The Village Journal by The Village Journal

Vol. 12 No. 1 SP OTLIGH T ON NEIGH BORS

Matthew and Stephanie Richeson WHY FRACTURE CEO

Abhi Lokesh IS THE REAL DEAL

INSIDE THE WALLS

OF 352

FUSS-FREE

SPRING BREAK

DESTINATIONS

A Passion FOR PICKLING

Margot's Impeccable Pickles

What's Inside

44 42 ON THE COVER Fracture CEO

Abhi Lokesh

Footstone Photography

on winning and losing in business.

CO V ER S TO RIES

20 30

48 60

Spotlight on Neighbors: The Richeson Family

Spring 2016 Fashion Trends: Playful Escapism

Inside the Walls of 352

Ask a Fitness Expert: Brinn Strange

TheVillageJournal.com | 55

CON TE NTS

Robert Hedges

IN EVERY ISSUE 14 Haile Village Center Directory 18 Haile Market Square Directory 38 Real Estate Market Watch 40 Community Map 70 Calendar of Events 73 Snapshots 79 Register of Advertisers 80 From the Kitchen of Dean Cacciatore

Gilchrist Club

Waldorf Astoria Orlando

life 42 Why Fracture CEO

Abhi Lokesh is the Real Deal

48 Spring 2016 Fashion Trends: Playful Escapism

taste 54 A Passion for Pickling:

local 20 Spotlight on Neighbors: The Richeson Family

24 The Tonic of Wildness:

Exploring the Gilchrist Club

30 Inside the

Walls of 352

Margot's Impeccable Pickles

wellness 60 Ask a Fitness Expert: Brinn Strange

explore 64 4 Fuss-Free

Spring Break Destinations

6 | CONTENTS

E DITOR’ S NO TE

Gainesville is a place that’s got a lot happening for it. And I’m not just talking about the thriving business community, the nationally ranked university, or even that recent “reality” television show. If you dig a little deeper you’ll discover, as we at The Village Journal have, that there are several “regular” folks doing some incredible things. It’s people like Abhi Lokesh (p. 42), Margot Wilder (p. 54), Iryna Kaishcheva (p. 30) and the Richeson family (p. 20) that make our city shine. They’re part of a dynamic and vibrant, yet humble community that’s creating something special. Sure, their stories may make me a little envious, (working with Michael Bublé? Yes, please!) but more than anything, I’m inspired. And I’m pretty confident after reading about them, you will be too.

A few behind the scenes photos from the making of this issue. Channing Williams editor@thevillagejournal.com

Top: Paul Privette and Channing Williams at the cover shoot. Bottom: Robert Hedges at Barre Forte.

8 | EDITORS NOTE

@thevillagejournal

@villagejournal

INSIDE SCOOP Hear from the people featured in this issue.

@villagejournal

@VillageJournal

#VJCONNECT

Wilderness Hikes & Cozy Cabin

A Boat & the Open Sea

Sun, Sand & Salt Water

Spring Break Favs

Snowy Slopes & Skis

According to VJ Staffers

Fracture @fractureme 2016 is opening to a great start with some local street art at the High Dive Bar & Venue! #Mural by Jesus, Carrie Martinez and Tim Malles

Stop by our Pinterest “Party Inspiration” board for quick and easy DIY décor and recipes.

Bangles galore! On site as shoppers hit the jackpot at Pink Narcissus Bourbon and Boweties trunk sale.

Margot's Impeccable Pickles Pickles and Zoomin' hot sauce back in stock at Tipple's Brews! Pick some up for this cold winter weekend.

Brad Schultz Come join me next Saturday with your little one...or by yourself! This 'Sweetheart Apron' is so cute and perfect for Valentine's Day! Hope to see you there!

10 | CONNECT

We enjoyed attending the Women of Distinction Art Gallery Opening at Santa Fe College. Pictured here: DeeDee Smith, Ester Tibbs, Cynthia & G.W. Mingo.

thevillagejournal.com Head to the web for more stories, resources and updates, or drop us a line to share your thoughts.

CON TR I BU TO RS

PUBLISHER:

Ryan Frankel EDITOR:

Channing Williams DESIGN:

Jean Piot, Senior Graphic Designer Alexandra Villella, Graphic Designer Jennifer Kirkpatrick, Graphic Designer Nita Chester, Production Manager ADVERTISING:

Kilty Bryson, Senior Account Executive

Brinn Strange Brinn Strange is a certified Barre instructor and the owner of Barre Forte, a fitness studio located in Magnolia Parke. She loves teaching Barre and BodyFlow classes to the Gainesville community, instructing classes seven days a week, both in her studio and donation-based classes around town. When not at the studio (which is rare), she also enjoys spending time at local breweries with her husband, taking her dogs to the park, and training for triathlons.

SPECIAL CONTRIBUTORS:

Dean Cacciatore Coleen DeGroff CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:

Lynna Lawrence Dante Lima Kendal Norris PHOTOGRAPHY:

Footstone Photography Iryna Kanishcheva Kara Winslow Patricia Bishop Photography Robert Hedges DIGITAL MEDIA:

Mehgan McLendon, Webmaster Jillian Kirby, Social Media Strategist Claire Fuller, Intern ACCOUNTING:

Diana Schwartz-Levine, Bookkeeper

Brad Schultz Brad Schultz is a fashion designer and sewing instructor in Gainesville, FL specializing in special occasion apparel. His work is a fusion of clever design and beautiful, couturequality execution. Each dress is a thoughtful collaboration between the designer and the client celebrating her unique beauty, style and personality.

12 | CONTRIBUTORS

For advertising or licensing information call (352) 331-5560 or visit TheVillageJournal.com

105 SW 128th Street, Suite 200 Newberry, FL 32669 TheVillageJournal.com The Village Journal is published quarterly in Gainesville, Florida. Copyright 2016, all rights reserved by Frankel Media Group. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising. Frankelâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;Media Group is an independent entity, and neither it, its agents, employees, nor its publication The Village Journal, have any associations with The Haile Village Center, Haile Plantation, its developers, employees or tenants. Printed in the USA. ÂŠ2016 Frankel Media Group.

H AI L E V I L L AG E CENT ER D IRECT O RY

ARCHITECTURE Jennifer Langford, AIA, CNU, PA . . . . . 371-7187 The Sustainable Design Group . . . . . . 327-3899

COMMUNITY

La Escuela Spanish Learning Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 514-4409

EVENT SERVICES

Haile Equestrian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 665-7433

Cacciatore Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 692-0701

Haile Village Farmers Market . . . . . . . . 363-2233

Plantation Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 371-1600

DANCE Cameron Dancenter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 335-7785

DINING

FINANCIAL American Optimal Advisors . . . . . . . . . 505-5632 Holloway Wealth Management . . . . . . 337-8177 Markey Wealth Management . . . . . . . . 338-1560

Cacciatore Pizza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 692-0701

SunTrust Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 375-6868

Haile Village Bistro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 378-0721

Tillman Hartley, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 335-9015

Limerock Road Neighborhood Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 240-6228 Patticakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 376-1332

FURNISHINGS & GIFTS The Perfect Gift . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 375-8000

Queens Arms Pub . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 378-0721 Volcanic Sushi & Sake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 363-6226

EDUCATION Abacus Learning Center . . . . . . . . . . . . 376-1492 14 | DIRECTORY

HEALTH & BEAUTY Cj's Plantation Salon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 331-0400 Haile Barber Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 374-2005 Haile Village Spa & Salon . . . . . . . . . . . 335-5025

Hang Ten Nail Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 331-5545 Salon PhD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 338-1011 Sarah’s Hair Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 226-6909 Serendipity Spa & Salon . . . . . . . . . . . . 378-9088

JEWELRY Sander’s Jewelers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 331-6100

LEGAL C. David Coffey, P.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 335-8442 Warner, Sechrest & Butts, P.A. . . . . . . . 373-5922 Law Offices of Allan H. Kaye, P.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 375-0816 Law Offices of Steven Kalishman . . . . 376-8600 Mark J. Fraser, Attorney at Law . . . . . . 367-0444 Niesen, Price, Worthy, Campo, Frasier & Blakey, P.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 373-9031 White & Crouch, P.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 372-1011

MEDICAL Aguirre & Sappington Orthodontics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 378-2545 Alix L. Baxter, M.D., P.A. Psychiatry and Psychotherapy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 373-2525 Benet Clinical Assessment . . . . . . . . . . 375-2545 Burnell Acupuncture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 367-0900 CFK Cardiac Tech, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . 332-3760 Haile Endodontics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 374-2999 Galvan Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 327-3561 Haile Medical Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 367-9602 Haile Plantation Family Dental . . . . . . . 375-6116 Haile Plantation Family Medicine (UF) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 265-0944 Infectious Disease Consultants . . . . . . 375-0008 Kelly Aissen, PhD, LMHC . . . . . . . . . . . . 278-7008 Kent Wegner, M.D., Psychiatry & Neurology . . . . . . . . . . . . . 333-1109 Kids Only Dental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 335-7777 Lori Libert Physical Therapy . . . . . . . . . 222-1583 Linda Goodwin, PhD, LMHC, Counselor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 373-0030 Options Medical, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 317-6379 TheVillageJournal.com | 15 15

H AIL E V I LLAGE C E NT E R D I R E C T OR Y Speech & Language Center at Haile Plantation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 284-3323 The Haile Psychiatry & Psychotherapy Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-0551 William E. Beaty PhD, Psychologist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 331-5520

PET CARE Haileâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Angels Pet Rescue . . . . . . . . . . 262-4232 Haile Plantation Animal Clinic . . . . . . . . 377-6003 Shampoodles by Jan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 336-7236 Sweet Paws Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 264-8995

REAL ESTATE Bosshardt Realty Services . . . . . . . . . . . 371-6100 Coldwell Banker, M.M. Parrish Realtors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 335-4999 Haile Plantation Sales & Information Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 335-4999 Management Specialists Services . . . 335-7848 Premier Management Associates, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 379-4641 Henderson Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . 339-3478 Thomas Group Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .226-8228

TITLE & INSURANCE AmeriLife Insurance Marketing . . . . . . . . 371-8213 Brightway Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 519-1900 New York Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 379-8171 Homestead Insurance, Agent Ann Toms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 505-6565

TECHNOLOGY Advanced Turbine Support, LLC . . . . . . 302-2364 E-Tech Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-785-5993 Neptuno Data Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 514-4215

16 | DIRECTORY

H AI L E M ARKET S Q UARE D IRECT O RY

BEAUTY Great Clips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 331-1005

INSURANCE Bo Greene Insurance Agency. . . . . . . 333-1123

Venus Nail Spa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 331-3878 Salon 119 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 505-3819

DINING Bamboos. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 331-1522

MAILING SERVICE Haile Mail. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 331-4447

MEDICAL

I Love NY Pizza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 333-6185

Archer Dental. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 3 1 - 4 7 3 1

Looseyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bar & Table. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 331-6620

Haile Market Therapy &

Subway.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 332-1707 Sweet Cup Frozen Yogurt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

DRY CLEANING On the Spot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 332-9494

FINANCIAL Florida Credit Union. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 7 7 - 4 1 4 1 Wells Fargo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 331-8239

FITNESS Sweat Life Fitness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 692-4926 Sweat Box. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 692-4926

GROCERY Publix. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 3 1 - 1 0 3 7

18 | DIRECTORY

Behavioral Medicine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 331-0020 Kinetix Physical Therapy . . . . . . . . . . . . 505-6665 UF Health PRC at Haile . . . . . . . . . . . . . 265-0944

PHARMACY Publix Pharmacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 331-1086

SHOPPING Haile Jewelry & Loans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 333-1905 Haile Kitchen & Bath. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 745-3456

SPIRITS The Spirit Shoppe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 331-7274

REAL ESTATE Tommy Williams Homes. . . . . . . . . . . . . 331-8180 Viking Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 333-9333

S PO TLIG H T O N NEIG H B ORS

MATTHEW AND STEPHANIE RICHESON:

A MARVELOUS MIX OF MUSIC AND MEDICINE By Kendal Norris | Patricia Bishop Photography

20 20 | LOCAL

LOCAL

ot everyone is blessed with the talented touch of a chiropractic doctor or a classically-trained violinist. But Matthew and Stephanie Richeson share this unique gift; they just express it differently through their healing and entertaining work. A native of the suburbs of Chicago, Stephanie’s desire after high school was to attend a Christian college. That decision took her to Florida College in Tampa where she met her future husband and Gainesville native, Matthew Richeson. After obtaining a scholarship to major in violin performance at the University of South Florida, however, Stephanie transferred there and graduated in 2001. It was a banner year: graduation, a move back to Chicago, and marriage to her college sweetheart. Shortly thereafter, Matthew and Stephanie moved to Davenport, Iowa where Matthew studied chiropractic medicine at Palmer College of Chiropractic. Stephanie taught violin full time and began performing with the Quad City Symphony. She recalls, “When I found teaching and playing in public to be so rewarding, I was even more grateful to my mother. She was the one who enthusiastically encouraged me to practice and do my best throughout my musical training.” After Matthew graduated with a Doctor of Chiropractic degree in 2005, the couple moved back to Gainesville to pursue their careers and start a family. That family now includes son Maxim (eleven), who plays the viola, daughter Sasha (eight), who plays the violin, and son Roman (three), who also plays the violin. After living in the northwest section of town for three years, the Richesons bought a house in Haile in 2009. Since then they’ve taken full advantage of the friendly, accommodating atmosphere of the

neighborhood where their children participate in basketball, gymnastics and swimming. “There are about four families close by with an open-door policy; our children are constantly running back and forth in the course of their various activities,” Matthew says. “It’s a truly wholesome place to raise our kids, and we’re grateful to have found a home here.” Interestingly, Matthew is a third-generation chiropractor, and both of his brothers (Marcus and Micah) are chiropractic doctors in Florida. Having joined the well-established Chiropractic Associates of Gainesville in 2005, Matthew and his partner, Dr. Matthew Cline, provide a comprehensive diagnostic and treatment plan for individual needs that focuses on what causes pain, as well as relieving pain. “We added a few elements of medicine that complement our natural approach to healthcare,” Matthew explained. “We now have a multi-discipline clinic that includes a medical side offering regenerative cell therapy, corrective bracing, and physical therapy.” With the addition of these practices, the doctors opened the Physical Medicine Associates of Gainesville in 2015. The sister clinic offers something called PRP and TheVillageJournal.com | 21

Stephanie has also played with opera orchestras, the Stuttgart Ballet, Celtic Woman and Il Divo. “One really fun gig was a recent private concert given by Il Divo in St. Petersburg,” she recalls. “And I was privileged to perform last year in Jacksonville with one of my longtime favorites, Natalie Merchant.”

PX50 Therapy: an injectable regenerative tissue matrix solution that leaves the patient feeling relief after only one treatment. Because it enhances the body’s natural ability to heal itself, it’s a therapy with the possibility of eliminating the need for steroid injections and joint replacement surgery. Doctors Richeson and Cline are adding allergy testing and safe weight loss therapy services as well. They hope to expand their practice of integrating both chiropractic and medicine and have plans to open at least two more satellite clinics in north central Florida in the near future. While her husband focuses on helping his patients, Stephanie is continuing her career as a performing artist. As a versatile acoustic and electric violinist—with a repertoire that spans the Baroque to the modern era—Stephanie has performed individually and with major musical stars, including Tommy Lee, Michael Bublé, David Foster, and Mary J. Blige. In an HSN TV concert that aired in January 2014, she shared the stage with the magnificent vocalist, Josh Groban. Of a recent Florida performance in which she accompanied Johnny Mathis, Stephanie comments, “It was a thrill to play with this musical legend. He was so relaxed in his style, and the voice coming out of the microphone was like silk.” 22 | LOCAL

Stephanie’s musical performance venues vary from small local concerts at the Haile Homestead House (a duet with daughter Sasha) to major arena-filled concerts in Miami, Jacksonville and Tampa of progressive rock style performances by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. She notes, “I’ve done Florida tours with this bi-coastal American band for several years now; they hire six string players for wonderfully high-energy, glamorous and exciting shows.” When Stephanie is doing Florida concert tours, she acknowledges how fortunate she and Matthew are to have supportive family members close by to help with the care of their children. Besides homeschooling her three children, Stephanie currently has ten private violin students and is the Assistant Concertmaster for the Gainesville Orchestra, with whom she has performed for nine years. Stephanie observes, “This body of musicians is a great cultural asset to our community. And the conductor, Evans Haile, has made a tremendous effort to introduce a variety of musical styles to the wider public.” Last year, the Gainesville Orchestra even produced a concert incorporating circus music and a high wire act with bicycles—a multi-sensory phenomenon for its audience. Maestro Haile schedules an annual children’s concert at the end of each school year, with free bus transportation for the students to the Phillips Center.

Another important element of the Richesons’ collective life is their membership at Glen Springs Church of Christ in Gainesville. Both parents teach classes for the nondenominational congregation. “I was raised in this church, and it continues to be central to helping us maintain our spiritual values,” Matthew notes. “As far as priorities go, I’m a husband and dad first and a chiropractor second.” It also seems that wife and mom Stephanie’s talents are not limited to the musical realm. Matthew says, “In the fourteen years since we’ve been married, I doubt that she’s repeated ten meals. She’s an absolutely amazing and creative cook; we’re so spoiled!”

When vacation times roll around, Matthew, Stephanie, and their children can be found snow skiing and snowboarding in Brighton, Utah or enjoying the sights and savoring the sweets to be found in historic St. Augustine. They also like to tour the world-class museums of Stephanie’s hometown of Chicago. “Matthew and I take time each year to celebrate our wedding anniversary in the Bahamas,” Stephanie shares. “In many ways, it still feels like we’re on our honeymoon.” With years of practice to hone divinelyendowed talents, Matthew and Stephanie Richeson have put together the necessary components for a happy, successful partnership—a uniquely artful blend of medicine, music, family, faith and fun.

TheVillageJournal.com | 23

{ THE TONIC OF

WILDNESS Exploring the Gilchrist Club By Kendal Norris Photos Provided by the Gilchrist Club

{

Hunting is a pursuit as old as humankind, rooted in the basic necessity of survival. But it has evolved over time into an outdoor pursuit with offshoots into nature-oriented activities the entire family can enjoy. Just thirty minutes west of Gainesville in Trenton is the Gilchrist Club, a 27,000-acre private hunting and recreational club on prime timberland that offers its members a stimulating variety of options for outdoor entertainment. When Bob Menke and David Meehan bought the initial tract of land there in 1989, it served as a weekend getaway for quail hunting. In the following years, its use branched out to include deer, hog, alligator, and turkey hunts. As the owners’ vision for a multi-use private club evolved, construction expanded and more acreage was acquired. Today, the Gilchrist Clubs members enjoy individually tailored hunts led by a staff of ten professional guides. The club’s guides are assisted by a kennel of over seventy expertly trained Bird Dogs and Labrador Retrievers. As Sales and Events Manager Heather Mitchell explains, “Half the fun of going out on one of these excursions in nature is watching the incredible talent and high level of training that our dogs possess. They point, wait, and retrieve their game and relish doing what they were born to do. Our guides work consistently with repetition techniques to hone their skills. And when the dogs aren’t hunting, they’re being exercised, worked, and groomed on a regular basis.” The rich vegetation of the Gilchrist Club features hunting stands, a sporting clays course,

and nineteen managed quail fields where an abundance of quail are harvested each year. Upon request, these birds can be processed, cleaned, stored in special coolers, and shipped to members by the club’s staff. All hunts are carefully monitored to ensure the safety of our members and guests, and respect legal limits. The Gilchrist Club’s vast acreage offers four lakes and five lodges with a total of twentyfour en suite rooms complete with fireplaces, pool tables, and soaking tubs, adding to the

ambience of a comfortable retreat after a day’s successful hunting or fishing trip. The Gilchrist Club also offers the world-class Suwannee Lake Restaurant whose cuisine incorporates its own garden-grown produce into a unique, mouthwatering menu. (Reservations are required.) Mitchell notes, “We create an atmosphere of

TheVillageJournal.com | 25

26 | LOCAL

{ “The club is a rather remarkable and expansive place.” Will Irby

luxurious informality, where everyone is treated like family and invited to experience our finelytuned, open-hearted Southern hospitality.” Local writer and sportsman Will Irby is a fifth-generation Floridian with a special appreciation for the Gilchrist Club. “The club is a rather remarkable and expansive place,” he comments. “There’s a pleasant balance struck there—that balance is a bargain made between the club’s more refined lodging and the rugged, authentic outdoor experiences to be found there. All around, it’s old Florida at its best.” Mitchell is helping to develop a social member program at the Gilchrist Club that allows for a maximum number of 100 social members to participate in summer events, dinners, archery, kayaking, tournaments, and other adventures on the club premises. One of these events is the Grandpa and Grandma Camps, where grandparents and their grandchildren can participate jointly in fun-filled outdoor activities. Other activities for social members at the Gilchrist Club include a variety of sporting tournaments, photo safaris, nature tours, geocaching, scavenger hunts, clay target shooting, outdoor laser tag, tomahawk throwing, corn hole, hayrides, and fly fishing. In the evenings, tall tales of the ones that got away can be spun and shared around a roaring campfire and a glass of Cabernet.

TheVillageJournal.com | 27

For the summer season Mitchell is planning lodges on the property. Day membership fee several bed and breakfast events such as a rates apply. birding week and a health and fitness week emphasizing the benefits of outdoor exercise Another area of expanded development at the and healthful cooking classes. There will also Gilchrist Club is hosting an increasing number be scavenger hunts with a list of “find items” of corporate team-building retreats. Company that might include a particular bug or a pine employees can come to the Gilchrist Club cone or a deer antler. to engage in invigorating Geo-caching is another activities that build trust and imaginative outdoor sport camaraderie. that incorporates compass or GPS coordinates to “When people spend a day locate clues; these lead together throwing tomahawks, to more coordinates and shooting clay targets, or simply pre-stashed treasures enjoying a camp fire cook-off, inside boxes hidden in they de-stress and become the woods. (Think of it more productive and creative,” as an Easter egg hunt of Mitchell explains. “Building the forestland variety.) mutual respect and friendship Paddle boarding, kayaking, is an added bonus. After all, in Heather Mitchell walking, and biking on this fast-paced world everyone designated trails are options for those needs some time to just have fun in a beautiful, seeking a more relaxed pace or venue. laid-back, natural environment.”

“...everyone needs some time to just have fun in a beautiful, laidback, natural environment.”

{

According to Member Services Manager Terri Anderson, social members and bed and breakfast guests are invited to enjoy the Gilchrist Club May through September—the hunting off season—by making advanced reservations. Summer accommodations can also be enjoyed at one of the beautiful bed and breakfast-style rooms in the various 28 | LOCAL

With all of its first-class amenities, the Gilchrist Club’s team of employees aim to provide premier service in a genuine and respectful service with a southern flair. Everyone pitches in to make sure members and guests are treated to an unparalleled experience of top-notch sport and what Henry David Thoreau wisely called “the tonic of wildness.”

LOCAL

TheVillageJournal.com | 29

Shadow Health Inc., 201 SE 2nd Ave. // Franco Fasoli

30 | LOCAL

LOCAL

INSIDE THE WALLS By Dante Lima | Photos Iryna Kanishcheva

OF 352

TheVillageJournal.com | 31

“I DECIDED TO WRITE AN OFFER TO THE CITY TO BRING SOMETHING HERE.” Iryna Kanishcheva

rt lives in the spirit of downtown Gainesville. It can be felt by those who have spent time walking its streets – from the atmosphere of the restaurants, to the sounds of strumming buskers or muffled rock music coming from bars. Yet, it was nearly impossible to see it. Art, from a visual standpoint, was secluded to a few galleries, show posters and haphazardly placed stickers on light posts. Last year, Iryna Kanishcheva, a 34-year-old street art enthusiast from Lviv, Ukraine, set out to change that in a big way. She’d spent her adult life living in Ukraine, France and traveling across Europe, a continent that has a more liberated view of art’s range and purpose. She loved seeing art on full display, blending seamlessly between community and commerce in the world’s most heralded urban areas. Shortly after moving to Gainesville in 2013 with her husband, a researcher at the University of Florida, she noticed virtually no traces of the artistic potential she knew existed within the town and UF. “When I came to Gainesville I was disappointed there were no public art projects. We have so many young people here…but no contemporary 32 | LOCAL

The Top, 30 N. Main St. // Pastel

festival or event,” Kanishcheva said. “I decided to write an offer to the city to bring something here.” That proposal was the infancy of the 352walls and Gainesville Urban Art Initiative. The concept was rooted in hiring artists from the region and around the globe to come to Gainesville and reinvent downtown’s most visible vacant walls. Her vision wasn’t just to beautify Gainesville, but to jumpstart its artistic viability as a destination. Outside of Miami, contemporary art is largely foreign to Florida. Though not an artist herself, Kanishcheva, was able to visualize her goals and make them reality. “I was hoping to do one or two murals at the minimum. I started contacting business owners

Loosey’s, 120 SW 1st Ave. // L.E.O.

about the possibility of having international artists paint on their walls. Typically these kinds of festivals aren’t produced by cities but through private organizations, but you can have a wider scope if you go through a city,” she said. “I talked to the city’s cultural department, and everyone loved the project.” The project planning started in earnest in February of 2015. Part of what made 352walls a smooth process was Kanishcheva’s preparedness. She came in with a proposed budget and a list of benefits beyond cool art. Urban art helps stimulate cultural development in cities around the world, it stimulates local economies and even brings art tourism. The city bought in, and a host of sponsors including The City of Gainesville Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Department, Visit Gainesville Tourism Development Office, the Gainesville Community Redevelopment Agency, the Gainesville-Alachua County Art in Public Places Trust, and the state’s Division of Cultural Affairs and Council on the Arts and Culture, who rallied to put together a budget of $125,000. But, the hard part was yet to come: finding artists. Aside from traveling to urban art events such as Art Basel Miami – the world’s premier contemporary art festival – Open Walls Baltimore, Living Walls in Atlanta, and others throughout the state, Kanishcheva had little opportunities to interact face-to-face with the types of artists she wanted to attract. Through perseverance, and great pitch, she helped secure a roster one-by-one. TheVillageJournal.com | 33

Rails to Trails, 231 NW 10th Ave. // Elian

to be known and to publish photos of their murals in Gainesville on famous art blogs and to their followers.” Artist Axel Void, The Bull, 18 SW 1st Ave.

One of the nine international artists who participated in 352walls is a 29-year-old selftaught artist from Buenos Aires, Argentina. Known by just one name, Pastel spent more than a week painting a twopart mural on the side of The Top restaurant downtown this past fall. He takes pride in developing architecture from simple concrete into something beautiful, and like Kanishcheva, believed in the movement to take urban art to a city like Gainesville.

Though the City of Gainesville couldn’t offer much in terms of money in comparison to opportunities in large, metropolitan areas, Kanishcheva sold the artists on the idea of Gainesville’s untapped artistic potential. Artists thrive on the idea of discovery. For an established artist, painting a mural in Paris or London or New York or L.A. provides “I think that the ability to Iryna Kanishcheva big exposure and big develop a mural festival in impact, but it’s merely Gainesville…is something adding to an already deep artistic legacy in super interesting because it means our work those cities. Breaking-in Gainesville, FL as the can adapt, manifest itself wherever it wants, new home of urban art in Florida? That presents and be recognized as another element of an entirely different badge of honor. both culture [and] that which makes up a city,” Pastel said in an interview with WUFT. “At the time we didn’t have good examples of this kind of art. We didn’t have anything to Over the course of about a month last during inspire the students,” she said. “I wanted to the fall of 2015, from Oct. 30th to Nov. 25th, have artists from different countries and have artists from Gainesville, Puerto Rico, Spain, them bring different techniques. I wanted them Argentina, the Dominican Republic, Cuba, and

“IT’S BEEN GREAT FOR US. WE’RE KIND OF FAMOUS NOW.”

34 | LOCAL

Hector Gallery, 702 W. University Ave. // 2Alas

across the U.S. gathered covering nine walls at downtown landmarks like The Bull, Loosey’s Pub, Hi Fi and businesses and structures like Shadow Health and the Downtown Parking Garage, with the 10th wall of the project currently in progress. Seemingly in an instant, Kanishcheva’s big idea had big visibility, and downtown Gainesville was transformed into the kind of visual playground she thought it could be. “It’s been great for us. We’re kind of famous now,” Kanishcheva said. “People who know about this kind of art, they can’t believe we have it in Gainesville. Many people have told me they never had a reason to come downtown and now they’ve come to find the murals. Other people have told me they have guests coming from other towns just to see the murals. We’re a good midway point for urban art between Miami and Atlanta.” Even though Kanishcheva has not performed one brushstroke, the sense of accomplishment is apparent. She can say with confidence, the art initiative has made the downtown Gainesville community a more beautiful place. Like any community activist, her work is not done. She vows to continue to look for empty, forgotten walls in the area that, in her words, “want to look brave.” Bravery, after all, is the first step toward great art. See all of the murals by foot or bike. Visit 352walls.org for a complete list of locations. TheVillageJournal.com | 35

L OC A L

36 | TheVillageJournal.com

TheVillageJournal.com | 37

MARKET WATCH

Chickasaw Way | SW 51st Lane Year Built Sq Foot Bedroom/Bath

1996 1,619

Sold Price

3/2 $235,000

Chickasaw Way | SW 51st Lane Year Built Sq Foot Bedroom/Bath

Sold Price

1999 2,128 3/2 $230,000 Katelyn Lane | SW 98th Drive Year Built Sq Foot Bedroom/Bath

2002 2,180

Sold Price

3/2 $258,000

Haile Village Center | SW 91st Court

Katelyn Lane | SW 98th Drive

Year Built Sq Foot Bedroom/Bath

Sold Price

Year Built Sq Foot Bedroom/Bath

2006 848

$84,000

2003 2,398 4/3 $270,000

1/1

The Links | SW 52nd Avenue Year Built Sq Foot Bedroom/Bath

1998 870

Sold Price

Storeys Round | SW 92nd Terrace Sold Price

1/1 $88,500

Year Built Sq Foot Bedroom/Bath

Sold Price

2006 2,300 3/2.5 $295,000

Plantation Villas | SW 52nd Lane

Hampstead Park | SW 35th Lane

Year Built Sq Foot Bedroom/Bath

Sold Price

1995 1,088 2/2 $107,000

1999 2,393 4/3 $300,000

Plantation Villas | SW 52nd Lane

Spalding Place | SW 50th Road

Year Built Sq Foot Bedroom/Bath

Sold Price

1995 1,203 2/2 $118,000

1993 2,764 4/3 $300,000

Indigo Square | SW 94th Street

Colson Corner | SW 91st Drive

Year Built Sq Foot Bedroom/Bath

Sold Price

1990 1,293 2/2 $158,000

2004 2.576

Laural Park | SW 83rd Terrace

Haile Village Center | SW 91st Drive

Year Built Sq Foot Bedroom/Bath

Sold Price

1983 1,506 3/2 $169,900 Hampstead Park | SW 97th Drive Year Built Sq Foot Bedroom/Bath

Sold Price

4/3 $305,000 Sold Price

1997 1,896 3/3.5 $311,000 Bedford Square | SW 94th Drive Year Built Sq Foot Bedroom/Bath

Sold Price

1997 1,908 3/2 $202,500

2004 2,412

Grahams Mill | SW 91st Terrace

Hampstead Park | SW 38 Lane

Year Built Sq Foot Bedroom/Bath

2002 1,841

Sold Price

3/2.5 $227,500

4/3 $340,000 Sold Price

1998 2,844 4/3 $349,000

Haile Village Center | SW 91st Drive

Bedford Square | SW 94th Drive

Year Built Sq Foot Bedroom/Bath

Sold Price

2003 2,004 3/2.5 $228,000

Sold Price

2004 2,462 4/3 $350,000

A selection of single-family and attached homes sold in Haile Plantation, November 1, 2015 through January 8, 2016. Provided by Coleen DeGroff of RE/MAX Professionals. For the complete list of homes sold in Haile Plantation during this time period, visit thevillagejournal.com/local.

38 | LOCAL

TheVillageJournal.com | 39

H AI L E P L ANT ATIO N CO MMUNIT Y MAP

40 | LOCAL

TheVillageJournal.com | 41

42 | LIFE

LIFE

WHY FRACTURE CEO

h s e k o L Abhi IS THE REAL DEAL

It only took one conversation with Abhi Lokesh to recognize he was an impressive young man. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lived in Saudi Arabia, India, England and New York City. By Dante Lima | Footstone Photography | Kara Winslow

TheVillageJournal.com | 43

e started a non-profit organization to help the AIDS/HIV effort in Swaziland (located in southern Africa) while attending college at the University of Florida, and started his own business with longtime friend Alex Theodore shortly after graduating. The company, Fracture, began in the heart of the recession in 2009 and has since grown to 35 employees.

work in Africa, all while pursuing a bachelor’s in Integrative Biology. At the time in 2008, he was on track to go to medical school until the idea for Fracture was born out of Lokesh and Theodore’s first business failure. “We were trying to come up with different ways to fund non-profit ventures, so we decided to come up with a for-profit company that we’d use as a source,” he said. “We wanted to sell digital art and photography, create like a digital art gallery. But being full-time students with no experience running a business, it made virtually no money.”

That’s just Lokesh’s abridged bio. In the flow of conversation he’s as well-spoken and direct as you’ll encounter from a 27 year-old. He addresses you by name instantly. He even repeats it a few times to let you know he hasn’t As anyone who has pursued forgotten, which is a small way a creative endeavor would of demonstrating that he’s a know, typically the first idea better listener than a talker. sparks the most enthusiasm But despite being the CEO of and the least success, but Lokesh a small business before being Lokesh and Theodore were 30 years old, and the well-worn passport, his undeterred. They both knew there was growing most advanced personal attribute is his honesty. potential in digital imaging as more and more people were gaining access to powerful “I wasn’t that whiz kid selling candy on the cameras that could fit in their pockets. The corner. I didn’t set up a lemonade stand,” result they were trying to achieve was how to Lokesh said. “More than anything I was curious. best represent digital images in physical form. I read anything I could get my hands on. I was grateful to have parents that supported me in “We kept asking ourselves, ‘Are people not whatever I wanted to do. Like anyone else, I printing and framing pictures anymore because take that for granted, but I never should.” they don’t want to? Or do they not have an affordable way of doing so?’” Lokesh said. “We That combination of curiosity and selfplaced our bets on the latter, and took our first awareness is probably the best way to explain leap of faith.” Lokesh’s college years in Gainesville. He bounced around from doing things like material By leap of faith, Lokesh means they got to science research for NASA, to philanthropic work. Theodore, who Lokesh describes as a

"More than anything I was curious. I read anything I could get my hands on."

44 | LIFE

guy who’s always willing to solve a problem, ordered the first supplies to print on glass for the first time. Getting the images directly onto glass would reduce costs and provide a sleek, modern alternative to the classic picture frame. Lokesh started conducting market research to see if there was a legitimate opportunity in the marketplace. There was. And he did what many young people do, but are too afraid to admit – he asked his dad for money.

When Lokesh talks about his family, you can hear the normally breezy cadence of his voice slow just a bit. He wants those words to count, because in his words, “they gave him the world.” Both of his parents are doctors who challenged him intellectually from an early age. His father encouraged him to read, so as a child Lokesh found himself escaping into books and developing a lifelong passion for reading and learning. The level of gratitude that exists TheVillageJournal.com | 45

"Gainesville is a great place to start a company. It’s affordable. It’s a tight knit community..." Lokesh

between Lokesh and his parents meant he had to approach Fracture with an eye for the future. “That early investment is really one of the reasons I’m weary of calling myself an entrepreneur. People have used that term for me, and that’s fine, but when I look back, I just shake my head.” Lokesh said. “My father and a couple of his friends are pretty savvy weekend investors, but if I was in their shoes and saw a 20-year-old kid with this nutty idea, I probably wouldn’t have taken the chance. He knew we weren’t asking for daddy’s money to go play with something. We were serious.” In the end, Lokesh and Theodore’s preparation and commitment to the idea was what sealed the deal. To keep costs affordable and their social lives comfortable, they decided to keep Fracture in Gainesville. Lokesh calls his home in the historic ‘Duck Pond’ area of Gainesville his sanctuary – a place where he and his English Labrador, Rajah, can decompress after a long day. He fell in love with the neighborhood because the Old-Florida architecture and shady, tree-lined streets draped with Spanish moss transported him to a different time. And, despite no sign of an Indian restaurant that can compare to his family’s cooking, Gainesville felt like home. Using the seed money, they made steady signs of progress for the next year. They rented a 46 | LIFE

space in North Gainesville off of Route 441 and spent long nights filled with nicks and cuts on their hands and the frustrations of business growing pains. In 2009, Fracture sold its first order. After that? “I prayed for the second order,” Lokesh said. “When people think of entrepreneurs, they think of shows like ‘Shark Tank,’ and that’s helpful but it’s a double-edged sword because it doesn’t do justice to how much real, non-glorious work it takes. Staying awake and thinking about how your business is going to survive another month, another year.” Fracture sold its glass prints to friends, family, locals and any other connections Lokesh was able to make through his naturally congenial and driven spirit. Because Fracture was selling an actual product, and not a technology or idea, the press that usually came with tech startups was absent. The media sensations in the late 2000s mainly came out of the tech hubs like Austin, Silicon Valley and New York City. A startup in Gainesville, Florida didn’t quite command the same attention. Lokesh credits the lack of press Fracture received for keeping he and Theodore hungry and humble. Instead of focusing on getting acquired, the next round of investments, or making a fast fortune, they had to focus on learning how to run a business.

“Being in an unsexy, unhip industry made us learn to maximize every dollar we had. It’s an obstacle we turned into a competitive advantage,” he said. Fracture did the smart thing and invested in growing its marketing efforts in 2013. Since Lokesh and Theodore grew up in the digital age, they knew to succeed they’d need in order to capture consumers’ constantly diverted attention. That’s when Fracture went from an e-commerce idea started by two college kids, to a promising businesses in the Gainesville community. “Gainesville is a great place to start a company. It’s affordable. It’s a tight knit community, but unfortunately for some, it is seen as a stepping stone business wise,” he said. “I give the city credit for recognizing that and trying to do something about it. We are lacking that company that goes supernova, that success story that brings other companies in. We’d love to be that company, but it takes time and patience.”

The business knowledge Lokesh has built in six years can’t be earned through graduate degrees, weekend seminars or leadership books. His knowledge has come through fearlessness, dedication and action. He’s an active learner, and always has been. Perhaps that’s what has propelled he and Theodore to this point. But more than any marketing tactic or manufacturing breakthrough, honesty is what is going to keep Lokesh going. He’s got enough sense to ditch the entitlement mentality for a working one – and that’s more impressive than the CEO title on his LinkedIn profile. TheVillageJournal.com | 47

SPRING 2016 FASHION TRENDS: Playful Escapism By Brad Schultz

48 | LIFE

Rodart e

Monse

Ohne Titel

RUNWAY STYLE

hat do Cinderella and Kate Mid dleton both have in common? Distinctive style. For Cinderella, the right dress and the perfect pair of shoes proved to be life changin g. Today, little girls everywhere own reproductions of the shimmering, blue ball gow n. Kate Middleton, a former commoner, has seemin gly achieved fashion icon status with ease since she married into the Royal Family. The clothing wears often causes such a sen Kate sation that it sells out mere mom after she’s spotted wearing it. ents Do women want to own the sam e dress simply because they like the style, or bec thing they too will somehow be ause they believe that by wearing the same transformed? This season’s trends seem to be a direct reaction to these exact Coined ‘playful escapism,’ ther e are nods to Paris and the Far questions. and Middle East, eclectic print mashups, goddes ses, looks, watercolor florals, dazzling sportswear, sensual sheers, sexy swim emb ellis hme nts, something for the downtow cool girl, and a laundry list of othe n r things. “Colors this season transport us to a happier, sunnier place whe to express a wittier version of re we feel free our director of the Pantone Color Insti real selves,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive tute. Unlike some seasons when you get the feeling designers sipped same pool of inspiration, Spring from the 2016 is swimming in variety. This no particular decade as inspirati on on its own, but instead mixe year holds s some very modern attractions. That means everything you have from last year can be mixed and matched to suit the 2016 expectations with relative eas you to create your own persona lized style and playfully ‘escape e, allowing princess fairytale you’d like to ’ into whichever indulge.

Spring Color Palette PANTONE 13-1520 Rose Quartz

PANTONE 13-4810 Limpet Shell

PANTONE 16-1548 Peach Echo

PANTONE 16-3905 Lilac Gray

PANTONE 15-3919 Serenity

PANTONE 19-4049 Snorkel Blue

PANTONE 17-1564 Fiesta

PANTONE 15-1040 Iced Coffee

PANTONE 12-0752 Buttercup

PANTONE 15-0146 Green Flash

TheVillageJournal.com | 49

piration ion is drawing ins his season, fash d classic Spanish style for a dramatic anas flamenco. If you’ve of dance known le of dance preformed, ever seen this sty sed the passion es then you’ve witn ich this distinctive wh and emotion in . Along with all of its art form is rootedsome spectacular comes drama and flair d tops with large oversized dresses, skirts anld colors and fun feminine ruffles, bright, boco inspired clothing is meant patterns. Flamen the curves of the female form . to enhance all of u a romantic, powerful edge yo while still giving

PA 3 19-4049 Lim -4810NE 17- NTO Snorkel Blue pet S Fies 156 NE hell ta 4

E TON PAN 905 3 6 1 Gray E Lilac TON PAN 564 17-1ta PANTONE 15-0146 Fies Green Flash

E ON NT 46 sh PA5-01 n Fla 1 ree G

QUE LINDO

n SuggesPtions Color CombinatioPANTO A NE 1 NTO

P 15 ANT Ice -10 ON d 40 E Co ffe e

Key Style Details irts • Flamenco Sk es • Ruffl Silhouettes • Off Shoulder • Neck Ties

VINTAGE REDUX

d heavily on hile 2015 focuse roducing int al, viv re s the ‘70 styles, Spring some huge new experimental, an 2016 instigates the era. Proven subdued twist on d textiles, an by color palette ge aficionado ta this season’s vin y-embracing rth ea e or m d an o aesthetic; is less disc re of her design utral hues. suede at the co ne y, nd sa its to e a modern mostly staying tru in s lor co id acing viv However, embr take on tie-dye.

Key Style Details • Flared Jeans • Suede • Fringe r • Mongolian Fu

50 | LIFE

e • Modern Tie-Dy aid Pl d ize rs ve • O • Mixed Prints • Neck Ties

ggestions Color Combination Su P NE O PANT 49 19-40 el Blue rk o Sn

ONE PANT 40 15-10 offee Iced C

E TON PAN 520 z 13-1e Quart Ros E PANTON 15-3919 ity Seren

E TON PAN 905 3 16 Gray Lilac

E PANTON 15-1040ffee Iced Co

A 12- NTON But 0752 E terc up PANTONE 16-1548 Peach Echo

Style Tip

d, way t fashion forwar For a subtle, ye trend, opt for a ruffled to rock the Latin p. This silhouette is very to shoulder-baring e Spanish culture and the th in th wi lar pu , nod to po btle, but obvious ruffle will be a sule of dance. the flamenco sty ke ‘the ama queen? Ta Feeling like a dr and choose a flamenco s’ bull by the horn type of skirt is best is perfect way inspired skirt. Th simple top – a balanced with a g’s simple crop top. rin to revive last sp

Blugirl

r oule Sch nza e o r P

Style Tip If you haven’t already, now is the time to jump on the 70’s inspired disco train! 70’s inspired fashion is already appearing in pre-Fall 2016 trend forecasts, so you are sure to get some longevity out of this style. If you choose to only invest in one trend this season, this is the one to go with.

ia nd Oliv Alice a

Courr èges TheVillageJournal.com | 51

NEW ROMANTICS

Color Combination Suggestions

ut with the sugar and spice, and in with the frills and ruffles – that’s what Spring 2016 romantic girls are made of! This season’s romantic devotee epitomizes feminine softness; relying heavily on the use of soft, sheer fabrics and ruffles to express her point of view. Living in the 21st century, take a look back on the Victorian and Elizabethan periods and fall in love all over again. Wardrobes filled with distinctive Old English aspects; smothered in floral prints, full skirts, puffed sleeves, interesting high necks and gorgeous lace allows for the Victorian romance to bloom plunging necklines forgotten.

E TON PAN 520 z 1 13 e Quart Ros E PANTON 15-3919 ity en Ser

PANTONE

• • • •

PANTO PANTONE N 13-4810 ll 15-0146 E Limpet She Green Fla sh

Style Tip

52 | LIFE

16-1548 Rose Q0 uartz Peach Echo

Style Tip

Micro-pleats Neck Ties Lace Chiffon

While this trend may be enticing, it can easily overwhelm. Try balancing a romantic blouse with a fitted, tailored pant or jacket. Remember, though shown on the runway, a head to toe romantic look may seem better suited for an English castle than a modern office.

Alexander Wang

The bomber jacket has been making quite the statement in recent collections and street style imagery alike, and is selling out on retail sites left and right. Channel this trend with the variety of new colors and materials available to keep things more contemporary. Whether through lace, knits or embroidered, these jackets up the “cool” factor almost immediately.

Color Combination Suggestions E ON NT 19 PA -39 ity 15 eren S NE TO 49 Blue N 0 PA 9-4 rkel 1 no S

PANTONE 16-3905 Lilac Gray

N 13-4810 PllANTO0 PA Givenchy Limpet She15 -104 NE NTONE of ed C feePANTO 13-152

Key Style Details • High Neck Styles • Bare Shoulder/Off the Shoulder Silhouettes • Ruffles

PANTONE 16-1548 Peach Echo

BOMB SQUAD

iving a sporty edge to any look, the bomber jacket is the favored topper for the modern enthusiast. Versatile enough for casual days, bomber jackets keep looks cool and comfortable. While styles are minimalistic in design, they embrace pops of color, balanced with a crisp white or cool lilac grey. This trend’s minimalistic designs are complimented by mesh, leather and the deconstructed appeal of a modernized white oxford shirt, creating an intriguing juxtaposition..

Key Style Details • Contemporary Bomber Jacket • Deconstructed White Oxford Shirt

• Mesh/Netting • Leather

TheVillageJournal.com | 53

A Passion for Pickling By Lynna Lawrence | Photos by Robert Hedges

Margotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Impeccable Pickles are a local product on the rise made with love by Margot Wilder. Now craved by many, Margotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pickles were born when she sought to reclaim her kitchen from an innocent cucumber surplus.

54 | TASTE

TASTE

hen Margot’s backyard garden grew far more cucumbers than she knew what to do with, she whipped up a quick-pickling recipe to save the lot. She gave them a little kick, and ended up creating a delightful combination that yielded crisp, fresh pickles.

Remarkably, the practiced cook had never tasted anything like these new pickles. Margot learned to cook on her grandmother’s knee, and she has been creating her own recipes ever since. Cooking for others is one of her greatest joys, and she began to share her pickles at tailgates and parties. Margot met her now fiancé Nick DeConna through work meetings, and the two eventually became friends. One fateful day, Margot came to the office for a meeting, prepared with a 16-ounce Mason jar of pickles to give to Nick. Margot disappeared to her meeting and when she emerged, she found Nick holding an emptied bottle, playfully asking, “Refill, please.” He had eaten the entire jar-full in one sitting. “He washed out the jar, gave it back to me and said, we’ve got to sell these,” Margot said. Nick’s assertive, entrepreneurial drive was the perfect ingredient to Margot’s brimming compassion and sheer love for her craft. Margot always had aspirations to be a chef, but she never would have started selling her pickles if Nick hadn’t said that to her, she said. As a third-generation food manufacturer and distributor, Nick’s family has been in business since 1947 with DeConna Ice Cream. Nick grew

TheVillageJournal.com | 55

up knowing that if you have an idea and put yourself out there, it can take off. “I learned from my grandfather, if you have a product and people want it, there’s really no reason why you can’t sell it,” Nick said.” Consequently, Nick encouraged Margot to launch Margot’s Impeccable Pickles. Margot hustled to start the business from the ground up and kept putting passion into the food. When Margot designed her first product labels, she listed “love” as the #1 ingredient. “Everything that I make, the first ingredient is love,” Margot said. “Because it’s coming from me. It’s a way that I show people I love them… I cook for them.” Margot began selling a small amount of product at a friend’s store, Tipple’s Brews. From there she expanded to Ward’s Supermarket, then Lucky’s Market corporate office contacted Nick from his number listed on the pickles’ packing. Lucky’s Market was opening a new store in Gainesville and they wanted to sell Margot’s product. Nick eagerly sent them Margot’s way. “She has 100% say,” Nick said. “Every single unit that goes out has to be approved by Margot… This is a female-owned business, and Margot’s the driving force. She’s the face of the company. She’s out there, and she’s the one that makes everything happen.” Margot happily accepted Lucky’s Market’s request, and Margot’s Impeccable Pickles have been a staple in the store since it opened. Since then, Margot has established a unique connection with the community over memories Gainesvillians have shared after trying her pickles. “It’s been amazing the last three years that we’ve been in business… to hear people’s stories about their family recipes for pickles, and 56 | TASTE

how much these taste like their grandmother’s,” Margot said. “They have so much nostalgia surrounding pickles.” “It’s been a really fun and interesting experience to connect with people over a pickle,” she added. For the consumer, Margot feels there’s a growing movement about things being homemade, high quality, and most importantly, delicious. It’s all about the passion of the person creating the food, and for most, that’s worth paying a little extra. Margot’s passion touches every unit on shelves today, all still handmade by her. Even if she expanded to commercial manufacturing, the recipe is just so that the pickles will always need to be made by hand. “There’s no machine that can make these… trust me, I’ve looked,” Margot joked. When Nick and Margot started Margot’s Impeccable Pickles, they were just great friends. Throughout the process, their

TheVillageJournal.com | 57

together and do together. It’s better than sitting around watching TV.” Nick stands by Margot’s side as she makes her pickles. In turn, she carries emergency hot sauce in her purse for Nick. Even with two entrepreneurs under one roof, Margot says there’s no competition between the two of them. “I’m supportive of him and what he does,” Margot said. “He’s supportive of me and what I do, both professionally, personally and with this business we’ve created together.” Margot has big aspirations for her cooking and plans to roll out several new tastes in early 2016 under the company Margot’s Impeccable Products. First, three flavors of Margot’s famous salad dressings are set to go to market by February. relationship grew, and today they are happily engaged. “Maybe pickles brought us together,” Margot said. The couple will say “I do” this April. When Margot began selling her pickles at the Haile Farmers Market, Nick introduced a product alongside of her. Nicky D’s Zoomin’ Hot Sauce is sold right next to Margot’s pickles to give market-goers a shelf-stable product they can take home with their fresh pickles. On top of their entrepreneurial ventures, Margot and Nick both work full-time jobs and are extremely active in the community. The extra small-business responsibility is a cross Margot and Nick are happy to bear, however. While everyone else is vegging out around 8 p.m., Margot and Nick are just turning on some music and beginning the pickling. “This isn’t about making money,” Nick said. “It’s more about something that we both love 58 | TASTE

Her “big, huge, way-out-there, need investors” dream is to open a market here in Gainesville, she said. Where she’s from in South Florida, there are Jewish delis and Italian markets that offer a place the community can go to get their specialty products, bakery and butchery items, and prepared foods. There, customers can grab anything from a Panini on their lunch break to a pan of lasagna to bring home to feed their family. “There’s nothing like that here,” she said. And Margot intends to one day change that. Margot’s Impeccable Pickles are sold at Tipple’s Brews, Lucky’s Market Gainesville and Ward’s Supermarket. Nicky D’s Zoomin’ Hot Sauce is available at Tipple’s Brews and Adam’s Rib Co. You can find Margot’s pickles and Nicky D’s Zoomin’ Hot Sauce at Haile Farmers Market, Saturdays 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Follow Margot’s impeccable journey at margotsimpeccablepickles.com.

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ASK A

Fitness EXPERT BRINN STRANGE,

OWNER / INSTRUCTOR BARRE FORTE There is a new kind of bar sweeping the nation, but instead of cushy lounge chairs and fruity libations, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find a full body workout paired with high intensity music. Photos by Robert Hedges

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W ELLNESS

rinn Strange, owner of Gainesville’s Barre Forte, breaks down the barre workout and shows us how the barre is still a place to gather with friends for a fun time.

VJ: What are barre workouts, and what makes them so effective? BS: The creator of the barre workout was a dancer who, while recovering from an injury, decided to blend her ballet strengthening moves with physical therapy, as a result, the format requires no-impact on one’s joints and is appropriate for nearly all fitness levels. The barre classes offered at Barre Forte are a unique combination of ballet toning moves, Pilates core conditioning, and Yoga stretches. Our classes utilize small, isometric movements to overload muscles—building endurance and definition, followed by stretching the muscles to help them become long and lean. VJ: How would you describe a barre workout? BS: Barre workouts offer total body toning

set to high-energy music with motivating, welcoming instructors. At Barre Forte, our classes begin with a short warm up followed by upper body strengthening using light weights held away from the body with high repetitions. Then, relevés, or calf raises tone the backs of the legs while plies work the quads. We also focus on the inner thighs by repeatedly squeezing small Pilates balls and outer thighs using a Pilates band. Next, the hamstring and gluteus are targeted before moving on to additional core building exercises followed by more stretching. The goal is to isolate and overload muscle groups before stretching and elongating them. It is normal to experience some shaking in TheVillageJournal.com | 61

the muscles as you work them to fatigue. Expect to feel sore (in a good way) the next day—and likely the day after that.

VJ: What should I expect when attending a class? BS: The environment is eclectic and energizing. Clients are greeted and encouraged to find a spot at the barre and to grab a pair of light weights. It is recommended to keep a water bottle close by and to wear sticky socks, which provide traction on the flooring when participants are up on their toes (which is where they will remain for a large portion of class). VJ: Is barre an effective cardio workout?

BS: Yes! While some clients supplement their barre workouts with additional cardio, barre classes get your heart rate up in the warm up, and keep it up during class through continued movement and sustained intensity. Clients will begin to turn fat into muscle, which will also help them to burn calories throughout the day.

VJ: It seems the barre workout is appearing in more and more cities. Why do you think people have taken such a liking to this workout? BS: Barre is an addicting, exciting workout that keeps people wanting more. You leave the workout feeling energized, not exhausted, and it is fun to “meet your friends at the barre” everyday. Because the workouts are constantly changing and there are new ways to add additional challenges with each class, clients do not plateau, making this a fun, sustainable exercise that continues to build in popularity.

VJ: Do you have to be in shape before attending a barre class? BS: No. All of our workouts are challenging, but they can also be modified for beginners or intensified for those who need or want additional progressions. Clients are 62 | WELLNESS

encouraged to discuss any concerns with their instructors and can ask for more options during class, too. Barre Forte staff will be there every step of the way as clients work to achieve their fitness goals.

VJ: What type of results can participants expect to see?

BS: Our workouts are both low impact and intense, which is a great way to get fit without hurting your joints! Participants can expect to feel muscles they never knew they had. We often target women’s “problem” areas, such as the abdominals and inner and outer thighs, in addition to elongating, not bulking, arm muscles. But the results go beyond the physical. Our clients share that spending an hour at the barre helps them mentally, too!

VJ: What makes Barre Forte different than other gyms?

BS: Barre Forte is making

a positive impact on the Gainesville community. We love holding donation-based classes for local organizations, such as The American Cancer Society, the Florida Track Club, and Tri Delta Sorority, who chose to donate money to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Center. We also teach free community classes at First Magnitude Brewery once a month to raise money for local non-profits. Barre Forte loves providing community activities for its members, as well. We often go to brunch together after class, we hold workshops and trainings, pop up classes in the park, and much more. Oh, and best of all, everyone’s first week of classes is free, so there is nothing to lose!

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FUSS-FREE

SPRING BREAK →

DESTINATIONS By Lynna Lawrence

Spring break season in the Sunshine State can make you feel like a kid in a candy shop – with so many delightful options, it’s too hard to choose! We’ve scouted the hottest resort deals at some of Florida’s most coveted spring-break destinations, transporting you to Captiva Island, the Emerald Coast, Orlando and the Palm Coast. With resort credits, free meals, slashed room rates and more, you can dig your toes in the sand, worry-free, elated in your chosen destination.

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→ SPRING BREAK Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa Nothing says spring break in Florida like the natural beauty and effortless family fun offered in the Panhandle. Destin, specifically, is buzzing with excitement after being named one of the U.S. Top Destinations on the Rise for 2016 by Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice awards. And at the acclaimed Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, you’re never more than a few steps from Gulf Coast sand beneath your toes. Prime location on the island puts you right on top of family fun with close-by go-karts, zip line, ropes course, water park, aquarium and several state parks. Most famously, the clear green waters of the Emerald Coast create a pristine backdrop for snorkeling, boating and long beach days. What better way to savor the aquamarine waters lapping up the on sugar-white sand than the perfect room? The Hilton Sandestin’s Sun, Sand and Surf Package offers an ocean view, with pampered extras that guarantee you needn’t lift a finger to create perfect beach days. Sun, Sand and Surf offers your own little piece of paradise with daily beach set up, including an umbrella and two reclining chairs. Two refreshing cocktails daily for mom and dad mean this vacation isn’t just for the kiddos. Included sunscreen and visor keep everyone sun-safe and happy on the beach. To book the Sun, Sand and Surf Package, call (800) 559-1805 and mention code “P4.” For details and other packages, visit hiltonsandestinbeach. com/destin-florida-vacation-packages.

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Waldorf Astoria Orlando Someone is begging to visit Mickey, while you’re begging for some R&R. At the Waldorf Astoria Orlando, everyone’s dreams come true. Located less than ten minutes from the mouse, the Waldorf makes it easy to hit the parks, plus return to a luxury escape when the day is done. This city-side spring break offers countless nearby water parks, plays, shopping and Disney magic, plus countless amenities found exclusively at the Waldorf. Cabanas and palm trees line the expansive pool deck, framed by the greens of the acclaimed Waldorf Astoria Golf Club. Ranked as one of Golf Magazine’s “Top Courses You Can Play,” the club attracts both connoisseurs intrigued by the club’s accolades and beginners looking for top-notch lessons. The WA Kids Club offers options to enjoy

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programs poolside with your child each day at 3 p.m. or kids-only events at the club if the grownups plan a night off. The hotel’s 12 dining options pay homage to the culinary precedent established at the original Waldorf Astoria in New York. New creations join classics to achieve the perfect gastronomic balance that is promised to help you “experience the art of cuisine.” With the Best of Waldorf deal, you can take advantage of the mouth-watering eats guilt free. Receive a $100 resort credit with a 2-night minimum stay, followed by $50 for each day thereafter. You may also use these credits to experience everything else the resort has to offer, such as the spa, golf club and more. To book, visit waldorfastoriaorlando.com /special-offers/best-of-waldorf.

→ SPRING BREAK South Seas Island Resort, Captiva Island One step onto the South Seas Island Resort property and you’ll agree, yes, you definitely deserve this. With sprawling properties, more than 20 pools, and your choice of private villas or lush resort rooms, this Captiva Island gem is an escape worth dreaming about. Unplug and rewind on the 330-acre wildlife preserve with two and a half miles of white-sand beaches. South Seas offers a delightful way for kids to experience the resort village through a preserve-wide scavenger game, ScoutAbout. During your stay, collect custom wristbands from 15 hidden Points of Discovery that uncover breathtaking views and island secrets. Jumping dolphins, tranquil manatees and elegant Great Egrets are just some of the island’s indigenous residents you could spot along the way. The resort’s Spring Getaway Package makes this deal even sweeter. You’ll receive the fourth night of your stay free as well as collect up to $250 in savings using the resort’s coupon book. Get the best prices on everything you do with the coupon book for activities like family learn-to-sail packages, cruises, or sea school for the kids while you check out the state-of-the-art spa. The Spring Getaway deal is valid for travel between April 1, 2016 and June 30, 2016. Book this special offer by visiting SouthSeas.com.

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SPRING BREAK

→

→Hammock Beach Resort, Palm Coast Explore Florida’s Palm Coast with the Hammock Beach Resort as your Oceanside home base. Located on the Northeast coastline, the Palm Coast offers a step in the past in Historic St. Augustine, a leap in the future at the Kennedy Space Center, and a splash into the ocean world at the Marineland Dolphin Adventure. The Hammock Beach Resort is the perfect central location to explore all the area has to offer, or simply bask in the sunshine at the resort’s lazy river, water flume or beach. Hammock Beach is less than ten minutes away from one of Florida’s most popular attractions, the Marineland Dolphin Adventure. The attraction offers visitors intimate dolphin encounters, from on-land feeding to the ultimate swim-with-the-dolphins experience. Not only do you get to splash and play with the sea’s most loveable creatures, you get to do it in their natural habitat for a truly authentic and unforgettable

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experience. Historic St. Augustine is just a 30-minute drive away, and Kennedy Space Center makes a great day trip, located 1.5 hours south. Hammock Beach knows the best vacations are shared with the best of friends. Split the space and the cost of spacious suites or villas, with full gourmet kitchens, dining areas, private bedrooms and balconies. For a singlefamily escape, luxury resort rooms are just as sweet and affordable with a slew of vacation packages. Book the Bed and Breakfast Package and free breakfast is served daily with a side of ocean views at the Atlantic Grille restaurant. What’s more, Hammock Beach offers slashed prices on 7-night stays or longer with its Beach Week Package, providing 20 to 25 percent savings on available dates. To book a Hammock Beach special, call (866) 841-0287 or visit hammockbeach.com/ specials-and-packages.

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CAL END AR Happening Around Town Submit your event including a description, date, time and location on our website. TheVillageJournal.com SUBMISSION DOES NOT GUARANTEE PUBLICATION.

ON-GOING » Bridge Every Monday, 1 p.m. Haile Plantation Hall Call Marj Crago at 352-336-1055 or Suzie Taylor at 352-337-9956 » Haile Village Farmer’s Market Every Saturday, rain or shine, 8:30 a.m. – noon Haile Plantation Village Center 352-363-2233 » Museum Nights 2nd Thursday of every month, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. Harn Museum of Art www.harn.ufl.edu

FEBRUARY

» McElwain Scramble for Kids Golf Tournament Thursday, February 11 – Saturday, February 13 Mark Bostick Golf Course at the University of Florida girlsplace.net » Tour of Kitchens Presented by the Junior League of Gainesville Saturday, February 20 gainesvilletourofkitchens.com

MARCH » Dudley Farm Plowing Up the Past Friday, March 4 – Saturday, March 5, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Dudley Farm Historic State Park friendsofdudleyfarm.org

» UF Symphony Orchestra Concert Thursday, February 11, 7:30 p.m. University Auditorium legacy.arts.ufl.edu

» Winter Fine Arts Fair Friday, March 4, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. Saturday, March 5 – Sunday, March 6, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tioga Town Center tiogatowncenter.com

» American Heart Association Heart Ball Saturday, February 13, 6:30 p.m. - midnight Hilton UF Conference Center heart.org/gainesville

» Gainesville Civic Chorus Fundraiser Friday, March 11, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. The Perfect Gift in Haile Village Center gcchorus.org

» Passport to Caribbean Nights Gala Friday, February 19, 7 p.m. - 11 p.m. Florida Museum of Natural History flmnh.ufl.edu

» Kanapaha Easter Egg Hunt Sunday, March 13, 11 a.m. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens kanapaha.org

» 6th Annual Cops Against Cancer Trail Ride Saturday, February 20, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park www.climbforcancerfoundation.org

» Can You Dig It? Saturday, March 12, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Florida Museum of Natural History flmnh.ufl.edu

» American Advertising Awards Friday, February 26, 6:30 p.m. University Air Center adfedgainesville.com

» Run for Haven 2016 Saturday, March 16, 4:30 p.m. Tioga Town Center tiogatowncenter.com

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» Puttin’ on the Ritz at the Moulin Rouge Saturday, March 12, 7 p.m. – 11 p.m. Gainesville Country Club chsfl.org » Family Day at the Dairy Farm Saturday, March 19, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. UF Dairy Farm

facebook.com/FamilyDayattheDairyFarm Spring Garden Festival Saturday, March 19, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday, March 20, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens kanapaha.org » Haile Village Center Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, March 26, 9 a.m. - noon Haile Village Center Square facebook.com/the.haile.village.center

APRIL » ViVA! 2016 Hollywood Saturday, April 2, 5:30 pm Rembert Farm havenhospice.org » Santa Fe College Spring Arts Festival Saturday, April 2, 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Sunday, April 3, noon - 5 p.m. NE 1st Street, Gainesville springartsfestival.com » 17th Annual Bradford County Strawberry Festival Saturday, April 9, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Sunday, April 10, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Historic Downtown Starke bradfordcountystrawberryfestival.com » Community Partner Night: The Elephant Man Sunday, April 10, 7 p.m. Hippodrome Theater thehipp.org TheVillageJournal.com | 71

Spread the word

about your upcoming community event.

» 4th Annual Hogtown 5k Beer Run Benefiting the Climb For Cancer Foundation Saturday, April 16, 9 a.m. Haile Village Center www.climbforcancerfoundation.org » Walk MS: Gainesville Saturday, April 16, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. Kanapaha Veterans Memorial Park walkfln.nationalmssociety.org » Stop Children’s Cancer Fantasy Event: Gold Rush! Saturday, April 16 Santa Fe River Ranch stopchildrenscancer.org

Submit the event title, date, time, location and a website/phone number to info@thevillagejournal.com and we will gladly help promote your event in print and online. Hogtown Craft Beer Festival Saturday, April 16, noon – 5 p.m. Tioga Town Center tiogatowncenter.com » Spotlight on Youth Sunday, April 17, 2 p.m. Fine Arts Hall at Santa Fe College cdsfl.org » Bob Rose Gold Scramble Friday, April 22, 1 p.m. Haile Plantation Golf & Country Club arcalachua.org/golf » Tioga Car Show Saturday, April 23, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Tioga Town Center tiogatowncenter.com

MAY » Hats, Hearts & Handbags Friday, May 6, 10 a.m. UF Hilton Conference Center girlsplace.net

3 52 .3 3 1.5560 T HEVILLAG EJO UR NAL.COM

» Farm to Table Dinner Saturday, May 7, 5:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. Swallowtail Farm, Alachua swallowtailcsa.com Follow us on facebook.com/thevillagejournal for more event information and photos.

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SNAPSHOTS Gainesville Gone Austin benefiting the Child Advocacy Center

October 29, 2015 Photos by Kara Winslow

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Keith Watson Holiday Boutique Open House

November 10, 2015 Photos by Kara Winslow

Gainesville Tailgate â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Kickoff to a Cure benefiting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation November 14, 2015 Photos by Jean Piot

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Haile Village Center Light the Village December 4, 2015 Photos by Kara Winslow

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Koss Olinger Annual Santa Event benefiting Toys For Tots

December 9, 2015 Photos by Kara Winslow

Miracle on Main Street presented by Junior League of Gainesville December 5, 2015 Photos by Kara Winslow

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Dance Alive National Ballet's Nutcracker Mommy and Me Stage

December 16, 2015 Photos by Kara Winslow

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F R OM T H E KIT CH EN O F D EAN CACC IATORE

REG IS T ER OF ADVERTISERS A Personal Elf (p.79)...............................................271-1111

GRU (p.63).........................................................................811

Agapanthus & Aggie Lane (p.9)...................672-6004

Hippodrome Theatre (p.77) ...........................375-HIPP

All About Women (p.33) ................................. 331-3332

Junior League of Gainesville (p.78)............376-3805

Altschuler Periodontic and Implant Center (p.11).....................................371-4141

Kara Winslow, Makeup Artist (p.53) ..... 321-356-3116

Avera & Smith, Attorneys at Law (p.4)........372-9999 Barre Forte (p.15)............................................... 727-7800 Bosshardt Realty Services (p.19) ...................371-6100 Comfort Temp (IFC)..........................................332-2665 Dr. Alix Baxter, PA (p.75)..................................373-2525 Dr. Storoe, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery (p.71)..................................371-4111

Kinetix Physical Therapy (p.23)................... 505-6665 Koontz Furniture & Design (p.16).........352-622-3241 Koss Olinger (Back Cover).............................373-3337 Parks of Gainesville (p.17)................................ 372-4251 Patricia Bishop Photography (p.51)............ 225-3659 Pink Narcissus (p.7)...........................................373-4874 Poser Plastic Surgery Center (p.13) ............ 372-3672

Footstone Photography (p.69).................... 562-3066

Pure Aesthetics (p.39) .....................................332-7873

Frankel Media Group (p.69)...........................331-5558

Sabore (IBC)....................................................... 332-2727

Gainesville Dermatology (p.57).................... 333-3223

Sebastian Ferrero Foundation (p.36)......... 333-2579

Green Clean Homes (p.75).............................214-0252

Smart Smile Dentistry (p.59)..........................376-5120

Grins & Giggles Pediatric Dentistry (p.29).................................316-7400

Sun Country Sports Center (p.57).................331-8773 Sweat Life Fitness (p.35) .............................. 692-4926

GRUCom (p.39).................................................334-3200

Tioga Town Center (p.2)..................................331-4000

GRU: Natural Gas (p.1)...................................... 393-1464

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F R OM T H E KIT CH EN O F D EAN CACC IATORE

BROCCOLI RABE AND SWEET ONION FRITTATA Quite possibly the perfect dish! When my grandmother would make this, she would set it on the counter and by the end of the day, it would be gone! She made hers with garden peppers and onions, but there are endless things you can add to the omelet. It can be served at breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, or anytime. Packed with protein and nutrients, it’s a complete meal in one wedge.

Buon Appetito! INGREDIENTS

PREPARATION

Serves 8

Preheat broiler. Whisk eggs and milk in a medium bowl. (Note: do not over mix the eggs as it will cause your omelet to proof in broiler and then become dense when sitting.) Mix in ½ cup cheddar; season with salt and pepper, pinch of nutmeg and set aside.

• 12 large eggs • ½ cup whole milk • ¾ cup grated white mild cheddar, divided • Kosher salt and coarsely ground black pepper • 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil • 4 sweet medium onion, sliced • 1 bunch broccoli rabe, coarsely chopped (Any vegetable or meat may be substituted based on preference and availability.) • 4 large basil leaves • 1 teaspoon dried thyme • Pinch of ground nutmeg

Heat oil in a large skillet, preferably cast-iron, over medium heat. Add 2 T olive oil, onion and cook and dried thyme, stirring occasionally, until onion is softened. Add broccoli rabe; season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, 8–10 minutes longer. Reduce heat to low and pour reserved egg mixture over vegetables. Cook, shaking pan occasionally, until edges are just set, 10–12 minutes. Top frittata with remaining ¼ cup cheddar cheese; broil until top is golden brown and center is set, about 4 minutes longer. Lay fresh basil leaves on top and let rest for 2-3 minutes before cutting Cut frittata into wedges and serve warm or room temperature.

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