newberry Rd.

runners of all ages and fitness levels. If you’re

GAINESVILLE – GHFarmers Market is your

looking for a running group to help you get into

one-stop shop of healthy vegetables, fresh

running or to improve your race performance,

fruit, free-range eggs, grass-fed meats, and

give us a shot. fmbrewing.com

more locally sourced products from local farmers. ghfc.com MAR/APR 2022

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ANY SERVICE CALL!

Monday - Saturday 5a-9a

LUCK O’ THE IRISH

THE HISTORY ABOUT SOME OF THE MANY EXAMPLES OF ICONIC IRISH FOLKLORE

Exploring Irish Folklore STORY BY CA MERON COBB | PHOTOGR A PH Y BY ER ICK A W INTER ROW D

Ever wonder what makes a four-leaf clover so lucky? Or if there really just might be some gold at the end of a rainbow (no matter what logic or anyone else tells you)? Whether you’re curious about the Saint of St. Patrick’s Day or the origin of a leprechaun, explore a few of the favorites when it comes to Irish history and legends.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY St. Patrick’s Day is an iconic part of Ireland adopted by countries all over the world. A 2021 survey found that nearly 49% of U.S. adults planned to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in the United States alone, according to nrf.com. This holiday is a commemorative celebration honoring the death of Saint Patrick, the patron saint and national apostle of Ireland. The holiday is recognized annually on March 17, with this being the believed date of Saint Patrick’s death in 461 AD.

Saint Patrick was born and lived in Roman Britain before coming to Ireland – or rather, being forced to Ireland. At 16, he was kidnapped and brought to the country as a slave, though eventually he managed to escape. However, something made Saint Patrick wish to return to Ireland, where during this time he was thought to bring Christianity to the country. While Saint Patrick himself might not be known all over the world, one wellknown legend suggests he used the leaves of a shamrock (Irish clover) to describe the Holy Trinity, or the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. And while much of the world has adopted celebrating alongside it’s country of origin, it hasn’t exactly always been Irish tradition to feature pitchers of green beer and city-wide parades. The common Irish tradition starts with attending church in the morning and then spending the latter part of the day enjoying drinks, dancing and a feast of Irish bacon and cabbage.

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SEASONAL HISTORY >> IRISH FOLKLORE

FOUR-LEAF CLOVERS Speaking of shamrocks, it’s hard to hear Ireland without clovers coming to mind, especially when there’s good luck involved! Based on one Christian legend, Eve carried a four-leaf clover with her after being banished from Paradise, meaning whenever someone finds a four leaf clover, they’re essentially discovering a “piece of the blessed Paradise,” according to goodlucksymbols.com. This next myth was believed by many during the Middle Ages, it was thought that a four-leaf clover would give the carrier the powers to see fairies, identify witches and have improved awareness with any surrounding evil spirits. Though the myths may vary, the most shared belief of what the four leaves represent are faith, hope, love and, of course, luck. And with a one in 10,000 chance of discovering a four-leaf clover versus one with three leaves, it’s certainly always a lucky find!

POTS OF GOLD & RAINBOWS Oh, what a rich thought! Unfortunately, it’s more wishful than hopeful, as the 360-degree design of a rainbow essentially just gives the illusion to an end one will never find — lying beneath the horizon. The myth that there may be a giant pot overflowing with shiny coins at the bottom of a rainbow has been around for centuries, with one legend dating back to Old European times, according to luckyireland.com. Like with four-leaf clovers, the potof-gold idea is commonly credited to fairies. These tiny mythical creatures supposedly would bury their riches under the mark of a rainbow’s end, where one origin story credits leprechauns to keeping a watchful eye over these treasures.

LEPRECHAUNS Typically thought to appear as short, elderly men each living in solitude, leprechauns might not seem like the best choice for a fairy to task as the gold guardians. However, looks can be deceiving. Their sly, mischievous behavior combined with a quick wit made leprechauns the ideal protector for the fairies’ funds. Another legend mentions that if a human happened to stumble upon the rare sight of a leprechaun guarding this hidden treasure spot, he or she could interrogate the being into giving up the gold — as long as they kept an unbroken gaze. But look away for even just a second and these sneaky creatures could escape in no time! While there’s a common consensus that leprechauns shared the physical similarities to that of a small older man, they haven’t always sported the same famously colored outfit the world’s come to know. Before the twentieth century, you’d more likely hear of a leprechaun dressed in a red coat instead of green. Although, the specifics of their appearance varied based on different areas in Ireland. Just be sure to keep an eye out as you take your next stroll in the woods, you never know when you might come across the end of a rainbow — or a leprechaun guarding that gold. Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

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Essential Home Buying Tips From the Experts at Radiant Credit Union

Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading to accommodate a growing brood, or downsizing your empty nest, there are unique considerations to each home buying experience. So, before you take your first walk through, take a look at our top tips for home buyers this spring.

First-Time Home Buyers

If this is your first rodeo, congrats! When done right, homeownership is a great long-term money move. But before you start shopping, think about saving. Three of the biggest costs when buying your first home are: The down payment - Your down payment will depend on the type of mortgage you choose, the home value and your credit score. But even a 3% down payment can be hard to save. Set a goal for how much you’d like to save, then set up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings to help build that nest egg. In the meantime, beef up your credit score by paying your bills on time, and keeping credit balances as low as possible. Keep your current cards open, so your available credit helps raise your score. Closing costs - Closing day is really exciting, but it

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also comes with closing costs. Plan to pay about 2% to 5% of your loan amount for things like title fees, homeowner’s insurance, HOA fees and an inspection to finalize your mortgage. And don’t forget you can always ask the seller to pay part of your closing costs. Moving expenses - Even if you’re buying a brand-new home, you may want to set aside money for upgrades or new furnishings. Once you get the keys to your new place, you’ll want to jump right in and make it feel like home.

Growing Families

So your family has outgrown your current nest! If it’s time to upsize, take a moment to really assess how much space you need and why. Is bigger always better? - More square footage doesn’t automatically mean the right square footage. Think about your family’s needs, and discuss them with your realtor. Is the house so big it’s taking up the entire lot, leaving little room for a yard to play in? Or maybe you want two living spaces, so the kids can have their own play area. You might need to trade off the house with a larger kitchen to make your floor plan work for your family. Will the space last? - Think about longevity in your next home, and decide whether you’re buying a house just for this phase, or if you plan to stay for a longer period. If you have aging parents or kids that will leave for college, make sure you take those needs into account when looking at the floor plans. How much can you afford? - There’s more to owning a bigger home than the asking price. Long-term costs like property taxes, higher utilities and maintenance come into play the bigger you go. And more rooms mean more furniture. Make sure your budget can handle the true monthly payment that exists above the loan.

Downsizing Empty Nesters

As the nest starts to empty, it may be time to rethink the tree. If you’re in the market to downsize, there are a few options to weigh before putting your home on the market.

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Try a transition - Moving is a lot of work. So, some empty nesters opt to rent out a room in their home through sites like AirBnb before transitioning to a smaller house or townhome. It’s a great way to save a little money while you prepare for the downsizing process. Or if you’re not comfortable having someone in your home, a home equity loan is another good way to save on expenses while you prepare to move. Ready to purge - By the time they’re ready to downsize, most empty nesters have collected a lifetime of family memorabilia. Consider giving those treasured possessions to your kids now, rather than when you’re gone. If it’s tough to say goodbye to artwork or mementos, take a picture and create a digital album. And remember, if you’re moving to a townhome, you probably won’t need some of the maintenance tools like lawn mowers and leaf blowers, so go ahead and get rid of those now. Store smart - As hard as it is to say goodbye, it’s even harder for your family to deal with a storage unit after you’re gone. Resist the temptation to put everything into storage, and if you do get a storage unit make sure it’s not too big. It’ll just tempt you to fill it. Organize your unit, so that you can access things like holiday decorations and outdoor equipment easily without having to shuffle everything around. And if you haven’t used something in a while, or it doesn’t bring you joy, then let it go. Donate those items, and take heart that they’re going to bring someone else joy while you live the retired life. No matter the phase of life you’re in, a little prep work goes a long way. And when you’re ready to buy, Radiant Credit Union offers local underwriting, quick approvals and the perfect mortgage loan program for your needs. https://www.radiantcu.org/contact/branch-locations.shtml

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SPOTLIGHT

RESCUE ANIMAL ADOPTIONS

Furever Friends ELIZABETH AND ELOF

I made so many friends living at the bunny barn, but I began longing for a furever home of my own. My spring arrival stretched into summer, through fall and before I knew it, it was already December – that’s when I met Elizabeth Sykes. After graduating from UF, Elizabeth started looking for a cuddly companion – having had prior experience with a rabbit growing up, she knew adopting a cotton-tailed critter would be the perfect fit. Upon learning of the Gainesville-based rescue, Elizabeth dove into research mode learning everything she could about caring for one lucky bun, and then she saw

me. Yup, just one photo of me instantly captured her attention and she knew she had to meet me. Unlike other potential adopters, I instantly connected with Elizabeth – greeting her with pant nibbles, sprawled bunny legs and requests for head pats. After that, she knew she had to take me home. Of course, out of my element, it took me a little bit to warm up to my new digs, nevertheless, I swiftly found comfort in my setup, which was complete with tunnels to run through, toys to chew on and occasional nibbles of my absolute favorite snack: banana. It’s only been a couple of months, but I’ve already fallen into a nice routine, which when broken can unleash the sassy side of my personality. I can’t help it, I know what I like: water in a bowl and all four paws on the ground. I’m an early riser and love when my mom greets me in the morning with breakfast, which helps fuel my bursts of energy throughout the day from zooms around the screened-in porch to binkies, which, for those uncultured in bunny behavior, are little jump and twist movements. Of course, sometimes I can get a little clumsy during playtime, but have no fear; no wall will stop my zooms! All that running around takes a lot of energy out of a young bun like me, which is why afternoons are siesta time – another favorite activity of mine. Though Elizabeth adopted me, her whole family adores me – I was even invited to her parent’s home in North Carolina for Christmas where I was the star of the annual holiday card. When she isn’t bonding with me, Elizabeth, who was a professional ballet dancer for 12 years, teaches dance and even applied to graduate school programs to further her education in psychology, which she majored in while going to school in Gainesville. I won’t lie to you, caring for a bunny is a big responsibility, but the love we give is unmatched. I have found my furever home and I hope the friends I made back at the bunny barn are as equally lucky to find their hoppily ever after too.

If you’re interested in adopting a rabbit from Gainesville Rabbit Rescue, visit their website at gainesvillerabbitrescue.org.

FUREVER FRIENDS IS A RECURRING PROFILE THAT FEATURES A LOCAL RESCUE ANIMAL AND THEIR OWNER, WRITTEN FROM THE ADOPTED PET’S “POINT OF VIEW.” NOMINATE YOURSELF OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW FOR OUR NEXT RESCUED PET PROFILE! CONTACT: EDITOR@TOWERPUBLICATIONS.COM.

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At Radiant Credit Union we want to make sure your new home is the right fit for your family and for your budget. With home loan options from 10 to 20, and now 30 years, we can make sure you get the home loan that fits you perfectly. Whether you’re a first-timer or an empty nester, need built-in escrow or on the side, talk to one of our home loan specialists today to learn how easily we can fit your needs.

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*Standard mortgage amortization terms offered for 10, 15, 20, and 30-year owner-occupied property. Loan amounts available from $30,000 up to $1,000,000. For 15, 20, and 30-year terms maximum Loan To Value (LTV) is 95% for purchase and limited cash out refinance, and 80% LTV for cash out refinance. For 10-year term, maximum 90% LTV for purchase or refinance. **Escrow included with monthly payment for mortgage loans with LTV greater than 80%.