Our Town 2019 MAR-APR (High Springs & Alachua) by Our Town Magazine

PHOTO ESSAY: LITTLE PLANETS SPRING GARDENING CHILI COOKOFF ALACHUA LAKE RETURNS

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CONTENTS

M A RC H/A P R I L 2019

G R E AT E R A L A C H U A C O U N T Y

| V O L . 1 7 | N O. 0 2

IN THIS ISSUE >> WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO CONNECT WITH THE GREAT OUTDOORS. ENJOY A LOCAL BIRDING FIELD GUIDE WHILE ALSO LEARNING ABOUT THE ALACHUA AUDUBON SOCIETY. FROM TIPS ON CHAOS-FREE CAMPING TO AN UPDATE ON THE RETURN OF ALACHUA LAKE, THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERY ADVENTURER TO EXPLORE. HERE’S TO BREATHING IT ALL IN! C O V E R P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y M I C H A E L A . E A D DY

FEATURE STORIES 38

ALACHUA AUDUBON SOCIETY The local chapter of a national society offers programs and conservation efforts to help our feathered friends. Enjoy a birding field guide that will help you spot the many different birds calling our community their home too!

O’LENO OLE’ CHILI COOKOFF A competition with a cause! Help raise funds to enhance the nature center at O’Leno State Park. Proceeds benefit their park ambassadors: gopher tortoises, box turtles and snakes — oh my!

THE TINY TREE Understand the origins of the Asian art form known as Bonsai. These living displays have created fairy-like scenes for centuries. Learn how the little trees are grown and styled to maintain their small stature.

SPRING GARDENING TIPS These six southern tips will spice up your garden just in time for spring, leaving you with a summer full of excitement. So grab your gloves and some soil — it’s time to get going on this year’s garden.

MARCH/APRIL 2019

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CONTENTS

M A RC H/A P R I L 2019

AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL A guide to some of the most breathtaking national parks in this country. It’s time to check them off your bucket list!

LITTLE PLANETS A photo essay by Michael A. Eaddy.

COLUMNS 36

EMBRACING LIFE by Donna Bonnell

52 28

FARM TALES by Mother Hen

CURRENT PROBLEMS This organization is fighting to clean our natural surroundings, ridding them of plastic one waterway at a time.

60 NAKED SALSA by Crystal Henry

128 FUREVER FRIENDS 32

Spotlight on Rescue Animals

ALACHUA LAKE RETURNS After Hurricane Irma and high rain totals in 2018, high-water conditions are helping to renew and refresh Paynes Prairie.

REVIEWS 82

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98 READING CORNER

A GREENER OUTDOORS Follow these steps towards living a greener life and enjoy the outdoors responsibly. Mother Earth will thank you for it...

SEMINOLE WARS Both historian Chris Monaco’s new book and a proposed museum hope to give deeper insight into the Second Seminole War.

124 GATE CRASHING

FAMILY FUN Looking for ways to explore nature with your loved ones? We’ve got you covered with these local spots!

NEXT TO NATURE Deepen your connection with the serenity of nature by visiting these beautiful destinations around town.

INFORMATION

126

GREAT OUTDOORS The origins of this iconic restaurant that has been a staple of downtown High Springs since 2008.

CHAOS FREE CAMPING Helpful tips to avoiding those camping fumbles. They’ll come in handy as you explore all that nature has to offer.

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MARCH/APRIL 2019

by Terri Schlichenmeyer

by Brian “Krash” Kruger

104 Taste of the Town 110 Community Calendar

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. © 2019 Tower Publications, Inc.

PUBLISHER Charlie Delatorre ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Hank McAfee EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ericka Winterrowd editor@towerpublications.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kaitlin Applegate, Soﬁa Arriaga, Cameron Cobb, Darla Kinney Scoles, Peggy Macdonald, Stephanie Richards, Steph Strickland, Emma Witmer, Hayli Zuccola CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Michael A. Eaddy, Cecilia Lemus, Kim Davidson

Anthony B. Agrios, MD Joseph S. Iobst, MD Jean C. Cook, MD Nicole Scogin, MD Shelley Russell, ARNP, CNM Julie Rischar, ARNP, CNM Kristen Cook, ARNP, CNM

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Jenni Bennett jenni@towerpublications.com Nancy Short nancy@towerpublications.com INTERNS Steph Strickland, Julia Mitchem, Emma Witmer, Soﬁa Arriaga

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.)

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

Take care

of you.

AllAboutWomenMD.com • 352.331.3332 Helping You Live A Healthy Lifestyle! | 11 MARCH/APRIL 2019

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EDITOR ’ S LET TER M A RC H/A P R I L 2019

Suspended in Nature

GREAT CUBAN FOOD WITH A SMILE!

Five years ago I got suspended. Not in the typical sense you might be thinking. I was in grad school and interning for this very magazine actually, working on a story about tree climbing. I remember when my editor pitched the assignment to me – suggesting that I might even be able to ascend a tree myself and conduct the interview with my source there. “Yes, of course I will do that,” I said without any reservation whatsoever. When I finally climbed my way to the top of the 150-year-old Live Oak named “Charlotte,” I did so with my most valuable possession in tow: a Canon 70D DSLR camera, which also added to the anxiety that was slowing building as I inched closer toward the sky. I was fine though – until I looked down. Then I had a full-on freak-out moment. I began shaking and asking the Lord to absolve me of my sins (should I momentarily be meeting my maker) as I suspended 65-plus feet in the air. But as they say in the theatre, another world I know pretty well, “The show must go on!” And in this case, the show was my story. I took a deep breath and made it through an hour of being perched on a thick limb so high above the ground the passersby below didn’t even know I was there. By the time I started to descend, my tree-climbing guide convinced me to trust the environment (and my equipment) and attempt a “bat hang.” As you can see in the photo I am smiling, but the truth is I was just so happy to still be alive and a little bit closer to the ground. During my climb I saw two ospreys, each with a wingspan of about 70-inches, soaring through the blue and white sky. My guide had explained that climbers usually have a moment of clarity while up in the trees – a spiritual awakening with Mother Earth, if you will. For me it happened after my feet were firmly planted on the ground. Saying my thanks, I gently pressed my hands against Charlotte’s massive trunk and my fingers disappeared within the deep grooves of her bark. I guess you could say for a moment I lost myself. I felt small, connected to something so much bigger than myself. Taking a deep breath, I thanked her for the lesson. We hope the stories within this issue will inspire you to find your own connections with Mother Earth. After all, the Great Outdoors is all around us... Just don’t forget to look up!

Gainesville 114 SW 34TH ST.

(352) 376-7020

Alachua 15634 NW HWY 441 (386)418-0838

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MARCH/APRIL 2019

Ericka Winterrowd, Editor-In-Chief

for children entering first to eighth grade

May 28, 2019 until August 2, 2019

7:00am - 6:00pm We offer many exciting activities and plan wonderful field trips each week. WEEKLY TUITION & A ONE TIME REGISTRATION FEE IS REQUIRED OUR PROGRAM BENEFITS:

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FIRST CHRISTIAN ACADEMY ADMITS STUDENTS OF ANY RACE, COLOR, NATIONAL AND ETHNIC ORIGIN TO ALL THE RIGHTS, PRIVILEGES, PROGRAMS, AND ACTIVITIES GENERALLY ACCORDED OR MADE AVAILABLE TO STUDENTS AT THE SCHOOL. IT DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF RACE, COLOR, NATIONAL AND ETHNIC ORIGIN IN ADMINISTRATION OF ITS EDUCATIONAL POLICIES, ADMISSIONS POLICIES, SCHOLARSHIP AND LOAN PROGRAMS, AND ATHLETIC AND OTHER SCHOOL-ADMINISTERED PROGRAMS.

MARCH/APRIL 2019

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Wood Buildings

FUNDR A ISING

Metal Buildings

M A RC H/A P R I L 2019

Carports

needs! r u o y o t d e iz Custom

Gainesville Garden Club Marketplace MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THIS FUN-FILLED EVENT, FEATURING LOCAL AND REGIONAL ARTISANS AND CREATORS.

N e w n! ti o

Lo c

Taking place in a beautiful garden setting, the Marketplace focuses on building community and taking care of the planet. The event is a fundraiser for the Gainesville Garden Club (GGC) and a great way to support Gainesville’s local creators. There are two parts to the event: the “Junque in the Trunk” sale happening outside, and the local vendors and artisans both inside and outside who sell upcycled, recycled and vintage products. Stemming from England’s “boot sales,” “Junque in the Trunk” will have gently used gardening, household and craft items sold from in the trunks of GGC members’ cars. All proceeds from these sales will go straight back to the GGC nonprofit and the work they do in the community – including seasonal plantings at local medical facilities and schools, donating garden supplies and landscaping for Habitat Women Build homes. The vendors and local artists pay a renter’s fee to the GGC, which will also be used towards work in the community through the club, but the rest of the profits go straight to the vendors and help their businesses grow and allow them to make a difference. Some vendors include potters and fiber artists. There will also be nursery growers, beekeeping information and master gardeners. The event is focused on recycling, up-cycling and repurposing. “It’s an information event, as well as meeting face to face artisans and vendors … they have very unique techniques of how they are recycling fabrics to make their products,” said Barbara Cloud-Weisman, chair and coordinator of the event. “But a big part of it is — [it’s] a fundraiser.” The event will provide a light lunch and baked goods that you can enjoy while you shop. All the vendors and displays will highlight the Gainesville Garden Club’s focus to be “Good Keepers of the Earth.”

6530 SE S.R. 26 • Trenton

Gainesville Garden Club Marketplace

Just 5 miles west of the traffic light in Newberry

Saturday, April 13 from 9:00 a.m. — 3:00 p.m 1350 NW 75th St, Gainesville 32605 For more information, visit: ggcfl.org

352-472-7100 RedBarnHomeCenter.com 14 |

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MARCH/APRIL 2019

Caring for our community s most precious resources Board certified, University of Florida trained Pediatricians with over 20 years of experience. Ronald Emerick, D.O.

Sarah Garrett, ARNP Levette Dunbar, M.D.

Lauren Womack, ARNP

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CONTRIBUTOR S

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OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

M A RC H/A P R I L 2019

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

PEGGY MACDONALD is a native Gainesvillian and teaches history at Stetson University. Her publications include a biography of environmental activist Marjorie Harris Carr and a forthcoming book on Florida’s female pioneers. peggymacdemos@gmail.com

SOFIA ARRIAGA Sofia Arriaga is a junior at the University of Florida studying journalism, English and business. Her passions include film and literature, which she explores in her free time. arriaga.sofia@hotmail.com

KAITLIN APPLEGATE is a recent Rock School graduate. In her spare time she enjoys creative writing and finding inspiration in unexpected places (in truth, mostly from Netflix). kaitlinapplegatewrites@gmail.com

STEPH STRICKLAND is a journalism student within the UF Honors Program and she loves telling stories through writing, photography and digital media. Outside of her studies she enjoys mountain hiking, nature photography and spending quality time with friends and family. stephanieannestrickland@gmail.com

DARLA KINNEY SCOLES fell in love with the process of putting a story into print during a high school journalism class. Oodles of years, one husband, three daughters and multitudinous stories later, she’s still in love with it all. That, and dark chocolate. darlakinneyscoles@gmail.com

STEPHANIE RICHARDS is a freelance writer and a native of suburban Chicago. She was the Story Editor for The Sturbridge Times Magazine before recently moving to Newberry from New England. She loves to exercise, volunteer and spend time with her family. sarichards7@gmail.com

EMMA WITMER is a journalism major at the University of Florida and freelance writer. She loves to cook and has a passion for local music and art. emma.witmer2016@gmail.com

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

CAMERON COBB is a 2nd year graduate student at UF, working on her 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

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EXPPLLOR EX O AT A IO ON >>>> N NA ATI TO ON NAL AL PAR ARKS KS

SWEET LAND

America the Beautiful Exploring Our National Parks S T O R Y A N D P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y H AY L I Z U C C O L A

eople often take for granted the unprecedented natural splendor that exists in our country. Without hesitation we carry a desire to explore international landmarks like the ancient ruins of the Parthenon in Greece, the historical remains of the Roman Colosseum or the pyramids of Egypt. While each of these man-made structures is monumental, we tend to overlook the wonders that make America beautiful. From the bubbling hot springs at Yellowstone to the skyscraping trees in Sequoia, or the snow white dunes at White Sands and the auburn stone sculptures at Arches, national parks help preserve Mother Nature’s most remarkable works of art.

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OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MARCH/APRIL 2019

ARCHES NATIONAL PARK The symbol of Utah, Arches National Park is home to delicate sandstone archways that have been carved and molded by nature. According to the eighth edition of National Geographic’s book “Guide to National Parks of the United States,” these vibrant formations get their shape from rainwater, which slowly erodes the rock sometimes creating cavities and freestanding arches. According to nps.gov, the park is home to over 2,000 stone arches, but two of the most iconic structures are Balanced Rock, which stands at 128 feet high, and Delicate Arch, whose opening measures 46 feet high and 32 feet wide, making it “the largest free-standing arch in the park.”

Visi Vi sitt Ti si Tip: p: A vi p: v si sitt to Arcche h s Na Natitit onnal Park Pa rk isn sn’t’t com ompl p eette wi pl w tthhouut a hi hike kkee to Del e ic icat ate Ar at Arch ch (in ch i se sett ph phot otto) o),, a sp peeccta tacl c e th cl that att graaces ces thhe lilice ce c nsse pl ce plat a es at es off Uta t h dr driv iver iv e s. er s The rou ound ndtr dtr t ip traailil to seee thhe ar arch ch is th t re reee mi mile les le es an and d ha hass ann incl in nclin cllin inee of 480 80 feeet, t accco orrdi ding ng g to np ps. s go gov. ov. v. Eve venn th thou o ghh the ou h journ ouurn r ey is lo long n ng — th thee view view vi w is wort wo ortth itt. Ju Just st be su sure rree s reetc st tchh yo y ur leg egss and annd br b inng w waate t r. r

MARCH/APRIL 2019

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EXPLORATION >> NATIONAL PARKS

CARLSBAD CAVERNS NATIONAL PARK Paved trails descend into a cavernous abyss that’s filled with dimly-lit passageways, Brazilian free-tailed bats, slender stalactites and intricate stalagmites all of which reside within the depths of an underground treasure known as Carlsbad Caverns. According to nps.gov, this New Mexico grotto was formed “when sulfuric acid dissolved limestone,” which in turn created the chambers and fragile features that exist today.

Visit Tip: To get the best experience when visiting Carlsbad Caverns, take the natural entrance into the cave. It can be rough as it plummets 750 feet in just 1.25 miles, but getting to see more gems throughout the cave is worth the steep trek. When you’re ready to leave, you can take the elevator ride back to the top, unless you’d rather make it a roundtrip hike and work those glutes.

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK Labeled as one of the seven natural wonders of the world, Arizona’s Grand Canyon got its namesake for its colorful geologic layers and its sheer enormous size, both of which make it truly grand. Its deepest point measures 6,000 feet and its widest point is 18 miles across, according to nps.gov. What’s even more impressive is its length, which spans a whopping 277 miles. However, it’s the ribbons of varying shades of brown, gold and burgundy that paint the canyon walls with a feeling of autumn and attract visitors to its breathtaking edge – one that should be viewed from a safe distance. 20 |

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

MARCH/APRIL 2019

Visit Tip: While exploring the many acres of the Grand Canyon, take part in a guided ranger chat where you can learn more about the park’s wildlife, geology and other unique features.

We’re growing to care for you and your family in west Gainesville.

From checkups to comprehensive care, UF Health Family Medicine has expanded its locations to better serve the needs of our community. UF Health’s board-certified physicians are equipped to provide top-quality care with convenient access to the latest technologies and research advances, including specialty care as needed. Extended hours at some of our locations are also available to meet the needs of you and your family’s schedule. Make an appointment at one of our newest locations today.

Springhill | 4197 NW 86th Terrace Jonesville | 13611 NW 1st Lane, Suite 200 Haile Plantation | 2846 SW 87th Way, Suite A (Extended hours available) Visit UFHealth.org/familymedicine or call 352.265.1234 to schedule an appointment. MARCH/APRIL 2019

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EXPLORATION >> NATIONAL PARKS

HOT SPRINGS NATIONAL PARK Before becoming a national park, Hot Springs was a booming tourist attraction that drew in famous visitors such as baseball hall of famer Babe Ruth and the notorious Al Capone — both of whom traveled to the Arkansas bathhouses to soak in their relaxing and healing mineral water. While a few of the eight bathhouses on Bathhouse Row have maintained their spa offerings, others have transformed to contain the park visitor center, a brewery and an art gallery. Pet-friendly hikes are also available and feature thermal pools that contain the piping hot spring water, which reaches a temperature of 143 degrees, according to hotsprings.org.

Visit Tip: Spring water is pumped throughout the park and into what are called jug fountains, so bring plenty of empty bottles and enjoy! At most fountains, the water, which is available for free, comes out scorching hot. Just remember to let it cool before enjoying the pure, crisp taste of the famed liquid.

OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK In the tail of the whale-shaped state of Washington lies a diverse range of ecosystems that together embody Olympic National Park. Along the Pacific Ocean are rocky beaches that in the distance provide a habitat to whales, dolphins and sea otters, but for a closer view of aquatic life, the coastal sections of the park form tide pools filled with algae, seaweed, starfish and sea

anemones. Toward the middle of the park are lush rainforests enveloped by bright green moss, which provides camouﬂage for the Roosevelt elk that wander through the emerald jungle. The ﬁnal must-see features of the park are the white-dusted Olympic Mountains that contain Mount Olympus, which has a summit of 7,980 feet, according to nps.gov.

Visit Tip: If you can only choose one trail to walk through at Olympic, the Hall of Mosses is the most remarkable. The trees that surround the rainforest’s trails are wrapped in a thick canopy of plush moss – a sight so breathtaking not even a photo can do it justice. Besides an eye-catching environment, wildlife on this trail is also abundant and if you’re lucky you’ll see the Roosevelt elk, which are the largest variety of elk in North America and are named after President Theodore Roosevelt, according to nps.gov. 22 |

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MARCH/APRIL 2019

PETRIFIED FOREST NATIONAL PARK

Visit Tip: Stop at the state welcome center or check in the park visitor center for rack cards offering a free piece of petrified wood at one of the local merchants near the park.

Colorful stripes of ancient rock formations and delicate petrified wood are the two biggest highlights of the Petrified Forest in northeastern Arizona. The petrified wood got its start over 200 million years ago when logs washed into a river system and were buried by sediment and debris, according to nps.gov. Over the course of hundreds of years, minerals were absorbed into the wood eventually forming “jewel-like crystals of clear quartz, purple amethyst, yellow citrine, and smoky quartz,” nps.gov notes. One of the best features of the park is that you don’t have to discover these captivating occurrences by yourself because as the website states, the Petrified Forest is one of the most pet-friendly national parks, allowing your furry friends to go anywhere you can go with the exception of public buildings.

SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK Though technically two distinct parks, Sequoia and Kings Canyon are like two peas in a national park pod. Located in southeast California, the adjoining parks offer visitors mountains, canyons and of course towering trees. Nicknamed the Land of the Giants, Sequoia and Kings Canyon are the sites of the biggest trees by volume in the world. As for the tallest by height, that title goes to the redwoods of Redwood National Park. However, with their massively wide bases, the sequoias would make the perfect test kitchen for Keebler Elves. The biggest tree and therefore the most popular to visit in the park is the General Sherman Tree, which is the largest in the world and measures 52,508 cubic feet, according to nps.gov.

Visit Tip: Bring water and expect a long walk. Though the trek to the General Sherman Tree isn’t technically a long one, the high altitude and thinner air make it feel like the journey goes on for miles and uphill both ways. Luckily there are plenty of places along the route to stop and rest – just be sure to stay hydrated. MARCH/APRIL 2019

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EXPLORATION >> NATIONAL PARKS

WHITE SANDS NATIONAL MONUMENT Located in the desert of southern New Mexico near a military missile range is the White Sands National Monument, a preserved area that looks like it belongs on another planet. Mounds of pure white sand blanket the 275-square-mile landscape, which is far away from any noticeable focal points. Despite its name, Whites Sands isn’t the sand that people traditionally think of. It isn’t the tan ﬂecks used to make castles on beach shores, but is actually made out of gypsum. According to nps.gov, gypsum sand is a rarity because gypsum tends to dissolve in water, but the park manages to contain over 4.5 billion tons of gypsum sand that’s formed into dunes by the wind.

Visit Tip: Bring a sled. If you’ve gone sledding in the snow, this could be a bit underwhelming because gliding on sand isn’t exactly easy. However, it’s still an exciting and popular activity in the park – just prepare to get stuck halfway down the hill.

Visit Tip: The visitor centers provide a rough idea of when Old Faithful will erupt, however, it’s important to keep in mind that this is a hydrothermal phenomenon and while the rangers can usually predict the geyser’s surge within a 10-minute window, be sure to get to the viewing area early and be patient.

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK The pioneer of national parks, Yellowstone encompasses three states. While mostly in Wyoming, this park spreads into areas of Montana and Idaho as well. From gushing geysers, steaming mudpots and fumaroles to prismatic hot springs and limestone travertine terraces — Yellowstone features more than 10,000 hydrothermal features, according to nps.gov, and each one is more stunning than the next. Of course the hallmark of Yellowstone is the Old Faithful geyser, which spews water from a height of 106 to 184 feet, but averages around 130 feet, according to nps.gov. As if its height wasn’t impressive enough, the amount of water Old Faithful produces ranges from 3,700 to 8,400 gallons per eruption. 24 |

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EXPLORATION >> NATIONAL PARKS

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK Cascading waterfalls, flowering meadows and rocky cliffs merge together to form Californiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Yosemite National Park. To absorb everything Yosemite has to offer, the park established 800 miles of hiking trails and 282 miles of scenic roadways, according to nps.gov. Besides valleys and waterfalls, Yosemite provides a haven to more than 400 species of animals, which include fish, birds, black bears, deer and the Sierra Nevada big horn sheep among others, according to their website. 26 |

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Visit Tip: To get a view that captures the striking essence of Yosemite, stop at Tunnel View, a lookout that features a glimpse of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, Yosemite Valley and Half Dome.

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Since establishing Yellowstone as America’s ﬁrst national park in 1872, the National Park Service has grown to encompass 418 areas in the United States, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. These areas, which “cover more than 85 million acres,” include not only national parks, but “monuments, battleﬁelds, military parks, historical parks, historic sites, lakeshores, seashores, recreation areas, scenic rivers

and trails, and the White House,” according to the nps.gov FAQs page. Painted by Mother Earth, national parks in particular provide visitors with a life-changing experience, one that no other place can replicate or compare to. Nature and all the components that branch from it provide a beauty that goes unmatched. With the creation of national parks, portions of its existence can be captured and preserved for future generations to witness and explore.

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CONSERVATION >> CURRENT PROBLEMS

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With littered bodies of water and trash-ﬁlled trails becoming more prevalent world-wide, Mother Earth seems to be pleading for our help. Local environmentalist group Current Problems Inc. has been stepping up, and is already making an impact in Gainesville. “Our main goal is to keep our waterways clean and free of plastic,” Executive Director Megan Black said. The Gainesville-based nonproﬁt consists of eight board members and has seen over 18,000 volunteers in its 25 years, according to Black. “We usually have a couple hundred volunteers on call whenever we need to organize an event,” Black said. She explained 28 |

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that volunteers come from UF environmental groups, church groups or after-school education programs. The group consists of 20 locations across North Florida that aim to keep the waterways of North Central Florida clean by organizing cleanups and educating the community. Black said Current Problems primarily works with Gainesville and Columbia County, focusing on the Suwannee River, Santa Fe River as well as Gainesville creeks. “Occasionally we’ll do coastal cleanups or just different estuaries along the coast,” Black said. However, she explained that the organization doesn’t just focus on picking up waste from the creeks directly. “Anytime you see litter on the side of the road, it is capable of being carried down into a creek, a storm drain or a ditch.” Black explained that the group focuses on picking up litter in locations such as the surrounding areas of Hawthorne. “It’s not so much that it’s being thrown into the creeks, but it’s ending up in the creeks,” she said. PHOTOGRAPHY: GEENA HILL

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CONSERVATION >> CURRENT PROBLEMS

Current Problems also strives to educate the community. Black said she’s in the process of creating a program to work with youth primarily from under-served communities such as East Gainesville, which according to Black has the heaviest amount of pollution in the city. She said the purpose of the program is to teach these children about their own water quality and how their day-to-day activities impact it. The program will also bring kids out into the woods to examine the litter in nature. “I know the way a lot of people get involved in environmental issues is from childhood,” Black said. “I love working with kids, they come up with the most intelligent things to say.” Black’s parents made nature part of her upbringing, which led to her getting involved with environmental issues on a personal level. “Littering is so simple to [children], they don’t understand why anyone would do it.” In addition to this program, Black said Current Problems also sees a lot of children from Kids Count, Aces in Motion and I AM STEM. One activity Black plans to execute with kids from Cornerstone Academy is a science day for kids to go out and learn about how ﬂoodplains work. Aces in Motion, a sports-based youth development after school program, said that the program has teamed with Current Problems to host cleanups for the past year. Program Director Eric Lanham said the organization hosts these cleanups about every nine weeks. Current Problems supplies trash bags and 30 |

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materials, and the groups hold a competition of who can pick up the most trash in about 45 minutes. Afterwards, the winners are awarded prizes such as a McDonald’s gift card. “At first [the students are] motivated by the prize, then they take ownership of the neighborhood,” Lanham said. “I saw a kid go ankle deep in a pond just to remove trash.” On March 16, Current Problems plans on hosting its fifth annual Clean Creek Revival, their biggest event. Current Problems works with First Magnitude Brewery to organize about 200 volunteers. Groups are made and assigned around Columbia County and Gainesville to clean places such as Loblolly Nature Park, Hogtown Creek, Santa Fe River and Suwannee River. The volunteers pick up trash from around the counties for about three hours. They then bring what they’ve collected back to First Magnitude, where the City of Gainesville provides a dumpter — and then everyone proceeds to celebrate. After all of their hard work, volunteers enjoy free pizza courtesy of First Magnitude, enter into raffles and are eligible for prizes. Last year, Black said the volunteers collected 6,590 pounds of trash. “That was really incredible,” she said. “And I’m super excited for this year because I think it’s going to be even bigger and better.” The event welcomes volunteers of all ages and has kidfriendly prizes. “We definitely encourage children to come out,” Black said. The next generation of environmentalists are on the rise! PHOTOGRAPHY: JOSHUA BIRMINGHAM, GEENA HILL

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EEC CO OSSYS YSTE TEM >>> AL AL A AC CHU UA LA L AKE KE

HII ST STOR OR O RY R RE E PE E AT ATIN IN NG

The Return

of Alachua Lake

High Water Conditions Affect Local Wildlife and Intrigue Visitors

W R IT TE N BY PEGGY M AC DON A LD

n the late 19th century, when Paynes Prairie periodically flooded, it was known as Alachua Lake. Steamers transported citrus, cotton and other crops across the wet prairie. After a period of record rainfall followed by Hurricane Irma in 2017 and continued high rain totals in 2018, “Alachua Lake” has returned to Paynes Prairie. University of Florida wildlife ecology and conservation associate scientist James Ross describes this condition as a natural part of the prairie’s variable system. Ross explained that the high water levels replenish and renew the prairie. “It’s a completely natural thing,” Ross said. “The balance between Paynes Prairie’s wet and dry periods maintains its integrity and diversity as a prairie.”

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The prairie’s natural wet and dry cycles were interrupted at the turn of the 20th century, when the Camp family installed dykes, ditches and drains to divert and channel water to transform the prairie into grazing land for cattle. However, now that Paynes Prairie has returned to a shallow lake, much of the damage from these earlier efforts to drain the prairie have been reversed, Ross explained. The effects on ﬂora include killing off sweetgums and oaks on the entire rim of the prairie. Without periodic ﬂoods and fires, in time the prairie would become a big, flat forest or a lake. “It’s that alternation and dynamic change that keeps it a prairie,” Ross said. The high water levels have changed the ways animals interact PHOTOGRAPHY: KEITH CURRY-POCHY

PHOTO BY SYLVIA SCUDDER

with the prairie. Ross, who lives on 30 acres on the north rim of Paynes Prairie, has observed more water moccasins near his house. Once located in a wooded area near the prairie, the house now has a lakefront view. “The water displaces the animals,” Ross said. “Those animals that don’t like to live in a lake have to go to the periphery.” This includes horses and buffalo, but also a less welcome species. Ross’ neighbors have found feral pigs in their gardens. Feral pigs are an invasive species that damage native ecosystems. They have posed a problem in Florida since Spaniards introduced them in the colonial period, but the high water levels are making it easier for park authorities to manage them. MARCH/APRIL 2019

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Photographer Kim Davidson accompanied outdoor adventure guide Lars Andersen on a Paynes Prairie paddle in fall 2018, capturing abundant wildlife and outdoors enthusiasts enjoying the wet prairie. The high water conditions are part of the prairie’s natural wet-dry cycle.

PHOTO BY JAKE TURNER

Other animal species are thriving under the wet conditions. The fish population has multiplied, and people can now be seen fishing on US 441. Now that the prairie is saturated, another change is that alligators no longer congregate along La Chua Trail. They have spread across the prairie. However, they are also fairly inactive now due to the cold weather, Ross noted. Ross suggested that the high water has probably changed some animal behavior. For instance, bobcats, turkeys, coyotes and deer used to frequent the dry prairie from Hawthorne to Williston. “We didn’t see as many bucks at our place this year because their corridor for movement is a lake right now,” Ross said. “Of course, all the aquatic vegetation is doing really well.” Sandhill cranes still frequent the prairie, Ross reported, but not in the great numbers they normally do. The birds, which feed on frogs, small fish and snakes, had to disperse due to the return of the lake. They need a wide-open space of approximately one-half mile to be able to spot approaching predators, and they do not like trees. Hundreds of cranes each day feed at the UF/IFAS experimental beef cattle pasture near Williston Road. In normal years, when the prairie is dry, hundreds of cranes fly over Ross’ house to feed and roost on the prairie.

Visitors to the prairie will ﬁnd that the walking trails are damp but accessible. “It’s a nice time of year for walking around,” Ross said. “There’s always lots of wildlife.” Just be careful where you place your feet to avoid water moccasins, he cautioned. Explorers who prefer dry conditions can frequent the newly redesigned visitor center, which Friends of Paynes Prairie has supplied with new interactive exhibits on the prairie’s natural and cultural history. The exterior of the visitor center, designed in 1976, resembles a sandhill crane coming in for a landing on the prairie. Jeffrey Forbes, the Friends’ president-elect (Christine Zamora is president), reported that several new exhibits were just installed in November. Also, the campground bathrooms were refurbished in the summer. It is unknown how long Alachua Lake will remain. Forbes pointed out the record rain we have experienced since 2017. “On average Gainesville receives about 47 inches of rain annually,” he said. “In 2017, Gainesville and its environs experienced almost 75 inches of rain. In fact, June and July both saw nearly 17 inches apiece, both record-setting months. Then Irma dumped another 11 or 12 inches, depending on where you were. 2018 ended with just over 60 inches of rain for the year.” The high water makes this a perfect time to visit Paynes Prairie, either on foot or in a kayak. Just be sure to watch your step! 34 |

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PHOTOGRAPHY: KIM DAVIDSON

MARCH/APRIL 2019

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COLUMN

DONNA BONNELL’S

Embracing Life NATURE-DEFICIT DISORDER

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

AUTHOR RICHARD LOUV COINED THE CHILDHOOD CONDITION, NATURE-DEFICIT DISORDER, IN HIS BOOK, “LAST CHILD IN THE WOODS.”

jewels. So, I resurrected a hefty stash of memorabilia. Owen’s two favorite finds were a homemade ax and what we call a MacGyver knife. (As a side note, the original MacGyver was a television series that ran from 1985 through 1992, starring Richard Dean Anderson. My son was inspired by the show’s concept could not ﬁnd evidence that it is a recognized and MacGyver was his fictional hero. MacGyver was a secret medical illness, but it has spurred conversation agent who utilized mundane material to create unconventional and change. Many educators, health professionals and contraptions. He could fix anything with chewing gum, duct parents believe that it may be a factor in the increase of childtape, matches, paperclips and his Swiss Army Knife.) hood attention disorders, depression and obesity. Dr. Ross Owen and I decided to go on a mini-hike. We took the Cameron at Sheffield University said, “I guess it’s a symptom primitive ax and worn out MacGyver knife. His spirits of current lifestyle.” immediately improved. As we walked through the Cameron is correct. We over-schedule our woods, he hacked away at the dead branches, lives. Face the facts, our kids feel the intense As we walked spider webs and various vines vowing to keep pressure of homework, extracurricular through the woods, he his Grammy safe. activities and even their parents’ stresses. At one point, I got tangled in underbrush. Little to no free time is left for youngsters hacked away at the dead He proudly pulled out the rusty knife and to be creative, enjoy outdoor adventures branches, spider webs opened all of its tools. Owen suggested using and simply play. Even the school systems and various vines vowing the flint to start a fire and burn the treacherhave reduced recess and physical educato keep his Grammy ous creeping plants. (He was kidding, but we tion to teach our students how to take the safe. still analyzed the situation.) Discussion ensued standardized tests. Most everyone has great about why that was not a good idea. I could get intentions, but the collective negative results burned and the fire might spread. However, the mini-saw, are being felt by our children. pliers and scissors worked well, and I was freed. We walked Today’s society is much different from the days of my childfor hours, explored mole mounds, downed trees and assorted hood. We would never admit to not having anything to do. Any plants. Owen was re-energized and ready to return to school. semblance of being bored meant additional chores. Days were spent outside manufacturing forts from tree limbs, creating Dr. Claire McCarthy wrote about the benefits of outdoor plays for neighborhood performances and collecting discarded activities in her article “6 Reasons Children Need to Play glass bottles to redeem for money. Yes, I know, life today has Outside.” The following is a brief summary of McCarthy’s changed in many ways. However, one thing remains the same. perspective: Our youth needs down time. A recent incident reminded me of my early years and the therapeutic value of nature. 1. Appreciation of Nature – If our next generation does not My nine-year-old grandson spent a couple of days with experience the wonders of nature, they will never understand me when he was not feeling well. The first day he rested and the need for conservation. recuperated. As the second day progressed, he felt better and 2. Executive Function – Skills learned during unstructured became restless. Hmmm, what was Grammy to do? time – negotiating, multitasking, planning, prioritizing and Owen is infatuated by his uncle’s (my 37-year-old son) trouble shooting. When kids must amuse themselves, they Boy Scout treasures. Coupled with the fact that he joined Cub make up games and ﬁgure things out. Scouts this year, I knew he would enjoy perusing Jeffrey’s

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3. Sunshine – Vitamin D – Crucial in the development of bones and immune systems. 4. Taking Risks – Kids need to try new things and be allowed to fail. This builds bravery and conﬁdence. 5. Socialization – Learn to cooperate and share. Structured settings do not provide an opportunity for kids to discover how on their own. 6. Vigorous Outdoor Activity – Provides physical exercise needed for overall good health. Nature-Deficient Disorder is not an official diagnosis of the International Classification of Diseases and Relation Health Problems. Protecting our planet’s future and the wellbeing of upcoming generations, however, depends on embracing the outdoors now. Take advantage of the wide array of parks, springs and trails available in North Central Florida. Bring your children, grandchildren and maybe some “MacGyver Magic” to inspire creative exploration.

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WILDLIFE >> ALACHUA AUDUBON SOCIETY

WIND BENEATH MY WINGS

Take Flight The Alachua Audubon Society Allows Birds to Thrive through Connection and Conservation W RIT TE N BY S TE PH S TRICKL A N D

lachua County has a rich history of connecting people to the natural world. In 2020 the Alachua Audubon Society, a group committed to the conservation and observation of local bird and wildlife populations, will be celebrating its 60th anniversary in the area. However, their impact on birding and the environment of North Central Florida will extend for even longer than that. The ﬁrst notable connection between man and the wildlife of Alachua occurred in 1886, when pioneer Frank M. Chapman began exploring the scenery of Gainesville and recording his thoughts. Chapman spent most of his time exploring the Alachua Lake, which he said seemed “alive with the sound of birds.” By the end of his trip to Gainesville, which at this time had a reputation as a health resort, he had documented 149 species of birds in Alachua. The area also became home to several other conservationists and bird enthusiasts, including T. Gilbert Pearson. Pearson was a friend to Chapman and an ornithologist who lived in Archer for a brief period and conducted ﬁeld research in Micanopy. 38 |

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As rep report orted ort ed in the ar artic ticle tic le onn pg. pg 32 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; san sandhi dhilll cra dhi c nes nes,, whic whic hichh feed feed onn fr frogs frogs gs,, smalllll fish sma fish and and d sna s kes kes, had to o dis disper is er erse see fro ro om Payn Payn aynes e Pra es Prairi i e due iri duee to a peri peri riod ri od o d of rec record ord raainf i all al si s ncee 20 2017 1 tha 17 t t resu resuulte lt d in the the ret e urn rn of Al A ach chua ua Lak akke. e T se bir The b ds nee e d a wiideee d ope o n spac op pa e of appr appr pp oxi oximat mately mat ely onne-h e-half a mi alf mile le to be abl blee to to spot spo ap appro proach aching ng pr preda edaator ors, r , and a thheyy do do not n liike k tre treeess. Hu Hundr ndrreds ndreds e off cra c nes ea each ch day d feeed d att the UF UF/IF /IFAS /IF A exp AS xp peri e men mental tal be beef e cat ef cattle tle pa pastu stu ture ure neearr Will nea illist ist ston onn Roa Road. d Inn nor d. no o mal ye years ars,, when th ar ars thee prai raairie rie is dr dry, y hun y, hu dre dreds ds of craanes fe cranes feed e and ro ed roost ost on o thhe prai prai rairie rie.. rie

MARCH/APRIL 2019

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WILDLIFE >> ALACHUA AUDUBON SOCIETY

The Kestrel Nest Box Program, which led to the creation of over 130 bird boxes such as the one pictured here, is being revitalized this year. Members of the Alachua Audubon Society are working to fix older boxes and install new ones so the organization can properly observe local species.

Today, there are over 900 active bird-loving members of the Alachua Audubon Society. This local chapter of the National Audubon Society is well known for the numerous excursions and activities it hosts for both members and the public at no cost. Activities include Family Birding Trails, Wednesday Bird Walks, Zen Birding, Birds and Brew as well as numerous classes and ﬁeld trips. Two years ago, Debbie Segal became president of the Alachua Audubon Society. She ﬁrst became a member over two decades earlier, with a goal to continue connecting the world with the bountiful nature in Alachua County. Segal is passionate about the protection and observation of the hundreds of bird species in the area. “I just love getting out and seeing birds – it’s exciting,” she said. Segal has served several other board positions leading up to 40 |

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her role as president, and she feels the 18 board members that serve the Alachua Audubon Society are who keep the largest Audubon chapter in Florida running smoothly. The staff at the Alachua Audubon Society are always working to continue to grow its conservation and community efforts. Visitors can expect to see expansions of current programs, as well as newer programs like efforts to develop bird banding stations and monitoring programs to better track local bird behaviors. Through the countless projects and excursions that the Alachua Audubon Society is working on, they hope to spread education and awareness to locals. “We’re trying to cater to the entire community,” Segal said. One major project that the organization will be working on in 2019 is a partnership with the City of High Springs, this plan is focused on designing a wetland similar to others in Gainesville.

Birding in Alachua: A Field Guide Information in this Local Birding Guide was taken from both the National Audubon Bird Guide and the Alachua County Bird List from the Alachua Audubon Society. ILLUSTRATIONS BY DAVID ALLEN SIBLEY FROM THE BIRDS OF NORTH AMERICA FIELD GUIDE. TO SEE THE FULL GUIDE, VISIT THE AUDUBON SOCIETY WEBSITE AT AUDUBON.ORG OR DOWNLOAD THEIR BIRD GUIDE APP.

Black Rail This tiny marsh bird is somewhat rare in Alachua County, but sightings have occurred at Paynes Prairie. The distinct song of the Black Rail is often heard at night rather than during the day because this species is considered secretive and attempts to remain unseen. They will often follow the paths created by mice and other wildlife to maintain their stealthy behaviors.

Canada Goose

White-Winged Dove The non-native white-winged dove is expanding into the area from Central Florida and has been a seasoned local since the mid1990s, especially in Western sections of the county. This bird was originally from desert locations but has migrated throughout the southern United States and Central America. They enjoy seeds and fruits and will often eat from elevated bird-feeders.

Sandhill Crane

This bird, which happens to share a name with a popular winter-clothing brand, was a common winter visitor to Alachua during the early 1970s. However, the populations that migrated here did not last into the 21st century. y Now, sigh g ting gs usuallyy just consist of brief winter visitors as they migrate from harsh cold.

The sandhill crane is a common visitor and has remained so for over half a century. Approximately 25 to 30 pairs of the resident population breed in southern parts of the county – you may be able to catch sight of their babies in earlyy March. These cranes love the Florida winters and are a welcome visitor throughout the state.

The new space will allow for wastewater treatment, and wildlife would be able to take advantage of habitat expansion. Segal reached out to representatives to obtain permission to open this space to the public once completed as an additional North Florida destination for birding and wildlife observation. The Alachua Audubon is also passionate about observation and conservation. On December 16, a group of experienced birders embarked on the annual Christmas Bird Count. They recorded bird sightings within a 15-mile radius centered over Paynes Prairie, and this year’s count found 177 unique species within that area. Segal, an environmental scientist by training, believes observing bird populations is the best way of learning about the state of the environment. “I’ve seen the very visible decline in environmental quality – birds are a very good indicator of the state of the environment,” she said.

The last county list shows 362 unique bird species in the local area, reinforcing the fact that Alachua has become a hub for wildlife and ecotourism in North Florida. In 2018, the Alachua Audubon Society was awarded Best Chapter Award – for a chapter larger than 500 people – by the Florida Audubon. The Alachua chapter was recognized for their extensive work in the community including: new internship and scholarship opportunities, new programs and countless partnerships with local organizations to improve the relationship between locals and wildlife. Michael Brock, a board member for the Alachua Audubon, has always taken an active interest in birding and wildlife observation. When he heard about the activities hosted by the Alachua Audubon, he decided it would be worth checking out. Brock said that the interest and genuine curiosity of both leaders and members of the group are what sparked him to stay. “They were excited about MARCH/APRIL 2019

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WILDLIFE >> ALACHUA AUDUBON SOCIETY

Birding in Alachua: Field Guide (continued) Great Blue Heron This bird may be a common sight, but it is still something magnificent to behold. Herons have been a welcomed guest in the area since the 1920s due to their love for marsh and swamp lands – which Gainesville is known for. However, these stunning creatures are highly adaptable and can be seen throughout the U.S.

This species is an irregular stray from southern Florida where disruption of water flow and habitat degradation has made the Snail Kite an endangered species. For this reason, the Alachua Audubon was ecstatic when they came across three nests in the summer of 2018. You may catch sight of a Snail Kite in Paynes Prairie or Sweetwater Wetlands Park.

Roseate Spoonbill

Burrowing Owl

These spoonbills are common visitors to the area in spring and summer and have been sighted at Paynes Prairie on several occasions. These beautiful and colorful creatures overcame great diversity over a century ago when they were hunted to near extinction. They are still considered a vulnerable species today. They are often seen feeding in shallow water and are more common along Florida coastlines.

This owl is a seasoned local in the Alachua area and has been since 1962. However, populations have been decreasing in many parts of the country. Burrowing owls are particularly fans of the rolling pastures of Newberry and High Springs but are seldom seen in winter. These owls are often called “howdy birds” because they frequently nod in greeting to other wildlife from their burrows.

everything… it’s an extremely welcoming environment,” he said. Brock especially appreciates how inviting the Alachua Audubon is to all levels of birders. From beginners to experts, Brock encourages locals to come out and continue learning about the natural world. The educational side of birding and the environment is another key tenet of this organization. In addition to providing educational bird walks, activities and classes, the Alachua Audubon Society also works diligently to observe and track local bird populations. By tracking these populations through devices, such as their nest boxes with “spy cams” attached, the organization is able to understand movements, ﬁnd rare birds in the area and share this information with the local community. With the purpose of educating and inspiring the community, the chapter’s website also features the best local birding locations, birding calendars and checklists, as 42 |

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well as information on what to do with an injured bird. One exciting discovery for members of the Alachua Audubon was the sighting of a Snail Kite in March of 2018, and the subsequent discovery of additional nests and population growth in the area. This was an exciting discovery because this species is threatened and especially rare to see in North Florida. Through the efforts of organizations such as the Alachua Audubon, these types of species remain protected in the area, and their homes and habitats are also protected. Moments like these excite and inspire Segal and the rest of the members of the Alachua Audubon to continue their work in conservation. “By protecting birds, we are protecting the Earth,” Segal said. For a full list of Alachua Audubon programs, local birding information and a calendar of events, visit: www.alachuaaudubon.org.

We’re growing to care for you and your family in west Gainesville.

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Birding in Alachua: Field Guide (continued) Red-Headed Woodpecker The red-headed woodpecker is very appropriately named for the stunning red color on its head. This bird is common in eastern parts of the country and is fairly common in the summer months in Alachua. They are omnivores and primarily eat insects, so you’ll have to scour the tree tops to get a glimpse at this beautiful species.

Mottled Duck This guest to the area is one of the oldest recorded visitors for birders. The mottled duck has been enjoying the splendor of Alachua since 1906. Despite having been seen locally for 113 years now, the duck is still considered somewhat uncommon due to the frequency in whic wh ichh it is si sigh ghte ted. d.

This little visitor flocks to the area during the winter months in order to escape the cold parts of northern America, where it spends its summers. The vireo primarily eats insects, but will also enjoy the occasional berry or fruit (which could draw them to your bird-feeder). Look in the tops of trees for these little foragers.

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Summer Tanager

Wood Duck This common resident is known for its colorful feathers, especially in its face and head, that are often used by males for courtship. They are known for finding homes in woodland ponds and river swamps, and they primarily eat seed se eds. s. T he W oo ood d Du Duck ck w as n ea earl rlyy decimated in the late 19th century due to hunting, but today the population is stead t dy across th the U.S S.

WILDLIFE >> ALACHUA AUDUBON SOCIETY

This beautiful species is known for adding a dash of color to the Gainesville area during the warmer months, but are also sighted irregularly during the winter. They are closely related to the cardinal and can be seen foraging and taking flight between tree tops. They are considered an observant species, as they often pause to take in the scenery.

Common Nighthawk This familiar bird is slowly declining in population nationally, and Alachua County is seeing the effects of this decline. Despite the waning population numbers, this species remains a common summer visitor to the Alachua area. However, as the name implies, if you want to catch a glimpse of this bird in action — you may need to wait for the sun to set.

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WILDLIFE >> ALACHUA AUDUBON SOCIETY

Birding in Alachua: Field Guide (continued) Allen’s Hummingbird This hummingbird species is native to the California coast, but records show a sighting of this colorful creature at Kanapaha Botanical Gardens. Allen’s Hummingbird is one of numerous vagrant hummingbird species in the area, meaning they drift in and out of the area in no set pattern. Hummingbirds typically enjoy warm weather, so it’s no surprise that another species made its way to Florida. If you’re quick, you may catch a photo of one of the local hummingbird species feeding on a flower.

American Coot These tough and adaptable water birds have managed to survive throughout the United States, but seem to find a home in North Florida during wintertime. They can often be seen between September and May swimming or wading through the shallow waters of wetlands in the area. However, it is important to be careful in the vicinity of an American Coot, because theyy are known for being g agg ggressive and territorial when app pproached byy other wildlife or humans.

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STEWARDSHIP >> ECOFRIENDLY TIPS

LEAVE ONLY FOOTPRINTS

ECOFRIENDLY TIPS FOR EXPLORING AND ENJOYING THE OUTDOORS

The Green Outdoors STORY A N D PHOTOGR A PH Y BY CA MERON COBB

When it comes to adventure, Florida’s got a whole lot more to offer than just Disney World. Need inspiration? Just step outdoors. Whether your forte be ﬂoating atop crystal waters in one of more than 200 springs, strolling parallel to sunsets along the Gulf of Mexico’s sandy shore or trekking deeper into the 17 million acres of lush forests, there’s something for everyone to love about the Sunshine State. But with pollution piling on and posing an increased threat to local plant and wildlife, it can be difﬁcult to imagine the future always staying sunny. To help ensure the diverse and delicate ecosystems of Florida remain something everyone can love, here are some eco-friendly tips to get you going green when enjoying the great outdoors. 48 |

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DITCH DISPOSABLES According to epa.gov, “one-third to two-thirds of the debris we catalog on beaches comes from single-use, disposable plastic packaging from food and beverage-related goods and services (things like plastic cups, bottles, straws, utensils, and stirrers).” What do these items have in common? Obviously, they’re harmful to the environment – but more importantly, all can be easily replaced with more eco (and wallet) friendly options. Plastic cups/bottles: If you’ve ever attended college, job orientation, or, you know, pretty much any tabling event, chances are you’ve got at least one (dozen) reusable water bottles lying around. And while conveniently fillable at any public water fountain, the refreshing taste of rust and someone else’s spit might not feel quite as hydrating as that of a single-use bottle. However, with the help of a ﬁlter it can! Filtered water

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bottles are clean, inexpensive and sure to give you that Dasani-quality taste without the unnecessary waste. Straws: Bamboo straws, steel straws, paper straws or no straws – there are countless sustainable alternatives. Or, channel your inner child and go with an edible option (AKA: Twizzlers – consider it a deserved treat for helping the environment). Utensils: Put that mismatched silverware hidden at the back of the drawer to good use by creating your own travel set (a pencil case doubles as perfect cutlery housing, or glue mini magnets to the handles of a fork, knife and spoon to keep them together). Not crafty? There are plenty of options for pre-made sets, including all-in-one eating utensils so you’ll never have to worry about ﬁnding 10,000 spoons when all you need is a knife (rest easy, Alanis Morissette). Stirrers: Are these still a thing? Besides being just scattered along the shore? Regardless, luckily there’s an easy replacement – literally anything. Even a ﬁnger will do the trick ( just make sure it’s yours, or at the very least, clean).

THE WHOLE PACKAGE As shown in the Ocean Conservancy’s International Coastal Cleanup 2018 report, almost 350,000 food wrappers were removed in just 24 hours from U.S. coastlines alone – the second-most collected item, next to cigarette butts. And with nearly 8,400 miles of ocean coastline making up the peninsula, it’s long since been time for Floridians and the 100+ million tourists who visit annually to get serious about food packaging waste. The best practice is to stop the problem at its source and avoid prepackaged products. Planning a beach picnic? Trade plastic bowls of precut fruit salad for ripe bananas or oranges (nothing says sustainable like all-natural, biodegradable casings). You can also prep other snacks at home, such as oven-baked potato chips and high-energy cereal bars – just skip the Ziploc and opt for Tupperware or even paper wrapping. While it’s better to avoid altogether, if you must bring prepackaged food items along on your travels, transfer contents into reusable containers before heading out. This reduces the chance of any excess packaging possibly winding up in nature… or in the paws of a curious critter.

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STEWARDSHIP >> ECOFRIENDLY TIPS

TRASHY HABITS Trash is everywhere... litter-ally. According to studies, the average amount of steps someone takes before littering is 12, which means even if you don’t contribute to the litterbug statistics, you likely see the proof. Try it. The next time you wander the woods, the beach or pretty much anywhere, make it a point to count every piece of garbage you see – or better yet, make it disappear yourself. For every hike, beach trip or even just a neighborhood stroll, bring along a small garbage bag – you’ll be (sadly) surprised how much it comes in handy. Make it a challenge. Get the family involved. This can be an inspiring activity to show children how it feels to make a difference at a young age while teaching them about conservation. And while they’ll hopefully be a part of the generation that rids the planet of single-use plastic products, until then it will instill responsible outdoor habits for years to come. Every inch of the Florida landscape is a kaleidoscope of color, painted on the canvas that is the masterpiece of this world. And while the world’s natural beauty may appear to be unlimited, its resources are not. We must take every opportunity to practice preservation not just for ourselves, but for all species and generations of those to come. So next time you head outside — go with a purpose! Because getting closer to the Great Outdoors starts with making it a Greener one ﬁrst.

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COLUMN

FARM TALES

From Mother Hen THE GREAT OUTDOORS

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.

AS YOU CAN IMAGINE, WHILE GROWING UP IN THE COUNTRY AS A FARMER’S DAUGHTER I EXPERIENCED LIFE AND NATURE ON A VERY PERSONAL LEVEL.

hen I took my first steps as a toddler, my mother told me I stepped barefooted right onto the gravel lane leading up to our cottage. My grandmother gasped as she watched my tender feet on the gravel, but I was born for the country life and didn’t even seem to notice. From that time until the present, when I am home (indoors or out) my shoes are kicked off immediately. I also quickly developed an inner oneness with nature. My mother would instruct me as early as I can remember to “take a deep breath; breathe in that clean, fresh air.” We would stand on the hillside by our little home, where the breeze rose gently up from the river, and it really was the cleanest, freshest air I have ever breathed in. Today yoga and Pilates instructors value the benefits of deep breathing for health and well-being, but my mother was ahead of her time. She knew that nature and the great outdoors are “good for what ails ya’.” My father was a born farmer. He had instincts for his occupation that other farmers often envied. He was the first to open his fields in the spring to start planting, and the first to begin the harvest in the fall. Much to my dismay, when we had a family outing in our car he would slowly drive past his fields, painstakingly creeping by the rows of crops he had recently planted. What he was doing was keeping watch over his fields, looking for early signs of weeds or insects that might be putting the young plants at risk. However, he also had an eye looking upwards to the sky, watching what his “silent partner” had in store for him. 52 |

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You see, Mother Nature was my father’s silent partner, and I feel that a great deal of his success had to do with the way he could read the signs she would give him. I remember my father often saying, “She’s going to storm tonight,” or, “It looks like she wants to rain…” As I grew older, I noticed that he personiﬁed the weather by doing this, and realized he was demonstrating exactly how he felt. Weather wasn’t just a random chance happening; nature was his silent partner—and she was quite clear when speaking to him. My father was such a successful farmer because of the many years he spent working with Mother Nature, and listening when she gave him signs.

My own experiences with the outdoors centered mostly with my exploring the hillside near our cottage. I loved picking the wildflowers in the springtime, finding snails along the base of the large oak trees, or nursing the occasional critter that was injured or orphaned. I even rescued fireflies from spider webs during the summer evenings. If I got there quickly enough before Mr. Spider

started the process of preparing his dinner, I would gently untangle the firefly from the web and send him on his way. I’m pretty sure I saw him blink a thank you in “firefly code” as he flitted away in the night sky. On a spring day one of our cats brought up a baby bunny from the woods. It was tiny and helpless so I wanted to keep it, of course. My mother inspected it and found that the cat hadn’t injured it, just gently carried it up to the house like a cat would carry a kitten. Since there was no way to return the bunny to his mother, we nursed him until he was old enough and then released him into the woods where he had come from. He was a little wild thing, never bonding with the humans who had rescued him. I learned from that little bunny that some wild things never can be domesticated. One successful experience I had with nurturing a wild creature was with a tiny sparrow hatchling. A strong rain and windstorm happened one June afternoon. Later that evening my parents and I were visiting neighbors and I went outside to escape the boring grown-up conversation. As I was walking through the damp grass outdoors, I noticed a baby bird that had been blown down during the storm. He was at the base of a tree with his mouth open and looking helpless. He was no more than a small blob of skin with a few shafts of feathers that were just beginning to grow—and of course, that yellow beak stretched wide open begging for food. I gently scooped him up and tenderly brought him in to show my parents. My father said he was too young and would never make it. But I promised I would do whatever it took

to keep him alive, even if it meant feeding him every two hours around the clock. My mother came up with a plan to feed him raw hamburger rolled up to simulate the worms his mother would have brought to the nest. He gobbled up the “worms,” waking every two hours and demanding more! He thrived on his diet and grew quickly, his feather shafts filling in and unwrapping to show the feather pattern of a sparrow. I named him “Harvey” after a Jimmy Stewart movie I had recently watched. Harvey thought I was his mother; and, truly, I actually was. I fed him “worms” every two hours when he was a baby and taught him to eat birdseeds when he was old enough. And when all his feathers were grown in, I would hold him perched on my finger and drop my hand to encourage him to fly. One very special day he did fly from my finger, taking laps around the living room high up near the ceiling. I was a proud mama on that day. Harvey and I spent the rest of the summer in bliss. He would ride around on my shoulder inside the house, and whatever I was eating he thought he should have a bite to eat too. If I slept late in the morning, he would squeeze his little body between the crack of my bedroom door and wake me up by flying to my pillow and gently tugging at my eyelashes. When school started back up in September, my mother said he would sulk in his birdcage all day even though the door to it was open. Somehow, he knew when I would be arriving home from school and he would come out of his cage flying laps around the living room, excited for my return. We would have snacks together and he would sit on my shoulder while I did my homework.

Harvey was a precious gift sent from above to this little country girl. Our time together was short, but a time I will always treasure. I’ve heard that God knows when even a sparrow falls from the tree, and I hope one day I’ll ﬁnd my little friend again—waiting for me at the Pearly Gates. Yes, there is beauty in the Great Outdoors. Get out there and breathe it in! Go ﬁnd your silent partner, and listen…

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EXPLORE >> OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

KID FRIENDLY

Family Fun!

Explore the Beauty of the Outdoors with Your Loved Ones W R IT TE N BY SO F I A A R R I AG A

Families ﬂock to Gainesville and surrounding areas for communities full of rich programs. The list of local destinations for parents to visit with their little ones could go on and on. Whether you’re looking to engage your children with animals or educate them about the environment through fun outdoor experiences, exciting activities that are able to entertain the entire family await you!

Morningside Nature Center 3540 E University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32641 floridahikes.com/morningside-nature-center Many consider the Morningside Nature Center to be an exciting field-trip destination for an ordinary day. The Center extends knowledge and fun to children through a myriad of programs. One program titled “Barnyard Buddies” allows children to engage with farm animals such as jersey cows, chickens, hogs and sheep. All are heritage breeds that are representative of what would be kept on the farm in the mid 1800s, to maintain authenticity of the original farm founded during that time. 54 |

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According to farm manager Bricky Way, “the children who attend average from preschool to ﬁrst grade and are permitted with adult supervision.” The program doesn’t charge for entry, but donations of carrots, squash, apples, sweet potatoes and melons are accepted. The program will take place every Wednesday until May 29th. Kids are also welcomed to visit Morningside to learn about reptiles and amphibians through a program called “Frogs and Friends Fridays.” In this program children can engage with snakes, turtles, tarantulas, toads, newts and frogs. “Frogs and Friends Fridays” will take place every Friday until May 3rd.

PHOTOGRAPHY: CECILIA LEMUS

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20307 N.W, Co Rd 235A, Alachua, FL 32615 | millcreekfarm.org Mill Creek Farm is another scenic location for families to venture to. Founded in 1984, the home for retired horses opens its doors every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. During these hours, families can come visit the ranch and explore the pastures to feed the horses, pet them and learn about their journeys. The cost of admission on these Saturdays is two carrots, but more can be purchased inside.

PHOTO BY TJ MORRISSEY

EXPLORE >> OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

MillCreek Farm

O’Leno State Park 410 SE Oleno Park Rd, High Springs, FL 32643 floridastateparks.org/ parks-and-trails/oleno-state-park Developed in the 1930s and one of Florida’s ﬁrst state parks, O’Leno features hiking and biking trails as well as access to the Santa Fe River for canoeing or fishing. With pavilions located along the river’s edge, the picturesque park serves as the quintessential scenery for picnics and relaxation. Moreover, the full-facility campground offers complete amenities for overnight stays.

Alfred A. Ring Park

If families are looking to take part in an adventurous hike, Alfred A. Ring Park includes trails along Hogtown Creek that deliver beautiful scenery complete with shaded trees, picnic tables and even a playground. The trail also leads to the sweet aroma of the Emily S. Ring wildﬂower garden. Camellias, azaleas and silver-tinged saw palmetto plants are each nurtured in the garden. This destination offers both sights and smells the whole family can enjoy. 56 |

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PHOTO BY CECILIA LEMUS

1801 NW 23rd Blvd, Gainesville, FL 32605 | floridahikes.com/ringpark

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Lubee Bat Conservatory 1309 NW 192nd Ave, Gainesville, FL 32609 | lubee.org

EXPLORE >> OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Families also frequently venture to the Lubee Bat Conservatory to take part in educational tours. Lubee is a nonprofit organization dedicated to saving bats and their habitats through research, conservation and education — with a focus on children and community engagement. During the tours, families can visit the bats who live in the conservatory and engage with education animals. Scheduled tours are offered every day of the week, but reservations must be made beforehand. Batman fans are sure to enjoy this up close and personal experience with live bats!

Santa Fe Teaching Zoo 3000 Northwest 83rd Street, Building Z, Gainesville, FL 32606 | sfcollege.edu/zoo For families wishing to continue their exploration of animals around town, the Santa Fe Teaching Zoo offers unforgettable experiences for kids of all ages. On April 13th and 14th, the zoo will be hosting “Party for the Planet” to celebrate Earth Day. In addition to learning about how to conserve the environment, visitors can partake in face painting, keeper talks, trainer demonstrations and various crafts. Food trucks will also be present. On May 19th, the zoo will be hosting an additional event called “Tree Kangaroo Awareness Day.” This celebration will honor the zoo’s Matschie’s tree-kangaroo, an endangered species of kangaroo native to Papua New Guinea. Visitors can observe these rare mammals while also participating in crafts and games. Sara Creel, a Gainesville resident who has visited the Lubee Bat Conservatory and the Santa Fe Zoo many times, explained that both destinations have great elements to their programs. “Lubee works hard to change the negative reputation of bats, vampires, rabies carriers [and more],” Creel said. “And the zoo does a good job providing a hands-on experience for the students in a nationally top-ranked, maybe even best in the country, zoology program.” Creel said that she enjoyed both places for their family-friendly atmosphere and attentive staff. Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors, interact with interesting animals or locate a picturesque spot for family bonding — the communities of our town offer multiple ways to connect your loved ones with nature. PHOTOGRAPHY: GABRIELLE CALISE, KRISTIN KOZELSKY

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COLUMN

CRYSTAL HENRY’S

Naked Salsa WHAT’S GOOD FOR THE GANDER MAY HAVE KILLED THE GOOSE 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

I RECENTLY FOUND OUT THAT MY HUSBAND OF 14 YEARS IS MARRIED TO SOMEONE ELSE.

e were in the mountains of New Mexico enjoying a nice night out when he relayed this information to me over dinner. We were talking about taking a summer vacation, and he suggested we drive around the country with the kids in a tiny camper. I laughed and suggested we just get a nice hotel on the beach in the Keys. That conversation triggered my husband to passionately confess, “You’re not the woman I married.” His official position is that in the early days of our marriage I was full of adventure. Unpretentious and wild, I relished the weekends we spent driving out into the wilderness on our motorcycle with only a tent, a sleeping bag and a lust for the great outdoors. Our early trips to the Keys were spent laying in the sand drinking beer at 10 a.m. and taking fishing charters at midnight. We camped near lakes, and we cooked our catch over a campfire. I tried to interrupt and point out that perhaps it’s not that I’ve changed as much as our lives have changed. Two kids, full-time jobs and the list goes on and on. But he was hearing none of it. In his mind I’ve grown into a spoiled princess who enjoys the comforts of a Marriott over the character-building slumber of a mosquito-infested tent. In all fairness, I was game for a lot more when we were first married. We didn’t have the money for a hotel, so $12 campsites were the only way we could vacation. We’d hop on the motorcycle with a tent, a sleeping bag and our mess kit strapped to the back and we’d go. However, I might be able to pinpoint a turning point in my adventurous side. One of the most memorable trips we took was a motorcycle ride to the Smoky Mountains. We left the house at 5 a.m. and we headed for Georgia on the bike. I was surprisingly okay in the early morning hours when it was still dark, but as the sun rose I was in a full-blown battle with my eyelids. And they eventually won. When I woke up — still thankfully upright on the back of the bike — I was first confused, then terrified. I also had a real understanding of the “If you can read this the bitch fell off” t-shirts. We stopped overnight at an abandoned campground in 60 |

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Georgia. It wasn’t supposed to be abandoned, but we were having an unseasonably cold weekend. So all the sane people canceled their plans. That evening as we lay down in our tent, and the sun started to set, the forest came to life. We were camping on the edge of a beautiful pond, and as the crickets stirred, we could hear the geese start to gently call out as well. “Isn’t it so strange how the animals all get riled up just before sunset, then once it’s dark they’re completely silent?” Those were the famous last words of my husband before the most hellish night we’d ever experienced. In hindsight the squawking we endured for the next 10 hours was probably due to the massive cold front blowing in. But at the time we just assumed it was punishment for our life’s transgressions. Those geese didn’t shut up the entire night. But that wasn’t even the worst part. As I said, it was an unseasonably cold weekend, and we thought — in our adorable 21-year-old minds — that sharing one sleeping bag would be sweet and romantic. It almost ended us. Trying to zip up in our tiny sleeping bag that was only rated for one person in 50 degree weather was the antithesis of romance. My husband eventually put on his motorcycle jacket to try and keep warm, so I was snuggled up next to a rock hard Kevlar jacket for most of the evening. Not that it mattered. No one slept. Not us. Not one single goose. The next morning, just as the sun peeked over the pond, the geese quietly settled. We had already given up on the idea of any sleep. My husband chucked a few rocks at the birds and yelled a Clark Griswold-worthy string of expletives. We bought an extra sleeping bag on our way out of town, but that was just the tip of the miserably cold iceberg of a trip to the mountains. We’d later experience other icy horrors, such as the frozen bologna nightmare at a Shoney’s I dare not speak of. But my husband remembers that adventure through different eyes. It gave us bragging rights to a trip that we can always look back on and say we survived. However, I think that was the trip that ruined the outdoors for me. It’s safe to say he’s right about me not being the woman he married. She fell off the back of the motorcycle and died a horrible freezing death — ﬁguratively speaking of course. And all that’s left is a shell of a girl who isn’t terribly fond of camping and has an irrational hatred of geese.

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FOOD >> GREAT OUTDOORS RESTAURANT

WINE AND DINE

Great Outdoors A Place of Discovery that Offers Atmosphere, Food and Music S TORY A N D PHOTOG R A PHY BY S TE PH A NIE RICH A R DS

ore than just food awaits diners as they enter the doors of the Great Outdoors. There is a beautifully handcrafted wood canoe and kayak hanging from the ceiling, as well as beams made of Cypress. Diving gear, ﬁshing lures, paddles and large pictures of the springs captured through the lens of local photographer John Moran adorn the walls. The lights have replicas of small canoes, the booths are covered with alligator skin, and glass framed cases hold treasures uncovered in the 1895 building. The Great Outdoors Restaurant has captured the character and history of the High Springs area and paired it with cuisine to create a dining destination full of adventure. A staple in the downtown High

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Springs Historical District since 2008, it might be classified as an outdoor museum of sorts featuring a menu that showcases local flavor in meat, seafood and even drinks. It was named the winner of the Trip Advisor 2018 Award for Excellence and has been recognized every year since 2010 with the Golden Spoon Culinary Award from Florida Trend Magazine. Owners Bob and Karen Bentz bought a place on the Santa Fe River and decided to invest in High Springs to open their first restaurant venue. “It took a year to remodel; everything was taken down to the studs,” said Taylor Dukes, who was the executive chef for eight years before becoming general manager. “Items like shoes, glasses and Prince Edward boxes were uncovered in the renovation and are preserved in glass cases on the wall. Previously, the downstairs

Great Outdoors Restaurant has been an icon in High Springs since 2008. A wood kayak, fishing equipment and photographs of area springs by local photographer John Moran are showcased in the Great Outdoors.

A directional sign on the patio (right) speaks to being in Gator Country with the number of miles to outdoor exploration, from the Ichetucknee River to Ginnie Springs.

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Great Outdoors Executive Chef William Sconyers prepares a Philly Steak Sub on the grill.

was a sandwich shop and a camp outﬁtters store. I think that combined with the fact that the area is rich in state parks, springs and trails, [it] made the name ‘Great Outdoors’ a good ﬁt.” The restaurant’s menu boasts many appetizers, including Gator Bites, which Dukes said are 100 percent white meat and bought from the local “Alligator Meat Guy.” Island Fever Conch Fritters are also a favorite. Main selections include nine different burger options, from the Suwanee and the Veggie to a local favorite, The Ginnie — which is applewood bacon, aged cheddar, smoky barbecue sauce topped with onion rings. There are also steaks and “pasta from the pan,” which includes Dukes’ Macaroni. It is a twist on traditional macaroni with penne pasta, Applewood bacon and smoky Gouda cream sauce baked with panko bread crumbs. Dukes said the Chicken Oscar has been a favorite since the beginning, and the dish includes boneless chicken breast, Francese style, with jumbo lump crab meat and baby asparagus in a lemon cream sauce. “Ninety percent of our menu is made on-site from scratch. Our steaks are amazing, and we have fresh seafood from local areas such as Cedar Key and St. Augustine,” said Dukes, who is from Newberry. “We have a variety of desserts too. Local baker ‘Aunt Jean’ creates a dessert of the month. In the past, it has included cherry jubilee cheesecake and pineapple upside down cake or lemon meringue in the summer months.” In January, Great Outdoors Executive Chef William Sconyers was recognized as the winner in the Best Non-Seafood Soup category and the People’s

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FOOD >> GREAT OUTDOORS RESTAURANT

[mostly] local ones, such as Late Night Delivery, Faster than Choice Award at St. Francis Catholic Academy’s 12th Annual Souper Fun Sunday fundraiser. Dukes said Sconyers took the Flash and country vocalists Jamie Davis, Clay Brooker and Cliff Dorsey,” Dukes said. “We showcase a mix of music styles from title with his Cajun split pea with candied bacon soup. Local brews are also available from First Magnitude and classic rock, country, reggae and New Orleans blues.” The Great Outdoors also includes a historical icon – The Swamp Head. They also serve Samuel Adams Seasonal Brews Opera House. The second and hand-crafted cocktails floor of the building was the with names that capture the site of the first silent movie area landscape, including “The Great Train Robbery” Blue Springs Tea and River in 1903 and has its own charRunner. Dukes pointed out acter and charm. It has been another item of interest in the fully renovated and can be bar area – a single, loose brick. rented for groups of up to “It has become a conversa125 people for events such as tion piece for some customers weddings, Sweet 16 parties, where they leave notes for business meetings or conferone another,” said Dukes, who ences, according to Dukes. noted the restaurant employs High Springs has become about 65 people. a destination for people all In the outside bar and Restaurant General Manager Taylor Dukes reveals a loose brick in the over the world, especially patio area, a stone fireplace bar area. It has been a way for customers to leave notes to each other. during the summer months and stage can be found with seating for about 150 people. The Boathouse, as it is called, because of the Santa Fe River and area springs. Dukes said these includes hanging canoes, bikes, lifejackets and lanterns. visitors make the restaurant part of their experience too. “At Customers can experience live music under the stars on the Great Outdoors it is about being more than a customer; it is Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays with no cover about being our guest. We have cave divers who are exploring the charge. “We showcase a few national bands and singers but springs from countries like Japan, Russia and Australia. Others

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FOOD >> GREAT OUTDOORS RESTAURANT

Great Outdoors General Manager Taylor Dukes (left) and Executive Chef William Sconyers take a break in The Boathouse area of the outdoor patio. The outdoor patio area boasts a stone fireplace, stage area for bands and seating for 150 people under the stars.

“It is not your run of the mill chain restaurant and truly one-of-a-kind. To me, it has a lot of character.” travel to see us from places like Fleming Island, Valdosta and Tampa on a regular basis. We have a lot of local people who enjoy our restaurant too,” Dukes said. “They call us a ‘gem’ because it is hard to find a quality restaurant outside a major metro area. They love the atmosphere and food.” When 33-year-old Brandon Sasser moved to Newberry five years ago, he went to the Great Outdoors with some co-workers to have dinner and see a band play. “We got a bunch of appetizers and entrees and sampled everything. I had mussels fromage for the first time. They have menu items you don’t see everywhere, and you can taste the high-quality ingredients,” said Sasser, 66 |

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a graduate of UF law school and associate general counsel at Campus USA. “I always like to try something different but if I am with a group, we always get the barbecue nachos.” Sasser said the Great Outdoors has become one of his favorite restaurants. “It is not your run of the mill chain restaurant and truly one-of-a-kind. To me, it has a lot of character. It is in the heart of High Springs in the historic district, and represents the town [by] showcasing the area’s springs and river and local bands,” he said. “It has a warm atmosphere to relax with family or friends, eat good food and listen to live music. It just feels like you are at home.”

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NATURE >> BENEFIT EVENT FOR O’LENO STATE PARK

O’LENO OLE’ CHILI COOKOFF

Stirring the Pot Annual Event Benefits Wildlife Ambassadors

12th Ann n uaal O’ O’Le Leno no Oléé C Ol Chhiilli Co Cook okof offf off Satu Satu t rday rdday, Ap Apri rill 6 Reegi gist stra raati t onn: 8a 8am, m, C ok Co okofff 9a 9am— m—no noon on

W R IT TE N BY DA R L A KI N N E Y SCO LE S

ive wildlife ambassadors can tell a story in a way no other nature park docent can. Place a classroom full of young minds and hearts in a circle around a wide-eyed barred owl, Virginia opossum, Eastern corn snake or a seemingly ancient gopher tortoise and what happens next will educate and inspire a generation to protect and appreciate the animals and natural lands around them. By way of hands-on experiential education and various programs and events, O’Leno is doing their part to inspire the next generation. “It’s been proven time and again that by seeing in-person live native wildlife, people gain a deep appreciation and respect for that wildlife,” said Nan Soistman, owner of Sunrise Wildlife Rehabilitation, whose wildlife educational programs have, over the years, been featured at O’Leno State Park in High Springs. “When people start learning about opossums, their whole perception of what an opossum is changes. We try to tell an animal’s story and then allow a group’s questions and interaction to drive the rest of the information we give. It’s more about enlightenment than facts.” It was with this in mind that the Citizens Support Organization (CSO), Friends of O’Leno, planned the 12th Annual O’Leno Ole’ Chili Cookoff, which designates the

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For 11 years, O’Leno State Park patrons have enjoyed the annual chili cookoff event and the many exhibits, activities, programs and musical guests to be found there. Happening concurrent with the community’s Springs Celebration, this special day spotlights the beauty and importance of the area’s natural habitat - and wildlife inhabitants.

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placement of the event’s proceeds to go to the care of the park’s own animal ambassadors. Currently housed in a nature center requiring updates, the ambassadors (which include two snakes, three box turtles and two gopher tortoises) are the main focus of O’Leno and other state parks in 2019. “The past few years we have been tasked with improving our lands through prescribed fires,” said Jim South, Park Service Specialist at O’Leno State Park, “But now the focus has shifted toward interpretive exhibits and creating better public understanding through experiences with animals like our O’Leno ambassadors.” With the state placing an emphasis on interpretive exhibits, raising funds to enhance the nature center at O’Leno became a priority which Friends of O’Leno happily took on. Organized in the late 1980s, Friends of O’Leno (which also helps support the adjacent River Rise Preserve State Park) has played a key role in establishing, caring for, and maintaining the very nature center it now hopes to help remodel. All funds raised by Friends of O’Leno are used strictly for the two parks the group supports. Funds raised through O’Leno State Park itself are sent back to the state and then redistributed via the state budget for the Florida Park Service under the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. When the park sells firewood, the money raised may not all come directly back into their budget. When Friends of O’Leno sells firewood, the funds are spent locally on the two parks. Their most recent purchases were a log splitter for park staff, a tractor and a chainsaw for park volunteers to use in maintaining the properties. Participants in the Chili Cookoff can know that all the proceeds raised through registration fees, tasting kits and the popular chance drawings will be spent on projects within the parks. This year, those projects center on gopher tortoises Hissy and Popeye, box turtles Molly and Leonardo, and the yet-to-be-named resident snakes. The O’Leno Ole’ Chili Cookoff is, in part, a CASI (Chili Appreciation Society International) sanctioned event. Entrants are able to choose between entering a CASI category or two other open categories for a chance to win one of many prizes and titles.

NATURE >> BENEFIT EVENT FOR O’LENO STATE PARK

One of Florida’s nine original state parks, O’Leno opened in 1940 and still features many structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Guests can purchase a ﬁve dollar taster’s sample kit in order to vote for a People’s Choice award winner as well. Happening in conjunction with the Alachua County Environmental Protection Department’s Annual Springs Celebration, the Cookoff event day will also include environmental exhibits, art vendors, children’s activities, guided interpretive trail walks and live music. “This event is one of several hosted by Friends of O’Leno throughout the year,” said Friends treasurer, Karen McLain. PHOTOGRAPHY: DARLA KINNEY SCOLES

“We are happy to join in with the Springs Celebration for the day and bring the public in to enjoy these natural surroundings, and of course this year, to bring awareness to the nature center and the animal ambassadors. All of the displays and educational tools there were constructed and funded by the members of the Friends CSO and donations from park visitors. The center has evolved into a state-recognized destination for many schools but needs several improvements, including new ﬂooring and display renovation.” MARCH/APRIL 2019

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While at the April 6 event, visitors can see the nature center’s ambassadors ﬁrsthand. Taxidermy wildlife, archaeological dig experiences, microscopes and many other natural artifacts and educational materials are also available to be enjoyed by guests. With park entrance fees waived that day with the donation of one can of food per person (to benefit local food banks), the event presents the community with a good opportunity to also explore O’Leno State Park’s many historical and natural features. As one of Florida’s nine original state parks, O’Leno opened in 1940 and still features many structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). A CCC museum exists on the grounds now, where visitors can learn the interesting history of this program and its contributions to the park. Guests can also enjoy hiking, ﬁshing, picnicking, paddling, cycling, birding and even geocaching. Park patrons visiting the day of the O’Leno Ole’ Chili Cookoff will help the park’s rich history — and a few native species as well — live on, with their story continuing to unfold as only they can tell it.

FIND OUT MORE ... To learn about all that O’Leno State Park offers, including the Ole’ Chili Cookoff, go to www.floridastateparks.org. Friendsofoleno.org offers visitors membership, mission and historical facts as well as details on all of the group’s upcoming events. Find Sunrise Wildlife Rehabilitation on Facebook or at www. sunrisewildlife.org for animal photos and volunteer/ educational program information. CASI rules and information can be found at www.chili.org.

BR ANCH OUT GARDENING >> BONSAI TREES

THE TINY TREE

BONSAI! W R ITTEN BY STEPH STR ICK L A N D | PHOTOGR A PH Y BY ER ICK A W INTER ROW D

People have always been intrigued by disproportionately large and small things, and the bonsai is no exception. The bonsai tree has captivated cultures for millennia and continues to represent beauty, patience and care in each pot they are grown in. The History of the Bonsai While the bonsai in its modern form is considered a byproduct of Japanese culture, the tiny tree actually had its roots in ancient China over 2,000 years ago. The concept of the modern bonsai began as miniature landscapes. Chinese culture felt that these mini-landscapes were magical and they increased in their magic potency as the reproduction of the landscape became smaller and smaller from the original. The Japanese were inspired

by this art but put their own twist on things. The Japanese style evolved to create mini replicas of trees, rather than entire landscapes, which is what we know as the bonsai today. Their choice to include only a tree may be in part to their small size relative to China. Japan simply didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the vast number of landscapes that China had to choose from. The modern style of Japanese bonsais could also be attributed to some inďŹ&#x201A;uences of Zen Buddhism. One tenet of this religion MARCH/APRIL 2019

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GARDENING >> BONSAI TREES

is the ability to ﬁnd beauty in austerity, and these small trees came to represent the universe in one small pot. Buddhist monks would also ﬁnd landscapes which had one tree at the center, for this same reason, so the singular tree became symbolic for the religious Japanese.

How does it work? Bonsai trees are not a special breed. There are no genetic changes which resulted in a bonsai tree. Instead, the bonsai has grown to represent an art form, one that requires meticulous care and planning. First, by placing seeds in a small container, the resulting growth must adjust to this space in order to survive. Thus, instead of spreading roots deeply into the soil for water and growing tall toward the sun for photosynthesis, the tree simply learns how to live in this conﬁned space. Then, through meticulous pruning and shaping, the bonsai takes form. However, the commitment to a bonsai tree is ongoing and upkeep must be done regularly.

Bonsai Styles There are numerous styles to consider when growing a bonsai tree, some of which depend on the type of tree chosen for the seedlings. The broom style bonsai looks most like a large tree that would be found blooming over the center of a forest. This type is best for deciduous trees with ﬁne branches and bush-like qualities. The formal upright bonsai is a classic look with patches of soft foliage strategically pattered over a ﬁrm trunk; again, this

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Locally owned & operat operated 20 years experience style often occurs in nature. Similarly, the formal upright tree can also be slanted to the side to create a slanting bonsai with visual appeal. Another style is the cascading bonsai, which looks straight out of a Salvador Dali painting. This tree cascades from its pot downward but retains its structural integrity throughout. Double and multi-trunk styles add an element of complexity to the tree while retaining a natural look. Other styles experiment with rock formations, windswept looks and more. It is important to note that the bonsai is meant to have creative freedom. So, while these styles may be the most popular, they only encompass some of the many art forms this tiny tree has taken on.

Grow/Style Your Own There are countless options for buying trees online that are either prestyled or that you may style on your own. It is vital to consider living situations when selecting the type of tree to style. For example, if you’re going to be storing your bonsai outside, non-tropical trees tend to be more durable. Also, try to consider indigenous trees because they will be most compatible with the environment that your bonsai will grow in. By starting from scratch using seeds or seed cuttings, it can take up to ﬁve years for your bonsai to be ready to be styled – this is where that Buddhist idea of patience comes into play. Pre-arranged bonsais will take signiﬁcantly less time and may come ready to be styled. Pruning is the next essential step to creating a successful bonsai. Pruning should be done with specialized concave cutters. During spring and summer pruning will be most needed due to moisture in the air. Pruning is what gives these small trees the look of a larger one. Wiring is another method to become acquainted with in order to shape your bonsai trees as they continue to grow and change. The most vital element of having a bonsai tree is care. Maintenance and a good amount of TLC is what will keep your bonsai alive and thriving. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get growing! SOURCE: SCIENCEABC.COM, BONSAIEMPIRE.COM

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PHOTO ESSAY >> MICHAEL A. EADDY

ALL AROUND US

Little Planets P H O T O E S S AY B Y M I C H A E L A . E A D DY

This series of photographs offer a unique view of the world around us. They are called Spherical Panoramas or Little Planets. The images are created by shooting multiple rows of photos and stitching them together to produce an Equirectangular Panorama, which is then used to create the Little Planet — or your own little world. Visit michaelaeaddyphotography.com to see more of Michael’s work.

ABOUT THE ARTIST MICHAEL A. EADDY IS AN AWARD-WINNING PHOTOGRAPHER BASED IN GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA. ALWAYS DRIVEN TO EXPRESS HIMSELF ARTISTICALLY HE HAS WORKED AS A GRAPHIC ARTIST, ILLUSTRATOR, DESIGNER, MUSICIAN AND LUTHIER. HE RECENTLY RETIRED AFTER 18 YEARS AS TECHNICAL DIRECTOR AND PHOTOGRAPHER FOR THE HIPPODROME THEATRE TO PURSUE PHOTOGRAPHY FULL-TIME.

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PHOTO ESSAY >> MICHAEL A. EADDY

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PHOTO ESSAY >> MICHAEL A. EADDY 80 |

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HISTORY >> SEMINOLE WARS

PAYNES OF THE PAST

NEW BOOK AND PROPOSED MUSEUM FOCUS ON ALACHUA COUNTY

Seminole Wars W R ITTEN BY PEGGY M ACDONA LD

A new book by University of Florida Courtesy Professor of History Chris Monaco traces the origins of the Second Seminole War to Alachua County, which is the site of a proposed Seminole Wars museum. A steering committee has suggested locating the museum on the rim of Paynes Prairie, which was a Seminole homeland before the arrival of white settlers in the early 19th century. There were three Seminole Wars, although the Seminoles view them as one long conﬂict. The three wars (1817 – 1818, 1835 – 1842, 1855 - 1858) are also known as the Florida Wars. The ﬁrst armed engagement of the Second Seminole War was an ambush that took place at Black Point on the southern rim of Paynes Prairie, Monaco observes this in his latest book, “The Second Seminole War and the Limits of American Aggression.” 82 |

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The land that was at stake during this war of Indian removal included the fertile area that was once called “Alachua country” (see map). Approximately 2,000 white settlers hailing primarily from southern Georgia had established scattered settlements in Alachua country shortly after the United States acquired Florida from Spain in 1821. “The Alachua region had long been deemed the most bountiful in Florida,” Monaco writes. “Herds of prized cattle grazed here, especially in the lush Paynes Prairie area, and became a source of unprecedented wealth for the Alachua Seminoles.”

IRISHMA

N’S

Monaco describes the resistance that followed as eastern Native Americans’ ﬁnal and most forceful struggle against U.S. expansionism. The Second Seminole War’s modest origins with an ambush at Black Point on the southern rim of Paynes Prairie on Dec. 18, 1835, quickly progressed into what Major General Richard K. Call—in charge of the Florida militia—called an onslaught by an enemy that was “spreading desolation over the whole land.” When Major General Edmund P. Gaines (Gainesville’s namesake) arrived in Florida in Feb. 1836, Monaco recounts, he confidently predicted that the war would end

After initially being relocated from the rich agricultural lands of the Alachua country to less arable reservation lands that extended from present-day Ocala to the Charlotte River, Florida’s Seminole population was targeted for removal. The Indian Removal Act, which President Andrew Jackson signed into law in 1830, was designed to remove Native Americans living east of the Mississippi River in exchange for lands to the west. However, many southeastern tribes resisted removal, including the Seminoles. The Alachua Seminoles viewed Paynes Prairie as sacred ground and their rightful homeland, Monaco contends. “Above all

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else,” he writes, “Seminoles, like other indigenous people, held a spiritual connection to the physical landscape. This reverence, and the belief that Seminoles were the ethical custodians of the land, was reinforced from birth, when mothers ritually buried their newborns’ umbilical cords in the soil beneath their dwellings.” The Seminoles’ deep connection to the land extends to the dead, whose spirits remain close to burial places. “The physical environment,” Monaco states, “including the waters and creatures that inhabited it, was deemed so fundamental that the thought of relinquishing it for a foreign land meant nothing less than a kind of symbolic death.”

in 10 days. The following morning, 400 Seminole warriors launched a surprise attack on Gaines’ forces, likely convincing him to rethink his initial assessment of the prospect of a quick victory. Monaco’s extensive research into the Second Seminole War began with an earlier book project, “Moses Levy of Florida,” which chronicles the fascinating life of David Levy Yulee’s father. The book won the Florida Historical Society Presidential Award of Distinction. Moses Levy established Pilgrimage, the ﬁrst Jewish communitarian settlement in the United States, in Florida’s early territorial period. No portrait of Moses Levy exists

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HISTORY >> SEMINOLE WARS

In a new book published by Johns Hopkins University Press, “The Second Seminole War and the Limits of American Aggression,” Chris Monaco describes the war as eastern Native Americans’ final and most forceful struggle against U.S. expansionism. The Second Seminole War’s first military engagement was an ambush at Black Point on the southern rim of Paynes Prairie on Dec. 18, 1835.

because he shunned publicity and placed community above self, Monaco contends. Levy’s plantation was burned during the Second Seminole War. When Monaco started to research Moses Levy’s life, his own legacy was overshadowed by his son’s. David Levy Yulee was disinherited for forsaking his Jewish religion. “He did all the things his father didn’t want him to do,” Monaco explained during a recent interview at his Micanopy home. In retaliation, Yulee accused his father of being insane. One of Monaco’s goals when researching and writing the biography of Moses Levy was to clear his name and restore him to his rightful place in Florida history. “Moses Levy was this incredible progressive spirit when Florida was the most backwoods part of the nation,” he said. “He was a Utopian. He was trying to do good in the world.” After completing the Levy book, Monaco returned to the archives to research the Second Seminole War. “I went back assiduously to

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the documents and read everything in that time period,” he said. Monaco is surrounded by the history of the Seminole Wars. He lives across the street from the location of the original village of Micanopy, which became Fort Defiance at the start of the Second Seminole War, and it was later rebuilt and renamed Fort Micanopy. His immersion in the history of the Alachua country and the book “The Heritage of War” inspired him to form a steering committee to explore the possibility of starting a Seminole Wars museum. “The Heritage of War” examines the ways that battles are commemorated throughout the world. When it comes to the Seminole Wars, Monaco wonders why Floridians seem to be suffering from historical amnesia. The proposed museum would offer a balanced view of the Seminole Wars. The Seminole Tribe of Florida’s involvement in shaping the narratives that are presented in the museum is critical. Tribal representatives and staff from the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum on the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation have participated in initial conversations and strategic planning for the Seminole Wars museum. “We have to come together and admit our role in pursuing this form of warfare—ethnic cleansing—against the people who lived here,” Monaco said. “They were defending their homes. I think that a museum should serve as some form of reconciliation.” A Seminole Wars museum would commemorate the battles, but it would also examine the people—Seminoles, runaway slaves who resisted removal alongside the Seminoles, and white settlers—who became entwined in a violent series of wars that started with Andrew Jackson. Confronting the history and legacy of Indian removal in Florida is a valuable undertaking for the proposed museum. “I think we’ve matured enough as a nation and a state,” Monaco said. More information on the Seminole Wars museum will become available as conversations continue with the museum steering committee, whose members include historians, archaeologists, museum experts and representatives of the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

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GARDENING >> SIX TIPS

YOU DIG?

SIX SOUTHERN SECRETS TO MAINTAINING YOUR SPRING GARDEN

Spring Gardening Tips WRITTEN BY EMMA WITMER

With 2019 in full swing and North Central Florida temperatures on the rise, it’s the perfect time to grab your gloves and check-in on your garden. This season is all about new life, so start taking those early steps toward a summer full of fresh veggies and outdoor fun with these spring gardening tips!

START WITH SOIL Before you even think about putting a seed in the ground, it’s crucial to have your soil in order. First, clear out any weeds and old growth remaining from last year to make sure that nothing is getting in the way of your next crop. Once things start warming up, and it’s time to plant, use a till or shovel to loosen up the soil. Next, it’s time to fortify your soil from last year with compost and amendments. If you aren’t sure what your soil needs, use a soil test to determine where your PH or nutrient levels might be lacking. 86 |

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DON’T BE A SUCKER

HOWDY HORNWORMS

Tomatoes are a staple of the southern spring garden. Now, whether you plan to serve them in a salad, a sauce or fried and green they need a little love first. Florida spring weather er is unpredictable, so to keep that late March frost off of your brandrandnew seedlings — keep the seeds potted in the house untill the low temperatures have moved on. Once your little plants have started to climb their stakes and put out branches, watch out! ut! Often, new smaller branches will start to grow right out of the base of another branch where it connects to the plant.. Make sure to pinch these tinier branches off. This practicee is commonly known as “suckering” the plant because, if leftt unattended, the small branch will suck the nutrients awayy from that big branch that looks almost ready to bloom.

While these pudgy green caterpillars are normally known for their love of tomato plants, hornworms are perfectly happy to ravage your eggplants, potatoes and peppers as well. These caterpillars’ bright green color aallows them to garden. While inseccamouﬂage well in your garden option for keeping ticides are an effective optio these pests at bay, try a more n natural solution marigolds among this year. Plant basil, dill or ma your at-risk crops. Not only will tthese add extra ttexture to your spring garden, tthey are also an effective deterrent effec for this green fo grub. gr

GET THE KIDS INVOLVED With spring in full swing, the little people in your life are, no doubt, getting anxious for summer vacation. Whether you have small children of your own, grandchildren, nieces, nephews or neighbors, gardening is full of simple tasks that are accessible

CUT IT OUT Your azaleas just bloomed and it was lovely. Soon though, those blooms will go from pink to brown and cover your front yard. Once the last of your blooms hit the ground, it’s time to go for the clippers. This is the perfect time to prune your azaleas and get them into shape for next year. If you wait too far into summer to prune then say “sayonara” to next year’s ﬂowers.

KEEP YOUR GARDEN CALIENTE Planting peppers is a great way to give your garden color and your dinners a little kick. Peppers aren’t fond of the cold, so plant them in a sunny area or keep them inside for a while (like your tomatoes). When plucking your ripe peppers, make sure to leave a few on the vine. Once they’ve begun to shrivel, cut them open and dry the seeds on a paper towel. Seal them in a plastic bag and you’ve got peppers to plant next year! SOURCE: SFYL.IFAS.UFL.EDU, BHG.COM, SOUTHERNLIVING.COM

to all ages. Be sure to keep sharp tools out of small hands, but planting seedlings, pulling weeds and watering the garden are perfectly safe. By the time summer arrives, you can all have something to be proud of! This is a perfect opportunity to spend time with family while enjoying your own great outdoors. Here’s to blooming! MARCH/APRIL 2019

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As part of the Florida State Parks’ Park Fit program, Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park offers tai chi and yoga. Yoga (pictured) is taught by Maggie Rucker and is offered the first Saturday of every month.

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GREEN NEIGHBOR NATURE >> LOCAL OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Next to Nature Exploring the Great Outdoors of Our Town W R I T T E N B Y H AY L I Z U C C O L A

he most appealing aspect about Mother Nature is that you don’t have to travel far to experience everything she has to offer. From towering stalks of bamboo, multi-colored butterflies and rows of fragrant flowers to crystal clear springs, song-spitting birds and deer frolicking among green pastures — our town is filled with opportunities to bring you closer to nature.

PHOTO BY JESSE NATWICK

Tai Chi and Yoga at the Hopper 4732 Millhopper Rd, Gainesville 32653 | devilsmillhopper.com The Florida Park Service is pushing an initiative for 2019 called Park Fit, which is a program designed to encourage people to step outside the gym and into the woods — no, not the musical, the wooded area with all that green stuff. To tie in with the initiative, Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park began drawing attention to the tai chi and yoga classes they offer to visitors. Both of these courses give participants an alternative to the crowds and equipment usually found at a gym, and instead they provide the ability to exercise to the peaceful sound of trees rustling in the wind while breathing in fresh air. According to Floridastateparks.org, all-levels yoga is offered the first MARCH/APRIL 2019

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Saturday of the month from 10 to 11 a.m. The program runs from December through May and participants are encouraged to bring their own mat, water and a towel. From January through May, tai chi, which is a no-contact Chinese martial art, is offered every second Saturday of the month. Admission into the park is $4 and classes are free of charge with the price of admission.

Butterfly Release at FLMNH 3215 Hull Road, SW 34th Street and Hull Road, Gainesville 32611 floridamuseum.ufl.edu Stepping inside the Florida Museum of Natural History’s Butterfly Rainforest exhibit offers visitors a memorable experience. Lush foliage, streaming waterfalls and a pond filled with fish are all background characters to the stars of the exhibit: the butterflies. These fluttering insects are cloaked in rich blues, bright pinks and sunny yellows or disguised with muted browns and eye-like patterns, making each one a sight to behold. Though the butterflies can be seen perched on leaves or occasionally soaring through the air, the best time to visit the exhibit is during a butterfly release when multiple butterflies leave their previous enclosure and create a rainbow through the 6,400-square-foot screened-in exhibit. According to floridamuseum.ufl.edu, “the Butterfly Rainforest typically contains more than 50 butterfly and moth species at any given time” and “the continuous population is more than 1,000 butterflies.” So no matter what time you visit, you are guaranteed to witness an array of colorful critters. The butterfly spotlight, which occurs during colder weather when the butterflies aren’t as active, or the release, which occurs during warmer weather, is offered Monday through Friday at 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. and 3 p.m., weather permitting. Admission into the Butterfly Rainforest is $14 for adults; $12 for Florida residents, seniors and Florida college students; $7 for children ages three to 17; and free for museum members and UF students with a valid Gator 1 ID card. OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

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From backpacking trips to the Everglades, guided hikes at Morningside Nature Center, kayaking adventures at local springs and snorkeling at Devil’s Den, CORE offers plenty of ways to experience Florida’s natural beauty. Full Moon Paddle and Sunrise Yoga at Lake Wauburg North Park: 133 Regatta Dr., Micanopy 32667 | recsports.ufl.edu The University of Florida’s RecSports CORE program (Center for Outdoor Recreation and Education) is designed to give students the opportunity to explore the great outdoors in multiple ways. From backpacking trips to the Everglades, guided hikes at Morningside Nature Center, kayaking adventures at local springs and snorkeling at Devil’s Den, CORE offers plenty of ways to experience Florida’s natural beauty. PHOTOGRAPHY: HAYLI ZUCCOLA, MAKENZIE SIMONSON

Two of CORE’s recurring activities are the full moon paddle and sunrise yoga at Lake Wauburg. The full moon paddle, which costs $16 for students, brings participants out into the night sky to kayak and stargaze. Sunrise yoga, which is $12, encourages participants to wake up before the roosters and follow a guided yoga class as the sun rises above the glistening lake. The schedule and availability for these courses and others are always changing, so to keep up with the latest programs offered, check the RecSports schedule at: rsconnect.recsports.uﬂ.edu. MARCH/APRIL 2019

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NATURE >> LOCAL OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Guided Walk and Tour of Kanapaha Botanical Gardens 4700 SW 58th Dr, Gainesville 32608 | kanapaha.org Past the bustling traffic on Southwest Archer Road, resides a tranquil garden filled with skyscraping bamboo, water lilies and butterflies among other serenities. The Kanapaha Botanical Gardens contain Florida’s “largest public display of bamboos and the largest herb garden in the Southeast,” according to their website. Both of these displays are only part of the garden’s flora collection. Kanapaha also features exhibits like the hummingbird garden, rock garden, ginger garden and fern cobble. For those who enjoy an in-depth description of what exactly they’re looking at 92 |

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while wandering around the garden’s paths, Kanapaha offers a guided tour the first Saturday of each month starting at 10 a.m. If you’ve already experienced the garden’s breathtaking displays during the daylight, consider participating in their moonlight walks “when the paths and meadows are illuminated by special laser lights and more than 1500 luminaries,” their website notes. Of course, the moonlight walk is just one of several events offered at Kanapaha. Other yearly events include the camellia show, spring festival, bamboo sale and orchid show. Admission into the gardens, not including special events, is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages five to 13 and free for children under five. PHOTOGRAPHY: RYAN CAFFREY

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NATURE >> LOCAL OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Sweetwater Wetlands Park 325 SW Williston Rd., Gainesville 32608 | sweetwaterwetlands.org From alligators, bison and turtles to cracker horses, butterﬂies and deer, Sweetwater Wetlands Park is the go-to outdoor venue for wildlife viewing. The park consists of more than 125 acres of wetlands and ponds as well as gravel trails and boardwalks — designed to make viewing creatures that may be lurking beneath the water or hidden throughout the park’s greenery a bit easier. According to their website, sweetwaterwetlands.org, 94 |

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the park was initially created to “improve the water quality of wetlands in Paynes Prairie and the Floridan Aquifer,” but it’s deﬁnitely grown to become a must-see attraction of its own. From September through May, Sweetwater Wetlands Park, which provides an environment to more than 215 species of birds, becomes a birdwatcher’s paradise by hosting Birding Walks at the Wetlands every Wednesday starting at 8:30 a.m. Admission into the park is $5 per car or $2 per person for bicyclists, pedestrians and buses. PHOTOGRAPHY: DANNY ROHAN

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Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park

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7450 NE 60th St, High Springs 32643 | floridastateparks.org As the summer sun radiates over the state, there’s nothing better than diving into a cool, refreshing spring. Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park, which became Florida’s 175th state park in October 2017, is made up of a collection of natural springs such as Little Blue Spring, Naked Spring, Kiefer Spring and Johnson Spring. However, the biggest spring is Gilchrist Blue – a “second magnitude spring that produces an average of 44 million gallons of water per day,” according to floridastateparks.org. The pristine blue springs, which are located in High Springs, are a playground for aquatic-lovers and are the perfect location for snorkeling, paddling, ﬁsh-watching or swimming. If dipping your toes in the 72-degree water isn’t inviting enough, the park also offers hiking, wildlife viewing and nature trails. Admission into the park, which is open year-round from 8 a.m. to sundown, is $4-6 per vehicle.

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Hiking, Biking and Ranger Chats on La Chua Trail 4801 Camp Ranch Rd., Gainesville 32641 | prairiefriends.org Marsh marigolds, bald eagles, alligators and bison are just a fraction of the natural elements that make up Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park. Paynes Prairie, which became Florida’s first state preserve in 1971, according to floridastateparks.org, provides a home to more than 300 species of birds, more than 800 kinds of plants, as well as horses and fish. Visitors can explore Paynes Prairie through eight different trails either by hiking, biking or even horseback riding. For visitors looking to delve deeper into the natural details within the trails, every Saturday throughout March at 9 a.m., Paynes Prairie offers a ranger chat on La Chua Trail. This fun activity offers “water, wildlife, and wide open views,” according to the park’s website. Attendees are asked to meet on the boardwalk, in the first covered area by Alachua Sink on the La Chua Trail. Admission into Paynes Prairie, which is open every day of the year from 8 a.m. until sundown, is $6 per vehicle.

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BOOK REVIEW

TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER’S

Reading Corner THE LOST GIRLS OF PARIS written by Pam Jenoff C.2019, PARK ROW BOOKS, $16.99 / $21.99 CANADA, 377 PAGES

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

THE FRAME WAS BEAUTIFUL. THE PICTURE INSIDE IT WAS OF A STRANGER.

ho would give away that lovely piece of workmanship with a loved one’s portrait displayed? Who didn’t cherish it enough to keep it? And in the new novel, “The Lost Girls of Paris” by Pam Jenoff, who was the woman in the picture? Grace was running late. That was unusual, and so was the reason: she’d spent the night in a hotel room with her late husband’s best friend. Head down, embarrassed at such uncharacteristic behavior, she was surprised to spot a suitcase that had obviously been abandoned beneath a bench in Grand Central Station. She’d opened the suitcase and, in yet another unordinary action, took a handful of pictures that were inside. It was a morning ﬁlled with uniqueness: Grace then barely missed witnessing an accident in which a woman was killed – the same woman, as it happened, to whom the suitcase belonged. Eleanor was very protective of her girls. She’d hand-picked each one of them, some for their fluent French and others for their dexterity. When they signed on with the British Special Operations Executive (SOE), it was she who made sure they were physically ﬁt and highly-trained for the jobs they’d do to help with the resistance in Germanoccupied France. She was the one responsible for bringing them home at the end of World War II. In the meantime, Eleanor’s girls would do dangerous work. 98 |

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They’d be as prepared as possible for their tasks. She’d personally see to that. Marie wasn’t entirely sure why she stayed with the SOE. Eleanor had given her ample opportunity to quit. She knew how much Marie missed her daughter, how much she hated training, and how unconfident Marie was in herself. And yet, despite Eleanor’s offers and the danger involved, Marie couldn’t bring herself to quit. When her deployment within the SOE placed her in a flat above a tavern that was known to entertain Germans, her determination doubled. It increased again when her very survival was in question… If you’re looking for something to carry around with you every day this week, check this out: “The Lost Girls of Paris” is a novel as thrilling as every espionage story you’ve ever read, as soft as every war-romance you’ve ever heard, and as brutal as every war movie you’ve ever seen. Yep, that good. Set at the end of (and just after) World War II, this novel captures readers’ imaginations from the outset, with the death of one of its main characters. The intrigue never lets up from there, as author Pam Jenoff takes a heroic true story from the War and novelizes it without prettifying it. Indeed, people die in this book – a lot. Further small details make this story, and they’ll sometimes make you forget it’s fiction. For Jenoff fans, loving this book is a certainty. Anyone who enjoys spy stories will want to uncover it. Readers of all stripes, really, will find “The Lost Girls of Paris” to be picture-perfect.

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SUNSTATE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION’S

Community Connection SunState Federal Credit Union has been serving our community for over 60 years. Since the beginning, we’ve always found ways to support some of the area’s most amazing charitable and non-profit organizations. Check out our Facebook page for more information and get involved.

SunState, Dawn Realty donate to Alachua County Library District special programs

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unState Federal Credit Union and Dawn Realty know that bringing authors and musicians to Gainesville is a great idea. That’s why both have donated $1,000 each to help bring special programming to the Alachua County Library District for the community. The donations will specifically fund the second concert of the Library’s Music Series on March 24 and support a special author event to be scheduled for late summer. These events help further the Library District’s mission of building a better community by creating opportunities to participate, connect and discover. An extension of SunState’s support of these events is the individual commitment by Dawn Realty’s David Nicholson, who serves as a volunteer on the Credit Union’s board of directors. “Partnering with the library in providing special programs is a natural extension of who we are – your local credit union,” said Robert Hart, SunState’s Vice President of Marketing.

NOMINATE YOUR FAVORITE CHARITY AS THE CHARITY OF THE MONTH AND GIVE THEM A CHANCE TO WIN $1000 FROM SUNSTATE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION! Visit the SSFCU Facebook page for more information.

“We know an appreciation of good literary and music talent can enrich a person’s life and play a role in opening the windows of creativity and imagination. Our commitment to programs like this, both as an institution, and on the part of our individual board members, is just another reason people move their banking business to SunState. We are deeply invested in giving back to the local community.” SunState Federal Credit Union and its charitable foundation have always been dedicated to making donations to worthwhile causes in North Central Florida. Together, we are making a lasting difference in advancing the work of non-profits and enhancing opportunities for the community.

Proudly serving our community and our members since 1957.

For more information, go to www.sunstatefcu.org. To find out more about SunState’s Charity of the Month program, go to facebook.com/SunStateFCU, and click on the Charity of the Month tab.

UPCOMING AUTHOR SERIES EVENTS AT THE ALACHUA COUNTY LIBRARY INCLUDE: • FEBRUARY 24: Lisa Wingate, author of Before We Were Yours, a New York Times Bestseller. • MARCH 30: Wiley Cash, author of The Last Ballad, named Best Book of 2017. • APRIL 13: Elizabeth Berg, author of Durable Goods, the American Library Association’s Best Book of the Year award. • MAY 11: Fourth Annual Florida Writers Association I Love Books event, which brings more than 30 authors together for panel discussions, book signings and more. • JUNE 15: Melanie Benjamin, author of The Swans of Fifth Avenue and The Aviator’s Wife, both New York Times and USA Today bestselling historical novels.

352-381-5200 www.sunstatefcu.org

GREAT RATES HASSLE-FREE FINANCING Choose SunState Federal Credit Union for your auto loan!| 101 MARCH/APRIL 2019 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE 101

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We feel the best way to find and recognize local charities in our communities is by asking you! The SunState Community Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) nonproﬁt organization that serves the communities in and around North Central Florida by promoting and facilitating philanthropy. The Foundation was established to promote and provide charitable assistance that contributes towards the development, education and well-being of the communities, areas and residents of Alachua, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, and Levy Counties in Florida. The foundation’s initial goal is to administer and fully fund the award winning Facebook Charity-of-the-Month program. SunState Federal Credit Union started the program in 2013, but has turned over administration of the program to the foundation, with SunState Federal Credit Union acting only as a sponsor. This has been done in the belief that this path will ensure the program remains a strong and expanding community resource long into the future. The SunState Community Foundation, Inc., provides donors/members opportunities to participate in the furtherance of the foundation’s goals in multiple ways. First, and foremost, the donors/members are providing funds to support the foundation’s charitable initiatives. Donors/members can also nominate groups for the Charity of the Month program, and then vote for the group of their choice. Donors/members are encouraged to participate and vote in the Charity of the Month program. Ultimately, the voters choose where foundation donations go as part of the infrastructure of the program.

SunState Community Foundation, Inc.

SPONSORSHIP L EVEL S AVAIL ABL E $

1,000 CHARITY OF THE MONTH SPONSOR

•

Recognized on all 4 Entercom Communication stations, 30 times (120 total); KTK, SKY, WRUF and ESPN.

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Recognized on the Charity of the Month Facebook Contest page, KTK’s Facebook page and Our Town’s Facebook page.

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Mentioned in the Charity of the Month page in Our Town Magazine.

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500 RANDOM CHARITY SPONSOR Recognized on 2 of Entercom Communications stations, 30 times (60 total); WRUF and ESPN Recognized on the Charity of the Month Facebook Contest page, KTK’s Facebook page and Our Town’s Facebook page. Mentioned in the Charity of the Month page in Our Town Magazine.

300 NOMINATOR SPONSOR

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Recognized on the Charity of the Month Facebook Contest page, KTK’s Facebook page and Our Town’s Facebook page.

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Mentioned in the Charity of the Month page in Our Town Magazine.

100 RANDOM VOTER SPONSOR

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Recognized on the Charity of the Month Facebook Contest page.

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Mentioned in the Charity of the Month page in Our Town Magazine

MOST RECENT WINNING ORGANIZATIONS TO NOMINATE A CHARITY OF YOUR CHOICE OR TO VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE NOMINEES, VISIT:

www.facebook.com/SunStateFCU and click on “Charity of the Month”

DECEMBER 2018 WINNER

JANUARY 2019 WINNER

Kids Count in Alachua County

Newberry Elem. Safety Patrols

The December winner of $1,000 is Kids Count in Alachua County, a nonproﬁt after-school program that provides literacy tutoring, homework help, character development and enrichment. The individualized curriculum, designed for each student, focuses on ensuring that the child is growing in mind, body and spirit. Keri Neel will receive $300 for nominating this organization. The random charity of the month is the Pediatric NeuroOncology Family Support Fund, and this program will receive a $500 prize. Lastly, Mark Mayﬁeld will win $100 for being selected as the random voter.

The winner of the January Charity of the Month is Newberry Elementary Safety Patrols and they will receive $1,000 toward their program. Amy Kinsey will win $300 for nominating them. The Newberry Elementary Safety Patrol is comprised of fifth grade students that have shown excellent safety skills. They assist students in the halls by modeling good behaviors and helping anyone with questions. The random charity is Chi Omega for Make A Wish and they will receive $500. Sara Eisman is the random voter and she will win $100.

COMMUNITY PARTNERS >> CHARITY OF THE MONTH

CH A RIT Y OF THE MONTH WINNER S

A project of the SunState Community Foundation, Inc. Presented by SunState Federal Credit Union, Our Town Family of Magazines and Entercom Communications

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SPECIAL RESTAURANT ADVERTISING SECTION. CALL

352-372-5468

FOR RATES AND INFORMATION.

Big Island Bowls 5402 NW 8th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32605 (Located in Greenery Square next to CYM coffee) Open 7 Days from 8:00am – 8:00pm

352-397-1358 bigislandbowls.com Hawaiian Barbecue — Inspired by the owner’s life in Hawaii and travels around the world, Big Island Bowls is a special space where all those tastes and experiences are shared with the Gainesville community. Big Island Bowls was born from their passion to make eating healthy: fast, easy and delicious! Using the ﬁnest ingredients and fresh local produce, there is so much exciting variety within the menu, including over 20 (NEW) dishes to dazzle your tastebuds — everything from Fresh Poke Bowls, Sushi Burritos, Acai Bowls, Organic Smoothies, Vegan Bowls, Hawaiian BBQ, Buddha Bowls and Sandwich Wraps. Serving the local community by creating food that nourishes both body and soul sustains a belief that Health & Happiness go hand in hand.

Copper Monkey West 14209 W Newberry Road, Jonesville, FL 32669 Across from the Steeplechase Publix Sunday-Thursday 11:00am - 11:00pm Friday-Saturday 11:00am - 12:00am

352-363-6338 mycoppermonkey.com Restaurant & Pub — Now serving Breakfast on Saturdays & Sundays 8:30am - 10:45am. 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.

Great Southern Biscuit Co. 23352 US Hwy 27, #50 • High Springs, Florida Monday-Thursday 7:00am – 9:00pm, Friday 7:00am – 10:00pm Saturday 8:00am – 10:00pm, Sunday 8:00am – 3:00pm

386-454-7153 Gourmet Southern Comfort — After a successful ﬁve years in our Mayo location, we decided to spread the love to High Springs. We are a from-scratch kitchen with popular menu items including: Shrimp and Grits (fresh from the Gulf ), Biscuit French Toast, Fried Green Tomato BLT, and Fish and Chips (fresh mahi mahi). We are open seven days a week and serve breakfast all day with free mimosas on Sundays. Here at GSBC we are committed to the highest standards of quality, but mostly, we are dedicated to you.

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Crafty Bastards 4860 NW 39th Ave. ( Magnolia Parke, between Starbucks and TiresPlus) Open at 11am every day

352-872-5970 www.thecraftybastards.com Restaurant - Pub — Crafty Bastards Restaurant is located in NW Magnolia Parke. Open daily at 11am. We offer great lunch specials M-F 11am-4pm, including 1/2lb Angus grilled burgers and juicy chicken handhelds, fresh fries, salads, soups and more. Check out our Happy Hour M-F 11am-7pm. Looking for fun in the evenings? Check out Trivia Tuesdays, Karaoke Wednesdays and Live Entertainment on Thursday, Friday and Saturday! Crafty Bastards is also a great place to enjoy your sports on large screen TV’s. Private Party Room for ofﬁce or birthday parties available. Come see why Crafty Bastards is NW Gainesville’s Best Kept Secret! Try our new weekend brunch & bloody mary bar from 11am - 3pm on Sat & Sun. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter!

Bangkok Square Two Gainesville Locations: 6500 SW Archer Road & 8181 NW 38th Lane Lunch: Monday-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 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.

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 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.

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SPECIAL RESTAURANT ADVERTISING SECTION. CALL

352-372-5468

FOR RATES AND INFORMATION.

Flying Biscuit Café 4150 NW 16th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32605 Located in the Fresh Market Center Monday-Friday 7:00am – 3:00pm • Saturday-Sunday 7:00am – 4:00pm

352-373-9500 www.flyingbiscuit.com Breakfast — The Flying Biscuit is out to reinvent breakfast in Gainesville! Maybe you’ve tried their soon-to-be-famous creamy, dreamy grits or their “moon dusted” breakfast potatoes, but did you know you can have them at anytime? With a unique open menu, all the items that appear are available throughout the day. With a variety of healthy and hearty dishes, The Flying Biscuit caters to a variety of tastes. With options ranging from the Smoked Salmon Scramble, the Bacon Cheddar Chicken Sandwich or the Tofu and Tater Salad, there’s something for everyone. Call us up to an hour before your expected arrival time to add your name to our call ahead seating list.

Gator’s Dockside 3842 W Newberry Rd #1A, Gainesville, FL 32607 Mon - Sun 11am - Midnight

352-338-4445 gatorsdockside.com Family-friendly — Gator’s Dockside is a sports-themed restaurant that offers a fun atmosphere for the entire family! We’re known for our big screen TVs, great food, and friendly service. Our signature wings are ﬂavored with our tasty wing sauces that have made us famous, especially our award-winning Scooter sauce. We use only the freshest, highest quality ingredients in all our menu selections, including burgers, hearty sandwiches, made-from-scratch ribs, entree salads, and desserts. We also have some of the best meal deals in town, like all-you-can-eat wings on Mondays from 5:00-11:00pm and 2-for-1 on select house wine and liquors all day, everyday. We can’t wait to see you at Gator’s!

Dave’s New York Deli Two Locations - Open 7 Days Tioga Town Center 12921 SW 1st Road, Newberry, FL Haile Plantation Area – 5750 SW 75th Court, Gainesville, FL

352-333-0291 Tioga 352-363-6061 Pk Ln DavesNYDeli.com North East Flavors — Dave’s NY Deli has been delivering the ﬂavors of New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia to the Gainesville area since 2009. Owner Dave Anders says “We are very excited about the addition of our new location in Park Lane Plaza near Haile Plantation. Now it’s even easier for you to enjoy our authentic Philly Cheesesteaks, NY Style Pastrami and Corned Beef, Nathan’s Hot Dogs, NY Kettle Boiled Bagels, Nova Salmon, Paninis, Wraps, Cubans, Hot & Cold Subs, Kids Menu and much more.” Come see us soon for Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner at either of our two locations. Open 7 Days a week.

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Mi Apá Latin Café Gainesville – 114 SW 34th Street (352-376-7020) Alachua – 15634 US Highway 441 (386-418-0838) Both locations open every day 7:00am - 10:00pm

MiApaLatinCafe.com 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. Mi Apá was also selected Business of the Year in Alachua, yet another accolade. Featuring authentic ingredients and classic recipes, such as Pollo Asado, Vaca Frita, Medianoche sandwiches, and the local favorite, Cafe con Leche, we bring the tastes of Cuba to Gainesville and Alachua. Whether you’re dining in on 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! And don’t forget kids eat free every Wednesday from 4:00-9:00pm!

Adam’s Rib Co. 2109 NW 13th Street, Gainesville, Florida 32609 1515 SW 13th Street Gainesville, Florida 32608 Monday-Saturday 7:00am – 9:00pm Closed Sunday

352-373-8882 NW 352-727-4005 SW AdamsRibCo.com BBQ — Celebrating our 10 year Anniversary. Looking for the best BBQ in Gainesville? Then look no further than Adam’s Rib Co. Adam’s is North Florida’s Premier Barbecue restaurant, serving North Florida’s ﬁnest bbq spare ribs, pulled pork, beef brisket, slow smoked chicken and turkey. Choose from over 20 sauces – from honey sweet to habanero hot – and everything in between. Don’t forget dessert, like our scrumptious banana pudding and famous peach cobbler. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, Adam’s can cater any event locally. Give Adam a call for your next tailgate party 352-514-8692!

El Toro 15202 NW 147 Drive, Suite 1100, Alachua (Rolling Oaks Plaza) Monday – Thursday 11:00am – 9:00pm Friday & Sat 11:00am – 10:00pm Sunday Noon – 8:00pm

386-418-1039 www.eltorogainesville.com 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!

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SPECIAL RESTAURANT ADVERTISING SECTION. CALL

352-372-5468

FOR RATES AND INFORMATION.

World of Beer 140 SW 128th Street Tioga Town Center, Jonesville 32669 Open at 11am Everyday

352-727-4714 worldofbeer.com TAVERN FARE — At World of Beer, we have 40 craft beers on tap, over 500 in the cooler and now we have added a tasty tavern fare that’s crafted to go perfectly with any beer. Our menu offers a wide variety of choices including a giant pretzel with beer cheese dip, artisan sausage boards, ﬂat breads, innovative sandwiches and burgers, soups, salads and so much more! Visit our web site for a full menu and event schedule. Whether you’re a beer master or just beer curious, our insanely knowledgeable staff is here to guide you through every last pint, pour, and pairing. So c’mon. Let’s go. Because there’s no better place to go around the world, one sip at a time.

The Social at Midtown 1728 W. University Avenue, Gainesville, FL Monday-Sunday 11:00am – 2:00am

352-373-7383 www.thesocialgnv.com Upscale restaurant and rooftop bar — Hidden among the college bars of the midtown area, The Social at Midtown provides an unique, upscale, and affordable dining and late-night experience for the diverse and ever evolving population of Gainesville. Whether you are in search of high end spirits and craft cocktails or one of the 37 beers on tap the Social at Midtown will undoubtedly bring you back for the next big game with its fantastic menu and over 60 Large LED TVs. Check out our web page to see our weekly specials and plan your next Happy Hour with $4 Local Craft Pints!

Piesanos Stone Fired Pizza (Archer Road) 5757 SW 75th St. — 352-371-8646 • (Millhopper Road) 5200 NW 43rd St. — 352-371-7437 (University) 1250 W University Ave. — 352-375-2337 • (Grand Oaks Plaza) 2575 SW 42nd St. Ocala — 352-351-6000

Mon-Thurs: 11am-10pm Fri-Sat: 11am-11pm Sun: 11am-10pm

www.piesanostogo.com Pizza, Pints & Pies — 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. We also offer a gluten free menu. For full menu please visit PIESANOSTOGO.COM.

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COMMU NIT Y C A LENDA R

M A RC H/A P R I L 2019

Gatornationals

March 14 - 17

RUN AMUCK WITH THE DUCK! Saturday, March 2 at 8am 6500 W. Newberry Rd.

GAINESVILLE - Share a powerful fun day with family, friends and others who are walking to cure lung cancer. Help raise awareness and critical funds for patient services and clinical research projects. The day is filled with activities for everyone, music, entertainment, an annual kids’ dash, awards and so much more. bit.ly/2019amuck

CHAMPAGNE GALA Saturday, March 2 from 6:30 - 10:30pm Reitz Union Grand Ballroom

GAINESVILLE - Dance Alive National Ballet presents a birthday bash to end all birthday bashes! The outrageously successful ‘Gainesville Dancing with the Stars,’ dancing to music by Gosia and Ali, dinner by Classic Fare, silent auction, hosted by TV 20’s Dave Snyder. Sponsored by Parris Dance. Tickets available at www.dancealive.org; dalive@bellsouth.net; 352-371-2986.

RICHARD SHINDELL Thursday, March 7 at 8pm Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St.

GAINESVILLE - One-third of the immensely popular “super-group” (Richard Shindell, Lucy Kaplansky, and Dar Williams) who produced the “Cry, Cry, Cry” album and tour, Shindell is among the world’s best singer-songwriters. heartwoodsoundstage.com 110 |

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FASHION SHOW AND GARDEN PARTY Thursday March 7 from 10:30am - 1pm 1350 NW 75th St.

GAINESVILLE - Presented by the Gainesville Garden Club. Enter and enjoy a hat competition plus fashions provided by Dillards. For more information contact Mary at GGCFashionShow@ yahoo.com or visit fb.com/gvillegardenclub.

EDIE CAREY Friday, March 8 at 8pm Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St.

GAINESVILLE - Known for her unmistakable, soulful voice, her intelligent, heart-grabbing songs, but perhaps most especially for her warm, engaging presence on – and off – stage. As much a part of her show as the music itself, Carey’s wry and often self-mocking humor makes audiences feel as though they have just spent an evening with a very close friend. heartwoodsoundstage.com

ALACHUA COUNTY YOUTH FAIR & LIVESTOCK SHOW March 8 - 12 Alachua Fairgrounds, 3100 NE 39th Ave.

GAINESVILLE - The fair is an educational platform for the youth in Alachua County who are interested in agriculture. Youth will exhibit both livestock and non-livestock 4-H & FFA projects. Alachua County 4-H and FFA youth ranging in age from 8 to 18 can participate. The event is FREE. visitgainesville.com

SPRING PROMENADE 2019 Saturday, March 9 from 10am - 4pm The Thomas Center, 306 NE 6th Ave

GAINESVILLE - “Historic Gainesville Where the Past meets the Present” is the theme for this year’s Spring Promenade on Saturday, March 9, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. The tour will feature five private homes, all lovely vintage homes that have been cleverly adapted to modern lifestyles, plus the W.R. Thomas home, Sunkist Villa that we now know as The Thomas Center. visitgainesville.com

SPRING CONCERT FOLLOWED BY THE WIZ Saturday, March 9 at 1:30pm & 7pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - The Danscompany of Gainesville is excited to dance into your hearts at the Spring Concert and The Wiz. The Spring Concert consists of original dance numbers in jazz, hiphop, tap and lyrical. The Wiz is an adaption of the Wizard of Oz made famous with the 1978 movie featuring Diana Ross as Dorothy. performingarts.ufl.edu

THE CURRYS (ALBUM RELEASE) Saturday, March 9 at 8pm Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St.

GAINESVILLE - Brought together by family ties and a shared appreciation for folk, rock, and roots music, The Currys are an Americana trio featuring brothers Jimmy and Tommy and PHOTOGRAPHY: RICHARD SHUTE, MATTHEW MURPHY

cousin Galen Curry. “West of Here” pays tribute to their history while simultaneously pushing the band forward, with one foot in the folksy sound of The Currys’ early writing and the other pointing toward something new. Like its title suggests, “West of Here” is the sound of a band on the move. heartwoodsoundstage.com

BULLA CUBANA March 9 - 31 Multiple Venues

GAINESVILLE - Bulla Cubana (pronounced “boo-YA coo-BAH-na”), an award-winning events festival focused on Cuban arts and culture – bringing together artists, institutions and celebrations. Bulla Cubana 2019 will feature a dynamic line-up of cultural events hosted by Gainesville’s premier arts and cultural institutions including the Cade Museum, the Harn Museum, the Hippodrome Theater, Oak Hall School and the Historic Thomas Center. A complete schedule of events details and dates can be found at www.bullacubana.org

ASK A SCIENTIST: BULLA CUBANA Sunday, March 10 from 1 - 4pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - Science is all around you! As part of the exciting community celebration, Bulla Cubana, take advantage of this opportunity to talk with Museum researchers about their fieldwork in Cuba. Bring your specimens and find answers during an afternoon of discovery and learning. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

THE CHIEFTAINS Sunday, March 10 at 2pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - It doesn’t get more authentically Irish than The Chieftains. Using traditional Irish instrumentation and structure, The Chieftains take you on a journey through rousing jigs, mournful ballads, and everything in between. performingarts.ufl.edu

The Sound of Music Friday, March 15 at 7:30pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd. GAINESVILLE - THE HILLS ARE ALIVE! A brand new production of THE SOUND OF MUSIC is coming to the Phillips Center. The beloved musical story of Maria and the von Trapp Family will once again thrill audiences with its Tony®, Grammy®, and Academy Award®-winning Best Score, including My Favorite Things, Edelweiss, and the title song. performingarts.ufl.edu

LULO REINHARDT AND DANIEL STELTER

HANNAH HARBER AND THE LIONHEARTS

Wednesday, March 13 at 7pm & 9pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

Friday, March 15 at 8pm Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St.

GAINESVILLE - Lulo Reinhardt, grandnephew of the legendary Django Reinhardt, blew the audience away in 2016 when he performed with International Guitar Night at University Auditorium. This season he returns to play UpStage with another famed European guitarist, Daniel Stelter. With searing leads and smooth rhythms, Reinhardt and Stelter infuse a freshness into classics and blend a wide variety of styles and influences extending from Argentina to Cuba and back to their German and “gypsy jazz” roots. performingarts.ufl.edu

GAINESVILLE - With accolades from American Songwriter Magazine and Nashville Songwriters Association International, Hannah Harber has her heart set on both writing honest songs, and sharing them from the stage with reckless vulnerability. heartwoodsoundstage.com

GATORNATIONALS POUR BEFORE THE TOUR Sunday, March 10 from 4 - 7pm Cypress & Grove Brewing, 1001 NW 4th St

GAINESVILLE - A fun Tour of Kitchens kick-off event! Be festive in your St. Patty’s Day attire! Children’s entertainment provided by GHF Kids: fitness class, arts, crafts, and FUN! This fundraiser aims to get the community excited about Tour of Kitchens while providing an additional opportunity to share our mission of reducing hunger in the community and raising funds needed to do so. gainesvillejrleague.org

March 14 -17 Gainesville Raceway, 11211 N CR 225

GAINESVILLE - The Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals is one of NHRA’s longest standing annual events. While the engines are faster and the tracks are safer these days, the true spirit of drag racing remains at Gainesville Raceway. Experience once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to interact with the most renowned names in drag racing through meet-and-greets, autograph sessions and a variety of other activities. nhra.com/schedule

BUCKETHEAD Friday, March 15 at 8pm High Dive, 210 SW 2nd Ave.

GAINESVILLE - Buckethead is a virtuoso guitarist and multi-instrumentalist who performs within many genres of music. His music spans such diverse areas as progressive metal, funk, blues, jazz, bluegrass, and avant-garde music. Early entry in the beer garden at 8pm. Doors inside show room at 9pm. highdivegainesville.com

TOUR OF KITCHENS Saturday, March 16 Various locations

GAINESVILLE - The Tour of Kitchens is The Junior League of Gainesville’s largest fundraising event. It is a self-guided tour of beautiful kitchens and outdoor spaces of lovely homes

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STRFKR Sunday, March 17 at 8pm High Dive, 210 SW 2nd Ave.

GAINESVILLE - Since the release of their 2008 debut album, STRFKR have relentlessly toured across the globe, delivering to their fans a guaranteed non-stop dance party. highdivegainesville.com

ANOUSHKA SHANKAR Monday, March 18 at 7:30pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

Spring Garden Festival March 23-24 from 9am - 5pm Kanapaha Botanical Gardens GAINESVILLE - This is Gainesville’s premier horticultural event. Featuring 150 booths offering plants, landscape displays, garden accessories, arts and crafts, educational exhibits and, of course, food. Also featured is a children’s activities area, live entertainment and live auctions. Parking is free and off-site parking areas (Celebration Pointe & Bass Pro) are serviced by shuttle buses. Please no pets at this event. kanapaha.org

throughout the area. It includes gourmet samplings from the area’s best restaurants and caterers. gainesvillejrleague.org

INDIA FEST 2019 Saturday, March 16 from 9am - 6pm Bo Diddley Plaza, 111 E. University Ave.

GAINESVILLE - India Fest celebrates the rich heritage, traditions, diversity and culture of India. Enjoy food, fashion and culture along with a health fair until noon. Raffle drawings, henna, yoga and more. Free and open to all. indiafestgainesville@gmail.com

CAN YOU DIG IT? Saturday, March 16 from 10am - 3pm Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - Dig into geology and discover the Earth at your feet! Enjoy hands-on activities and watch demonstrations of volcanic eruptions. Explore the Museum and check out displays and activities on geology, fossils, gems, minerals and much more from Florida and around the world! A free, fun event for all ages! floridamuseum.ufl.edu

GROW HUB SPRING FAIR PLANT & SEED SALE Saturday, March 16 from 11am - 3pm Grow Hub, 2900 NE 8th Ave.

GAINESVILLE - A free, family-friendly event at Grow Hub’s beautiful landscape nursery and gardens! Tour the nursery and gardens to see

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GAINESVILLE - Sitar player and composer Anoushka Shankar is a singular figure in the Indian classical and progressive world music scenes, garnering prestigious accolades. Deeply rooted in the Indian classical music tradition, Anoushka studied from the age of nine exclusively under her late father, Ravi Shankar, making her professional debut at the age of 13. performingarts.ufl.edu

RICHARD KOGAN Tuesday, March 19 at 7:30pm Wednesday, March 20 at 7:30pm Squitieri Studio Theatre, 3201 Hull Rd

STORIES: FROM COLORED TO BLACK

GAINESVILLE - Richard Kogan performs lecture-recitals in which he explores the influence of psychological forces as well as medical and mental illness on the creative output of the great composers while expertly playing their works. Each evening will be dedicated to the work of a different composer. The March 19th program is The Mind and Music of George Gershwin. The March 20th program is Beethoven’s Deafness: Psychological Crisis and Artistic Triumph. performingarts.ufl.edu

Saturday, March 16th at 7:30pm Sunday, March 17th at 2pm Squitieri Studio Theatre, 3201 Hull Rd

SWEET LIZZY PROJECT FOR BULLA CUBANA!

what hard working adults with different abilities can do! Meet some of the crew, enjoy live music and food, purchase plants and merchandise to help support Grow Hub’s efforts to provide meaningful opportunities for all! 352-260-4458 melissa@workingfood.org

GAINESVILLE - From Colored to Black encompasses over eighty years of Florida’s Black Oral History with stories from the St. Augustine Civil Rights Movement, the resettlement of Rosewood, Gainesville’s Old Lincoln High School, and more. This unique theatrical experience provides the foundation for critical dialogue around Black History and identity. Free to the public. performingarts.ufl.edu

IDYLWILD AND TWO FOOT LEVEL Saturday, March 16 at 8pm Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St.

GAINESVILLE - Gainesville’s own Idylwild plays original songs that blend blues, rock, soul, and funk into catchy tunes audiences love. Tallahassee based Two Foot Level’s songs range from Americana, Bluegrass, Folk, Indie, Reggae, and Rock. heartwoodsoundstage.com

Wednesday, March 20 at 8pm Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St.

GAINESVILLE - Sweet Lizzy Project, one of the most culturally significant bands to emerge from Cuba in recent years, has a distinctive sound imbued with overtones of classic American indie pop-rock suffused with an intoxicating Latino flair. heartwoodsoundstage.com

FIELDWORK FAILS: A LIVE STORYTELLING EVENT Thursday, March 21 from 6 - 9pm Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - In partnership with Guts & Glory GNV comes an evening of live, original, true, first-person storytelling. Hear from fieldwork scientists about some of the fun stories and situations they have experienced in nature. Participants must be 18 years or older. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

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Gainesville Modern: Home Tour Saturday, March 23 from 11am - 4pm GAINESVILLE - Join the 6th Annual Gainesville Modern Weekend 2019 Home Tour. Visit 5+ mid-century modern homes throughout Gainesville. Locations and map to be announced the week before the tour. Photos will be released as available. gainesvillemodern.org

ROOSEVELT COLLIER Thursday, March 21 at 8pm Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St.

GAINESVILLE - Brought up in the “sacred steel” tradition of the House of God Church, Roosevelt built his reputation alongside his uncles and cousins. Seated front and center, “The Dr.” leaves an indelible mark on listeners, flooring audiences with his lightning-fast slide work on the pedal steel. heartwoodsoundstage.com

2019 GATOR FLY IN AND ARMED SERVICES APPRECIATION DAY Saturday, March 23 8am - 2pm Gainesville Regional Airport

GAINESVILLE - Military and Civilian aircraft on display, airplane and helicopter rides, music, food trucks, kids corner, classic cars. Great family day. Free to the public. visitgainesville.com

INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL MERCY KILLERS March 21 & 22 at 7:30pm Squitieri Studio Theatre, 3201 Hull Rd

GAINESVILLE - What measures would you take to care for someone you love? This one-man show centers around Joe (played by Michael Milligan, who also wrote the piece), an auto mechanic in middle America whose life is turned upside down when his wife is diagnosed with a terminal illness and he cannot afford to pay for her care. This performance includes content which may not be suitable for children. performingarts.ufl.edu

Saturday, March 23 from 10am - 3pm Oak Hall School, 1700 SW 75th St

GAINESVILLE - Take a trip around the world at Oak Hall School’s third annual International Festival! This event will feature Cuban artists from Bulla Cubana, Dance Alive, and student associations from the University of Florida. Children will be given passports and earn prizes as they travel the world from one exhibit to another. Participants can enjoy bounce houses, face painting and non-stop performances to keep everyone entertained. Free and fun for the whole family. bit.ly/OHIF2019

ELEMENTS OF STYLE March 22 & 23 Santa Fe Fine Arts Hall, 3000 NW 83rd St

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LIVE: ON THE TRAIL OF BIG CATS

GAINESVILLE - A Dance Theatre of Santa Fe performance featuring a variety of styles in new works created by SF dance faculty and works from guest artists. Three performances over two days. Friday at 2pm and 7:30pm. Saturday at 7:30pm. sfcollege.edu/finearts

Saturday, March 23 from 7:30 - 9pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GATOR CLOT TROT 5K Saturday, March 23 Depot Park

GAINESVILLE - A fun, healthy and effective way to show your support for all those living with hemophilia or other related bleeding disorders. Come run or walk in your best Gator gear to raise funds to improve the quality of life for the bleeding disorder community. Awards given for team with best Gator gear, top runners, and top fundraisers! Check-ins and registration open at 7am. Race begins at 8am. hemophiliaflorida.org

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GAINESVILLE - Go around the world in search of big cats with award-winning photographer Steve Winter. A determined explorer, Winter will lead you from Asian jungles where resilient tiger populations persist, to the Himalayas, home of the rare snow leopard. Experience nature through the eyes, lenses and words of the researchers, scientists and storytellers that have made National Geographic an icon of global media. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

SCIART MEETUP: BIRDS Sunday, March 24 from 10am - 1pm Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - Calling all artists and designers! Visit the Florida Museum for before-hours SciArt Meetups and create art inspired by

Florida nature and culture! Offered in partnership with Santa Fe College Art Gallery and Wayfaring Painter, each meetup features brief presentations by a guest artist and/or scientist. Artists must bring their own supplies. Pre-registration is required, as space is limited. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

ANDY MCKEE Tuesday, March 26 at 7pm High Dive, 210 SW 2nd Ave.

GAINESVILLE - Andy McKee is among the world’s finest acoustic guitarists. His youthful energy and attention to song structure and melodic content elevates him above the rest. He entertains both the eye and the ear as he magically transforms the steel string guitar into a full orchestra via his use of altered tunings, tapping, partial capos, percussive hits and a signature two-handed technique. highdivegainesville.com

APOLLO’S FIRE Tuesday, March 26 at 7:30pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - Named for the classical god of music and the sun, Apollo’s Fire is a collection of creative artists who share founder/conductor Jeannette Sorrell’s passion for drama. Hailed as “one of the pre-eminent period-instrument ensembles” (The Independent), Apollo’s Fire have stuck with this dedication while touring the world, and have been met with standing ovations along the way. performingarts.ufl.edu

DA VINCI AFTER DARK Thursday, March 28 from 7 - 9pm Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - Grown-ups want to have fun too! Enjoy an inventive evening just for adults in honor of the 500th anniversary of Leonardo’s death. Participate in the Da Vinci dares innovation stations, including trivia, war machines, flying mechanisms and bridges and try to improve on Da Vinci’s designs. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

19 0 -2 18 0 2 R A L U C A T C E SP CELEBRATE AN INTERNATIONAL ARTS EXPERIENCE AT

HOME!

SEASON

LAND OF LA CHUA March 1

THE R NUTCRACKER

Photography by: Johnston Photography, Monica Sue Nielsen, Ani Collier

December 12-16

WONDERMENT Oct. 24 &25 Set to Mozart’s ‘Requiem Mass’ and Bernstein’s ‘Mass for the Common Man’, WONDERMENT explores belief and skepticism with beauty and grace.

Celebrate the Holiday Season with ‘The Nutcracker’. The all-time family favorite with beautiful dancing, sets and costumes. Sheer magic!

TANGO MUCHO MADNESS! February 2 Dark, exciting, and ﬁlled with passion! Tango rhythms are made to be danced to and the DANB dancers do it right. You will be carried along on a wave of searing beauty. It’s hot!!!!!

Celebrate Gainesville’s Birthday! Indian life, the beautiful springs, our town through the ages. It’s all there, with contributions from the Matheson Museum, artist Margaret Tolbert, poet Lola Haskins, composer Stella Sung, Will McLean’s ‘Black Hat Troubadour’ songs, and much more.

All performances at Curtis M. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts Tickets: 352-392-ARTS www.performingarts.uﬂ.edu For information: 352-371-2986 dalive@bellsouth.net MARCH/APRIL 2019

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YEFIM BRONFMAN Thursday, March 28 at 7:30pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - Widely considered one of today’s most acclaimed and admired pianists, Yefim Bronfman stands among a handful of artists regularly sought by festivals, orchestras, conductors, and recital series. He will be the first classical artist to perform a recital using UF Performing Arts’ new Steinway D. performingarts.ufl.edu

PROMENADE ALL! Friday, March 29 from 7:30pm - 9:45pm Santa Fe College, 3000 NW 83rd St.

GAINESVILLE - Gainesville Orchestra with conductor Evans Haile presents: PROMENADE ALL!!! Evans Haile and Friends! An evening of special guests, stories, music and humor. Bring a friend! sfcollege.edu/finearts

MESSTHETICS (MEMBERS OF FUGAZI) Friday, March 29 at 9pm The Wooly, 20 N. Main St.

GAINESVILLE - The last time drummer Brendan Canty and bassist Joe Lally were in a band together, they were the rhythmic architects for Fugazi. In 2016, the two were enlisted by guitarist Anthony Pirog in a conspiracy to subvert and reimagine the instrumental power trio. thewoolygainesville.com

GAINESVILLE NATIVE AMERICAN FESTIVAL March 29-31 Alachua Fairgrounds, 3100 NE 39th Ave.

GAINESVILLE - The Gainesville Native American Festival comes alive with traditional dancing, music and art. Come be a part of this one of a kind festival that not only entertains, but educates. Join in dances, learn to build a fire the primitive way and see the beauty of handmade arts & crafts. gainesvillenativeamericanfest.com

UF’S DANCE MARATHON March 30 -31 O’Connell Center, 250 Gale Lemerand Dr.

GAINESVILLE - Dance Marathon at the University of Florida is an annual 26.2 hour event benefiting the patients of UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital. Each year, more than 800 students stay awake and on their feet to raise money and awareness for Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) Hospitals. In 2018, a grand total of $3,026,420.19 was raised for UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital, our local CMN Hospital. floridadm.org

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The Great Inflatable Race Saturday, April 6 from 9am - Noon Alachua County Fairgrounds, 3100 NE 39th Ave. GAINESVILLE - The Great Inflatable Race is a fun run with inflatable obstacles spread throughout the running course. You and your friends will feel like kids again as you jump, dive and bounce on custom-designed inflatables. Get fit, support a good cause and create epic memories that will last you a lifetime! thegreatinflatablerace.com

GREAT AMERICAN CLEANUP Saturday, March 30 from 8am – 1pm Massey Park, 1001 NW 34th St

GAINESVILLE - The Great American Cleanup began as a litter cleanup initiative designed to aesthetically improve our environment by creating cleaner parks, streetscapes and public spaces through litter removal and elimination. Please sign up at kacb.org/event-registration.

ELEGANCE OF SCIENCE AWARDS CEREMONY

as three of the finest young fiddlers currently playing in the international folk scene. They bring historical links and traditions alive while presenting music in a new and exciting fashion. 352-514-5606 fb.com/magnoliarootsmusic2018

LUCKY PLUSH PRODUCTIONS: ROOMING HOUSE Tuesday, April 2 at 7:30 Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - The Elegance of Science art competition is organized in collaboration with the Marston Science Library and is aimed at emphasizing the link between artistic and scientific perceptions of reality. Come honor the 2018 contest winners. Free event. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

GAINESVILLE - A powerful synthesis of elegant modern dance and complex storytelling, Rooming House is expansive, compelling, and also legitimately funny. Lucky Plush Productions is based in Chicago, led by founder and Artistic Director Julia Rhoads. The company is committed to provoking “a palpable live-ness” shared by performers in real-time with audiences. performingarts.ufl.edu

THE NORDIC FIDDLERS BLOC CONCERT

BOY HARSHER (WITH SPECIAL INTEREST)

Monday, April 1 from 7 -9pm The Thomas Center, 302 NE 6th Ave

Tuesday, April 2 at 9pm The Wooly, 20 N. Main St.

GAINESVILLE - The Nordic Fiddlers Bloc is comprised of Olav Luksengard Mjelva (Norway), Anders Hall (Sweden) and Kevin Henderson (Shetland Islands). Individually they are regarded

GAINESVILLE - Boy Harsher return with their second LP “Careful” - a wild ride that celebrates abandon, while mourning attachment and love. thewoolygainesville.com

Monday, April 1 from Noon - 1:30pm Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Rd.

OF MONTREAL GAINESVILLE - Dreamy indie / art rock collective fronted by Kevin Barnes. Their landmark album “Hissing Fauna, Are You The Destroyer?” is the best selling album of all time on the indie label Polyvinyl. Special guests Yip Deceiver, Pearl And The Oysters. highdivegainesville.com

STORM LARGE Friday, April 5 at 7:30pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - An extraordinary talent, with a career as distinctive as her name, Storm Large has become known for putting her unique spin on classics while charming audiences and critics alike. This performance includes content which may not be suitable for children. performingarts.ufl.edu

SPRING PLANT SALE April 5 - 7 Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - The Museum’s spring plant sale is one of the largest of the year, featuring more than 150 species of difficult-to-find and pollinator-friendly plants. Learn how to attract butterflies to your home and which plants are proven winners. Accent, host, native and nectar plants are available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the Butterfly Rainforest. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

12TH ANNUAL O’LENO OLÉ CHILI COOKOFF Saturday, April 6 410 SE O’Leno Park Rd.

HIGH SPRINGS - Calling all Chili Cooks! Trophies for CASI category. CASI rules at www.chili.org. Cash prizes for Open categories, “Meat” and “Vegetarian.” Must be 18 yrs or older. Visit friendsofoleno.org for registration form, or Call 386-454-1853. Prizes awarded during Springs Celebration. Registration: 8am, Cookoff 9am—noon.

SPRINGS CELEBRATION AND CHILI COOKOFF AWARDS Saturday, April 6 from 11am - 3pm 410 SE O’Leno Park Rd.

HIGH SPRINGS - Family event offering Environmental Exhibits, Kids Activities, Arts and Crafts vendors, Chance Drawings and Live Music. $5 Chili Taster Kits; vote for People’s Choice. Proceeds go to O’Leno’s Nature Center. Free admission with donation of 1 can of food/person for food bank. 386-454-1853 friendsofoleno.org

PHOTOS BY TANYA CONSAUL

Wednesday, April 3 at 8pm High Dive, 210 SW 2nd Ave.

START OF THE 2017 RACE. THERE WERE OVER 300 REGISTRATIONS AND A GREAT TURNOUT.

Run The Good Race RACE AIMS TO HELP HUMAN TRAFFICKING VICTIMS

supplies for the refugees on the Syrian/ undreds of spirited runners will Iraqi border. “Last year we changed our head over to the NFRMC Cancer focus to human trafficking,” says Dr. PeCenter on Saturday morning, April 27th ter Sarantos, host of Run the Good Race. for the 4th Annual “Run the Good Race”. The 5K/10K walk/run hosted by local “Kathy was in Thailand with World Help in surgeon, Dr. Peter Sarantos and his wife, 2016 visiting a home for women trying Pediatrician, Dr. Kathy Sarantos, is a fun, to escape from this bondage and the exfamily-friendly event. Teamed up with perience opened her eyes to the magniWorld Help, a humanitarian aid organiza- tude of the problem.” tion as well as Created Gainesville, a local “As before,” Dr. Peter Sarantos outreach program for women, the event brings awareness and fundraises for aid continued, “Kathy and I cover all of the race expenses. We to the victims of Human Trafficking. Alison Ungaro, Founder of the Gaines- believe that this is a worthy ville chapter of Created, voiced, “We are cause and want to assure excited to be a part of “Run the Good that every dollar raised goes Race” again this year with the Sarantos family, bringing awareness to this cause, directly to the cause.” “Before the race, a making sure women localspeaker from World Help ly and around the world explains their mission get the opportunity for and how the funds are dihealing and restoration.” rectly applied to the peoThe race course runs ple in need. Created Diaround the campus of rector, Alison Ungaro will NFRMC and the neighboralso speak about their lohoods behind the hospital. cal organization. It really “It’s a good course, with a helps the participants of few hills,” reports Allegra the race to understand Shoulders, who has run how important and apthe event the last two preciated their support is,” years and has registered Dr. Kathy Sarantos (right) with says Carol Ellis, the race to participate again this one of the top finishers. organizer. “I also think it’s year. “It’s great if you want to come out and run on a nice spring great to see how many kids participate in the run, many of which know Dr. Samorning for an important cause.” The first two years, the event fund- rantos as just ‘Dr. Kathy’, who makes raised for World Help’s Refugee Aid them feel better when they’re sick. It program, raising over $80,000 towards makes for a special day.”

The race is open for registrations online or on race day, beginning at 6:30am at the NFRMC Cancer Center. Both the 5K and 10K begin at 8AM on Saturday, April 27th.

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CHRIS TOMLIN Saturday, April 6 at 7pm Exactech Arena, 250 Gale Lemerand Dr

GAINESVILLE - GrammyÂŽ winning singer-songwriter and one of the most successful Christian touring artists, Chris Tomlin, will be coming to Gainesville on the Holy Roar Tour. The GrammyÂŽ winnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s list of music awards include an American Music Award, 3 Billboard Music Awards, 21 Dove Awards, a BMI Songwriter of the Year Award and more. oconnellcenter.ufl.edu

â&#x20AC;&#x153;ONE TREE, ONE PLANETâ&#x20AC;? APP LAUNCH Monday, April 8 from 6 - 8pm Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - A celebration of the diversity of life on Earth as art and science collide in a series of one-of-a-kind multimedia experiences. Be dazzled by an interactive indoor projection by internationally renowned artist Naziha Mestaoui depicting the Tree of Life, the map of the relationships that link every living thing. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

LIZ VICE Friday, April 12 at 7pm & 9pm UpStage at the Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd

GAINESVILLE - Hearing her effortlessly go from smoky lows to searing highs and seeing her command the stage, you might be surprised that her music career only began in 2012 when a soloist from her church choir backed out and Liz stepped in. Her performance left her congregationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s jaws on the floor and propelled her onto a new and exciting path that no one, including Liz, expected. performingarts.ufl.edu

SPRING ARTS FESTIVAL April 6 & 7 NE 1st Street

GAINESVILLE - Join Santa Fe College for their 50th Annual Spring Arts Festival on Saturday, April 6 from 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. and Sunday, April 7, from noon-5:30 p.m. in historic Northeast Gainesville. More info on the arts, music, food and family fun to come!

SPRING WINDS

PLANT EXPO

Tuesday, April 9 at 7:30pm Santa Fe Fine Arts Hall, 3000 NW 83rd St

Saturday, April 13 from 8am - 12pm Persimmon Farm, 17010 W. Newberry Rd.

GAINESVILLE - For an enchanting musical evening, join us for the Santa Fe Spring Winds concert presenting an evening of traditional concert band classics featuring solo performers and small ensembles all under the direction of Dr. Steve Bingham. sfcollege.edu/finearts

NEWBERRY - Newberry Garden Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual fund raiser to support community projects and scholarship funds. Flowers of all kinds, bulbs, shrubs, trees and fruit & vegetable plants. 352-472-3928

BANCF 2019 SPRING PARADE OF HOMES

JAZZ UP SPRING!

GAINESVILLE GARDEN CLUB MARKETPLACE

April 6-7 & 13-14 from Noon to 5pm Various locations

Thursday, April 11 at 7:30pm Santa Fe Fine Arts Hall, 3000 NW 83rd St

Saturday, April 13 from 9am - 3pm GGC Clubhouse, 1350 NW 75th St

GAINESVILLE - Enjoy the Annual Spring Parade of Homesâ&#x201E;˘. Admission is free. Parade Map is available at www.bancf.com.

GAINESVILLE - A cool spring concert of hot Jazz featuring the Santa Fe Jazz Band under the direction of Dr. Steve Bingham. sfcollege.edu/finearts

GAINESVILLE - Artisans, Vintage Wares, Plants, Food and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Junque in the Trunkâ&#x20AC;?. 352-331-0426 ggcfl.org

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CELEBRATION OF MUSIC WITH ETHAN BORTNICK 55th Annual Old Florida Celebration of the Arts

Saturday, April 13 from Noon - 10pm Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St.

GAINESVILLE - A music festival presented by WUFT. Join international superstar Ethan Bortnick as he presents some of Gainesville’s most incredible musicians. Spend the day listening to all genres of music, and at the end of the evening you will enjoy the incredible music of Ethan Bortnick. A portion of the proceeds will support WUFT (PBS TV). bit.ly/2019wuftmusicfest

VOICES RISING COMMUNITY CHORUS CONCERT Saturday, April 13 at 3pm & 7pm First United Methodist Church, 419 NE 1st St

GAINESVILLE - The Spring Concert of Voices Rising Community Chorus, an intergenerational chorus with over 100 members. A portion of all proceeds will benefit the Food4Kids Backpack Program. vrccgainesville.org

JURIED ARTS FESTIVAL WELCOMING 120 FINE ARTISTS AND ARTISANS

March 30-31 Cedar Key Sat: 10-5 Sun: 10-4

Great Food, Music & Kids Activities in Beachfront City Park Artist Demonstrations in the Afternoon on Both Days Family-Friendly, Pet-Friendly and FREE FOR EVERYONE!

CedarKeyArtsFestival.com 352.543.5400 cedarkeyartsfestival@gmail.com

NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA HOME AND GARDEN SHOW April 13 & 14 O’Connell Center, 250 Gale Lemerand Dr

GAINESVILLE - Presented by The Gainesville Sun, the show will feature products and services related to home improvement, landscaping, remodeling, decorating and home sales. In addition to the many home and garden exhibits, the Home Show also includes informational seminars and how-to clinics. This is an event you don’t want to miss! oconnellcenter.ufl.edu

PICTURE PERFECT PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP Sunday, April 14 from 9am - Noon Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - Snap the picture of a lifetime in the Florida Museum’s Butterfly Rainforest, featuring more than 50 different species at any given time. During this special event, use your tripod and other photographic equipment not usually permitted inside the exhibit! floridamuseum.ufl.edu

MUSEUM FOR ME SENSORY-FRIENDLY EVENT Sunday, April 14 from 10am - 1pm Florida Museum, 3215 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - Adults and children on the autism spectrum, including their friends, families and caregivers, are invited to visit the museum before-hours. This special opportunity allows participants to explore at their own pace in a peaceful and less-crowded environment. 352-273-2064 floridamuseum.ufl.edu

SPRING

ages: 5-14

BREAK

April 1 - April 3 @ Jonesville Park

CAMP

9:00 am - 12:30 pm www.gatorballtraining.com

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NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LIVE: OCEAN SOUL Thursday, April 18 from 7:30 - 9pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE - Voyage across the oceans with one of National Geographic’s most seasoned photographers and discover a vast, hidden world beneath the waves. Experience nature through the eyes, lenses and words of National Geographic researchers, scientists and storytellers. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

GARTH BROOKS Saturday, April 20 from 7 - 10pm Ben Hill Griffin Stadium

GAINESVILLE - The reigning CMA Entertainer of the Year brings his North American stadium tour to Gainesville at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. ticketmaster.com

SPRING INTO SPRING Thursday, April 25 at 7:30pm Santa Fe Fine Arts Hall, 3000 NW 83rd St

GAINESVILLE - A true variety chorale with different types of music from different eras. Directed by Lynn Sandefur. sfcollege.edu/finearts

GATOR STOMPIN’ 2019 Thursday, May 2 at 9pm Downtown & Midtown

GAINESVILLE - The Gator Stompin’® pub crawl and music festival has been a rite of passage in Gainesville for over 30 years. At the end of every spring semester, thousands of people come together to celebrate being part of the Gator Nation. The Official Gator Stompin’ T-Shirt grants you access to some of Gainesville’s best nightclubs, bars and restaurants where you can enjoy amazing drinks, delicious food and live music! 18+ to attend, 21+ to drink. www.gatorstompin.com

GAINESVILLE - Join your music community for a workshop on a carefully developed aspect of different areas of the music business. These events begin with a presentation and workshop on a thoughtfully researched topic that our organization thinks will genuinely help our music community. gainesvillemusicassociation.com

WILLISTON - Enjoy live music, visit vendors from all over Florida selling plants, arts and crafts, food and more! Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens is North Central Florida’s newest botanical garden. This unique treasure features over 50 separate garden displays nestled in and around a century old lime rock quarry. cedarlakeswoodsandgarden.com

POPS! Friday, May 10 from 7:30pm - 9:45pm Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY SPRING BOOK SALE

WINDSOR ZUCCHINI FESTIVAL

April 27 - May 1 Friends of the Library, 430 N. Main St.

Saturday, May 11 from 9am – 4pm 1401 SE County Rd. 234

GAINESVILLE - Book sale to benefit Alachua County Library System and Literacy programs. Browse thousands of books, artwork, comics, manga, software, CDs, DVDs, videos, records and more. Cash or check only. Visit folacld.org or call 352-375-1676.

GAINESVILLE - Over 100 arts and crafts vendors from all around the state, Old Tyme Auction and a bake sale with zucchini bread and fried zucchini, zucchini cornbread and zucchini ice cream. Free to the public. windsor-z-news.org

RECURRING EVENTS

43 RD ANNUAL HIGH SPRINGS PIONEER DAYS

CONTRA DANCE

April 27 & 28 James Paul Park, 120 NW 2nd Ave

First Sundays & Third Saturdays Thelma A. Boltin Center, 516 NE 2nd Ave

HIGH SPRINGS - Enjoy two days of fun and entertainment for the whole family. Participate in the costume contest by coming to the festival dressed in pioneer style. Come by the Chamber’s Contest booth and have your picture taken to enter the contest. Free, family fun including a pie baking contest, live music and more! highsprings.com

GAINESVILLE - Contra dancing is energetic, social dancing that’s fun for everyone (all ages are welcome) and no partner is necessary. The music is live. Dances are taught, walked through, and called. No experience or special dress is required. Wear casual attire and comfortable shoes. godsdance.org

MARCH/APRIL 2019

GAINESVILLE MUSIC ASSOCIATION PUBLIC SYMPOSIUM & WORKSHOP

May 4 & 5 4990 NE 180th Ave.

GAINESVILLE - Gainesville Orchestra with conductor Evans Haile presents: POPS!!! The annual Grand Finale with spectacular favorite music, a walk through the orchestra and a very good time for all. sfcollege.edu/finearts

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HIGH SPRINGS - Bringing exceptional artists to the Downtown High Springs! Events are free and open to the public. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, etc. Dogs permitted on a leash. Artist details and more information at highspringsmusicinthepark.com

First Mondays from 6:30 – 7:30pm Aurora Downtown, 109 SE 4th Ave

GAINESVILLE - One-third of the immensely popular “super-group” (Lucy Kaplansky, Richard Shindell, and Dar Williams) who produced the “Cry, Cry, Cry” album and tour, Kaplansky is among the world’s best singer-songwriters. heartwoodsoundstage.com

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Third Sundays from 2pm - 4pm James Paul Park, Downtown High Springs

5TH ANNUAL GARDEN SHOW AND SPRING FESTIVAL

LUCY KAPLANSKY Saturday, April 27 at 8pm Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St.

HIGH SPRINGS MUSIC IN THE PARK & CONCERT SERIES

ENGLISH COUNTRY DANCE Mondays 6:45 – 9pm 1624 NW 5th Avenue

GAINESVILLE - This is the kind of dancing which began in the 16th century and is still being written and danced today around the world. All dances are taught, walked through and called. No partner, experience, or special dress required. If you are new please come to the beginner lesson each evening at 6:45. Everyone is welcome. This is easier than ballroom because there are no partner holds and the caller does the leading. bit.ly/EnglishCountry

FUN WITH FLOWERS Third Tuesdays at 10am Gainesville Garden Club, 1350 NW 75th St

GAINESVILLE - Hands-on floral design program includes lecture, demonstration and materials. Coffee social at 9:30 am. RSVP requested rsvp. ggcfl@gmail.com or www.ggcfl.org

UNION STREET FARMERS MARKET Wednesdays from 4pm – 7pm Bo Diddley Plaza

GAINESVILLE - Bring a bag and pick up some locally-grown and produced vegetables, meat and dairy to take home for your kitchen. Browse local vendors offering a variety of hand-crafted items from jewelry to kombucha. There’s also food trucks and live entertainment — all in a family-friendly atmosphere. Enjoy downtown and support local producers, musicians and

artisans while sharing some quality time with your neighbors. unionstreetfarmersmkt.com

TAI CHI AND GENTLE MOTION Thursdays at 9:30am 2205 NW 40th Terrace

GAINESVILLE - Tai Chi and Gentle Motions classes for seniors on Thursdays at 9:30 am (Tai Chi) and 10:30 am (Gentle Motions) at Crown Pointe Senior Healthcare Center in Gainesville. Contact Paul Gebhart at 352379-6124 for info.

HIGH SPRINGS FARMERS MARKET Thursdays from 12 noon – 4pm First Saturday each month from 9am – 1pm 115 NE Railroad Avenue

HIGH SPRINGS - Florida grown fruit, vegetables, dairy & meats as well as honey, handmade treats and more. The Farmers Market is produced by The City of High Springs. farmersmarket. highsprings.com

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Thursdays from 2:30 - 4pm Senior Recreation Center, 5701 NW 34th Blvd.

GAINESVILLE - PrimeTime Institute (PTI) provides a wide variety of educational programs and social activities for people age 50+ that foster wellness, encourage personal and intellectual growth, and that provide an environment for developing new interests, making new friends, and becoming involved as volunteers. Schedule at www.primetimeinstitute.org

THIRD THURSDAY ON MAIN Third Thursdays from 5 – 9pm Downtown Main Street

ALACHUA - This is the perfect event to get your “pre-weekend” on! Alachua’s Downtown area comes alive with the sound of music, unique dining, shopping, craft vendors, and so much more! This event is sponsored by the City of Alachua Community Redevelopment Agency. cityofalachua.com

NIGHT IN THE GARDEN Third Thursdays from 6:30 - 9:30pm Green House Nursery, 15207 W Newberry Rd

NEWBERRY - Bring your friends and meet some new ones! Come on out and enjoy a live local band and a stroll through the picturesque gardens. Enjoy fun and games, food trucks, music and more! tghnfl.com

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DOWNTOWN DRAG First & Third Fridays from 11pm - 1am Maude’s Cafe, Downtown

GAINESVILLE - Drag and burlesque unite to enchant and amaze!!! Downtown Drag is hosted at Maude’s SideCar Bar next to the Hippodrome in downtown Gainesville. Bring your friends, your dollar bills, and your cellphones to come insta our queens and show the world what a great time you had!!! Get there early, grab a cocktail, and get the best seat! All proceeds go to performers! fb.com/DowntownDrag

HIGH SPRINGS FIRST FRIDAY NIGHT First Fridays from 5pm - 8pm Downtown

HIGH SPRINGS - Join the fun in lovely downtown High Springs. Local merchants will offer special sales, a raffle and more. Family fun for all ages. facebook.com/HighSpringsDowntownMerchants

ARTWALK GAINESVILLE Last Fridays from 7pm - 10pm Downtown

GAINESVILLE - Artwalk Gainesville is a free self-guided tour that combines exciting visual art, live performance, and events in downtown Gainesville with many local galleries, eateries and

businesses participating. Artwalk is an exciting, fun way to experience the amazing wealth of creativity the Gainesville community has to offer. Free and open to the public. artwalkgainesville.com

GFAA GALLERY ART EXHIBIT Last Fridays from 7pm - 10pm GFAA Gallery, 1314 S. Main St.

GAINESVILLE - The GFAA Gallery presents members original art work for home, apartment or office. Monthly themes with opening exhibits at Artwalk and displayed throughout the month. Support your community artists and bring pleasure to your surroundings. Gallery open Tuesday-Saturday from 11am-6pm. gainesvillefinearts.org.

ALACHUA COUNTY FARMERS MARKET Saturdays from 8:30am – 12pm 5920 NW 13th Street

GAINESVILLE - Don’t forget to bring shopping bags, your grocery list, and plenty of small bills. The market prides itself on being a grower’s only market – meaning the vendors selling produce, plants, and other products must have grown the items themselves. The event space is located in an open air pavilion with additional outdoor booths protected by shade cloth. 441market.com

HAILE FARMERS MARKET Saturdays from 8:30am – 12pm Haile Plantation Village

GAINESVILLE - An independent farmers market that is owned and operated by local farmers. All produce vendors are farmers, not brokers, so you can be sure that your produce is grown locally by the folks selling it to you. Take a stroll down the tree-lined streets of the Haile Village Center to browse for groceries, prepared food and handmade gifts, then continue on for more shopping or brunching at the Village Center’s locally-owned shops and restaurants. Additionally, vendors stock household staples like bread, cheese, eggs, meat, seafood and coffee. There are also plant nurseries to provide for your gardening needs. hailefarmersmarket.com

SEND CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS TO: 4 4 00 N W 3 6 T H A V E ., G A I N E S V I L L E , F L 32 606 or E V E N T S @ T O W E R P U B L I C A T I O N S . C O M Submissions will be published based on space available in the magazine. Recurring monthly/bi-monthly events must be free & open to the public. Paid events must be open to the public. Unique events that occur regularly such as classes, seminars and networking events will be published at our discretion. Religious organizations may post events only if the event promotes the arts, or is a fundraiser where 100% of the proceeds go to another, non-religious, non-profit organization. Events that are political in nature may not be approved.

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BAND B BA ND REVIEW

BRIAN “KRASH” KRUGER’S

Gate Crashing ON DECK FOR REVIEW: THE HARPER & THE MINSTREL, MUSICA VERA CONSORT, HARPERS OF HOGGETOWNE BRIAN KRUGER IS A WRITER, MUSICIAN AND A GRADUATE OF THE UF COLLEGE OF LAW. HE HAS PLAYED IN SOME 17 OR SO LOCAL BANDS, PLAYING MOST EVERY GAINESVILLE VENUE FRIENDLY TO ORIGINAL MUSIC (AND SOME NOT SO FRIENDLY). bkrashpad@yahoo.com

Musica Vera Consort

DATE: SATURDAY, JANUARY 26, 2019 VENUE: HOGGETOWNE MEDIEVAL FAIRE

selections. The Musica Vera set included instruments such as the shawm, sackbut, viola da gamba and rackett. The latter is a smallish cylindrincal wooden instrument about the size of a large can of tomato juice, yet inside contains some eighteen reetings, live music aficionados! This installfeet of coiled up sound tube that produces a ridiculously low ment finds us at the Alachua County sound from such a small instrument. Fairgrounds for the 33rd Annual Hoggetowne Most of the pieces were tunes without vocals, but not Medieval Faire. exclusively. Male vocals were included on a few songs such as You’re missing quite the event if you’ve never been to the King Henry VIII’s favorite drinking song, “Pass Time In Good Faire, including a lot of extraneous letter “e’s” appended to the Company.” Types of songs played included an allemande (which end of random words and parts thereof. The Faire’s website basically means “German,” as the French developed (rightfully) boasts of jousting knights, a medieval this style based on a German folk dance), a volta marketplace where hundreds of artisans sell their (meaning “turn,” a type of dance where people wares, a battle on the living chess board, olde The rackett leapt in the air), a galliard (another athletic world games and rides, and food fit for a king. is a small wooden dance), a “Moors Dance” and no less than The latter, of course, including funnel cake instrument that contains four gavottes (a dance from southeast and every other fried food imaginable. It France). is a fair, after all. some eighteen feet of While all of that possibly reads a bit However, the Royale Theatre (actually coiled up sound tube that academic, it’s really not when experienced a large tent) was the center of our activities produces a ridiculously in real time. The consort typically has free for purposes of this column. The Musica low sound. (good-will contributions accepted) concerts Vera Consort assembled and regaled us with in the spring and around Christmas, often held songs predominately from the 1500s and 1600s, at local churches. So keep a lookout for those! plus Handel’s La Réjouissance from the Music for Immediately following was husband-wife duo Jay and the Royal Fireworks (HWV 35, 1749), which even the Abby Michaels, who play as “The Harper and The Minstrel.” most philistine of fairgoers would probably recognize. This talented Massachusetts couple have been playing together As with both groups we later watched, in between songs for some 15 years on instruments including: wire-strung harp, there was lots of exposition. Founder and maestro Professor celtic folk harp, hammered dulcimer, Irish wooden flute, Greek Emeritus Jack Kitts-Turner explained what we heard, both in aulos (also called the double flute or Pan flute), recorders, terms of the period instruments being played and the musical

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Harpers of Hoggetowne

The Harper & The Minstrel

viola da gamba, penny whistles, silver flute, bowed psaltery, mountain dulcimer, bowed dulcimer/viol, rebec and baroque guitar. From their web presence, it appears that they play up and down the East Coast and Midwest at similar ren faires, schools, libraries, senior homes and clubs. In clubs they expand their repertoire to include modern acoustic rock/pop. Later in the week they played at Gainesville’s Lightnin’ Salvage. In fact, if you watch television you may have already heard their music on more than half a dozen programs. The duo began with a song on flute and viola da gamba, switched to guitar and viola for the Irish song “Dawning of the Day,” and then to the dulcimer and guitar for “Once I Had A Sweetheart,” which was reportedly at the top of the charts in 1583. On the dulcimer and 30-string harp came “Boadicea” (at least as I heard it), which may or may not (I’m guessing the latter, but am no expert) have been the Enya song of the same name. Then a cantiga on rebec and flute, a French dance featuring Pan flute, and closing with “The

Sally Gardens,” an Irish song commemorating a lover’s disagreement. After a break for the chessboard battle, we returned to the tent for local quartet the Harpers of Hoggetowne. This quartet featured four harpers, one of whom sometimes plays viola da gamba, and another of whom also adds rhythmic flourishes on tambourine (in the past a fifth player has sometimes also played bodhrán, an Irish frame drum). Their delightful, gentle set began with “Planxty Fanny Power,” written by the blind Irish harper Turlough O’Carolan, and was followed by the “Christ Child’s Lullaby” from the Scots Hebrides. A cantiga written by an early Spanish king was followed by the English “The Grenadier and The Lady,” and an air and “Butterfly” from Ireland. A highlight for me was the audience participation sea shanty “Roll the Old Chariot Along,” which was followed by the always beautiful “Greensleeves” — a wonderful and pacific augment to swords clashing and the thunder of armored horses. Now, go see some bands. MARCH/APRIL 2019

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OUTDOOR >> CAMPING TIPS

ALL NATUR AL

HELPFUL TIPS ONE CAMPER LEANRED THE HARD WAY

Chaos-Free Camping W R I T T E N B Y H AY L I Z U CCO L A

I wouldn’t consider myself an outdoorsy person. Sure, I enjoy the pretty side of nature: ﬂowers, birdwatching, nature hikes and butterﬂies. However, I’m not one to sleep on the dirt or live off the land, and I can never remember the rhyme for which snakes are poisonous (so I’d rather steer clear of all of them). A primitive camper I am not, but from the comfort of a small RV I’ve camped across the country. Through experiences both good and bad, I’ve compiled a list of must-have tips for camping adventures both near and far.

Tip #1: Know Your Environment During a recent cross-country trip, an overnight stay in Napa left my dog, Dozer, wheezing and gasping for air after his nightly walk. In a panic, we called the nearest emergency vet and later found out that this was the end of their harvest season and that the air was ﬁlled with pollen. 126 |

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If you’re camping within the state, you have a rough idea of what environmental factors to look out for: ﬁre ants, love bugs, hurricanes and maybe even alligators. However, if you’re traveling outside your comfort zone, it’s important to brush up on what to watch out for before you reach your destination. Are you heading to the mountains where the elevation is higher and the air is thinner? Or toward the desert, where the heat is dry and the land is home to scorpions? Either way, it’s important to keep in mind the phrase “know before you go,” and when in doubt ask the locals.

Tip #2: Prepare a First Aid Kit A weekend getaway to Helen, Georgia for their annual Oktoberfest celebration was met with an adorable alpine village, giant pretzels and the occasional sight of people dressed PHOTOGRAPHY: SCOTT GOODWILL, MR. MARCO, LEON CONTRERAS, DENYS NEVOZHAI

in lederhosen. And I never would have guessed that their local campground’s rocky hills would factor into my trip memories. While taking a walk, I slipped on a cluster of rocks and, just like Jack and Jill, I began tumbling down the gravel hill. When I got up, my knee was covered in blood and it began to swell. Maybe it’s because of my severe accident-prone nature, but packing ﬁrst aid supplies is a priority before setting off on any road trip. You never know what you’re going to encounter whether it be a small cut, a sprained wrist or a rash from poison ivy. So it’s always better to pack for any possibility. Likewise, if you’re traveling with your fur babies, it’s important to have supplies for them as well, including foot balm for dry, cracked paws, medications they might need and contact information for the local vet.

Tip #3: Always Bring a Flashlight You may assume that if a campground is lit up enough you can easily find your way around as the night begins to fall, but that’s not always the case. After pulling into a campground late one evening, I went to look for the restrooms so I knew where to go in the morning. However, in my haste I didn’t bring a flashlight – that was my first mistake. After circling a building plopped in the middle of the campground, which was more like a parking lot on the side of the road, I thought I finally found the ladies’ room. To be sure, I mistakenly decided it was a good idea to just reach for the light switch and check – that was my second mistake. My hand grasped what I thought was the switch, and I instantly got electrocuted by an uncovered outlet. Even though I thought I could see with the few lights around the park, if I brought a flashlight with me I would have noticed the uncovered switch before sending several volts of electricity through my arm.

Tip #4: Pack for Your Pet A secluded campground in Connecticut gave us a campsite surrounded by nature, which unfortunately included large trees laced with sap. After a short walk, my dog’s furry feet were fused together with the sticky substance. It took over an hour to get it trimmed off using nothing but a tiny pair of travel scissors and pet wipes. It’s easy to pack for yourself, but if you’re camping with your furry friend, don’t forget to pack their suitcase too. Besides the obvious food and water, you want to be sure to bring other necessities like: a harness, pet wipes, a brush or pet shaver and maybe even some pet booties for places with rocky or sappy surfaces. Maybe I’m just a clumsy camper, but each of my klutzy experiences has taught me new tips on how to have camp without the chaos. Sure, my knee has never looked the same after tripping on those rocks. And I tend to hesitate before ﬂicking on a light switch, but all of these stories provide amusing memories and a friendly reminder that roughing it doesn’t have to be rough. Well, at least until the next camping conundrum comes my way. MARCH/APRIL 2019

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SPOTLIGHT

RESCUE ANIMAL ADOPTIONS

Furever Friends PROFESSOR X & CHARLOTTE

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.

Hi! My name is Professor X. No, no I’m not a real professor; I was named after the X-Men character of the same moniker, and even though we both have physical impairments, we possess special abilities and a strength that gives us our superhero status. Despite my young age, I developed inflammatory arthritis, a condition that made it hard for me to walk. Due to my difficulties, I ended up at Haile’s Angels Pet Rescue. While staying with a foster family, I used a small wheelchair to help me carry my weight so I could practice walking. My perseverance eventually paid off because it wasn’t long after my appearance at So Fetch! – the rescue’s runway show for “handi-capable” dogs and cats – that I found my forever home. My new mom Charlotte Pisano, who already had six dogs, two cats and a rabbit at the time of my adoption, instantly fell in love with me – probably because of my unique runway strut that I worked so hard to develop. With her background as an ER nurse at Shands, and prior experience with pets with special needs, she was the perfect person to take care of me (despite her husband’s initial hesitation of adding another pet to the family). Nowadays, I don’t even need my wheelchair. My mom says my paws are more like flippers that I use to flop along to wherever I want to go. When I’m not spending time sunbathing, which is my favorite activity, I’m usually burrowing myself under blankets. As a Chihuahua, my small size allows me to squish into every snuggly crevice that my blankets provide. Of course, being a cuddle bug is even better when you have snacks and my mom says that I am very driven by food. Now don’t get the wrong idea, I don’t just wrap myself in a blanket 128 |

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and eat goodies all day. I also love to travel. One of my ﬁrst trips with my family was the Florida vs. Georgia game, and I spent most of my time relaxing in my mom’s purse. I’ve also gone to Savannah with my mom and her Girl Scout troop. I’ve also gone all the way to Miami. Back when I was living in the shelter, I tended to be very shy around new people. But since getting adopted my mom has said that I’ve slowly come out of my shell and have become the spunky dog I was always meant to be. Even though I was lucky enough to ﬁnd my forever home, I hope that one day other animals with

specific needs like me also get the chance to get adopted. Some of us are blind or deaf, we may have difficulty walking or suffer from other medical issues. However, one thing we all have in common is that we love our families unconditionally and deserve to find our forever home – I know I have found mine. If you are interested in adopting an animal from Haile’s Angels Pet Rescue, visit their website at hailesangels.org.

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