Summer 2012
Complimentary
North Central Florida
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Beaches: ”3 Well Kept Secrets” Pgs 20-21 Saluting our Military Florida History Introducing “The Edge” Fine Arts Seasonal Sports
Pg 10 Pg 12 Pg 14 Pg 16 Pg 18
Summer 2012 chamber of commerce
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Phone Numbers
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Seasonal sports
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Roller Derby
By Palms Medical Group
Saluting our military
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who’s your favorite person { 20} By Jennifer Wright
By Jerry Prater
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3 well kept secrets
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Beaches to visit that are worth the drive
Florida State Flag
Fitness Corner
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Bryan Collins Fine Art & Illustration
Summertime Tips
Florida History
Fine Arts
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Sodium
business spotlight
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Helping Hands - By Melissa Hardee
“the edge” Introduction of a New Section
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Spiritual Spotlight By Rabbi David Kaiman
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Publisher Town & Country Guide, Inc. Michelle R. Zimmermann Design & Layout Michelle R. Zimmermann Editor Melissa Hardee Advertising Advisor Michelle R. Zimmermann Contributing Writers Melissa Hardee Rabbi David Kaiman Jerry Prader Nadia Rodman, RD Jennifer Wright Michelle R. Zimmermann Website www.townandcountryguide.net Email townandcountryguide@zoho.com Facebook http://www.facebook.com/ townandcountryguidemagazine Address Town & Country Guide, Inc. PO Box 96 Chiefland, FL 32644 Phone/Fax:352.493.0822 The Town & Country Guide, Inc. is published quarterly. The content of the publication or documents may not be reproduced in any way withoutwritten consent from the publisher. Town & Country Guide, Inc. makes no representation or warranty of any kind for accuracy of content. All advertisements are assumed by the publisher to be correct. Copyright 2011-2013 Town & Country Guide, Inc. All rights reserved.
Find a Frog CAMPAIGN A hidden frog will be somewhere located in the Town & Country Guide. If you locate the Frog, mail or email (postmarked by September 15, 2012). Make sure you include your name, phone number and location of the Frog to be included into a drawing. Congratulations: Sheila Block of Orlando, FL She won a $15 YUM YUM Ice Cream Shoppe Gift Certificate for finding the frog on page 11 on the patio next to the table. There is (1) one winner of a $35 Gift Certificate from Helping Hands for the Summer Issue 2012. The frog is hidden So, Start Searching.... and Good Luck! Address: Town & Country Guide, Inc. PO Box 96- Chiefland, FL 32644 Email: townandcountryguide@zoho.com
Chambers of Commerce Phone Numbers: Bronson Chamber
486-6150
Cedar Key Chamber
543-5600
Chiefland Chamber
493-1849
Dixie County Chamber
498-5454
Fanning Springs Chamber 463-9089 Gilchrist County Chamber 463-3467 Levy Visitors Bureau
486-3396
Pure Water Wilderness
463-3467
Steinhatchee Chamber
356-1086
Suwannee River Chamber 542-7845 Williston Chamber
528-5552
2010 BUSINESS OF THE YEAR - CHIEFLAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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(352) 493- 4531
We regret we neglected to mention John Ed Hudson, the Chiefland High School Mechanics Instructor in our spring article. He was the person who gave Robert his Start & Inspiration. It is a shame that the program no longer exists. Spring 2012
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Summertime Tips By Palms Medical Group
It’s Summertime! Summer in Florida brings hot weather and trips to the water. Here are some tips to make those trips safe and fun. Water Safety tips: • Learn to swim • Never swim alone • Swim in an area with a lifeguard • Read and obey all posted signs • Make sure all children and inexperienced swimmers wear Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices when around water • Do not mix alcohol with water activities • Enter the water feet first • Only dive into water that is clearly marked for diving with no obstructions • Watch the weather; exit the water at the first sign of bad weather • Wear sunscreen, and drink plenty of water • Never leave a child unattended near a water source. For more information visit: http://www2.redcross.org/services/hss/tips/healthtips/safetywater.html July is Bike and Water Safety Month. Bike safety tips: It is estimated that nearly 630 children are injured each day as a result of bicycle related accidents, however only about 50% of children between the ages of 4 and 15 own a bicycle helmet and only 25% report wearing a helmet regularly. Wearing a helmet can decrease the risk of head injury by 85 percent and severe brain injury by 88 percent. A properly fitting helmet should always be worn while biking. It is also important to make sure that your child’s bicycle is the right size; your child’s feet should be able to touch the ground while sitting on the bike. The bike should be in good working order with secure reflectors and properly working brakes.For more information visit: http://www.safekids. org/safety-basics/safety-spotlight/bike-safety-month/ ( http://www.safekids.org/our-work/research/fact-sheets/) July is Osteoporosis Awareness month. Nearly 34 million men and women are currently at risk for osteoporosis. Although osteoporosis is generally associated with elderly women it can occur at any age and 20% of people with this condition are men. Risk Factors that can’t be changed: • Older age • Female sex • Post-menopause • Family history of osteoporosis or broken bones • Low body weight/being small and thin • Broken bones or height loss Risk factors that can be changed: • Not getting enough Calcium and Vitamin D • Not eating enough Fruits and Vegetables • Consuming too much Protein, Sodium and Caffeine • Being Inactive • Smoking • Consuming too much alcohol • Losing weight • Certain Medications Talk to your doctor about your risk for osteoporosis and what you can do now. For more information visit: http://www.nof.org/
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August is National Immunization month Current CDC recommended vaccines for adults: • Influenza: recommended annually for all adults • Pneumococcal polysaccharide: recommended for adults over 65 and certain high risk groups. • MMR (measles, mumps, rubella): recommended for those born after 1957 without immunity, certain high-risk groups and women of childbearing age without immunity. • Varicella (chickenpox): recommended for all adults without immunity. • Zoster (shingles): recommended for those over 60 years of age. • Td, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis): recommended for those without documented previous vaccination, and in certain special situations. Tdap is recommended for all adults up to 65 and those older than 65 who come into contact with infants younger than 12 months old. • Hepatitis A: recommended for certain high risk groups and those who want protection from Hepatitis A. • Hepatitis B: recommended for certain high risk groups and those who want protection from Hepatitis B. • Human papillomavirus: recommended for unvaccinated women through the age of 26. • Meningococcal: recommended for certain high risk groups including incoming and current college students. • Polio: not routinely recommended. Talk to your doctor about your vaccination history and whether you have received all of the recommended vaccinations. For more information visit: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/ default.htm August “Back”- to-School. It’s time to head back to school, and along with homework and permission slips children will be carrying around backpacks full of heavy textbooks. Wearing a backpack that is too heavy, or fits improperly, can injure muscles and joints and lead to back, neck and shoulder pain as well as poor posture. To ensure that your child doesn’t experience these problems make sure his/ her filled backpack is no more than 10 to 20 percent of his/her body weight. Choose a lightweight backpack with 2 wide, well padded shoulder straps. A padded backpack can protect your child’s back from sharp objects within the pack and a waist strap can help to more evenly distribute the weight. The shoulder straps should be tightened so the pack is snug and sits 2 inches above the waist and both shoulder straps should always be worn. For more information visit: http://www.healthychildren.org/English/safetyprevention/at-play/Pages/Backpack-Safety.aspx September is National Childhood Obesity Month. Childhood obesity can lead to many health conditions including: high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol. Overweight children may also suffer from depression, low self esteem and a negative body image and may be treated differently in social situations than normal weight children. A balanced diet and regular activity are great ways to improve the health of your child. Children should eat 5 servings of fruits or vegetables a day. Offer your child water and 100% fruit juice to drink and have sugary drinks only on special occasions, or not at all. Have fruits or vegetables such as grapes and carrot sticks on hand for snack time and keep snacks such as cookies, snack cakes and chips minimal. Having meals as a family is also a great way to teach your child the proper way to approach eating. Children also need at least 60 minutes of activity a day.
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September is National Cholesterol Education Month High cholesterol affects 65 million Americans, increasing their risk for heart disease. You may be 1 of the 65 million and not know it because there are no symptoms of high cholesterol. When you have too much cholesterol in your blood it can start building up on the walls of your blood vessels. Eventually your blood vessels can become so clogged up that it is difficult, or impossible, for blood to get through, which can lead to chest pain or a heart attack. If you treat your high cholesterol before it has time to clog your blood vessels you can decrease your risk of having a heart attack. Many factors, including family history, diet and activity level contribute to high cholesterol. Talk to your doctor about your cholesterol levels and what you can do to prevent or treat high cholesterol.
Palms Medical Group Bell 352-463-1100 Palms Pharmacy Palms Medical Group Branford 386-935-3090 Palms Medical Group Gainesville 352-376-821 Palms Medical Group Starke 904-364-2900
At Palms Medical Group, we make it easy for you to get the healthcare you need: Convenient locations A wide range of services— from well-baby exams to senior care Same day appointments through Open Access Scheduling Private insurance, Medicare and Medicaid accepted; Sliding fee scale for those who qualify
Palms Medical Group Trenton 352-463-2374 Palms Behavioral Healthcare Palms Chiropractic Palms Pharmacy Palms Medical Group Williston 352-528-0587 Palms Medical Group facilities dedicated exclusively to Pediatric care: Chiefland 352-493-7274 Trenton 352-463-6292
1-888-730-2374 www.palmsmg.org
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Professional Tree Care Fully Insured 4 Certified Arborists on Staff For Estimates Call: John (352) 262-3470 Robin (352) 215-6324
deer camp
352-490-HUNT 306 S. Main St. US 19 - Chiefland thedeercamp1@att.net FRESH SEAFOOD! Feeders Ammo Stands Climbers Full Assortment of Bait & Tackle Year Round Full Service Warranty Authorized Archery Pro Shop We even include Special Orders! OPEN DAILY
STEVE’S POOL SERVICE, LLC PO BOX 58- NEWBERRY, FL 32669
SERVING ALACHUA COUNTY OVER 20 YEARS OF DEDICATED, DETERMINED AND DEPENDABLE SERVICE PH: (352)327-1353 Summer 2012 9
Saluting our Military
By Jerry Prater
At a time when we’re pretty much kept aware of our military veterans who are returning from overseas combat zones, we may be overlooking problems faced largely by an older generation of veterans. I’m talking about veterans of Vietnam, Korea and even World War II. As the years pass, an increasing number of these veterans need help handling everyday activities like feeding themselves and getting dressed. The VA provides an additional pension benefit to these called ”Aid and Attendance” or simply A & A. Getting this benefit isn’t difficult for those who qualify, but the process could be confusing to one who is unfamiliar with the VA procedures. Wouldn’t you know it, there are some sleazy characters out there who figure they’ll make a quick and easy buck off some disabled veterans by charging them a fee for doing some fairly simple paperwork for him. (Women Veterans are also subject to being victimized by these scam artists.) The practice isn’t necessarily illegal unless the perpetrator misrepresents him/herself as some kind of government official. They are still taking money for services that is available free of charge from a qualified service officer employed by the county or by a veteran organization like the Disabled American Veterans, American Legion, Amvets and VFW. VFW means Veterans of Foreign Wars. There was an outfit using the initials as part of a bogus fundraising operation. I believe the scam has been shut down. Even younger veterans returning from Afghanistan and Iraq have run into problems with unprincipled individuals who seek easy money from veterans who have served their country and find themselves in need of help from the VA. Remember, a qualified service officer will not only help a veteran at no charge, but will stick with him or her until the claim is fully developed and any problems are resolved. That is something the fast buck hustlers very often neglect to do. Don’t forget to show your support for the Disabled American VeteransChapter 63. They will be at Walmart and Winn Dixie in Chiefland, FL September 21st-23rd for the Forget-Me-Not Drive to raise money for our local Disabled American Veterans. September 18th has been named Forget-Me-Not Proclamation Day In Levy County and Cross City. For more information please call Fred Heinrich, Commander at 352-949-2671 or Ken Bamberger, Senior Vice Commander at 352-514-2198 * VA means: Veterans Affairs and/or “VA” Hospital 10
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ARMY STORE OUTFITTERS
550 N. Citrus Ave. Crystal River
10% OFF
When You Mention This Ad Expires 9/30
352-795-2330 888-270-2324
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Like Us! Meet “Luke” and his friends Custom Elephant Ranch Tours
Educational Programs, Clinics & Lectures
By Appointment Only Call (352) 528-6585
www.allaboutelephants.com chiefland billiards & Sports bar
chieflandbilliardssportsbar 1545 NW 26th ave. chiefland, fl 2626
352-493-9002
17 pool tables arcade games 12ft projection screen open everyday at 1pm
The Florida State Flag
Many banners have flown over Florida prior to 1868, including the flags of Spain, France, Great Britain, the Confederate States, and the national flag of the USA. The original 1868 state flag of Florida was simply the Florida State Seal centered on a field of white. In the 1890’s, Florida’s governor suggested adding the red cross so the flag would not look like a banner of truce or surrender when hanging limp on a flagpole. The current design of Florida’s state flag was adopted in 1900. In that year, Florida voters ratified a constitutional amendment based on an 1899 joint resolution of the state legislature to add diagonal red bars, in the form of a St. Andrew’s cross, to the flag. In the rewriting of the Constitution in 1968, the dimensions were dropped and became statutory language. The flag is described in these words: “The seal of the state, of diameter one half the hoist, in the center of a white ground. Red bars in width one fifth the hoist extending from each corner toward the center, to the outer rim of the seal.” 12
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Sodium
By Nadia Rodman, RD
Fitness
Corner
Skip the Salt. For some people, the taste of salt can become quite an addiction. While it may seem harmless, a hiqh salt diet can contribute to high blood pressure. The good news is that scaling back your salt intake can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Since the majority of the salt in our diets does not come from the salt shaker, many people don't realize how much salt they actually eat. The American Heart Association recommends that we limit ourselves to 2300 rnq of sodium per day (your doctor may recommend lower if you have high blood pressure). One teaspoon of salt is equal to about 2300 rnq of sodium, so it doesn't take much to exceed the healthy recommendation ...especially if you eat a lot of processed foods. Check out this list of foods high In salt and consider If there could be room for improvement In your diet. High Salt Foods: - Canned soups or vegetables . Frozen dinners - Vegetable Juices - Meats: smoked meat, deli meat, regular canned tuna, hot dogs . Snack foods: ChiPS,cookies, pretzels, salted nuts - Condiments: pickles, relish, olives, soy sauce, tarter sauce, chili sauce Just as the taste for salt was acquired, those taste buds can be turned down too! Allow a few weeks for your taste buds to adjust to a lower salt diet. Your heart will thank you! Tips to cut back ...Go Fresh! Choose fresh veqqies, fruits, grains, and meats. Avoid processed, cured, and canned foods unless they are low in salt (sodium). Read Labels, Choose foods that are labeled "sodium-free" or "low sodium." If a food has 5% or less sodium in the Daily Value (% DV) column, it IS a low sodium food. If it has more than 20%, it IS a hiqh sodium food. Bypass the salt shaker and add flavor to your food with fresh herbs, black pepper, hot pepper sauce, crushed red pepper, qarlic powder or onion powder.
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The Edge - Introduction
by melissa hardee Let go your fears and trepidation as you venture into “The Edge”. The view here may be different but without variation, “unique” would not exist; making life and everyone in it the same. Here on “The Edge”, having that different view is what makes life and each of us as individuals that 6 Letter Word; Unique. The Edge will provide you with sports, fashion, art, artwork in the form of tattoos and piercings and businesses that are not or may not be seen as mainstream; thus giving you that look into a world that on many occasions gets stereotyped. Take this “walk” on The Edge and let your eyes open to the uniqueness that makes our world such an amazing, interesting and diverse place to live and be. Be who you are, Be yourself, Be an individual, Be unique, Be “The Edge”.
Absolute Tattoo
Professional Tattoo & Body Piercing OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE
New Location 15 NW US Highway 19 Crystal River, FL 352-564-8080
www.facebook.com/xAbsolutexTattooingx NOW AVAILABLE PHOTO PRINTS
Body Jewelry, Swimsuits, Sunglasses, Clothing & Accessories
MENTION THIS AD FOR 20% OFF YOUR NEXT TATTOO 14
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ABSOLUTE CUSTOM TATTOO & PIERCING
It’s Summer and the tattoo and piercing fever is spiking. With the temperature of this fever rising, the answer and provider of the perfect antidote is Absolute Custom Tattoo and Piercing; the premier tattoo studio located in Crystal River, Fl and “home” to an Absolutely Amazing staff. Whether you are looking for that full color tattoo, the black and gray tattoo or a combination; look no further than the artist at Absolute Tattoo. With three artist and a combined 30+ years experience in their studio and each with their own style and visions, your tattoo possibilities are endless. At Absolute not only will you get premier artwork but you can be assured that your tattoo and piercing needs will all be applied in an extremely clean, sterile and comfortable environment. Phil, one of the studio’s owner has over 14 years experience and specializes in black and gray work, James has studied art for many years and has been a tattoo artist for 4 years with color and lettering as his specialty. Jay, the studio’s other owner; specializes in color tattoos and he is also the studio’s body piercer with 13 years of experience under his belt. Their work is of such high quality that many of NFL’s Tampa Bay Bucs come here to get their tattoo “fix”. When a studio has clientele that are not only famous but make the drive from Tampa to the small town of Crystal River to get tattooed you can be assured that you are making the right choice with Absolute Custom Tattoo and Piercing studio. they now offer tattoo themed swimsuits, mens and womens clothing, handbags, sunglasses, and additional accessories. They also offer a wide variety of body jewelry. Make the choice, take the step and put your skin in the skilled steady hands of the incredible staff that IS Absolute Custom Tattoo and Piercing. With summer specials such as $20 piercings and with the mention of this ad a 20% discount on tattoos. don’t hesitate, open your mind to the possibilities and get your “tattoo/piercing on”. Summer 2012 15
Fine Arts
by melissa hardee
Fine Art is like that of most things in this world in that it is in the “eye of the beholder”. Art itself is a cornucopia of views, thoughts, colors, ideas and expression of the artist. Bryan Collins and his colorful, eye-catching but with a hint of darkness behind it artwork is Fine Art with an Edge. Bryan and his work grabbed the attention of the Town & Country Guide at a local art show during the Pioneer Days in High Springs, FL. One couldn’t help stopping to take in the magnificence that is Bryan Collins’ artwork. To understand his style you first need to understand or at the very least take a glimpse into the journey that has brought him to this point in his career. At a very early age Bryan understood what art could do for the soul of one’s being and thus knew that he did indeed want to be an artist; not just dabble in it but live it. He realized that it could be a refuge and/or a release. With this early knowledge he became engrossed in everything art; including the different styles of some of the art world’s legendary artist. His teen years saw that art didn’t have to be “black and white” but instead whatever his heart and expression desired. He delved into the world of comics and became greatly influenced by the mindset and workings of Tim Burton. With the infinite number of influential genres, mediums and artist; the direction in which Bryan could take his passion of art were limitless, he need only decide. When asked what his favorite medium is, Bryan stated that he is “obsessed with Prismacolor pencils”. He was introduced to them in the 80’s while in middle school by a senior mentor and so his obsession was born. He only in the past 5 years began to really get into painting. Bryan had, while in college decided that painting wasn’t for him after taking a painting class, trying oil paints as his medium and failing the class. He was urged by friends to give painting another shot but this time he chose acrylics; happy that he listened and inevitably opening up another outlet for his growing artistic talent.
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Aside from the Prismacolor pencils and acrylics, his additional favorite mediums and techniques include scratch board as well as recently working with and painting on wood and sculpting. Just as his views, expression and artistic ideas continue to grow so does his work and his curiosity. Without curiosity; life, art and all that falls in between would cease to progress and therefore the old phrase of “learn from your mistakes” and “life’s lessons” would be meaningless. If we lose our curiosity in life we have then lost our desire and passion to search and learn. Bryan Collins is dedicated to keeping his artistic hand honed and at peak performance with a regimen of sketching, painting, sculpting, drawing and any or all of his outlets of art on a daily basis. By doing this Bryan and his art will continue to progress and evolve. He is persistent in staying true to his artwork by keeping it traditional. Traditional in the sense that unlike most things in this world he won’t let his work fall prey to technology. By staying true to his craft and always keeping it “real”, Bryan will continue on this surreal path that is his dream; being an artist. Bryan, at a very young age already knew and so told his parents that he wanted to be an artist when he grew up. At this stage in his life he looks back and realizes that this dream seemed and sounded preposterous but that “all good dreams are”, he says. Bryan said, “I equate being a full-time artist to living on another planet”. He knows that it all seems impossible but says, “With the proper resources, endless support from family and friends and a tenacious desire to make it happen, it can be done but one will always require maintenance, upkeep, and modification to stay successful”. With this insight don’t be afraid to go after your dreams, big or small, preposterous or not; do as they say and “Live the Impossible Dream”. We all have some form of art in ourselves, how we choose to express it is the only difference. So Express Your Art, Live Your Art, Be Your Art!!!! To get a closer look at and to see more of the artistic talent that is Bryan Collins visit www.bryancollinsgallery.com.
Summer 2012 17
ROLLER DERBY
By Melissa hardee
Roll into “The Edge” with Roller Derby but be sure to leave your stereotypes of the women of this sport at the gate. As a newbie to this sport (as a fan), I had a certain image/ perception about roller derby girls. Let me be the first to tell you that all of those thoughts got tossed right out of the window after meeting them; in particular the Gainesville Roller Rebels, in person. You are about to be “knocked off your feet”, so to speak by this sport and the magnitude of the women that put themselves; heart, mind, soul and body at the mercy and excitement of this thing called Roller Derby. Roller derby has been around for more than 80 years and has seen its ups and downs. With this many rounds around the “track of time” it has revolved and evolved in, around and with the times. It was invented by a man named Leo Seltzer in 1935 during the depression era as more of a marathon competition and an attraction that was low budget and low cost to see and attend. It could last for weeks or months and during a time when food, shelter and work were so hard to come by, this really was a lifesaver for many individuals as well as providing weary minds some enjoyment and off of the sadness that plagued this time period. Only two years after its inception, roller derby was given a new set of wheels. Gone was the marathon style competition and in its place the beginning of a team sport. From this point on the sport would never be the same; it would become bigger, better and “badder” than anyone could have imagined. It was excitedly proclaimed that this was the first sport ever in which women were given and playing by the same rules as men. The 40’s and 50’s saw roller derby on TV for the first time and was viewed as fashionable. The 60’s and early 70’s brought about a new set of rules; the incorporation of football-like moves to the rink. The mid 70’s until the late 80’s didn’t see roller derby, not televised that is. However, there were teams that still played and took it upon themselves to make sure the sport continued. In the 90’s this sport began its televised comeback and but was viewed as, wrestling on skates instead of a team sport that showcased the speed, agility, strategy, athleticism and most importantly the team work of these women. In 2001 roller derby, specifically flat track derby began and has continued its “full speed ahead” attitude. In 2004 the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA) was started with the purpose and goal of exposing roller derby for what it really is; A SPORT. 18
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WFTDA has and continues to grow at a steady pace; with a number of apprentice/amateur teams under it. One of these teams is the Gainesville Roller Rebels. The Rebels began in 2007 and have grown into the amazing group of women athletes they are today. These women come from all walks of life and are the reason that my entire view has done a complete turn-a-round. They are strong, unified, charitable, professional, supportive and athletic women whom love the sport and all that it entails. They don’t get paid for playing; giving you yet another glimpse at the dedication they have for and to their sport. Their backgrounds, to name a few consist of nurses, graduate students, researchers and the list goes on and on in this fashion. The Rebels don’t discriminate against anyone that wants to give roller derby a try. If this is you, “gearing up” is going to be important. The GRR league is always looking for new talent and the opportunity to teach others all the positives that derby has to offer. Get all your gear and all things derby at Wicked Skatewear on their site www. wickedskatewear.com or Pivot Star Designs at www.pivotstar.com . Don’t forget to check out Gift Horse (gifthorsedowntown.com) for your Vintage & Ethical Apparel in Gainesville and Volta Coffee, Tea & Chocolate (www.voltacoffee.com) for your beverage needs. GRR (Gainesville Roller Rebels) are dedicated to their community and doing whatever they can to help out. They help raise money for charities, have blood drives, provide community services and all out of the kindness of their hearts for love of their community and those that reside in it. Along with the community awareness they have GRR looks after their “sisters” on the team. They have a separate fund that they raise money for that provides for their uninsured injured players. This is that sisterhood bond that they all believe in with such fierceness; shining through. Roller derby is a rough and tough sport providing a challenging outlet for the players of the Gainesville Roller Rebels and all those that pour their hearts into it. Players describe this as the most challenging thing they have ever done but one they wouldn’t change, for the exact same reason. One player summed up the injuries incurred during practices and bouts in just a few words, “ NO PAIN, NO GLORY”. This falls into line just like anything else in life; with the good comes the bad, with failure comes success and so on. For more information on the Gainesville Roller Rebels; bouts, news, player spotlights, ticket information, ways to show your support and everything GRR visit www. gainesvillerollerrebels.com. Talking to these women has been amazing. They are an incredible group of individuals working together as a team for common goals. This is something that we should all strive to do. Be a rebel; gather up your courage, your strength, your determination and dedication and don’t let life live you but instead live life to the fullest. Summer 2012 19
Who’s your favorite person? By Jennifer Wright
When I was very young and got taken from my biological parents, Suzi Wright then stepped up to the plate and took me under her wing and gave me a better life. She taught me the meaning of love and respect. She taught me God’s Word. She put food in my stomach. She put a roof over my head. She makes sure I have clothes to wear. She know just about everything of all her children. When I first came to her, I thought she wouldn’t get along with me, but for 10 years she did. I have been adopted my Ms. Suzi and 7 years we have been together. Suzi’s a great woman everybody should have a mom just like her.
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Three Well Kept Secrets By Melissa Hardee Sun Screenin’, Beach Bummin’ and Sun Bathin’, screams three of Florida’s beautiful beaches. Blue Mountain Beach along the Florida panhandle’s scenic route 30-A in Santa Rosa Beach, Vilano Beach along the coast in downtown St. Augustine and Caladesi Island one of Florida’s completely natural islands along the Gulf near Clearwater Beach. These beaches may not be right around the corner, don’t let that stop you from packing for the weekend and taking the drive to visit them. They are all well worth the time and drive. You cannot beat the view as you walk onto a beach and look out into the blue vastness that is the ocean. When deciding what beach to visit base your decision on the variations that each of these beaches offer, such as type of sand, color of sand, type of water and of course location ( lodging, after beach fun, shopping, dining, etc.) Blue Mountain Beach on 30-A in beautiful Santa Rosa Beach has soft white sand with beautiful blue green water. With a location that is surrounded by more than you could hope to do in a weekend or even a week. If you take a short drive from here to the small town of Freeport, FL you can visit the E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center on Nokuse Plantation. This educational, student and family oriented learning center goals are to educate its visitors on the importance of biodiversity as well as encourage conservation, preservation and restoration. For your shopping and dining experience the possibilities are too many to count as you drive along beautiful 30-A and/ or if you decide to venture out onto Hwy 98 and take in the cities Sandestin and Destin. Whatever the plan or if you’re going with the flow, Let The Fun Begin at Blue Mountain Beach. Picture Below: Blue Mountain Beach, FL
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Picture above: Vilano Beach, FL
Picture above: Caladesi Island, FL
Vilano Beach near downtown St. Augustine, gives the beachcomber the illusion of just sand. The sand is actually mixed with millions upon millions of tiny shells and pieces of shells. The ones closer to and in the water, have been softened by the consistency of the water running over them for many years. So if you or whomever you are with are shell scavengers, this is definitely the place for you. Vilano Beach for a fee also provides passes so that you can drive over the shell flooring to just that right spot. Make it a point to stop by the Visitor’s Center, it is only a few blocks from the beach. Make sure you gather up the vast amount of information and activities that is charming, cultural and historical St. Augustine. Caladesi Island National Park is raw natural beauty at its finest. The accessibility of this natural island near Clearwater Beach is only by ferry; adding to the adventure and beauty of such a place. It is important to know that handicap accessibility is available upon requestwith a quick phone call. Everyone should be able to experience the 3 miles of beach that all but screams to the sun loving spirit in us. The sand is like flour and the water a pristine bluegreen as you look up from your sunbathing into the wondrous vastness that is the Gulf. Thinking it cannot get any better; think again. Caladesi Island offers an array of activities to satisfy the soul in all who choose this beautiful location. To get the full and complete lists of activities that awaits you, as well as additional information on Caladesi Island National Park’s glory visit www.floridastateparks.org/caladesiisland/. What are you waiting for? Summer is here so gather your beach bag and gear and take the drive to one or all of the very beautiful and all very different types of beaches mentioned. Now that you are prepared, informed and beach bound the only thing awaiting you is the sun, sand and beautiful waters of your chosen location/s. Have fun, be safe and ALWAYS remember to protect yourself with your preferred SPF sunscreen. Summer 2012 23
Roll your old 401(K)
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Member SIPC www.edwardjones.com
Independent Sales Representative
Shop Avon at Lesley Wickboldt home or in 352-233-7085 your office with personal delivery & guaranteed satisfaction. tiggerpooh9195@yahoo.com http://www.youravon.com/lwickboldt Interested in building a career by mentoring others? Contact me.
352-486-1555
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Arbonne Pure. Safe. Beneficial.
Susan Wigglesworth Arbonne Independent Consultant ID# 18258279 sjwiggles@yahoo.com www.gators.myarbonne.com Ask me how to get 20% off & $100 product free
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We feature diverse menu options with a theme of Key West Style Southern Cuisine. Mon-Sat: 7am-10pm Sun: 9am-3pm Ph:(352) 472-7353 25461 W. Newberry Rd. Newberry, FL 32669
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313 South Main Street Chiefland, FL 32626 (352) 490-9523 Tuesday–Sunday1pm-9pm We have Old Fashioned Soda Fountain Drinks!
Try our sugar-free flavors that won’t raise your blood sugar or lbs! Summer 2012 25
Helping Hands Massage Therapy - Esthetics - Boutique Helping Hands is the place to go to “Look good...feel better.” Born and raised in Gilchrist county, Laura L. Cribbs, LMT (Licensed Massage Therapist), LE (Licensed Esthetician), is the owner of Helping Hands in Bell, FL. Laura is dedicated to “helping” her town and its residents through her services. She has been a massage therapist located in Bell, since 2008 and esthetician as of 2009. She was able to open her private practice; Helping Hands in Bell in 2011 with the goal of providing quality, point specific, helpful and affordable services to this quaint town and the surrounding areas. Big city doesn't mean better services. It is important for prospective clients of Helping Hands to know this and take the drive to Bell to experience for themselves the quality of care provided here. As an added bonus Laura provides her clients with in home/office visits by appointment thus giving you, the client another example of how much she cares about YOU and the benefits of her profession. Whether you are suffering from Fibromyalgia, Migraines, back pain due to injury, chronic pain or the regular everyday pains, she can help. She understands the fear of going to someone whom doesn't know how to deal with individuals that suffer from problems such as these and the added pain that will be caused during and will most likely follow a massage session done incorrectly. She is in the business of helping you feel better with “hands on” techniques to soothe those troublesome aches and pains. Massages and those that provide them are a dime a dozen and this is why it is so important to find a massage therapist that you can trust and connect with. Look no further than Helping Hands and you will have found this in Laura Cribbs. If you haven’t been persuaded as of yet then delve into the abyss of healing properties that can benefit an individual whom puts themselves in the competent and extremely capable hands of Laura Cribbs. Massages, more importantly Therapeutic Massages have been proven to decrease anxiety, fatigue, depression and of course pain thus decreasing the need or all together need for certain medications especially when done on a regular basis. With the decrease in these ailments comes an increase in properties such as circulation, rangeof-motion, joint function and in most cases improved sleep. As you can see the benefits are endless and can leave you feeling more alive, more yourself and much better. 26 www.facebook.com/TownandCountryGuideMagazine
As an esthetician she provides such services as teeth whitening, facials, body and facial waxing, air brush make-up, spray tanning and Anti-Aging Photo Light Therapy; a non-invasive procedure that utilizes ultraviolet lighting to target skin cells to soften fine lines, even out skin tone, decrease pore size therefore improving the overall texture of the skin. This therapy has also been proven to decrease the signs of certain skin abnormalities such as psoriasis and eczema. Anti-Aging Facials with Photo Light Therapy were only available by dermatologists and doctors until a couple of years ago. Laura added this to her growing list of services in 2011 thus making it more accessible to the public as well as giving her another “gift” that she could provide to her clientele. Why, because she cares and understands the stressors that life and everyday living can put the human body through. Hence her motto of “Look good...feel better.” Helping Hands is also home to a unique boutique. Unique because of its versatility and range of products offered. Laura is dedicated to providing her client base with products to fit their skin, healing and beauty needs such as: •Homeopathic, organic and natural spa related products •Massage oil candles •Organic soaps and a wide range of bath confections •Magnetic therapy products •Biofreeze •Repechage The majority of her boutique’s products are either made by Laura herself or local crafters. Because her boutique features so many handmade items, the freedom to provide customer specified product needs is simply a request away. Her services are available Tuesday-Saturday with varying hours to accommodate clients. Monthly Specials and Gift certificates are also available. Please call (352) 240-5792 to schedule appointments. Check out www.facebook.com/HelpingHandsLMT for discounts and special promotions. Don’t hesitate; let the healing begin with a visit to or from Laura Cribbs, LMT, LE owner and operator of Helping Hands.
(352) 240-5792 969 South Main Street Bell, FL 32619 Summer 2012 27
Let the SON Shine on Your Summer
urning Point
Sunday Morning Learning 9am Sunday Morning Worship 10:14am Wednesday Night “Deeper” 7pm
We are A non-Denominational Faith Community
“Friends Helping Friends Follow Jesus” Rev. Kent W. Zimmermann
(352)463-1882
www.facebook.com/Turning-Point-Ministry/99918145994
To learn about programs and services, go online to www.bnaigainesville.com or call (352) 376-1508
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By Rabbi David Kaiman “Summertime...and the living is easy....” is the popular Gershwin melody and indeed we can feel the pace of life slow down here in North Central Florida during these summer months. Nevertheless, I know that for many parents this is a time of the year when life is infinitely more complicated since children are out of school and vacation time is looming large. There can be lots of family obligations this time of the year as well. After all, we’re in Florida and folks love to pass this way as they are on their way to or from Disney and South Florida. Every once in awhile I will hear a family share with me their complicated summer schedule that might include visits to Grandma and Grandpa as well as trying to fit in ambitious summer trips that encompass great educational experiences for the kids. On the other hand the longer days and warmer weather can bring us some unique opportunities as well to nurture our families, our spirits and our souls. This is the perfect time of the year for long walks in nature and backyard barbeque. A day drive to the beach can be memorable and meaningful when it is taken at a slower pace. Oh yes, the car ride can seem interminable but it can also be a time of talking and sharing. Try shutting down the personal electronics on a little mini-vacation and try playing a game or singing songs like we did in the ‘olden days’. That would really be a way to make the summertime experience more special. Why not plan a summer where the emphasis is not on how much we can do but rather a summer where emphasis is on the quality of the time we spend with each other? That would be a summer of true spiritual renewal and ultimately a summer where “the living is easy”! Summer 2012 29
Helping Hands Massage Therapy- Esthetics- Boutique
Look good...feel better. Bell, FL
(352) 240-5792
MA55252 - MM23849
Laura L. Cribbs, LMT, LE www.facebook.com/HelpingHandsLMT
Claudette’s Pet Grooming
Bronson, FL (352)486-3999
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Absolute Tattoo Professional Tattoo & Body Piercing New Location: 15 NW US Highway 19 Crystal River, FL
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Curls and Coffee Swirls By Bryan Collins