Flourish M a g a z i n e
Love Thoughts on
A Seasoned Man’s Perspective
A Chat on Style with Marla Tomazin
How 2 Defeat Daily Stress
Ways to Avoid the Rut in
How Food Can Cause Psychical Pain?
Your Fitness Routine
FLIP F O GATO R COUN R TRY
Valentine’s Day
Dating North Florida FEBRUARY 2013 Volume 1 Issue 7 www.MYFLOURISHMAGAZINE.COM
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Welcome
to the world of Flourish
As the “New” in “New Year” slowly begins to fade, we can really start to appreciate the changes that 2013 is bringing. Changing opportunities, changing goals, and changing seasons, too. This mild Florida winter gives us the perfect chance to get in touch with Mother Nature by exploring Florida’s beautiful nature trails. Winter might be mild, but if you’re like me, dreams of summer are already on the mind. As we long for beach-days and sunny skies, it might be time to start thinking about saving for that much-deserved summer vacation. To help us with our funds, I talked with economist and advisor Eric Tyson about smart investments and financial planning. And, of course, with Valentine’s Day just around the corner, we’ve done a little romance planning as well. Let’s get in touch with our daring sides this February by learning how to Flirt Fearlessly from author, Rachel DeAlto. I hope you have a lovely February!
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What’s Inside… 5 Love in Review 6 Save the Date! 8 Not Single? 10 Is the Food You’re Eating Causing You Psychical Pain? 12 Education Begins at Home 14 Congratulations! You are Pregnant! 16 Dear Teacher
17 Keeping Your Fitness Routine Fresh 18 Style for Work with Personal Stylist Marla Tomazin 20 10 Un-Healthy “Healthy” Snacks 22 Unleash Your Inner Flirt: Interview with Rachel DeAlto
24 Conquering Daily Stress 27 Get Moving! 28 Finance for Dummies is Smart Reading 30 What is Your Personal Style? 32 Beauty Product Reviews 33 Gadgets! 36 The Blazer for our Body Type
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4
Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013
Action may not always bring happiness, but there is no happiness without action. Benjamin Disraeli
Love
In Review By John E. Barnes
A Seasoned Man’s Ideas of Love
Love, a four letter word that describes the feeling you have for a person, place or thing. Poets write of it, lovers feel it and wise men cannot explain it. There is the love parents have for their children and the love they have for each other but the two are different.
So what is love? My definition of love: A feeling which will bring a smile to your face, an ache to your heart, a sense of belonging, happiness to displace sorrow, loneliness and the feeling of being lost. Have I ever been in love? Yes, a thousand times over! Was I loved in return? Yes, at least three or four times. My fading memory can still recall my first great love. She was a creature of beauty, smiling most of the time, hugging, kissing me and always willing to listen.
Too bad it didn’t work out. You see my mother was already married to my father. On to the next… My first romance occurred when I was in my teens. I met this lovely girl with blonde hair and blue eyes. I was smitten at first glance and offered to carry her books home – which she gladly accepted. Our romance grew in spite of our pimples and acne. Stealing a kiss made me feel like I was in Heaven. Unfortunately, her parents moved her away. This is where I experienced my first heartbreak. Lonely and sad, I decided to drown myself in the waves of the ocean. I joined the Navy. The Navy was like a wife to me. It fed me, told me what clothes to wear, what to do and how to do it. It even had me make my own bed and mop the decks. I couldn’t leave my dirty clothes lying around! But all
To be happy, we must not be too concerned with others. Albert Camus
in all, I had a colorful career in the Navy. I saw the Black Sea, the Red Sea, the Yellow Sea, the Blue Mediterranean Sea, the Green Atlantic and the Coral Pacific. I never got sea sick, but I got sick of the sea! Now, since I am no longer in the prime of life, I look back and find true love to be the simple things like a comfortable chair in which you can nap, having control of the TV remote, someone reminding me to eat my fiber and not forgetting to take my medicine. After all, my life is still as colorful as it was in the Navy, just in another way; now I take white pills, blue pills, pink pills and yellow pills. I hope you didn’t find love in all the wrong places, but if you did, reminisce over all the fun you had, and I am sure a sly smile will slowly spread across your face…just like mine. Happy Valentine’s Day! Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013
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Save the Date! m more like e e s s n la p a y lentine’s Da ell here are a W V ? r t u s o a y p o s D tine at of valen e p e r love with ! y a in D ll g fa o y h ll d a n re a Grou as you can e id e t a d h few fres For Couples: The “I Hate” Date For Singles: The Back in Valen-time Instead of thinking about what you don’t have (i.e., a valentine), turn your focus instead to the things you enjoy most in life. This year, declare that you are your own valentine with a “Back in Valen-time” date. Think back to your adolescence, back to a time when you had the freedom to do the things you loved without guilt or the weight of responsibility. Choose something from your past that you’ve abandoned along the path to adulthood and use this opportunity to indulge once more. Reminding yourself of your youth and vitality anchors you to your past and reminds you of the strides you’ve made in becoming an adult. Your efforts may even reignite an old passion smoldering within. By celebrating yourself and remembering who you “used” to be, you may just find yourself led to the person you’ve always wanted to be! 6
Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013
It’s a tired cliché, but it still holds true: Actions speak louder than words. This Valentine’s Day, let your actions do the talking. Instead of the same dinner and movie routine, shake things up a bit by honoring one another with an “I hate” date. Maybe you love foreign films but never go since he detests them, or he enjoys the shooting range, but you never join him because you can’t stand the noise. In the “I hate” date, you accompany your partner on an outing of his or her choice, and vice versa. The catch? No grumbling! Make an effort to see what your partner enjoys about his or her chosen activity. Learn more about the subject, ask questions, become involved…in other words, let your actions speak up! Use the opportunity to learn more about your partner. Even if your feelings don’t change, you will have learned something new about your partner and will have sparked new conversation starters which will hang on long after the date is over.
For Families: A Lovely Day Date While typically a day for lovers, Valentine’s Day has come to encompass love of all types. The holiday presents an opportunity for families to show their love for one another and for those around them. Have your family participate in a “Lovely Day.” Prior to the holiday, assign each family member a portion of the day, whether it be a specific time frame or a general “morning” or “afternoon.” During this time, the family member will make an effort to communicate his or her love to the other members of the family through both words and actions. Encourage creativity by noting all the ways that people show they love one another. At the end of the day, participate in a “Lovely Day Date,” a service project intended to spread your love to those around you. Visit the residents of a nursing home, volunteer your time at an animal shelter, go shopping together for a needy family or write letters to service men and women overseas, for example. Use your imagination and work together to come up with ideas of how your family can share love. By participating in dates such as these, you’ll ensure that Valentine’s Day will be a holiday that lives on within your memory (and your heart) long after the chocolates are eaten and the flowers have wilted.
The only way on earth to multiply happiness is to divide it. Paul Scherer
The Top 5 Valentine Gift Mistakes Husbands Make (and how to fix them!) By Ginger Henderson Buying Jewelry You’re almost guaranteed to be safe with jewelry, but why not make the extra effort and really wow her this year? Put your google search to work and research her birthstone or the stone of a month that’s meaningful to her. When she opens your gift, tell her why you chose the stone for her. Taking the extra time and effort communicates your love and takes the gift from beautiful to valuable in her eyes.
Buying Flowers Nothing says Valentine’s Day more than red roses, but this year opt for something more personal instead. If you happen to know your wife’s favorite flower, call ahead and order a special bouquet made for her. If you don’t, don’t despair! Do a little research to find colors or types of flowers that match your feelings for her. For instance, the amaryllis means “splendid beauty” and the white lily symbolizes “magnificent beauty.” When you present her with such a personalized effort, you give her a glimpse of the feelings you hold for her in your heart.
Buying Candy Chocolate and Valentine’s Day go together like Cupid and his arrow. But before you dash into the store and grab one of those heart-shaped boxes, take a moment to reconsider. Instead of simply plucking a ready-made box from the shelf, try thinking outside the box. Visit a bakery or gourmet food store and ask about their selections. If your wife has a favorite, go with that. If not, pick up a sampling of different items for her to taste test. This sweet gift is one she’s sure to enjoy.
Ignoring her interests If you always find yourself on your wife’s bad side the day after Valentine’s, take a moment and think about the things you’re presenting. Have you considered her thoughts and feelings? Did you bring chocolate when she’s just getting into the hang of her new diet? Was the new ring you gave her a size too large for her finger? These things scream disinterest, and they’re a major mood killer. Think about the things your wife enjoys most and choose a gift that matches one of those interests.
“Off the Hook” thinking The best gifts really don’t have to cost a thing, and the worst thing you can do is think you’re “off the hook” by giving a gift. What your wife wants most is not your dime or your presents, it’s your time and your presence. When you give your wife gifts that show you’ve put in thought and effort, you will reap her affection in dividends. Your presence in her life communicates the depth of your feelings toward her and solidifies your relationship in her eyes. Whether it’s something as elaborate as a weekend getaway to her favorite beach or as simple as cooking a meal for her while she relaxes in a bubble bath, it’s the thought and effort that take a gift over the top.
Happiness depends upon ourselves. Aristotle
Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013
7
Single? By Katie Moss
You can still gift yourself one of these this year.
No date? No worries! After all, on a holiday that’s all about love, it’s important to remember how to love yourself. As an added bonus, you won’t have to worry about buying a significant other the perfect gift or stress about whether or not you’ll get the romantic night you’ve been hoping for. When you’re your own Valentine, every day is a great one to value yourself. Being single on February 14 isn’t a shortcoming; it’s a gift you’ve been given. Right now is the time to know yourself, cherish yourself and learn and accomplish what you really want in life! Purchase a Surprise Gift for Yourself!
Be Your Own Valentine This Month 8
Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013
Ordering flowers for yourself is so last year, and choosing a gift for yourself can often be just a bit too boring. So, what’s a simple solution? Why not order yourself a surprise gift from The Something Store? (www.somethingstore.com) For just $10 (and free shipping and handling) you can receive a randomly selected item in the mail that’s sure to be delightful. As the site states, “Your Something May be Anything” – from gourmet chocolates to unique home décor, to electronic equipment. Just keep in mind that the items are not gender specific, so if you receive a fancy new tie, simply find a way to rock it!
Knowledge of what is possible is the beginning of happiness. George Santayana
Spend Some Time with Your Closest Friends. It doesn’t matter if your clique consists of mostly single ladies or married moms, a girls’ night out is always appreciated! You may have to schedule your shindig on a night other than February 14, but wouldn’t the weekend before or after be more fun anyway? Hint: Don’t have any expectations. Some ladies may need to go home sooner than others if they have families, but you’re sure to have one bestie who wants to stick it out a little longer!
Pamper Yourself You know the drill. Buy yourself some chocolates or a cone of your favorite ice cream. Book yourself a massage and download your favorite new CD release. Purchase that book you’ve wanted to read for a while and read it while taking a warm bubble bath. In other words, treat yourself in some way you normally wouldn’t, and enjoy the heck out of it!
Challenge Yourself Have you been meaning to visit that yoga studio down the street or start a new diet?
Improving your physical health can really improve your mental health as well. When your body is strong, so is your mind, and when you’re determined to meet physical goals, you’ll see great results at work and home as well, and you’re likely to be more focused and a lot less stressed!
Check Something Off Your Bucket List Have you always wanted to visit the Grand Canyon or walk down the historic streets of London? Maybe you’ve wanted to do something a bit closer to home and still daring – such as skydiving. Whatever it is you yearn to do before you die, do it! If you don’t have the time or money to make a large trip, start planning for the future, and start checking smaller items off your bucket list, such as going kayaking or trying caviar!
Live Without Reservations Feel like hitting that new Chinese place across the street but can’t find a friend who’s available for dining out? Take yourself out for a treat. Hit the bar after and have a few too many drinks. Introduce yourself to a stranger. Make friends with people you’d
No man is happy who does not think himself so. Publilius Syrus
usually avoid. Simply live, and forget to consider the opinions of others. Be happy.
Celebrate Your Imperfections Forget about listing those qualities you like about yourself from the start. That may help you feel better in the moment, but in the long run, it’s important to celebrate your imperfections as well. Hate your nose? Be a friend to yourself. The fact is, you’re probably significantly more judgmental of yourself than others are. Learn to love what makes you unique and beautiful. After all, beauty radiates from the inside out. So, there you have it, seven ways to love and appreciate yourself. If you do find yourself looking for a little love this Valentine’s Day, consider attending an “Anti-Valentine’s Day” party, where singles nix the idea of blind dates, and simply plan to have a fun night! These parties usually have an exciting dress theme, and those folks who are in relationships will certainly be missing out! In the meantime, where’d you leave that day planner? There are so many exciting things to see and do if you take the time to look around!
Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013
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As a former sufferer of about five to six migraines a week, I can certainly sympathize with those individuals who are affected by this condition. I still get migraines once or twice a month, but I discovered something that nearly dissolved them altogether: they were being triggered by the food I was eating – specifically, gluten. It turns out that though many migraine suffers are aware that foods like dark chocolate, aged cheeses or alcoholic beverages such as red wine can cause attacks, sometimes there’s something more sinister to blame: food intolerances. These intolerances not only cause migraines, they can lead to a host of problems such as rheumatoid arthritis, numerous neurological conditions, depression and behavioral problems in children. Before you start keeping a food journal to determine if you have any intolerances, it’s important to distinguish between food allergies and food intolerances. While a food allergy triggers an immune response (such as hives) due to an allergic reaction (and is relatively easy to pinpoint), a food intolerance is a physiological adverse reaction to essential, chemical or biological components of food. These reactions (unlike allergic reactions) are not immediate, and symptoms can take hours or even days to appear. When a particular food is ingested, the food intolerance sufferer will release histamines and can experience symptoms such as vomiting, swelling, diarrhea and headaches (often migraine headaches).
Is the Food You’re Eating
Causing You Psychical
Pain?
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms on a regular basis, you may want to try a natural approach before heading to the doctor (unless your case is serious, of course). This involves keeping a daily record of everything you eat and drink, leaving nothing out. You should also take notes on your symptoms/reactions and when they occur. You’ll start to notice patterns, and you might even be able to determine what foods are negatively affecting your health. Keeping a food journal also informed me that I should avoid all dairy products, for example.
By Katie Moss
10 Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013
The way to gain a good reputation is to endeavor to be what you desire to appear. Socrates
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Take Care of You. If you discover a tie between migraines or other symptoms and gluten (a protein food in wheat, barley and rye grains and their derivatives), testing for celiac disease (an autoimmune response that damages the small intestine when these grains are ingested) is worth your time. Though not all people with gluten sensitivities have celiac, it’s best to speak to your doctor if you have concerns. Keep in mind that gluten isn’t just found in bread and breaded products; it’s in almost all processed foods as well. If keeping a food journal is getting you nowhere in reference to your food sensitivities/intolerances, an IgG antibody assessment panel may be your best bet. Submitting a bit of blood to a reputable testing lab is easy and can test your reactions to many different types of food. Though these tests are not considered 100-percent accurate, they are a good starting point for discovering the foods bothering you. It was through this type of testing (recommended by a naturopathic doctor) that I discovered I was also intolerant to rather unique foods like garlic. Eating it shortly afterward
confirmed that it was, indeed, making me very sick. That being said, it’s unlikely that a standard physician would recommend this type of testing. Many doctors are trained to treat the symptoms of illnesses with medicines or surgeries instead of finding the root cause, which can often be located in one’s diet. The best choice for having this test done is by finding a naturopathic doctor near you. Keep in mind, however, that these doctors may or may not be covered by standard health insurance policies. Without much help from my insurance, the test put me back about $600. However, it was worth so much more than that to me, since I was having trouble pinpointing all of my food woes. Migraine and IBS sufferers like myself should keep food in mind when thinking about their ailments. Though doctors may not diagnose or even look for a connection between one’s diet and his/her ailments, connections often exist, and discovering these could truly improve a person’s symptoms. Take it from the girl who’s now free of headaches so bad they sent her to bed: it’s worth the extra time and effort!
352.331.3332 Gainesville (NFRMC) Lake City (LCMC) AllAboutWomenMD.com
The searching-out and thorough investigation of truth ought to be the primary study of man. Cicero
Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013 11
As a parent, you are your child’s first teacher. In the first few months of life, you taught your newborn to trust in you for his or her comfort and safety, building the solid foundation necessary for a lifetime of learning. Now that your child is older, the educational possibilities are endless. With the right mindset, your day-today routine can become an educational journey, bringing the world of learning to life for your little one.
Education By Ginger Henderson
Begins at Home
In the Morning
As you go through your morning routine with your child, take the time to point out things to him or her. The simplest things can be profound in helping your child take in lessons from his or her surroundings. “What color should you wear today?” you might ask as you carry or guide your child to the closet. For younger toddlers, point to each particular piece of clothing and ask, “Would you like the blue shirt or the green shirt?” Encourage your child to answer with the color he or she prefers. Older toddlers can practice their color skills when you ask, “Can you find a yellow shirt?” or even “Which shirt has stripes?” Count the buttons as you button up your child’s clothing. “One, two, three, four, five. Your shirt has five buttons today. Can you count them for me?”
In the Kitchen The kitchen abounds with educational possibilities. Try putting a teaching twist on everything you do in your child’s presence. “Let’s make a sandwich for lunch. Can you find the bread? Good, there it is. What sound do you hear at the beginning of bread? B…b… I wonder what letter makes that sound? Do you see what letter makes that sound?” (Point to the letter b on the package.) “B makes that sound.” Take out one piece of bread. “I have 12 Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013
one piece of bread. Is that enough to make your sandwich? No, it’s not, is it? How many pieces of bread do I need to make your sandwich? I need two. I’ll take out one more piece. Now how many pieces do I have? Is that enough to make your sandwich? Yes!” It is basically down to narrating everything you are doing, which will help boost their vocabulary and learning.
In the Car If your family is like mine, you spend quite a bit of time in the car. While “screen time” (time spent watching educational videos or playing educational games) is important and effective in teaching skills, you can also make the most of your “unplugged” time by pointing out the colors, numbers and sounds around you. Ask your child to find a red sign or a blue car. Have him or her count the red lights as you drive. Point out letters or numbers on signs. Look for and name the shapes that you see. Listen to songs on the radio and clap out the beat.
In the Bath Bath time presents a great opportunity for learning. Equip your child with plastic jars and cups. Have him or her experiment by guessing how many cups it will take to fill the jar before filling and counting. Have him or her try filling jars of different widths to see which one can hold more water. Name the
parts of the body as you wash your child, and ask him or her to find those parts on you.
Bedtime Bedtime rituals are deeply loved and looked forward to by children. Consider incorporating a bedtime story into your nightly routine. Research has shown that children who are consistently read to perform better at reading tasks later during school years, and bedtime makes for a wonderful way to end your day together with a relaxing storybook. By instilling this habit in your child, you reinforce the importance of reading and instill a love of literature that your child will carry as he or she grows. As you read, point out letters or sounds. Pause to ask your child questions such as, “Who is this story about?”, “Where are they?”, “What do you think will happen next?” By recognizing your role as your child’s first educator, you are taking the important first step in ensuring a successful academic experience for your child in the future. Look closely at the things you experience each and every day with your child, and make the most of every teachable moment that you encounter. In the end you’ll be left with a bright, observant child who possesses a lifelong love of learning. The only journey is the journey within. Rainer Maria Rilke
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By
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Congratulations! You are
Pregnant!
14 Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013
Know thyself means this: that you get acquainted with what you know, and what you can do. Menander
Welcome to the exhaustion of the first trimester Pregnancy is an incredible, life-altering experience that brings changes to your physical, social and emotional state. Knowing how to care for yourself during these changes can mean the difference between a pleasant experience and one that’s not so pleasant. The first trimester of pregnancy is an especially turbulent time. You may feel overjoyed at the prospect of becoming a mother at some times and terrified of the impending changes at another. Wildly fluctuating hormones only compound the roller coaster of emotions experienced by many women. Take the time necessary to help you physically and emotionally deal with pregnancy-induced stress. Fatigue Many women struggle with crippling fatigue during their first trimester. At times, simply making it through the day seems an overwhelming task. Women who work outside the home or those with other family members to care for are hit especially hard, as they must now add another, unborn, dependent to their lists. It helps to remember the monumental task underlying the fatigue. Your body is working at an astonishing rate to grow another human being. This incredible feat is nothing short of miraculous. Take the moments of rest where you can get them. Put your feet up and close your eyes, even if it’s only for a few minutes at your desk. If you have the luxury, snag a mid-morning or midafternoon nap. Ask for help from those who offer, and hand off meal preparation or child-care tasks. Learn to let things slide – the house cleaning will wait while you rest and allow yourself time to recharge.
Nausea Soaring hormones during the first trimester of pregnancy can bring on what’s known as “morning sickness,” although it’s just as likely to strike during the afternoon or evening. These hormones slow the passage of food through the digestive tract. Nausea is often quelled by eating smaller, more frequent meals. Try breaking your meals down into smaller “mini-meals” eaten throughout the day. This will put less stress on your digestive
system and ensure that your stomach doesn’t become completely empty and spur further nausea. Some women find relief by keeping their mouths moistened with sour candies, while others have success keeping nausea at bay with motion sickness bands. Occasionally, medications are necessary to eliminate the symptoms. If your nausea is severe or you experience frequent vomiting, be sure to contact your doctor.
pregnancy journal may help you deal with troubling emotions that plague you and allow you to reflect on your days during pregnancy. Many pregnancy journals have preset questions to help you work through issues you may be struggling with internally. Talking with an understanding partner, spouse or family member can also be beneficial to your well-being.
Food Cravings and Aversions
If you’re the first in your circle of friends to become an expectant mother, you may soon begin to feel like an outsider. Suddenly your girls’ nights out are replaced by nights on the couch. As your interests shift, you may find that you have little to talk about with others who haven’t reached a similar stage of life. While it’s important to treasure and maintain existing friendships, pregnancy offers a wonderful opportunity to create bonds with other women who are experiencing the same feelings and changes as you. Many pregnancy websites feature message boards for pregnant women to post about their pregnancies. Even if you don’t forge new friendships through posting, simply reading about the lives of others in your shoes can help you if you’re beginning to feel as though you’re all alone.
We’ve all seen the commercials featuring a pregnant woman dining on pickles and ice cream. Everyone knows that pregnancy can cause some interesting craving combinations. But what about aversions? You may suddenly stop wanting your morning cup of coffee or turn away from your formerly favorite snack. These aversions are a normal part of pregnancy. Follow your body’s lead and stay away from foods or drink that leave you feeling icky. However, if you begin to crave (or eat) non-food items such as ice, paper or laundry soap, call your doctor immediately. These cravings can signal conditions that should be assessed by a medical professional.
Emotional Upheaval You can blame these same hormones for the ravages to your emotions as well. Impending childbirth and thoughts of your new life as a family can bring a full gamut of emotions, from joy to grief and everything in between. Recording your feelings in a
It is not easy to find happiness in ourselves and it is not possible to find it elsewhere. Agnes Repplier
Social Changes
Pregnancy, especially the first trimester, is a time of wonder and awe. Recognizing your feelings and symptoms and validating that you’re not alone can go a long way in ensuring that your first trimester is happy and healthy. Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013 15
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dy Is My Child Rea e ? For First Grad Question: My daughter will be starting first grade next week. She did fine moving from preschool to kindergarten. What do I need to do to make her transition from kindergarten to first grade go smoothly? – Anxious
Answer: Stop being anxious. The more anxious you are, the more anxious your child is likely to be. Teachers are used to making the first days go smoothly for children entering first grade. Nevertheless, your daughter does need your help so that she can develop the right attitude and confidence to start first grade out on the right foot. Here are some things that you can do at home to help you and your child make the transition from the less-structured days of summer to the more-structured school routine: • Visit the school with your child if she is not familiar with the building. • P ut the school routine in place a few days before school begins by having your child get up and go to bed at the times necessary for school. • Get all the supplies requested by the school so your child can take them to school on the very first day. 16 Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013
Dear
Teacher
• Set up playdates with other children who will be in her class. It really helps children to see a familiar face in the classroom during the first days back at school. • Go over transportation arrangements to and from school, and practice bus and walking safety tips. • Make sure your child understands where she will be before and after school. • Carefully read all the material that the school has sent to you. • Schedule a physical exam to make sure your child is healthy. • Be sure the child’s immunizations are up to date.
Art Activity: To most children, art centers on painting and drawing. This week, expand their artistic creativity to sculpture by giving them the opportunity to create actual objects. Your children can use a variety of materials to create sculptures, such as Play-Doh, sand, wood, Styrofoam, rocks,
soap, paper and ornaments. They can carve the materials, glue them together or shape them with their hands. We’ll give you several ideas of projects; however, you can find many more by searching online for “sculpture activities for kids.”
They can form them on a graham cracker base and glue them together with frosting.
Other objects to create are: totem poles, rock figures, nuts and bolts people, Tinkertoy animals and Lego objects.
Play-Doh is a great beginning material for young sculptors. Unfortunately, if it is allowed to harden, it is likely to crack. To avoid this, look for oven curable clay in your local craft stores to make lasting creations. Sand is also a great sculpting material. Wonderful castles can be created in sandboxes and at the beach. To preserve them for a few weeks, spray them with hair spray or use a mixture of 10 parts sand, one part glue and three parts water. Your children also can make edible sculptures by using a combination of pretzel sticks and mini and large marshmallows.
Send questions and comments to Dear Teacher, 1 North Illinois Street No. 2004, Indianapolis, IN 46204, or log on to dearteacher.com, or email DearTeacher@DearTeacher.com.
The rays of happiness, like those of light, are colorless when unbroken. Henry W. Longfellow
We’ve all been there. You’re doing a great job keeping up with your New Year’s fitness resolution, or you’re simply right on track with your standard fitness program, and then it happens. You fall into a ‘rut.’ Whether you’re simply bored with your routine, lack the drive/energy to keep going, or you can no longer find the time to fit your exercise plan into your day, every woman has times when she gets fed up with fitness. So, the question is, how do you mix up your routine to keep it fresh and stay motivated? After all, the best way to get results is by keeping your body guessing! Here are some fantastic tips to do just that:
Keeping
Fresh Your Fitness Routine
Pump Up the Volume
Who doesn’t love a good workout music mix? Grab your iPod and add some new favorites. You may not have switched it up for a while, and a listening to your favorite song during a workout is a great way to turn up the energy fast!
Try Something New Always wanted to take a Zumba® or kickboxing class, but haven’t gotten up the courage to attend one? Grab a friend and go at it! High-energy group fitness classes are exactly what some fitness buffs need to keep their mojo going, and bringing a friend provides even further inspiration! If you figure out it’s not your thing, at least you tried, right?
Put on Your Fancy Pants Or top, or sports bra. Of course, maybe “fancy” isn’t the right word, but you get the picture. Wear something that makes you feel great about yourself. An extra burst of confidence can give you the drive to go the distance.
Create Friendly Competition Team up with a buddy once a week or so on a recurring day and write it in your planner!
Removing Yourself from the ‘Rut’
Your commitment to your friend means you’re less likely to flake out and that you might even be inspired to work a little harder. To up the competitiveness, make fitness bets with your buddy, as in, “whoever does the most pushups covers lunch!”
Switch Your Routine It sounds simple, and it is. Gather ideas online, in fitness journals, or from your gym’s personal trainer. Simple changes can range from switching up how long you do each weight training or cardio activity, to targeting new areas of your body, to creating an entirely new plan. You should be switching up your strength training routine about every eight weeks. You can even simply add extra rate and reduce your reps. Contrary to popular opinion, this won’t cause you to bulk up!
Grab a Heart Rate Monitor Warning: These little machines can get quite addictive! A good heart rate monitor can be purchased online or in your local sporting goods store for about $100. Though cheaper versions are certainly available, the best start around this price and measure how hard your heart is working and how many
Happiness grows at our own firesides, and is not to be picked in strangers’ gardens. Douglas Jerrold
calories you’re actually burning. In other words, a heart rate monitor can take the guesswork out of working out!
Pick a Different Time If you’re a late riser, you may often be tempted to skip your mid-afternoon workout on the days you’re swamped at work or simply too tired to hit the gym. Why not try an early morning workout for a few days? It may be a bit difficult to adjust a first, but after a while, you might learn to enjoy the burst of energy you’ll achieve at the start of each morning, and you won’t have to worry about getting caught up in other activities and missing your workout. You will have already taken care of it early in the day! Whatever you decide to do to spice up your routine, hold yourself accountable. Try keeping a notebook of what you’ve done (or tweet, or “check in,” etc.) and what you’d like to accomplish in the future. If you feel like that’s too much work, simply set personal goals and be mindful of how you’d like to gradually reach them. Even thinking about reaching these goals can help motivate you to be successful in doing so! Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013 17
Styling for work
with personal stylist Marla Tomazin Tell me a little about how you got started styling women?
My first job out of college was working in retail, and I worked my way up to buyer. I met designers and through the years, for a couple of different companies, I traveled to Europe with designers to help them with choosing colors and fabrics for the season and help with merchandising it and selling to the stores. From that experience, I decided to work with individuals and do for them what I had done for designers. That is, putting together individuals’ choices and helping them with the colors and styles that work specifically for that person. Now I focus on helping those who are transitioning to a new job. Adjusting their clothing or glasses, perhaps, their hairstyle, their makeup – whatever it is that helps them feel confident moving forward into a new job.
How should you present yourself for an interview? One of the main things is to focus on quality over quantity. What I mean by that is to choose the very best fabric you can. You’re going to be wearing them more than once a week, usually. Buy good foundation pieces in solids and lightweight wools, fabrics that don’t wrinkle that much and don’t need to be dry cleaned. They’re going to look well for the interview, or if you’re traveling for work, they hold up really well. If you’re going for an interview, I always say to have two really well put-together outfits, head-to-toe, that you can wear for your first and second interview. Invest in you with the best fabric that you can. Know what career you’re going for and make sure that your clothes match up with you, in matching up with your body type, your style, your personality and your age. 18 Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013
Most people are wearing only about 25% , of what’s in their closet so the rest is hanging there confusing them. Dressing appropriately for your age is important. There are a few mature applicants who may get into pieces that are too short or too tight because they’re trying to be young, but instead bring the wrong focus to themselves. I say to err a little more on the conservative side. You don’t want to go out there and be making a big fashion statement until you know who you are interviewing with. And, it changes by career. If you’re going into a tech industry, you have a much younger audience and it tends to be more casual. This is where my clients struggle the most – casual work wear. Casual work wear is what some firms consider appropriate for “Casual Friday” except it’s every day. It’s where the supervisors are wearing shirts and jeans and so on. You make it more professional by adding a blazer or, for men, wearing it
Interviewed by Lauren Douglass
with nice trousers in lightweight wools. Coordinate your shirts and sweaters with the outfit so that you make a nice presentation, even though you’re in casual clothing. And for women, it’s the same thing, whether it’s a sweater set or a nice jacket instead of a suit.
Why is your outfit so important? They say that 85 percent of communication is nonverbal. So when you arrive anywhere, before you open your mouth to speak the first word, you are communicating and saying something about how you’re dressed. People make very snap decisions – decisions about your intelligence level, your socioeconomic background and many things about you that you might be surprised to learn. That’s why it’s really important to be aware of the kind of presentation you’re making.
Collect as precious pearls the words of the wise and virtuous. Abd-el-Kadar
What are some of the best ways to hide your “trouble areas”? Know what your trouble areas are! If you’re a woman with heavy legs, stay away from patterned stockings because your eye goes there. If you have a tremendous chest, you can wear a V-neck, which helps elongate you. If you have a larger waistline, wear a short, straight jacket and a top over your pants, not tucking in and don’t wear a belt to define the waist. For someone who’s larger, I think it’s better to wear clothes that are tailored to you and fit closer to the body than wear the tentstyle pieces. You still have a shape and a figure, and when you wear these loose, flyaway pieces it makes you look even larger. Work towards a fitted garment that comes into your body and is the appropriate length for your legs. It’s all about knowing your strong suits. Some women have a lot of weight on them but they have terrific legs! So they wear a
dress that camouflages it by having it fall to the knee – add a heel and show off a beautiful leg! All of the sudden, the focus is on something very positive. You can wear something that’s pretty around the neck to bring focus up to the face, so it’s knowing what your flaws are and working around them.
What about the trends now? Lots of color, especially in pants, but I think there’s something important that we should know about trends: know what applies to you and what doesn’t. It’s nice to look at all of the trends, but I never push trends with my clients because I always tell them that we should choose what is best for them, personally.
Could you tell us some tricks of the styling trade? One thing I like to do is work with a column, which is when your bottom piece is the same color as your underpinning piece, whether it be pants and a sweater or a skirt and top. If we go with black, for example, it makes you look taller and leaner. Say you look good in bright red or cobalt blue; then put on a blazer
in that color or take a scarf that has that color to pull the whole thing together. Most people are wearing only about 25% of what’s in their closet, so the rest is hanging there confusing them. That’s why organizing it so that you keep the clothes that fit properly and look good helps you to see what you have. A lot of times, people find that all they really need are a few new items to pull everything together, whether they be underpinnings or new ties, new scarves or accessories. In terms of shoes, if you’re going with stockings, keep it neutral. I think nude shoes are great to pair with anything. I’ve been a fan of them since that trend started, because you can wear them with anything and it visually extends the length of your body. There have been clients I’ve had who only had black shoes or navy shoes, and once they bought a nude shoe, it changed everything, down to the way they put a whole outfit together. They just love it. For more from Marla visit www.marlatomazin.com
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Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013 19
10 Un-Healthy
Snacking can be a very hea idea. It keeps lthy your metabo lism going str during the da o ng y and can hel p you avoid g a full plate o orging on f unhealthy fo od during on However, sna e sitting. cking can als o be deadly to or standard your diet nutritional p lan – especia foods camou lly when flaged as hea lthy often are very good for n’t you at all. Her e are ten of the bigges t offenders :
“Healthy” Snacks By Katie Moss
Dried Fruit
Sports Drinks
Would you believe that fruit can be one of the worst snack choices out there? Dried fruit is shrunken down and extracted of its moisture, but all of the sugars remain. That means that you could easily consume seven mangoes or 8 bananas in one sitting. Even from natural sources, taking in this much sugar isn’t a good idea.
Gatorade, Powerade and other sports drinks may be beneficial for athletes who are running a marathon or playing professional sports, but for everyday gym rats, these beverages are full of artificial ingredients, salt and sugar, and can cause serious tooth decay and enamel damage in the same way that sodas can. You’re much better off hydrating with water!
Fat-Free Yogurt Greek yogurt may have an acceptable consistency without the fat, but standard yogurt becomes lifeless and watery when its fat is removed. To make up for this less-than-stellar texture, extra sugar is added. This type of yogurt becomes even more caloric when featuring fruit on the bottom.
Honey-Roasted, Salted Nuts Nuts are often a great source of good fats in small portions, but those loaded with fat, sugar and salt make them easy to overeat. There’s even evidence that roasting nuts can reduce the amount of protein they hold. Nuts are also high in calories, so eating more than a handful or so of raw nuts isn’t advisable either.
Energy Bars Unless you’re going raw and organic with such brands as Larabar, Oskri, and Kind, (and even then you should read the label!) energy bars are often packed with added sweeteners (which are labeled under various disguises such as brown sugar, high-fructose corn syrup and cane juice). Some have calories and sugars comparable to candy bars. 20 Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013
Reduced Fat Peanut Butter All peanut butter is rather fattening, but raw, organic peanut butter can be a great source of protein and good monosaturated fats. Processed peanut butter, on the other hand, is far from healthy – especially in “reduced fat” form. As with yogurt, less fat means more sugar and other additives. The best choice is finding a store where you can grind your own natural peanut butter.
Granola/Trail Mix While trail mix and granola mixes have a great mix of ingredients – oats, fruits, nuts, etc. – this doesn’t mean that they’re always healthy. Some trail mixes contain fattening chocolates (though those with dark chocolate are a bit better) and large amounts of sugar. They’re also made for those who are tackling hikes or other endurance activities, so these mixes can be extremely caloric and are best eaten in small amounts.
Prepared Salads Grabbing a quick and easy prepared side salad can prove quite efficient on the go, but just because something says “salad,” doesn’t
mean it’s healthy. Chicken and tuna salads are often loaded with mayonnaise (and, therefore, fat), and dressings can add a ton of fat and calories as well. Making your own salads before leaving for work or school is a much healthier alternative. Be sure to include lots of fresh, organic veggies and choose healthy dressings such as olive oil and vinegar.
Smoothies Smoothies from coffee bars, smoothie chains and fast food restaurants start off rather healthful with a blend of yogurt and fruit, but large serving sizes combined with ice cream or added sugars can rack up the calories quickly. It’s much better to make your own healthy smoothies at home.
Other Low-Fat/Fat-Free Foods Just because something is labeled “fat-free” doesn’t mean that it’s calorie-free, and it certainly doesn’t make it healthy. Gummy bears, for example, are fat-free, but they’re predominantly made of sugar. In addition to fat, you should take calories, sugars, fiber, sodium and vitamins and minerals into account when examining a food label. Low-calorie, low-fat foods provide “empty” calories that can leave you craving sweets and salty foods all day long. So, what are some healthy snack recommendations? Fresh fruits and vegetables, small amounts of raw nuts, full-fat Greek yogurt, edamame (steamed Japanese soybeans), or smoothies with no added sugars (made at home) are all great choices!
If we do not plant knowledge when young, it will give us no shade when we are old. Lord Chesterfield
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Unleash Your Inner Flirt Interviewed by Lauren Douglass
Interview with Rachel DeAlto Flirting brings you back to that feeling you had when you first got together because it’s all about making somebody else feel good. Tell me about your new book, Flirt Fearlessly. Flirt Fearlessly is all about giving both men and women the confidence to get out there and make connections. Obviously it’s geared more toward single people, but my mission, so to speak, is to let people know that you can flirt in your marriage, in a relationship, and in business. There are such different ways to do it.
Can you elaborate on flirting in your marriage? People forget that they have to keep flirting in a relationship to keep those butterflies that you had in the beginning. People become complacent, and that’s the problem these days. They get used to a routine and the monotony of daily life with kids and mortgages. Try doing things a little more fun, sexy or risqué. Leave flirty messages or send your partner a hotel key to meet you somewhere. The book talks about so many things you can do.
Did you say flirting in business? Yes! In business, I’m not talking about seduction; it’s more of a harmless, platonic flirting. It’s not an end result of getting a date, but it’s an end result of connecting with someone on a human level. The kind 22 Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013
of flirting you do to get a date is different but this kind is more tailored. It’s not romantic in any way, shape or form. It helps you to really connect with people and with networking.
really look at what went wrong before you get into something else.
For those just getting out of a relationship, what are some tips?
Everything’s changed in the dating world and it’s overwhelming for people who are getting back out there and may not be aware of all the dating opportunities. Online dating has obviously been the biggest difference. I think it was only developed about 15 years ago. Back then, people thought of it as something only losers would use and that you’d have to be desperate. Nowadays, it’s become the norm but is a real adjustment for people who haven’t dated in ten years or are a little concerned because of horror stories.
Well, it depends on the situation. Sometimes people feel like they were locked up and now they can’t wait to get into the dating world. A lot of times, though, there’s a lot of damage that’s been done to your confidence and there are dreams or fantasies that have been put to an end. It’s important to rebuild that confidence and know that you’re worthy of meeting someone that’s going to treat you well and give you the attention that you need and deserve.
Since you’ve personally gone through a divorce, how do you mentally prepare yourself for getting back into dating again? It’s different for everybody. I had a very amicable divorce, but it depends on how you’ve healed yourself. A lot of times, when people end up in rebound relationships or rebound marriages, it’s because they didn’t take time to heal after the divorce or whatever they’ve gone through. You have to take the time to heal yourself before getting back into a long relationship and
How have things changed since ten years ago?
I’ve heard recently that the majority of men on dating sites are married men. Have you come across this? I have heard about that, and it does happen once in a while. But for every married man that’s on there, there’s a regular guy looking for a good relationship. That’s why it’s a problem, and I do advise women to do their homework. Google him and check his Facebook pictures to see if he is who he says he is. But remember, you can have the same situation in a bar, a daytime event or anywhere that you’re meeting people. There are always going to be those men who have a second life.
If you have an hour, will you not improve that hour, instead of idling it away?. Lord Chesterfield
What are things to look out for when you accept an online date? The first thing I say is to never give out your full name and to use a completely separate email address that’s free. Don’t use your last name. A lot of information can be learned just by having your full name. Second thing is to be sure to meet in a public place. The first date is not a real date; it’s more of a meet-and-greet. Keep it really short with going to get coffee or something like that. That’s enough to decide if you’re going to go out with them again.
What are some of the best places to meet people? Everywhere! Honestly, I believe you can meet people anywhere and everywhere; you just have to have the right attitude. One of my favorite things is Meetup.com which has a lot of different groups, and it’s all over the world. Regardless of where you go or what you do, there’s always going to be some interest group to partake in. I think it’s worth noting that even if you’re not meeting singles, you could be talking to people whose best friend is your perfect
match. So talk to everyone, and don’t just immediately shut yourself down.
Is there anything that surprised you when you were writing the book? Yes! It is that men want relationships, too. They want love just as much as women do. They may be on a different time schedule in getting past the “fun” part, but most of the guys that I talk to want the same, exact thing.
If you could give one piece of advice to women that haven’t gotten married yet, what would that be? Know your worth. I think a lot of women who are looking to get married fall a little short sometimes and end up in a relationship that’s not deserving of them. Don’t be afraid to wait for someone that will give you what you need. Just because your clock is ticking, having a baby with someone you’re not going to be connected to and are possibly going to be divorced from in a couple years is not a good idea. Wait for the right person who is going to fulfill you and don’t settle! To hear more from Rachel, visit theflirtexpert. com and pick up your copy of Flirt Fearlessly !
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Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013 23
Conquering By Katie Moss
Daily Stress
The Beginner’s Guide to Practicing Mindfulness You may have heard of the term “mindfulness” in yoga class, but what does that term really mean on a daily basis? Mindfulness, according to the practice of Buddhism, is a way to see things as they really are, without the cloudiness of one’s mood, prejudices or feelings. In its more general and therapeutic uses, mindfulness meditation is a way to reduce daily stress and increase one’s general sense of well-being, whether it involves the physical aspect of yoga or not. In fact, mindfulness can be practiced without setting any particular time aside or slipping into stretchy pants. All you must do is be “present” and completely aware of what you are experiencing in your surroundings. Mindfulness is even used to ward off depression, release pain or even achieve goals.
24 Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013
The most difficult thing in life is to know yourself. Thales
So, how does one go about being “present?” Consider the phrase, “Stop and smell the roses.” Keep that in mind, and substitute “smell” for any of the other four senses and “roses” for anything you want, really. Perhaps you decide to take the time to take a deep breath at each stoplight while driving or tune in to the smell of that delicious coffee that’s brewing in the break room. Feel everything around you. Drink it all in.
Here are a few basic tips on how to practice mindfulness as a beginner:
serve others. If you do not serve a specific faith, simply concentrate on positive thoughts and language.
Concentrate on the present Don’t let your mind wander to what happened yesterday, what you’re cooking for dinner tonight or what your plans are for tomorrow. Simply think about now. What do you feel? What do you smell? Use all of your senses to take in your surroundings.
Be aware of your mind Is it wandering, or is it completely clear? Remove all distractions and ignore them as they pop up.
Be cognizant of your physical and mental state Appreciate how you feel in this moment and honor yourself for taking the time to recognize that. Also, honor your senses for allowing you to experience the world so intimately.
Concentrate on you mind/body connection Are the stresses of your mind leading to physical pain, or do you feel relaxed. Does your body feel heavy and tense or light and free of worry?
Examine your motives React to them and your own semi-unconscious activities. Practice generosity of spirit. Accept and admit imperfections in yourself and others.
Consider creating an intention/affirmation Perhaps you’d benefit from silently thinking, “I will quit smoking,” “I am relaxed” or “Things are as they should be.” You may choose to set aside daily times for meditation or prayer, as well as faithful studies and an exploration of how to
Employ deepbreathing tactics Fill your whole body with breath. When breathing in through your nose, expand your belly and draw your ribs in. Let your breath fill both your belly and chest. Then, sigh a long breath out, removing all of the old, stale energy from your body and bringing new, fresh energy in. Roll your shoulders back, drop your head from side-to-side and let it hang heavy. Concentrate on your cleansing breaths.
Appreciate the things around you, even when not specifically practicing Little improvements in your daily life can help you reach mindfulness, whether you’re specifically trying to concentrate on being in the present or not. For example, appreciating and honoring your parents, spouse, children and extended family will help you feel more balanced, as will being grateful and mindful of each bite you take of the food you’re eating. This is a very important part of being mindful, as nourishing your body properly often leads to excellent mental stability and health as well. Being mindful isn’t about a particular religion or path in life, it’s simply a way to experience life to the fullest and to reduce the daily worries and stress that we hold within our bodies and mind. Try incorporating some of these mindfulness tactics into your everyday life, and you’re sure to have a greater appreciation of the people and world around you!
He that will not reflect is a ruined man. Asian Proverb
Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013 25
Get Moving! By Katie Moss
8 Winter Hikes to Enjoy in Florida One of Florida’s best attributes is its year-round mild temperatures. It’s warm enough to experience outdoor activities at any point during the year, and it’s very beneficial to get outdoors in the winter and early spring to break up the winter blues. One of the best ways to get in touch with Mother Earth and burn some calories is going for a quick hike. Luckily, there are tons of great trails in and around Gainesville. Here are eight exceptional ones:
Cofrin Nature Park You won’t even have to leave the city of Gainesville to experience this patch of nature preserve. A 30-acre tract of land, this nature park was donated by Gladys Cofrin, an active environmentalist who originally had a family home and horse farm on the property. There are several shady trails to walk through, and it’s great for a quick lunchtime picnic or early morning walk.
Devil’s Millhopper State Park Located on the northern edge of Gainesville, this park boasts several amazing waterfalls. In 232 steps, you can walk inside a 120-footdeep, 500-foot-wide sinkhole with several layers of forest on the way down. If you visit after a heavy rain, you’ll see all of the waterfalls beautifully cascading down into the sinkhole. Atop the sinkhole is a 0.9-mile trail.
Hogtown Creek Greenway In the heart of old Gainesville you’ll find an old settlement site and a dense, shady hike of river bluff forest that successfully shuts out the civilized world around it. The original Hogtown settlement was a Seminole village with 14 inhabitants in 1824, but it expanded when traders moved in. By 1854, however, the population center shifted four miles west to the Gainesville we know today. 26 Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013
Mill Creek Preserve Located north of Gainesville and part of the Alachua County Forever registry, this large, 1,200-acre park offers its visitors many surprises, including ancient trees that have been around for centuries, the southernmost American beech forest and towering spruce pines. There are two loops and nearly five miles of trails, so it’s easy to tailor a hike here to fit your time constraints.
Alfred A. Ring Park A 22-acre park north of Gainesville, this site gives the appearance of a deep, dark upland forest despite its small size. There’s even a small wildflower garden tucked inside.
children should be closely monitored. You can hike up to three miles here, but if you hike out to the observation tower, be sure to bring a walking stick, and watch out for wildlife.
Florida Trail Gold Head Branch State Park Not too far from Gainesville, in Keystone Heights, this park is one of the state’s oldest, as it opened in the 1930s and contains facilities constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. It’s one of the few state parks through which the famous Florida Trail runs, and it’s also a great place to pitch a campsite or rent a modern, well-outfitted cabin.
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park La Chua Trail Searching for gators? Visit the La Chua Trail at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, located right here in Gainesville! Unlike most other prairies, Paynes Prairie is unique in that it has a drain (named Alacua Sink). When it clogs, the prairie becomes a lake, but in times of drought, water collects at the end of this massive landform, and so do alligators! Bison and horses also roam freely here, so dogs are not permitted and
Of course, these aren’t all of the hikes around the area! We aren’t forgetting spots like the Sweetwater Branch Preserve, which provides a great family hiking environment, and there are many other impressive sites as well. Like a true adventurer, we challenge you to discover your favorite local nature preserve/hiking trail. After all, a little fresh air can do a lot of good! For more information on local hikes, check out Floridahikes.com/Gainesville
Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow. Doug Firebaugh
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Be not afraid of growing slowly; be afraid only of standing still. Chinese Proverb
Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013 27
Finance for Dummies Interview by Lauren Douglass
is Smart Reading
Meet Eric Tyson, an internationally acclaimed and best-selling personal finance book author, columnist and speaker. Eric imparts some valuable wisdom about getting started with investments, discusses dangerous mistakes to avoid and demystifies some troublesome healthcare questions in the Personal Finance For Dummies®, 7th Edition. Can you tell me a little about the book? who are doing this on a full-time basis, not as I’m a former financial advisor with a background in management consulting. I’ve written a number of best-selling books in the “For Dummies” series. This new edition helps people deal with common personal financial management issues, like how to reduce your personal spending, how to improve your long-term goals, how to save and invest and how to get proper insurance coverage.
For someone that is interested in the stock market, but hesitant to jump in, can you give some advice for what the market is looking like now? It’s important to get educated before you make any investing decisions. It’s also important to realize that it’s almost impossible to predict what the market is going to do over shorter periods of time. All of us, of course, would like to have a crystal ball to know what the market’s going to do in the next year, but history has proven time and time again that you can make money in the stock market by buying and holding a highly diversified portfolio, not trying to time the market.
You mentioned that mutual funds are a safer route to go. Can you talk about that? Investing through funds is really a sensible way to go. A mutual fund is overseen by professional managers, will be highly diversified and will own dozens of securities that meet the investment objectives of a fund. Not only does the fund research these investments before purchasing them, but, over time, it tracks and monitors what’s going on for them. For an individual investor, that’s difficult. If you’re trying to pick and choose your own stocks, you’re effectively competing against the professional money managers 28 Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013
a hobby. I think it’s a mistake for people to take a large portion of their investment dollars and chase after individual stocks, thinking they can do better than the best professionals, because that’s unlikely to happen.
want to chase after investments after they’ve already gone up in value. It’s easy to look with a rearview mirror and see which investments have done well in recent years, but that doesn’t mean they’ll necessarily be the best going forward.
What about investing in commodities? What is going on with healthcare Can that be more beneficial than costs, and can you talk a little about investing in a mutual fund? why they’re expected to increase? I don’t think so. Commodities over the long run have not done well. I know in the recent decade there’s been a lot of talk about precious metals like gold and silver. Advocates of those vehicles will point out that precious metals have done quite well over the last ten years, and that’s true. Historically, over long periods of time, precious metals have not been good investments.
What investments do you think are too risky? Well, there can be risky investments and also risky approaches. A risky approach would be trying to jump in and out of investments on a daily or weekly basis. To me, that’s gambling, not investing. There are also exchangetraded funds that purport to double or triple the return of a market index so-called leverage. Those are really dangerous to invest in. In my books, I talk about time-tested and proven investments, whether it’s investing in diversified portfolios, stocks and bonds, real estate or small business investments. People are better off sticking with those vehicles that have a time-tested record, instead of jumping into something else.
Healthcare costs in America have historically had rates far in excess of the rate of inflation, and that continues to be the case. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) requires that certain employers provide healthcare coverage, and it also essentially mandates individuals to get coverage. If they don’t, they have to pay a penalty. Obamacare has also mandated that certain benefits be built into policies, and as insurers now build those policies that meet the requirements, people are seeing even more substantial rate increases than they have in prior years.
So if everyone is required to get health insurance, why are the rates increasing? First, preventative care now must be included in policies. Also, insurers may no longer impose a lifetime maximum benefit payout. It’s also just the fact that insurers can no longer reject people for having a so-called preexisting health condition. All three of these things are going to increase the cost of providing insurance and insurers are going to have to pass those costs along to all of us.
What are some common mistakes across the board?
Can you talk a little about the HSAs?
People have a tendency to overlook the fees and commissions that they have to pay with investments. Also, there’s a tendency to
The health savings accounts are certainly worth considering. Basically, with the HSAs, you may be able to put money away in a Insist on yourself. Never imitate. Ralph Waldo Emerson
health savings account that gives you an immediate tax benefit. Then, the money can accumulate over time and in the future. If you withdraw the money to pay for approved healthcare expenditures, you wouldn’t owe taxes on the withdrawn portion like you would on a retirement plan. The challenge is that many people don’t have enough cash flow to fund the HSA, so they may or may not do that. It’s important to remember that you get the tax deduction just by passing money through the HSA account, so even if you don’t have the spare cash around to fund the account, it’s worth passing money through your HSA that you’re going to spend in near-term health expenditures.
Can you give me an example of how to use an HSA? Suppose that you have an individual health plan that has an annual deductible of only $500. You would not be eligible for an HSA with such a low deductible. Instead, if you took a health plan that had a much higher deductible, say $1,100, that would help to significantly reduce the premium that you would have to pay to your insurance
Heaven never helps the man who will not act. Sophocles
company every year. If you’re on the hook for the first $1,100 as an annual deductible, that helps to reduce the insurance company’s out of pocket expenses, and they pass those savings on to you. The other benefit to taking a higher deductible as well as lower premiums is that it makes you eligible to put money into an HSA account.
What do you think are some of the most important things that you need to know for financial planning, as a family? I think one of the important things is to sit down and talk about what your goals and objectives are. If you’re married, you’re going to want to brainstorm about your goals and objectives because two different people are going to have two different views about what they want to do with their money. You have to compromise and come up with something that both people are going to be happy with. Personal Finance For Dummies covers all the elements of what a person should plan for financially, helps them understand the lingo and terminology and shows them what to look out for. Even if you are going to hire somebody, it’s important to
remember that you need to be educated yourself before you can evaluate the confidence and expertise of anybody you might hire. The book also explains how to hire a financial planner or other people that you might work with.
How do you think the economy is looking for the next four years, and how do you think people can prepare themselves? I can’t tell you for sure what’s going to happen, but regardless of what the economy does over the next four years, each person can make the most of their own situation by getting educated and by taking practical and sensible steps to improve their own personal financial situation. Learn how to better live within your means, reduce your spending and save and invest money in the kinds of accounts that give you tax benefits.
Personal Finance For Dummies®, 7th Edition is available at bookstores nationwide. Learn more from Eric at www.EricTyson.com
Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013 29
Your What is
Personal Style? By Heather Aulisio
Your personal style says everything about you! It is reflective of your personality and your lifestyle. It allows you to make a statement and express yourself without saying anything at all. Do you have difficulty narrowing down just one specific style that describes the true you? If so, take this personal style quiz to determine which style best reflects who you are.
1) Which sounds most appealing to you? A) A tan pair of peep toe pumps B) A pair of over the knee leather boots C) A pair of flip flops
2) What color are most of the items in your wardrobe? A) Navy B) Black C) White
3) Which accessory are you most drawn to? A) P earl Earrings and sparkly brooches B) Layers of metal, beaded, and leather bracelets C) Stackable rings and a pair of hoop earrings
4) Your weekend look consists of: A) J eans, a sweater, and a pea coat B) Leggings, a tunic, and a beret C) Yoga pants, a sweat shirt, and sneakers
5) When creating a look for work, you: A) M ake sure you look professional and conservative B) Make sure you wear something that makes a statement C) Make sure you dress with nothing but comfort in mind
30 Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013
6) Your ideal winter gift is: A) A cashmere scarf B) A pair of leather fingerless gloves C) A pair of flannel pajamas
If you chose mostly A’s Your style is classic and conservative! You own over a dozen polo tops and button down blouses. You think there is nothing more chic than a strand of freshwater pearls and a fur collared pea coat. You love ballet flats and tend to wear neutral toned tops and pants. You adore a form fitting pencil skirt and cashmere sweaters. You mainly shop for pieces that are considered investment pieces that can be worn for many years because they are always going to be in style. Your celebrity style mate is Kate Middletown. Take inspiration from this classic and conservative princess when planning your next outfit! Try wearing a crisp, white button down top tucked into a pair of fit and flare jeans with a dark brown belt. Wear a plaid printed blazer and accessorize with a strand of sparkly beads and a pair of round toe ankle booties. You will look classy, posh and polished for any occasion!
If you chose mostly B’s 7) Which swim suit are you most likely to wear? A) A black one piece B) A bright bikini C) A striped tankini
8) Which make up item must you apply before you leave the house? A) blush B) red lipstick C) chap stick
9) Which purse are you most likely to carry: A) A quilted designer bag B) A red leather envelope clutch C) A canvas messenger bag
10) Your ideal dress is: A) Traditional B) Colorful C) Casual
Your style is edgy and exciting! You live for skinny jeans in every print and color and have a weak spot for leather skirts and jackets. You own several pairs of studded ballet flats and boots and like to accessorize your outfits by adding slouchy hats and printed scarves. You mainly wear black and accent your ensemble with pops of neon color. Sheer blouses make you smile and fringe brightens your day! You avoid trends at all costs because you don’t like to conform to what’s hot and what’s not, and you can’t fathom following in the footsteps of others. Your celebrity style mate is the cheeky Calvin Klein fashion model, Kate Moss. Take inspiration from this edgy and exciting star when planning your next outfit! Try wearing a pair of black leather
pants featured in a skinny silhouette with a plain white tee. Slip on a loose black blazer and step into a zipper embellished pair of black flats. This is a great look for a Saturday afternoon as you are out and about running errands but need to transition into an evening filled with drinks and appetizers with the ladies at your favorite hot spot.
If you chose mostly C’s Your style is casual and comfortable! Forget dress pants, pass the yoga pants! If it is not comfortable, you are not wearing it. You are a huge fan of maxi dresses and wide leg pants and jeans. You tend to wear oversized shirts and layer many pieces of clothing on the upper half of your body. You don’t like the constricted feeling that tight clothes create. You own over a dozen flip flops and pairs of sneakers. You adore soft and stretchy fabrics and gravitate toward oversized messenger bags. Sunglasses and a hair tie are usually your accessories of choice, although you love the look of layered leather and beaded bracelets. Your celebrity style mate is Jessica Biel. Take inspiration from this casual and comfortable star when planning your next outfit! Try wearing striped, neutral-toned, long and loose maxi dress with a pair of nude toned wedges or strappy sandals. Add a pair of oversized silver hoops or a set of stackable gold rings on one finger. You’re sure to look like the newly married Mrs. Timberlake in no time.
Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom. Aristotle
By Katelyn Vilardell
Are you expecting? Planning on breastfeeding?
Therapeutic massage performed during and after pregnancy has been shown to reduce anxiety, decrease depression, relieve muscle aches and joint pains, improve labor outcomes and boost a newborn’s health. The primal language of life is touch, and the ancient art of massage is a compassionate, empowering and holistic tradition of healthcare. Prenatal massage addresses the common discomforts associated with pregnancy, including skeletal and circulatory changes that are caused by hormone shifts, increased blood volume and postural shifting.
Over the past 10 years, studies have shown that when massage is introduced to a woman’s prenatal care, her relaxation and stress-related hormone levels are significantly altered, leading to mood regulation and improved cardiovascular health. In one particular study, women received pre-natal massages over a fiveweek period, by the end of which they reported reductions in the stress hormones norepinephrine and cortisol. Furthermore, dopamine and serotonin levels increased. These changes in hormone levels also lead to fewer complications during and after birth, such as low birth weight. A heavy uterus during pregnancy causes reduced circulation and increased pressure on major blood vessels, which leads to joint swelling. Massage helps to reduce the collection of fluids in swollen joints by stimulating soft tissue. This also improves the removal of tissue waste, which is carried by the body’s lymph system. Many women experience sciatic nerve pain in late pregnancy as the uterus rests on the pelvic and lower back muscles. The pressure that the uterus creates spreads tension to the leg muscles, causing them to swell and inflict pressure on nearby nerves. Massage therapy addresses these inflamed nerves by helping to release some muscle tension. During pregnancy, many women have experienced a significant reduction in sciatic nerve pain through regular massage.
Other potential benefits of prenatal massage include a decrease in back pain, muscle tension, headaches, stress and anxiety, as well as improved oxygenation of soft tissues and better sleep. Massage is offered to women who are in their second and third trimester. It is not normally practiced on women in their first trimester due to the higher risk for miscarriage at that time. The nerves that serve the breast originate in the upper spine, which is often where women carry a lot of muscular tension. Postnatal massage can help mothers relax and enjoy breastfeeding. Furthermore, massage increases the release of oxytocin, which is a pleasure hormone in the brain that supports relaxation, bonding and may decrease anxiety. Massage rebalances a woman’s body by relieving tension, tightness and swelling due to prolonged nursing and lifting, as well as reduces fatigue, tension, headaches and postpartum blues by promoting emotional and mental well-being. Massaging the breasts can stimulate let-down and expression of milk. Mothers can perform self-breast massages just before breastfeeding, which increases the fat content of the milk and reduces the severity of breast engorgement. Infant massage
We are sometimes as different from ourselves as we are from others. Francois de La Rochefoucauld
can be part of a daily routine for Mom and Dad. It promotes relaxation and sleep for the baby, and skin-to-skin contact helps growth and development. For questions, links to studies and preand post-natal massage, infant, pediatric or self-breast massage techniques, please contact Haile Village Spa & Salon at (352) 335-5025. P.S. – Haile Village Spa & Salon facilities include prenatal massage tables that allow you to lay face down during both the second and third trimester! Katelyn Vilardell is the spa director for Haile Village Spa & Salon and a licensed medical massage therapist, certified neuromuscular therapist and nationally certified as a personal fitness trainer. She has an orthopedic degree in medical massage obtained at the Florida College of Natural Health with a special focus on pathology and special populations such as geriatrics and disabilities. Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013 31
Beauty By Emily Alter
Glop and Glam Glitter Gum Gel
No one ever wanted gum in their hair...until now. This bubble gum styling gel offers a lightweight, all natural formula that you and your little girl will love. Glitter and the sweet smell of bubblegum are a match made in heaven. $16 glopandglam.com
Freeze 24-7 Skin Glace Daily Detoxifying Cleanser and Mask Purify your skin with a deep foaming cleanser and potent mask all in one simultaneous formula. Great for all skin types and consumer tested to leave skin feeling 100% smoother, healthier and refreshed. $65 freeze247.com, Henri Bendel, Bloomingdale’s Nordtrom beauty.com and other fine retailers
Treatment for Curly Hair Leave in with Keratin Make your hair even more beautiful with this intensive, leave-in, made just for your curly hair type. Maximizes the brilliance and volume of your hair will leaving it looking naturally glossy. $5.99 Walgreens, nuNAAT.com
Superfruit Formula Pomegranate Acai Moisturizer Indulge in the sweet fragrance of pomegranate and acai with this rich moisturizer. Your hands will be smelling as good as they feel. $6.96 whole foods, natural supermarkets, kissmyface.com
Moisturizing Pomegranate Acai Hand Soap Enjoy a fruity hand soap that’s effective yet gentle. The moisturizing formula will have your hands feeling soft, smooth and most importantly clean and fresh.
Karité Special Leave-In Detangler The winter air will no longer be a threat to your precious locks. Detangle, moisturize and lock in hydration with this shea butter leave-in by the Karité line of nuNAAT. Incredibly rich and full of antioxidants and UV protectors, shea butter completely restores and protects your hair from breakage and damage.
Freeze 24-7 IceCrystals Prep and Polish Restructure and resurface your skin while minimizing wrinkles and fine lines. You will be amazed at the results of this formula. Clinically tested and proven to reduce age spots and improve skin texture and softness. $65 freeze247.com, Henri Bendel, Bloomingdale’s Nordtrom beauty.com and other fine retailers
$5.99 Walgreens, nuNAAT.com
$6.49 whole foods, natural supermarkets, kissmyface.com
32 Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013
What progress, you ask, have I made? I have begun to be a friend to myself. Hecato, Greek philosopher
Lotion Lab With Shea & Cocoa Butters
Philip Kingsley Daily Damage Defense Your newest favorite hair product is here! Fighting against damage and fortifying from the scalp outwards, this everyday spray is packed with amino acids and proteins to repair and revitalize your hair.
Soothing shea and cocoa butters in these wipes will relieve your dry or rough skin from daily stress and moisturize it to its full potential. Touchably smoother, softer skin in seconds.
$35.93 philipkingsley.com
$5.99 globalbeautycare.com
Lotion Lab With Moroccan Argan Oil Dry skin no more with these moroccan argan oil wipes. Quick and easy to use for all skin types, these wipes help improve the elasticity and texture of your skin. $5.99 globalbeautycare.com
Treatment for Curly Hair Intensive Hair Mask Crabtree & Evelyn Tarocco Orange Hand Therapy Condition your hands with this intensive treatment that leaves hands softer with each use. Indulge your hands with rich and creamy orange extract and shea butter for the ultimate moisture.
The solution to dry, damaged curly hair is here. It only takes 10-20 minutes for this long-term moisturizing mask to revitalize and revive your dry curls. $5.99 Walgreens, nuNAAT.com
$19 crabtree-evelyn.com
Vitabath Nouveau Rose Body Wash Smell as pretty as a blooming rose with this rich body wash. You will be sure to lure in a special Valentine. $7.99 www.myvitabath.com, ULTA and Walgreens stores
Cenoire 24K BeautĂŠ Bar
Nouveau Rose Fragrance Mist
Exhilarate your face with this circulation producing beauty tool. Deeply massages your skin with tiny vibrations plated in 24K gold. Compact enough to carry in your pocket.
This fragrance mist will have you leaving behind a rosy scent as sweet as a bouquet. Great as a gift or in a set. $9.99www.myvitabath.com, ULTA and Walgreens stores
$59.99 amazon.com, cenoire.com, shoebuy.com
It is only the very wisest and the very stupidest who cannot change. Confucius
Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013 33
Gadgets By Emily Alter
Aluminyze Take your photos to a whole new level by Aluminyzing them. An Aluminyzed photo is a sheet of aluminum with a photo embedded into it, giving your photo superior shine, durability and quality. Upload your photos on the website and watch your pictures truly come to life. Prices vary aluminyze.com
Just Mobile HeadStand Everything on your desk deserves to have its own place – especially your headphones. This aluminum stand with no-slip base is the perfect companion to any headphones with a headband. $49.95 just-mobile.com
Dog-e-Glow LED Dog Leash Walking your dog at night has never been more fun with this light-up leash. Keeps you and your dog safe while being water resistant and having 100,000 hours of LED life.
Kanex Double Up Dual USB Charger Two is better than one, especially when it comes to charging two devices on one charger simultaneously. The Kanex charger makes this possible, allowing you to easily charge your iPad or iPhone or both. Compatible with tablets and smartphones. $49 Amazon, and kanexlive. com/doubleup
34 Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013
$29.98 dogeglow.com
Satechi Universal Remote This amazing device eliminates clutter and turns any iOS device into a universal remote. Just plug in the Remote Dongle and download the free app off of iTunes and your TV, DVD player and much more can all be controlled by your iPhone or iPad. $24.99 satechi.com amazon.com
Dog-e-Glow LED Dog Collar Your dog will truly glow with this light-up collar. Choose from a variety of styles (like this Gator one.) with two light settings and multiple sizes. Perfect for man’s best friend. $25.98 dogeglow.com
Everybody wants to be somebody; nobody wants to grow. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Puttyworld: Thinking Putty A long day at the office can be stressful and exhausting. Every now and then, it’s important to take a deep breath and clear your head. For those times you can’t take that break though, Thinking Putty can serve as relief. Puttyworld’s Thinking Putty comes in over 30 colors. It can also serve a multi-purpose toy for the kids! $10–$15 www.puttyworld.com
Pyle: Waterproof MP3 Player Made of ergonomic soft silicon material to wrap comfortably around the ear, the 4GC waterproof MP3 player features soft touch buttons to control power, volume, skip and play/pause functions allowing users to enjoy their music even underwater! $59.99 www.PyleAudio.com
EnChroma Cx-N Enhancing color for the estimated 10 Million Americans living with color blindness, and even those with normal color vision, EnChroma’s new Cx-N series features optical coated lenses that filter wavelengths of light responsible for color vision. The Cx-N is designed for use with CVD (red-green color) blindness, normal color vision and those exposed to high-intensity sunlight and those with low or sensitive vision disorders like cataracts. 399.95 www.enchroma.com and select upscale retailers
The happiest life is that which constantly exercises and educates what is best in us. Hamerton
Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013 35
eath By H
n de er A
rson
d ential an s s e t s o em hould One o f th woman s y r e v e s re d piece a structu timeless is e b o r d r is an eir wa at there h own in th t w o n k you na for you o blazer. Did g in it a w r er an c e you h n ideal blaz e l il w rack that function d n a le shopping y t s ile adding r n ho w t o a e L ? k figure wh o y lo y ay-to-da your bod r o f r t o your d e z bla air it select a not only r it and p a e w o t ho w ces in type, but rrent pie u c e h t ! h wit ar round e y e b o r d your w ar
the
Blazer for your body type
Lucky for ladies, the structured blazer is one of the hottest 2012 fall trends. Well-renowned designers across the globe are featuring them on the runway, boasting a military inspired look, fit and feel. This season, when you are shopping for one of your very own, opt to subscribe to this trend by selecting one with bold and brassy buttons, accentuated shoulders, cuffed sleeves and an interesting streamlined fit which features front piping, darting and a double breasted lapel. 36 Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013
Best
If you are an apple body type, you have a round, full figured shape all over.
This means you need to wear articles of clothing that create defined curves. Some celebrities that share this shape with you are Julie Roberts, Tyra Banks and Kate Winslet. When shopping for a blazer, choose one that has a hemline that sits slightly below your hips. This will lengthen your body and allow the blazer to create a defined waist when it is buttoned. Speaking of buttons, be sure to select a blazer that has a one button closure and is in a size that allows you to wear the blazer open or closed. If you cannot button your blazer, you are wearing the wrong size. Many apple body types need to take their off-the-rack blazers to a tailor to get a complementary and custom fit. Also, be sure to shop for blazers with a thin lapel and pockets that sit directly angled on the hip to help create a curvy look when buttoned and a streamlined look when worn open.
We only become what we are by the radical and deep-seated refusal of that which others have made of us. Jean-Paul Sartre
If you are a pear body type, you are larger on the bottom and smaller on the top.
This means you need to wear articles of clothing that provide you with balance and draw the eye upward. Some celebrities that share this shape with you are Kristin Davis, BeyoncĂŠ and Jennifer Lopez. When shopping for a blazer, choose one that has a hemline that sits slightly above the hipline and that has at least a two or three button closure. Opt for double lapels that are on the large side, creating a focal point on the smallest portion of your body-just below your chest. Opt for a back vent to create a roomy yet attractive fit from all angles and for some embellishment, like shiny statement buttons or medium sized pockets that sit flat and facing forward on the blazer.
If you are a banana body type, you are long, lean and in need of volume and curve creating apparel.
Some celebrities that share this shape with you are Cameron Diaz, Natalie Portman and Sarah Jessica Parker. You need to wear articles of clothing that are thin enough to be layered together and cinch at the waist to focus on your best feature-your tiny waistline! Choose a blazer that doesn’t sit straight across, but has scalloped edges or a tulip silhouette. Go for designs that have voluminous embellishments on them, like a faux fur collar or lapels. Blazers that have a streamlined design will make you look like you have some serious curves when you wear them buttoned. Opt for a one button design and medium-sized shallow pockets that angle in toward your waist.
The options are en when it comes to dless ad structured blaze ding a r to your ensemble. Once you are aware of the best blaze r for your body type, you w ill not only be able to wear and pair this highly functiona l essential item ye and ar round, you will be able to embrace and feature your figure and look fabulous and flattering for any and ever y occasion. Now that you know the best blazer for your body type, begin to consider how you can put together a flattering but stylishly chic outfit. Allow the blazer to add a pop of color to a leopard printed top or a neutral dress for work or play. Wear it over top of a basic white tee and jeans as you are running errands on the weekend to instantly give you a posh and polished look. Wear your favorite spring and summer tops year round as you wear the best blazer for your body type over top of them.
Purchase Your Tickets at
www.gainesvillejrleague.org
Heed the still small voice that so seldom leads us wrong, and never into folly. Marquise du Deffand
www.gainesvillejrleague.org Price: $35 per person Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013 37
Events
February February 5th
Every Day is Gameday in
Gainesville
7pm UF Men’s Basketball
@ Arkansas
February 8th
UF Track & Field @ Virginia Tech Elite Meet 5pm UF Softball @ Creighton 7pm UF Gymnastics Alabama 8:30pm UF Softball @ Oregon
february 9
Only the venues change!
UF Track & Field @ Flotrack Husky Classic, UF Men’s Golf SunTrust Gator Invitational, UF Track & Field @ Virginia Tech Elite Meet 12pm UF Men’s Tennis @ Florida State 12pm UF Lacrosse @ North Carolina 1pm “Bingo Battle to End Duchenne @ Celebration United Methodist Church 3pm UF Softball @ Cal State Northridge 5pm UF Men’s Basketball Mississippi State 8pm UF Softball @ Cal
february 10th
11:30am UF Softball @ Arizona 3pm UF Women’s Basketball
@ Auburn 5pm Gainesville Uncork’d – A Tyler’s Hope Wine Affair @ Downtown Gainesville, UF Men’s Golf SunTrust Gator Invitational
february 11th
VisitGainesville.com 38 Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013
UF Women’s Golf @ Northrup Grumman Regional Championship 5:30pm The Leadership Chat with Quenta Vettel, Director of Communications for UF College of Communications and Journalism @ United Way of Central Florida Headquarters
february 12th
UF Women’s Golf @ Northrup Grumman Regional Championship 7pm UF Men’s Basketball Kentucky
february 13th
UF Women’s Golf @ Northrup Grumman Regional Championship 6pm UF Softball @ Jacksonville 7pm UF Lacrosse @ Jacksonville
february 14th
9pm UF Women’s Basketball
@ Texas A&M
february 15th
UF Men’s Tennis @ ITA National Indoors 4pm UF Softball UNC Wilmington 6:15pm UF Softball Savannah State 7pm UF Baseball Duke
february 16th
UF Men’s Tennis @ ITA National Indoors 12pm UF Softball Western Carolina 1:30pm UF Men’s Basketball @ Auburn 2:15pm UF Softball Savannah State 4pm UF Gymnastics @ Georgia 4pm UF Baseball Duke 7pm Florida Invitational Step Show @ O’ Connell Center 7pm Keira Grace Foundation’s Share the Cure 2013 @ Santa Fe College Fine Arts Hall
february 17th
UF Men’s Tennis @ ITA National Indoors 12pm UF Baseball Duke 1pm UF Softball UNC Wilmington 1pm UF Women’s Tennis @ Duke 1pm UF Lacrosse @ High Point 1pm UF Women’s Basketball Georgia 3:30pm UF Softball Charleston Southern
Energy and persistence conquer all things. Benjamin Franklin
can make any day Valentine’s Day!
february 18th
2pm UF Women’s Tennis @
North Carolina
february 19th
UF Women’s Swimming & Diving @ SEC Championships UF Men’s Swimming & Diving @ SEC Championships 6:30pm UF Baseball @ UCF 9pm UF Men’s Basketball @ Missouri
february 20th
february 23rd
UF Men’s Swimming & Diving @ SEC Championships, UF Track & Field @ SEC Indoor Championships UF Women’s Swimming & Diving @ SEC Championships 10am DNA-LifePrint Next Generation Child Safety Event at Tioga Dental – Tioga Town Center 12:30pm UF Women’s Tennis Stanford vs. Clemson 12:30pm UF Softball @ Georgia Tech 1pm UF Men’s Tennis Baylor 4pm UF Baseball Florida Gulf Coast 7pm UF Men’s Basketball Arkansas
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UF Men’s Swimming & Diving @ SEC Championships UF Women’s Swimming & Diving february 24th @ SEC Championships UF Track & Field @ SEC Indoor 3:30pm UF Lacrosse Stony Brook Championships, UF Men’s Golf @ 7pm UF Baseball Georgia Southern John Hayt Invitational, UF Women’s Golf @ All-State Sugar Bowl february 21st 11am UF Women’s Tennis Stanford UF Women’s Swimming & Diving 12pm UF Lacrosse UAlbany @ SEC Championships 1pm UF Baseball Florida Gulf Coast UF Men’s Swimming & Diving 1pm A Celebration of Wine @ J. @ SEC Championships Wayne Reitz Union’s Grand Ballroom 1:30pm UF Softball @ 3pm UF Women’s Basketball Loyola Marymount @ Alabama 4pm UF Softball @ Oklahoma State february 25th 7pm UF Women’s UF Women’s Golf @ All-State Basketball Vanderbilt Sugar Bowl, UF Men’s Golf @ John Hayt Invitational
february 22nd
UF Women’s Swimming & Diving @ SEC Championships UF Men’s Swimming & Diving @ SEC Championships UF Track & Field @ SEC Indoor Championships 1pm UF Softball @ Syracuse 3pm UF Women’s Tennis Clemson 3:30pm UF Softball @ Missouri 6:30pm UF Lacrosse UC Davis 7pm UF Gymnastics Kentucky 7pm UF Baseball Florida Gulf Coast
february 26th
UF Women’s Golf @ All-State Sugar Bowl, UF Men’s Golf @ John Hayt Invitational 7pm UF Baseball North Florida 9pm UF Men’s Basketball @ Tennessee
february 27th
6pm UF Softball @ USF
february 28th
7pm UF Women’s Basketball Arkansas
If we all did the things we are capable of, we would astound ourselves. Thomas Edison
Flourish Magazine | Feb/2013 39
GIFT IDEAS By Sarah G. Mason
Valentine’s Day
Nothing says “I planned this last-minute” like a box of Walmart chocolates and a corny, thoughtless card. If you really want to impress her this Valentine’s Day, it’s time to pull out all the stops. Here’s a list of romantic gift ideas that are sure to melt her heart.
From Him to Her Beautiful Jewelry Designs from Klaus Fine Jewelry
She gave you her heart, now it’s time to return the gesture. It’s no secret that she’s hoping for something special this Valentine’s Day. You can break the mold this year by getting her this unique, rosegold necklace from Gainesville’s very own Klaus Fine Jewelry. It’s classy yet stylish flavor is sure to win her heart. But if you really want to wow her, this beautiful diamond necklace is sure to do the trick. KlausJewelry.com
The Board of Directors of Catholic Charities requests the honor of your presence to celebrate
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SPIRIT OF CHARITY
B E N E F I T S T H E P R O G R A M S AT C AT H O L I C C H A R I T I E S T H AT H E L P PEOPLE IN NEED IN OUR COMMUNITY S AT U R D AY, M A R C H 1 6 , 2 0 1 3 1 6 ,- /9Ê" ÊÊ ", ÊUÊ-/ * Ê"½ "
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COCKTAILS AND SILENT AUCTION BEGIN AT 6 PM LIVE AND SILENT AUCTION LIVE AUCTION HIGHLIGHT: TRIP TO ROME, ITALY INCLUDES ROUNDTRIP AIRFARE AND A WEEK AT THE SHERATON ROMA INCLUDING SHERATON CLUB PRIVILEGES Music by Mark Gaignard and the Barstool Prophets with Trigger Sound. Tickets and Sponsorship Opportunities are available on our website www.catholiccharitiesgainesville.org
For addition information call 352-224-6442
40 GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013
Fact: UF was awarded $518.8 million – more than all other Florida universities combined – in sponsored research in 2005–2006.
GIFT IDEAS
Thornebrook Chocolate Gift Baskets
It’s no secret that women love chocolate. This year, instead of buying her chocolate that comes in a plastic box, get her a deluxe chocolate creation from Thornebrook Chocolates. These beautiful gift baskets are full of all the things she desires; delicious, handmade chocolate paired with her favorite wine, and even a cuddly teddy bear to top it off! Is she dieting? A guilt-free Valentine’s Day treat from Thornebrook’s Chocolates has been hand dipping unique and custom chocolate creations for over 25 years, right here in Gainesville. They carry a large selection of sugar-free and yet oh-so-delicious chocolates, which will make the perfect, guiltless treat this February. Call 352-371-0800 or visit ThornebrookChocolates.com for ideas.
Make Her Feel Gorgeous
Pack a lunch, pick a park and bring a camera and tripod. Scout out local locations and take some romantic pictures together (and some goofy ones, too!). Just make sure to give her a little heads up, so she can get herself photo ready. As a bonus many salons will offer a hairstyle and makeup application, which she can do before any date you plan. Check out HaileVillageSpa. com for more details.
You Can Never Go Wrong With Flowers from Prange’s Florist Whether roses or her other favorite flower, what woman doesn’t enjoy getting flowers on Valentine’s Day. This beautiful arrangement is the perfect beginning to any date. Visit www.Pranges.com for this and other ideas.
Wine Tasting
Red wine is a Valentine’s Day staple, but don’t limit yourself to your grocery’s selection. Lots of liquor stores will work with you upon request. She’ll love the unique getaway, and the chance to try something different. Think of the perfect toast, and when the moment’s right, lift your glasses!
Flying Sky Lanterns
So after dinner, take her to a special spot – some place that is meaningful to the both of you (it can even be your backyard) and give her a flying lantern to release. These glowing orbs will instantly turn even the dullest of nights into one of romance as you let her make a wish and send it off. She’ll swoon, I promise. Visit www.wishlantern.com/ eco-wish-lanterns for an ecofriendly version.
Fact: UF consistently ranks among the top-10 universities in licensing.
GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013 41
SCENES FROM THE SWAMP
Happy Valentines Day
10% OFF
Quarterback Max Staver and receiver Chris Thompson were kind enough to join us for a cover shot on Feb. 2. Photo by Mike Capshaw
Octavius Jackson (50) blocks for his quarterbacks blind side. Courtesy photo
Your Entire Order By all accounts, true freshman Richie Martin is an intense competitor. He’s expected to start at shortstop and leadoff for the team this season. Photo by Mike Capshaw
333-6185 www.ILNYP.com Haile Publix Market Square
38 GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013
Fact: Some 50 biotechnology companies have resulted from faculty research programs.
SCENES FROM THE SWAMP UF defensive line signee Caleb Brantley grimaces while taking a break during a game at Chiefland this fall. Photo by Mike Capshaw
Florida second baseman Casey Turgeon is surrounded by media members as he talks about taking on more of a leadership role this season. Photo by Mike Capshaw
Florida coach Billy Donovan and his players shows excitement during a 78-64 win against Ole Miss on Feb. 2. Photo by John Parady Fact: UF traces its beginnings to a small seminary in 1853.
GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013 39
A WALK-ON’S DREAM By Mike Capshaw Photos by Tim Casey and Curtiss Bryant
Going D eep Florida deep snapper Drew Ferris shares his intriguing story
Drew Ferris will never forget the day Will Muschamp made him cry. They were tears of joy. All of the pent up emotions from Ferris’ football career had built up to that moment when the Florida Gators’ deep snapper was awarded a football scholarship. Ferris had transferred from a large public school to a tiny private school to play eight-man football. As a senior, he was part of a winning squad on the only Jewish 11-man high school football team in the country. He found a niche as a deep snapper, practiced with his high school coach and specialist Chris Rubio, who told then-UF special teams coach DJ Durkin about Ferris’ abilities. Ferris decided to walk-on at Florida, a coast-to-coast move and culture shock from San Diego, Calif., to Gainesville. He killed himself in offseason conditioning and in practices until he earned a starting spot with the team. Then on April 5, the day before the Orange & Blue Debut spring scrimmage, Muschamp delivered the news. “The juice was worth the squeeze as they say,” Ferris said. To set the scene, imagine a locker room full of football players, listening intently as their head coach gave a day-before-thescrimmage pep talk. Muschamp pointed out players one by one with lines like, “(Jon) Harrison, you’re going to be blocking for us” and “Frankie Hammond, you’re going to be going up in the air and catching balls for us.” 36 GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013
Muschamp also mentioned key cogs like linebacker Jon Bostic, punter Kyle Christy and kicker Caleb Sturgis. Then, out of the Gator blue, he began talking about Ferris “snapping the ball for us.” In his head, the 6-foot-1, 211-pound Ferris wondered why his name even came up. As a deep snapper, his contributions to the team often are overlooked. “You don’t hear your name like that too often, so I was kind of caught off guard,” Ferris said. “Then he looked at me and said, ‘From this day forward you are now on a full scholarship at the University of Florida.’ And I just broke down in tears. “That was definitely one of the biggest accomplishments of my life. It was an uplifting moment of my life – I’ll never forget that day.” A “huge weight” immediately was lifted off of his shoulders. It also lessoned the burden on his parents’ pocketbook as out-of-state tuition can cost around $38,000 per year, not counting all of the other costs associated with sending a son or daughter away to college. “Drew has a really strong sense of responsibility and felt bad about us paying out-of-state tuition,” said Walt Ferris, Drew’s father. “We filled a lot of empty cans and bottles and scraped by, but we knew it was important to him. We knew he had the character and quality and traits to make it happen. “Once it happened, it helped him feel
DREW FERRIS
Class: Redshirt sophomore Hometown: Carlsbad, Calif. High School: San Diego Jewish Academy Height, Weight: 6-foot-1, 211 pounds Notable: Also letter in baseball and basketball in high school. Became the first Division I male athlete from his school. Quotable: “I tell people it sounded like when you break celery, that snap when you break the stick. Most people kind of cringe a little bit when they hear that and think of that sound.” – Drew Ferris on the sound he heard when he broke his clavicle. *Mugshot courtesy UF Communications
like more of an integral part of the team.” It took some time before Drew could connect with his parents to tell them the awesome news. They were in Israel visiting his sister, who lives there with her boyfriend. They were in a remote area where their cell phones did not work. Drew had to tell somebody. He phoned his grandmother, but she didn’t answer. He then began calling and texting his aunts, other family members and friends. Still, he wasn’t able to tell the people he wanted to share the news with the most: his parents. Finally, his mom, Pam, logged onto Facebook. On Drew’s wall were messages congratulating him on the accomplishment. “When we found out we started yelling and shouting and we couldn’t get a hold of Fact: UF’s Century Tower is 157 feet tall.
A WALK-ON’S DREAM the boy,” Walt Ferris said. “When he finally told us, it was surreal. We were worried and anxious and had talked for several hours about it and thought it might be coming, so it when it did, we were obviously very excited for Drew because of how hard he had worked for it.” The work began well before he arrived at UF. Drew Ferris transferred from a public school to San Diego Jewish Academy. His junior year the Lions were playing eightman football. He lined up as a defensive end, middle linebacker, offensive tackle and where ever else his team needed him. “Eight-man football is tiring – very tiring,” Ferris said. “It’s like ironman football. I never left the field. It’s a smaller field. It’s more running and a more higher tempo type of football. It’s definitely tough.” A new coaching staff and a switch to 11-man football as a senior resulted in a trip to the playoffs and a 6-3 season. Drew earned all-conference honors for both defense and offense. As the lone Jewish high school team in the country, the Lions had an interesting advantage over opponents. “They would call out the plays in Hebrew and talk to each other in Hebrew,” Walt Ferris said. “The boys speak English and a good deal of English at that, but if they wanted to keep something from the other team, they talked Hebrew.” In the meantime, Drew began working with Chris Rubio, one of the nation’s foremost experts on deep snapping. He eventually became a five-star prospect as a deep snapper. When Rubio was contacted by Durkin – who was searching for Florida’s next deep snapper – he offered up Drew Ferris’ name. “I would not be in the position I am today without (Rubio.),” Drew Ferris said. “He taught me everything I know.” Drew was offered a spot as a preferred walk-on, which meant no athletic scholarship money. It was a difficult decision to leave sunny southern California (his home actually is in Carlsbad, Calif.) for The Sunshine State. After all, it’s more than 2,300 miles away. To drive it, it would take about 33 hours. The few direct flights from Orlando to San Diego are expensive and keep you in the air for five hours. It was a long way from home for the long snapper to travel. Still, he decided to accept the offer to walk-on at Florida, becoming the first Division-I male athlete from his high school. “I wasn’t really planning to play bigtime, D-I college football,” Drew Ferris said. Fact: UF began accepting women in 1947.
“I was really thinking that if I was going to keep playing football of maybe going to a smaller level somewhere.” At Florida, Drew quickly connected with punter David Lerner, whose family became his “second family,” according to Walt Ferris. He made tons of new friends and experienced life away from home for the first time. In his spare time, he likes bowling, fishing and music. He said he likes to “jam out” on a guitar from time to time with teammate and roommate Christian Provancha, who also plays guitar. His other roommate/teammate is Chandler Carr. “The culture and the change of me coming from where I came from definitely changed me as a person,” Drew said. “It changed my views on a lot of things. Not having your parents down the street or seeing them at every event where or knowing they are only a couple-of-hour drive away, it made me grow up really fast.” On the football field, Drew redshirted as a true freshman in 2010. He won the starting job that offseason and served as the deep snapper on punts and field goals in all 13 games. All of his sacrifices and hard work paid off the following spring when he was awarded a scholarship. Everything was going perfectly. Then, it happened. The date was Sept. 1, 2012. Trying to make a play for his team in the fourth quarter of the season opener against Bowling Green, Ferris raced down the field after snapping the ball to punter Kyle Christy. Speedy gunner Louchiez Purifoy arrived first to knock the ball loose from the returner. Ferris quickly scooped it up and began rambling toward the end zone before being tackled from behind. His left shoulder was driven into the Florida Field turf, fracturing his clavicle (collar bone). He heard it “pop” and the sound was something he’ll never forget. “I tell people it sounded like when you break celery, that snap when you break the stick,” Drew said. “Most people kind of cringe a little bit when they hear that and think of that sound.” The pain was intense as fans could tell as Ferris was helped to the sidelines by the team’s medical staff. However, when he heard the prognosis that it would take three months to fully recover, the pain switched from physical to emotional. “That was my season,” Drew said. “That was actually more painful than the actual injury.”
The pressure that comes with deep snapping is intense. About the only time a deep snapper gets mentioned by the media is if they make a mistake, or suffer an injury. A bad snap usually equals a big play for an opponent. There’s zero margin for error. Walt Ferris likened the motion to that of a quarterback, throwing a two-handed spiral backwards between your legs. “If something goes wrong, you have that in your head, so you feel a lot of pressure to execute,” Ferris said. “Definitely one of the things I had to overcome, handling the pressure and getting over the fact there’s 90,000 people in the stands and I’m on TV, “It’s something you just have to stop thinking about and just focus on helping your kicker or punter to help them execute on fourth down.” Ferris has fully recovered and has been cleared to practice. He’s been on campus three seasons, but has only played one. He will apply for a medical redshirt to get this past season back. If approved, Ferris will have three more years to play football despite technically being a junior from an academic standpoint. That said, Ferris hopes to pursue a master’s degree. He’s majoring in psychology and is even thinking of adding a double major in business or business management. “Because I’m going to be here for so long, I would love to get my master’s here,” Drew said. With so many years of eligibility (remaining), I’m just going to keep working really hard on and off of the field in hopes of getting into a master’s program here at UF.” He’s still not exactly sure of the career he plans to pursue. Walt Ferris is a psychotherapist and Pam Ferris is the CEO of a non-profit retirement community, so it sounds like Drew may end up in a career that is a combination of what his parents do. No matter what avenue Ferris chooses, his parents will be there to support him – even from a couple of thousand miles away. “We couldn’t be any prouder of him,” Walt Ferris said. If he ends up getting a chance to play in the NFL, then he certainly will explore that option first. NFL deep snappers can make as much as $1 million per year because it’s a craft that few can do well. For now, he’s just going to focus on the task at hand. “I love being a Gator,” Ferris said. “I like my teammates and my coaches a lot. Definitely being a Gator has changed me for the good. I’m just looing forward to getting back and getting on the field next year to help my team.” GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013 37
TOP OF THE CLASS
Superman III UF signee Vernon Hargreaves III is a special player
By Drew Laing Photos by Curtiss Bryant
34 GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013
After his MVP performance at the 2013 Under Amour AllAmerica Game, there is no doubt Tampa (Fla.) Wharton defensive back Vernon Hargreaves III is a super player. The 5-foot-11, 185-pound senior recorded a team-high five tackles as well as a pass deflection and an interception during the game and further cemented his status as a consensus five-star prospect and a top-five player in the country. His career is on a special track to stardom and a lot of that has to do with his father, Vernon. His father was a long time assistant coach in college football,
including stints with South Florida, UConn, Miami, Bowling Green, FIU and Bowling Green. With his father having about 25 years of coaching and recruiting experience under his belt, Hargreaves III was able to use that to his advantage when he was being recruited himself. He often leaned on his father’s shoulder for recruiting advice whenever he needed it. “It definitely put me ahead of everyone else, sort of. He knew how the [recruiting] process goes and he knows how everything works,” Hargreaves III said. “I’m just blessed to be out here.”
Fact: UF admitted 1,049 International Baccalaureate students for the 2004-2005 academic year - more than any other university in the world.
TOP OF THE CLASS
Vernon Hargreaves II Coaching Experience 27 years
1985–1989: UConn – Outside linebackers 1989–1997 UConn – Inside linebackers 1998–2005: Miami – Linebackers 2006: FIU – Linebackers 2007: Bowling Green – Linebackers 2007–2009: East Carolina – Defensive ends/ special teams 2010–2012: South Florida – Defensive ends/ special teams
Because of his father’s background, one would assume that Hargreaves III felt pressure to follow in his father’s footsteps. However, his father made sure to not force him to do anything and made sure he played football because he loved it. “My dad didn’t make me do anything,” Hargreaves III. “He didn’t make me play football, he didn’t make me play basketball. He just wanted me to be who I am and he wanted and it just so happened I love football.” Despite his father’s experience in recruiting, Hargreaves III made sure the decision was his and no one else’s. Consequently, his father attempted to stay away from Hargreaves III’s recruitment so his son could make his own decision. “He stayed from [the
recruitment],” Hargreaves III said. “He didn’t even talk to me about it unless I had a question. Other than that, he stayed away from it.” “Sometimes it’s too much for people, “Hargreaves III added about the pressure of making the decision on his own,” but for me I’d rather just do it by myself and make my own decisions.” Even though he wanted to make the decision on his own, Hargreaves III said his father has always been there for him and their commitment to each other will never change. “He’s never been my coach or anything, but he has always supported me,” Hargreaves III said. “He’s always told me to be the best and to go up against the best.” Throughout his life, his father has taught him discipline,
on and off of the field. And for the fans, it shows on the field. Hargreaves III prides himself on staying disciplined in his tackles, which allows him to be an effective open-field tackler when pressed. “If you can tackle, you will be able to play a long time,” Hargreaves III said. “At least, that is what my dad always tells me. So tackling is something I just always try to work on.” His father spent several seasons in Miami and Hargreaves III had the unique opportunity to learn from some of the best college players in the country about persistence and hard work, two aspects taught from his father. “I know what it takes to get to where guys like Sean Taylor and Ed Reed were [in the NFL]. “They told me to never quit.”
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Fact: Enrolling approximately 50,000 students annually, UF is home to 16 colleges and more than 150 research centers and institutes.
GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013 35
SCENES FROM THE SWAMP Florida’s spirit squads perform during a timeout in a 78-64 win against Ole Miss on Feb. 2. Photo by John Parady
Fans show their support for breast cancer awareness by wearing pink during the Florida gymnastics team’s “Link for Pink” meet.
Florida Erik Murphy blocked Ole Miss’ Jarvis Summers’ shot during the Gators’ win on Feb. 2.
32 GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013
Fact: As of February 2000, the university had received $61.5 million since it began collecting Gatorade royalties in 1973.
CHANGE IN COLORS
Darious Cummings
Position: Defensive line Height/Weight: 6-foot-3, 305 pounds High school: Titusville (Fla.) Astronaut Notable: Played three games at defensive tackle at Florida State in 2010 and two games in 2011 before suffering a season-ending injury. Quotable: “I understand the game of football a lot more and my IQ of the game is from high school to now. I just feel like my understanding of the game and my position is up a great deal. My maturity level and focus is something else that I have improved on since my days at Florida State, too.” – Darious Cummings
By Andrew Spivey Photos courtesy of East Mississippi CC
GatorNole? Darious Cummings took the road less traveled to Florida. It was one not many prospects have trekked in their career. Cummings signed with Florida State out of high school but hurt his knee. He transferred to East Mississippi Community College in Scooba, Miss. Once at East Mississippi, Cummings regained his love for the game of football. He learned to enjoy the game again – something he lost while at Florida State. “I learned to cherish the game more once I went to East Mississippi,” Cummings said. “It humbled me a lot to go from a Division I school to a JUCO program. I value the game a lot more now that I did before. I feel like I have the love the game again that I did when I first started playing in youth ball and in high school. That’s something I lost while at Florida State. “But I regained my love for the game.” With the 6-foot-3, 305-pound Cummings regaining his love for the game, his play has improved, which drew Florida to recruit the star defensive tackle. Cummings committed to the Gators on Nov. 18, choosing Florida over Ole Miss, Arkansas, Mississippi State and Texas A&M. Now that Cummings has enrolled in school in Gainesville he said he has learned
a lot about the game of football since his time in Tallahassee. “I’m a more mature player today than I was a few years ago,” Cummings said. “I understand the game of football a lot more and my IQ of the game is from high school to now. I just feel like my understanding of the game and my position is up a great deal. My maturity level and focus is something else that I have improved on since my days at Florida State, too.” Most prospects either go to Florida or Florida State, but rarely do you have a prospect say he wore both colors in his college career. Now that Cummings has done that and is now a member of Florida State’s biggest rival, he said the November rivalry matchup will be just another game to him. “I mean it will be different playing Florida State,” Cummings said. “But I really am looking forward to playing them and showing them what I have as a player. But it will just be another game to me as I don’t want to give them the satisfaction that I’m trying to get back at them or anything like that. “I’m happy where I’m at now.” When Cummings was being recruited out of Astronaut High School in Titusville, Fla., he became close friends with a
Fact: John Kaplan, an associate professor in the College of Journalism and Communications, won the Pulitzer Prize for feature photography in 1992.
Junior college defensive end will be one of the few to have suited up for Florida and Florida State defensive tackle named Damien Jacobs. Jacobs and Cummings both ended up signing with Florida State except Jacobs went to junior college instead of ever attending class at Florida State. Last season Jacobs signed with Florida out of East Mississippi Community College and now Cummings is looking forward to the opportunity to play with his friend. “It’s crazy how things work out for you,” Cummings said. “We have such great chemistry between the two of us and that’s something nobody will be able stop. I’m really glad that things worked out the way they did and we are finally getting the opportunity to play together like we thought we would a few years ago.” For Cummings, not only will he get to play with his best friend, he will get to play in a stadium that holds 90,000 fans, more than twice as many as EMCC’s stadium. The size of the stadium or crowd is something Cummings said he doesn’t pay much attention to while playing. “Florida has a big stadium,” Cummings said. “To some people they notice the crowd, but when I’m playing I actually block the crowd and focus on my job at hand. But The Swamp is a different crowd and the fans are always into the game.”
GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013 33
A QB JOURNEY
Max Staver
School: Brentwood Academy Hometown: Brentwood, Tenn. Height: 6-foot-5 Weight: 242 pounds Notable: Led his high school team to a 9–3 record by passing for 1,948 yards and nine touchdowns and rushing for 298 yards and six touchdowns. As a junior, he completed 63 of his passes for 1,872 yards and 19 touchdowns with just four interceptions.
Max Staver poses for a pictures in front of former Florida quarterbacks, from left, Tim Tebow, Steve Spurrier and Danny Wuerffel.
B Quarterback orn to 30 GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013
By Mike Capshaw, Photos by Mike Capshaw
Florida signee Max Staver and his family saw the signs early on Sporting a wide smile and a newly purchased orange and blue cross around his neck, Max Staver and his family spoke about the journey that turned him into Florida’s newest quarterback. The 6-foot-5, 242-pounder who wears a size-14 shoe is from Brentwood (Tenn.) Academy. He has always been the biggest kid on the block and also happened to have the strongest arm. Fact: For Fall 2008, 7,553 single students lived on campus (4,346 female, 3,205 male).
A QB JOURNEY “He never really went through a growth spurt but he just steadily climbed – he really did,” said Debbie Slack, Max’s mom. “From his first weigh-in at the pediatrician they said this boy is off the charts. He was always off the charts. “They predicted he would be 6–4 plus and they were right.” Of course, those traits led to an early interest in football and Max told his father wanted to play when he was just seven. “The coach made him a quarterback from the beginning,” said Bob Staver, Max’s dad. “So after two years of being a quarterback and knowing that the third year he was going to be a quarterback we searched for quarterback lessons.” They found Darin Slack, the founder of Quarterback Academy and National Football Academies out of Orlando, Fla. Slack has trained more than 18,000 quarterbacks since 1988, according to his website. Notable alumni include quarterbacks such as Matt Flynn, Braxton Miller and James Franklin, among others. Slack’s teachings were working, so the Stavers stuck with it instead of trying out different quarterback instructors. Because he’s one of the few who worked with Slack from age eight to 18, Max now helps Slack out
at camps as part of a mentorship program. “We were being told by people in the industry around the nation that this kid is going to be good,” Bob Staver said. College coaches began noticing, too. Each time he launched long passes and zipped spirals to sidelines routes during a team camp, that school would follow it up with a scholarship offer. Thanks to Slack, Staver was rated as having the fastest release in the nation during an Elite 11 camp. His size, strength and quickness for a big man and the quick release is what resulted in Florida offering Staver a scholarship. “What people get confused about is it’s not short-armed, it’s a quick release,” Max Staver said. “It’s simply when you’re in your pre-pass position, you’re holding onto the ball longer when your front foot strides out. Most kids will separate (their hands and the ball) early and their weight won’t transition into their lower body. It’s going to help their release time and make it appear like you have a shorter release when in reality, you’re getting all the way through it. “It’s all in the results. What does your ball look like when you throw it?” It looked great to UF offensive coordinator Brent Pease, especially during
Fact: A total of 4,266 students have been members of Greek organizations at UF as of fall 2000.
Florida’s Friday Night Lights Camp on July 27, 2012. That’s when he hooked up with Gainesville native and fellow UF signee Chris Thompson on several long plays that received cheers from the crowd of spectators in attendance at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. “Coach Pease told a couple of guys who they wanted to see,” Max Staver said. “I remember telling Chris to move to the front of the line a couple of times, so we would always be able to go together and he made some great catches. “We put on a great show.” They hope to continue the show on Saturdays in the fall. Despite Jeff Driskel already being named the starter, Staver said he’s preparing like he’s going to play this coming fall. He’s been working with weights three or four times a week, speed training at least twice a week and throwing passes in between, at least when the Tennessee weather allows. “I’m going to try to prepare to be the starter. You never know what’s going to happen,” Max Staver said. “That’s what the coaches have been telling me and that’s what my mentality has got to be. I’m going to come in and battle for that second-string job and serve the team the best I can in anyway the coaches want me to.”
GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013 31
KEEPIN’ IT IN THE FAMILY
Florida fans hope Kelvin Taylor can run the ball like his legendary father, Fred Taylor
Like Father? interested in the Gators, but the opportunity to play for his father’s alma mater means a lot to the early enrollee. “It means a whole lot to me to High school: Glades Central go to the same school my father Rushing yards: 12,019 went to,” Kelvin said. “Like I say, Touchdowns: 192 I can’t wait to be a Gator.” State Championships: 2 Likewise for Fred, his son’s 40-yard dash time: 4.48 commitment to play for Florida Under Armour All-American Fred (switched to RB as a junior) was a significant moment in his life and a dream come true for High school: Glades Central the former Gator great. Rushing yards: 1,545 “I think it’s huge. For me, Touchdowns: 20 just to have the opportunity to State Championships: 0 see him play in my school colors, 40-yard dash time: 4.28 I don’t think it gets any better Parade All-American than that,” Fred Taylor said. Throughout high school, Taylor stayed focused on his Usually at the Under game, rather than trying to live Armour All-America Game, up to his father’s numbers in it’s the recruits that get all of high school and college. It’s a the attention. strategy that Taylor believes After the game, has helped him significantly in photographers crowd the field developing his own identity looking to snap some candid as a football player. photos of recruits talking with “Really, I just go out on one another, perhaps about the game or doing some recruiting of the field and try and play my their own. However, there’s a duo game,” Kelvin said. “[If I do that stands out above the rest to that] everything else will everyone in the media that night come natural.” Fred expects Kelvin to and one of the two doesn’t even “forge his own path” at Florida play football any more. and believes the pressure of Glades Day (Fla.) running back Kelvin Taylor embraces his living up to his legacy from 1994–1997 shouldn’t affect his father, Fred Taylor, at midfield son. Rather, he expects the as photographers shoot photos of the father, who is considered media will hype up the pressure instead of Kelvin putting the one of the best to wear the pressure on himself. orange and blue, and the son, “The pressure is not going who is looking to make a name to be on [Kelvin], but I just think for himself at Florida. the newspapers are going to Fred finished his Florida hype it up that way. He’s going career ranked fourth in school history with 3,075 rushing yards to play the same. He’ll just be and 31 touchdowns. He was also magnified a little bit at Florida, but it’s a good story and an inducted into the Floridaeasy story. Georgia Hall of Fame in 2008 With his son already and into the University of enrolled at Florida, Fred’s Florida Hall of Fame in 2010. advice was simple. It’s a comparison that the “Stay focused. Just keep younger Taylor has had to deal humble, stay focused and pray.” with ever since he was first
High School Highlights
Kelvin
By Drew Laing Photos by Curtiss Bryant
28 GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013
Fact: UF enrollment is now more than 46,000, and its campus sprawls across 2000 acres.
BREAKING TRADITION Matt Rolin was forced to sit out of the Under Armour All-American Game after suffering a torn ACL.
Matt Rolin Recruitment Timeline
By Drew Laing, Photos by Curtiss Bryant
A Family Affair ACL injury forces a South Carolina family into an unforeseen change of plans
A lot has been made of how effective Florida football coach Will Muschamp is at flipping committed recruits. However, Matt Rolin’s flip from South Carolina to Florida might be Muschamp’s most impressive recruiting victory in all of his years at coaching. When Rolin committed to South Carolina back in May 2012, it didn’t come as a surprise to anybody. His family not only has ties to the Gamecocks but they bleed garnet and black. “My whole family graduated from South Carolina,” Rolin said. “My granddad played football there and they all still live down in South Carolina.” Everything about Rolin attending South Carolina seemed right. He looked to build off of his family’s legacy as he attempted to forge his own path with the Gamecocks. But things took a turn when he suffered an ACL injury late in his senior season that forced him to rehab for the next several months after surgery in early December. While other schools slacked
“My family is real comfortable with [my decision],” Rolin said. “Everyone in my family thought May 25, 2012: Verbally that I made the right choice. committed to South Carolina Even my extended family who Oct. 5, 2012: Official visit to are diehard Gamecock fans. They South Carolina all think I made the right choice.” Nov. 13, 2012: Suffers Perhaps the toughest test season-ending ACL injury is coming up for Rolin’s family, Nov. 30, 2012: Official though. When Rolin finally does visit to Florida Dec. 9, 2012: Withdraws verbal put that orange “Gators” helmet on in front of deafening crowd commitment to South Carolina of 90,000 in The Swamp against and commits to Florida South Carolina, what team will Jan. 7, 2013: Early enrolls his family cheer for? at Florida “That’s a tough one,” Rolin said with a soft laugh. “They’re going to pull for me. My parents him again until after he took his will pull for me and the Gators, official visit to Florida. And when but my extended family…they’ll he started seriously considering the Gators as the school where he pull for No. 9, not Florida.” Regardless, Rolin will be wanted to go, his family supported forging his own path on his him. Rolin says they are at peace terms in Gainesville and he and with how things worked out, everyone around him is excited even if their son isn’t sporting to see where his path takes him. that garnet and black jersey.
off of the 6-foot-4, 210-pound linebacker, including South Carolina, Muschamp and his coaching staff didn’t. They were intentional and persistent with Rolin, forcing him to reconsider his future. Even with his family’s history at South Carolina, Rolin’s family provided him with encouragement about making the decision that would be best for him. “They basically just told me ‘do what’s best for you,’” Rolin said. “I don’t think they liked that I went back on my word and I don’t like that I went back on my word. But in the end, things happen and things change and I have to do what’s best for me.” After his official visit to Florida in December, Rolin quickly made the switch to the orange and blue. “When I hurt my knee, Florida was calling me every day. Coach Muschamp was telling me he wanted me, regardless of my knee,” Rolin said. Rolin added that South Carolina didn’t start talking with
Fact: UF’s radio and television stations reach audiences from Jacksonville to Tampa and throughout north central Florida.
GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013 29
LOOKING BEYOND THE NUMBERS
Character Counts, Not Stars By Mike Capshaw
Websites rank Florida’s 2013 Class among the best in the nation
26 GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013
Fact: The university libraries form the largest information resource system in the state of Florida.
LOOKING BEYOND THE NUMBERS Cutline: Will Muschamp and his staff prove once again they’re dynamite on the recruiting trail. Star ratings have “absolutely” zero impact on Florida coach Will Muschamp, but the third-year coach and his staff secured signatures from many of the brightest shining stars on National Signing Day. Once all the dust settles and the ink dries, the Florida Gators Class of 2013 is among the best in the country – albeit in terms of star ratings. Florida signed the No. 2 class in the nation, according to ESPN. The rankings are based on each team’s total number of “stars.” Prospects are assigned star ratings, with five stars assigned to the elite. Muschamp, who landed a pair of prospects not previously pledged to UF on Wednesday, sported a dark navy sport jacket with no tie – a sure sign that it was a work day, not a day to button your shirt all the way up. He called the process of waiting by the fax machine for National Letter of Intents to roll in “nervewracking,” as a few prospects did not send faxes Florida’s way as the staff had anticipated. “(Signing day) is a culmination of a lot of hard work, effort,” Muschamp said, praising his staff. “Sometimes two and a half, three years put together on a young man, and you come down to signing day and you sit at that fax machine and hope that things comes through.” Rivals says Florida signed the nation’s No. 3 class behind No. 1 Alabama and No. 2 Ohio State. 24/7 Sports also has Florida at No. 3 and Alabama at No. 1, but wedges Ole Miss in between at No. 2. Scout has the Gators at No. 8. None of it matters to Muschamp and his staff. What does is signing true student-athletes that mesh well with the overall team concept he has been implementing since arriving in Gainesville. “This class is very balanced,” Muschamp said. “It’s a highcharacter class with toughness, and all of the position criteria we look for as far as size and speed, and then all of the off-the-field things we are looking for. It’s a very committed class. “A lot of these guys were guys that have been committed to us for a long time and never took other visits
and there weren’t a lot of flash in their recruiting process. And that’s the kind of guys you want.” It’s difficult to name a singular elite prospect in this class because Florida signed so many. Some of the most notable as far as prep prospects are defensive back Vernon Hargreaves III, receiver Demarcus Robinson, running back Kelvin Taylor and linebackers Daniel McMillan and Alex Anzalone. Then there’s junior college transfers in offensive lineman Trenton Brown and defensive linemen Darious Cummings and Jarran Reed. There’s also Tyler Moore, who sat out a year and will be eligible to play immediately after leaving Nebraska, where he was the program’s first true freshman offensive lineman to start the season opener. Add in a few of the others like defensive tackle Jay-nard Bostwick and receiver Ahmad Fulwood, among others, and the Gators have enough stars to fill a couple of American Flags. Still, beyond all the stars and team class rankings, Muschamp wants to sign players willing to operate by “The Florida Way.” “To be able to recruit the right kind of guy,” Muschamp said. “and we do pass on guys, and they are really good players and could certainly play very well for us here in The Swamp but maybe guys that are not a good fit for your locker room. You just move on and recruit the right kind of guy. Muschamp instructs his coaches not to “fall in love” with a prospect’s highlight film because there’s so much more that goes into building – and sustaining – a winning program. “You have to look at the transcripts and you have to see the character, and that’s where we are headed,” Muschamp said. “At the end of the day, you win with good people. You need too have some difference makers – absolutely. But you also need to understand you can’t compromise what you believe in as a coach for the grace of a good player. “That’s not what we are going to do around here.”
Fact: University of Florida physicians at Shands are an official medical provider for NASA.
GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013 27
UF SIGNEE VERNON HARGREAVES III
Photos by Curtiss Bryant Florida signee Vernon Hargreaves III, from Tampa (Fla.) Wharton High, shows why he was named Most Valuable Player of the Under Armour All-American Game with one of his team-high five tackles. The five-star cornerback also had an interception and a pass break-up to lead Team Highlight’s 16-3 win against Team Nitro at Tampa’s Tropicana Field on Jan. 4, 2013.
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Fact: Shands shares joint ownership of three rural community hospitals in north central Florida.
UF SIGNEE VERNON HARGREAVES III
Pizza Partner of the Florida Gators
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GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013 25 1/4/2013 1:30:45 PM
FILLING THE GAPS Alvin Bailey has the speed and ability to help the Gators at receiver and as a returner. Photo by Curtiss Bryant
Needs Filled: Offense
The Gators lacked playmakers at receiver but may have found a few by signing five wide outs By Andrew Spivey Florida’s coaching staff came into the 2013 recruiting class with several needs on the offensive side ball. Playmakers were needed in this recruiting cycle in a bad way as it was evident during the 2012 season the Gators lacked a consistent down-field threat. Offensive coordinator Brent Pease having a full season to show his offense to recruits helped bring in some top prospects. 22 GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013
Quarterback: Coming into this cycle the coaching staff knew they needed a quarterback in this class and after Will Muschamp’s summer camp he found his guy in Brentwood (Tenn.) Academy’s Max Staver. The need didn’t seem that great until Jacoby Brissett decided to transfer, leaving the Gators with only three scholarship quarterbacks on the team. With Staver coming in they will now have
four on scholarship, which is what Muschamp wants. Running back: With Mike Gillislee graduating and Chris Johnson transferring the Gators only have two scholarship backs on the team in Mack Brown and Matt Jones. The Gators were able to sign two running backs in Belle Glade (Fla.) Glades Day’s Kelvin Taylor and Winter Haven (Fla.) High’s Adam Lane. Taylor early enrolled, which will give the staff three scholarship running backs in the spring, and Lane will add depth when he arrives this summer. While Muschamp wanted another running back in the class he is happy with signing a pair of elite rushers in this class. Receivers: The biggest need in the Class of 2013 was receiver. The Gators were intent on add big-time playmakers and the coaching staff succeed by landing five receivers. The coaching staff added some big receivers in Fort Valley (Ga.) Peach County’s Demarcus Robinson (6-foot-2), Columbus (Ga.) Carver’s Marqui Hawkins (6-2) and Jacksonville (Fla.) Bishop Kenny’s Ahmad Fulwood (6-foot-4). The Gators also added two speed receivers in Gainesville (Fla.) High’s Chris Thompson and Seffner (Fla.) Armwood’s Alvin Bailey. With the addition of these five receivers Florida fans should see the playmakers they’ve been longing for. Robinson is already enrolled in school as an early enrollee and should make an instant impact. These players, plus the addition of Joker Phillips as receivers coach, should result in a big boost at the position. Offensive line: If receiver wasn’t the biggest need for the Gators then it had to be the offensive line position, which struggled all year for the Gators because of depth and injuries. That said, the Gators grabbed five offensive linemen for the Class of 2013, including junior college prospect Trenton Brown (6–8, 380 pounds) of Georgia Military. They also bring in Nebraska transfer Tyler Moore, who could challenge for playing time immediately along with Brown. The Gators also added three high school linemen in Delray Beach (Fla.) American Heritage’s Rod Johnson, Moultrie (Ga.) Colquitt County’s Octavius Jackson and Canton (Mich.) center Cameron Dillard. While those three will probably need a redshirt year they should all be ready to contribute as a redshirt freshman in 2014. In Dillard’s case, he will compete for the center job as Jonotthan Harrison will be graduating after this season.
Fact: UF’s world-class cultural and artistic venues attract individuals from throughout the state and beyond.
FILLING THE GAPS
More than half of Florida’s signing class are listed as defensive players
Needs Filled: DEfense As Will Muschamp continues trying to implement a 3-4 scheme there were several needs on the defensive side of the ball for the Class of 2013. Linebackers and defensive linemen were both positions of need as Shariff Floyd left early for the NFL draft and several others graduated on the line. While the Gators didn’t fill all of their needs they added plenty of depth at most positions for the 2013 season. Defensive tackles: The need at defensive tackle was huge with the departures of Omar Hunter and Floyd and the Gators filled the need with four guys in Crescent City (Fla.) High defensive tackle Caleb Brantley, Port St. Lucie (Fla.) West Centennial defensive tackle Jay-nard Bostwick, East Mississippi Community College defensive tackles Jarran Reed and Darious Cummings. Cummings was originally a FSU player but transferred out and he should provide instant depth at the tackle position. Cummings and Reed are close friends and former teammates of Damien Jacobs. Both could contribute from Day 1. While Brantley may need a redshirt Fact: UF now houses 17 LEED certified buildings.
By Andrew Spivey
year there is no question when he is playing hard he is a star. But like many high schoolers he must learn to play every down hard. Bostwick is another who may need redshirt year, but he uses his hands well and will be needed in the future. Defensive ends: Depth at the defensive end was a concern heading into the Class of 2013 and the staff signed three players at the position. Dade City (Fla.) Pasco defensive lineman Joey Ivie, Lawrenceville (Ga.) Archer defensive end Antonio Riles and Tampa (Fla.) Hillsborough defensive end Jordan Sherit all signed with the Gators. Ivie is already in school as an early enrollee. Sherit will most likely have to redshirt as he had ACL surgery in October and isn’t expected to be 100 percent until this summer. Riles is a prospect who improved a ton between his junior and senior year and could compete for playing time next season but will need to improve his technique some. Much like the defensive tackle position the Gators’ staff didn’t completely meet their needs. Linebackers: Probably the biggest position of need on defense was filled it in a big way by signing Ashburn (Va.) Briar
Junior college defensive tackle Jarran Reed was a signing day surprise for the Gators. Photo courtesy of East Mississippi Community College Wood linebacker Matt Rolin, Jacksonville (Fla.) First Coast linebacker Daniel McMillian, Wyomissing (Pa.) Area linebacker Alex Anzalone and Kingsland (Ga.) Camden County linebacker Jarrad Davis. Rolin, McMillian and Anzalone are all early enrollees. McMillian and Anzalone will both compete for playing time next year as both of UF’s starting linebackers need replaced. While Rolin early enrolled he is likely to redshirt after having ACL surgery in November. Defensive Backs: The “NO FLY ZONE” as recruits call it is the position with the most hype this year. The Gators signed three top talents in Jacksonville (Fla.) Trinity Christian safety Nick Washington, Bushnell (Fla.) South Sumter safety Keanu Neal and Orlando (Fla.) Dr. Phillips safety Marcell Harris. Harris and Neal are hard-hitting safeties and Washington is the ball hawking safety. At the cornerback position the Gators signed one of the top corners in the country in Tampa (Fla.) Wharton cornerback Vernon Hargreaves III, who should compete for playing time next season thanks to his unbelievable cover skills. GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013 23
LOCAL TALENT Chris Thompson kneels next to the All-American plaques of former Gators receivers Wes Chandler and Chris Collinsworth.
Chris Thompson
School: Gainesville Hometown: Gainesville, Fla. Position: Receiver Height: 6-foot-0 Weight: 170 pounds Notable: Runs the 40-yard dash in 4.37 seconds. Grew up a track star but first realized his football ability when he caught a pass between two defenders, who hit each other, and raced for a touchdown of “about 50 yards” when he was in sixth grade. Interestingly enough, the pass was thrown by Sir Jackson, who is now a recruit at Gainesville Eastside High.
day. Thompson also remembers thenfreshman Cam Newton on the sidelines and a festive atmosphere in The Swamp. Thompson’s seat was about 15 rows By Mike Capshaw from the top and above the wall that reads: Photos by Mike Capshaw “HOME OF THE FLORIDA GATORS.” Even though it would be five more years before his verbal commitment, the Gainesville native felt at home inside the stadium. His eyes and face brighten as he relives that first game experience, even remembering what he ate: nachos and a hamburger. “The atmosphere is something I’ll never forget,” Thompson said as he looked around an empty stadium on the afternoon of Feb. 2, 2012. “It’s always live and always hype in here and it just feel great to be a part of it. “Coming in here always gets your blood flowing – I love it.” Even though Thompson and his family were UF fans, it would be the only game he would attend until he was in high school when he was invited as a recruiting prospect. After impressing coaches during Florida’s Friday Night Lights Camp on July 27, Thompson received a scholarship offer after meeting with Will Muschamp the Chris Thompson squints as he looks toward the following Monday. Of course, growing up a Gators fan, he committed on the spot. southeast corner of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. “It was like a dream come true,” said “We were all the way up in the Katilia Hall, Thompson’s mother. “I was nosebleeds over there,” Thompson said The Florida receiver signee was pointing stunned and it took me a moment to catch up with it, really about three days for me to to where he sat for his first Gators game. realize it was real. The date was Nov. 3, 2007, and Florida “He’s always wanted to be a Gator. I’ve hammered Vanderbilt 49–22 on been the biggest Gator fan forever and so homecoming. A young quarterback named throughout his childhood, it’s always been Tim Tebow accounted for more than 300 all about the Gators from me and yards of offense and five touchdowns that
Homegrown
Gator
Gainesville native Chris Thompson fulfills dream by signing with Florida
Fact: UF built the first LEED Platinum certified building in the state of Florida.
throughout our family. This is huge for us.” Not quite for his entire family, though. His brother, Michael Johnson, cheers for Florida State. Mom said that’s changing now that Chris, the youngest of four brothers, is headed to Florida. “With (Michael) just growing up around some of his friends that were FSU fans he kind of switched over, but everybody is coming back (to Florida) now,” she smiles. Not everyone was smiling when Thompson pledged to Florida, though, and this isn’t about just some light-hearted ribbing from his ‘Noles-loving brother. Thompson had the unique experience of losing friends after he committed, instead of gaining them. When a player commits to a major program, there’s often a group of people who suddenly become interested in being that person’s friend. For Thompson, he quickly began sensing envy from a few folks he once thought were his friends. “Some people that I thought were my friends started changing, so I had to figure out who my real friends were,” Thompson said. People would say how Thompson thought he was “big and bad” now that he was going to UF or talk trash saying how he wasn’t going to “do anything” at Florida. Haters gonna hate, as they say. When people “hate,” they’re either jealous of something you’re doing, or insecure of something they’re doing. Thompson understands that. The whole experience has made him stronger and has him working harder than ever to prove the naysayers wrong. Instead of talking about the negativity, he likes to focus on what he’s doing in a positive way to improve. “Right now, I’ve been focusing on the ball and getting in and out of my breaks on my routes better,” Thompson said. “My goal is to get on the field and play as a freshman. I’ve just got to keep working hard, learn everything I can and get stronger at everything. “I’m just happy to have the opportunity and want to prove I deserve to be a Gator.”
Gainesville native Chris Thompson gazes around Ben Hill Griffin Stadium and has a vivid memory of his first trip to The swamp. GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013 21
RECRUITING PROFILES Darious Cummings
School (s): Astronaut High/East Mississippi CC Hometown: Titusville, Fla. Height: 6-foot-3 Weight: 305 pounds GC Composite Ranking: NR Recruited by: Bryant Young Notable: Nicknamed “Bear” and may go by that on the official roster. Early enrolled in January. Originally signed with Florida State out of high school in 2010 before leaving FSU in April of 2012. Recorded 28 tackles (10 solo), three sacks and a fumble recovery during his lone season at EMCC. Ranked as the seventh-best junior college player in the country by Rivals. Was verbally committed to Ole Miss before flipping to the Gators in November. Quotable: “I think I fit in great at Florida in their defense. (Muschamp) was telling me I could play defensive tackle and defensive end like (Sharrif) Floyd and (Dominique) Easley do now. I’m glad to be able to play for coach Bryant Young, too.” – Cummings told GatorCountry.com.
Joey Ivie
School: Pasco Hometown: Dade City, Fla. Height: 6-foot-5 Weight: 270 pounds GC composite ranking: NR Recruited by: Dan Quinn Notable: Runs the 40-yard dash in 4.8 seconds. As a senior, Ivie recorded 89 total tackles, including 56 solo tackles and 12 sacks. Committed to Florida on June 16, 2012. Enrolled as Florida early. Chose Florida over Florida State, Ole Miss, Missouri, Tennessee and others. Ranked as the 198th best player in the country by Rivals.com. Enrolled early at Florida and will be able to join the team for spring practices.
leave half way through my senior year.” – Ivie told GatorCountry.com.
Jarran Reed
School: East Mississippi CC Hometown: Goldsboro, N.C. Height: 6-foot-4 Weight: 305 pounds GC composite ranking: NR
School: Archer Hometown: Lawrenceville, Ga. Height: 6-foot-4 Weight: 262 pounds GC Composite Ranking: NR Recruited by: Derek Lewis
School: Hillsborough Hometown: Tampa, Fla. Height: 6-foot-4 Weight: 235 pounds GC composite ranking: 187 Recruiting by: Derek Lewis
Notable: Verbally committed to UF on July 27, 2012 and made his official visit on Jan. 18, 2013. Georgia, Michigan State and others made late pushes at Riles to switch his pledge or at least visit, but his only official visit was to Florida. Home-state Georgia continued to pursue him through the final weekend before signing day. Also was recruited by new UF defensive line coach Brad Lawing when Lawing was at South Carolina, so the two had a previous relationship, which helped smooth the transition of Dan Quinn leaving Florida for the NFL. A three-star prospect by national recruiting networks, he made 53 tackles and six sacks as a junior. His speed and strength are assets but he’ll need to improve his technique after arriving on campus. His quick first step and ability to gain leverage using his natural ability will give him a shot at earning playing time at defensive end as a true freshman.
Notable: Committed to Florida on July 28, 2012. Made official visit to UF on Dec. 7, 2012. Had 21 tackles, six sacks and a fumble recovery in limited action this season. Was a U.S. Army All-American Bowl selection, but couldn’t play due to a knee injury. Invited to The Opening. Runs the 40-yard dash in 4.78 seconds and has a vertical leap of 37 inches. Ranked as the No. 9 weakside defensive end in the country by Rivals, which rates him as a four-star prospect.
Quotable: “This visit really help me solidify my commitment to Florida. I got answers to all of my questions and have confidence in what the staff was telling me. One of my questions was the depth chart as I see a lot of good players on it, but coach Muschamp broke it down for me and also I had been told I would slide inside. But coach Muschamp said that wasn’t true that I would be playing strong side defensive end.” – Riles told GatorCountry.com.
Notable: The defensive tackle commited to Florida on National Signing Day and chose the Gators over Alabama, North Carolina and Ole Miss. Considered a consensus three-star by multiple recruiting services. He is former teammates of current Gators defensive lineman Damien Jacobs and fellow 2013 signee Darious “Bear” Cummings. Had 35 tackles and one sack this season with East Mississippi Community College. (Jacobs), and then to have to Darious go there it would be good to play with both of those guys at Florida,” Reed told GatorCountry.com.
Jordan Sherit
Quotable: “(Former UF defensive coordinator Dan Quinn) told me he likes me a lot at the buck position. He said they like my speed coming Quotable: “It’s a big benefit having off of the edge and versatility a lot. six months ahead of everyone in the Coach Quinn also said for me not to worry about gaining weight – just to weight room and with school work. work on my speed. (Quinn) told me Coach (Bryant) Young said it’s one I remind him of Jason Taylor a lot . thing that will help me have the He said that Jason wasn’t that big chance to play early, because I can learn the playbook and get stronger either and that I just reminded him of Taylor.” – Quinn told by going through spring ball. It was GatorCountry.com. a tough decision for me, because I 18 GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013
Antonio Riles
LINEBACKERS (4) Alex Anzalone
School: Wyomissing Area Hometown: Wyomissing, Pa. Height: 6-foot-3 Weight: 229 pounds GC Composite Ranking: 47 Recruited by: D.J. Durkin Notable: An early enrollee who came to Florida after being committed to Ohio State and then Notre Dame. Father attended UF Law
School. Extremely versatile player who could line up on either side of the ball. Named Class 2A Defensive Player of the Year by Pennsylvania Football News after a junior season in which he recorded 100 tackles. Rushed for 635 yards and 11 touchdowns during senior season, helping lead his team to its first state championship. Was an Under Armour All-American. Had the secondhighest total of tackles for his team in UA game, collecting four, while also breaking up a pass. Ranked as the 28th best player in the nation and a five-star recruit by Rivals. The network also ranks him the 2nd best inside linebacker prospect in the nation and the best player in Pennsylvania, regardless of position. Quotable: “When I met with coach (Will) Muschamp he told me how bad they wanted me and stuff. He actually brought the president of the university in to meet me and talk to me. When we started talking about positions he said I could play offense or defense. He said if I play defense I would play ‘Sam’ linebacker and if I played offense I would play the Trey Burton type of position.” – Alex Anzalone told GatorCountry.com.
Jarrad Davis
School: Camden County Hometown: Kingsland, Ga. Height: 6-foot-3 Weight: 215 pounds GC composite ranking: NR Recruited by: Brian White, D.J. Durkin Notable: Runs the 40-yard dash in 4.6 seconds. Recorded 116 total tackles in his senior season and also forced three fumbles. Officially visited Florida on Dec. 14, 2012 and committed the next night while on his visit. When he committed, Davis was the Gators’ fifth commitment in one week. Quotable: “I’m proud to be a Gator,” Davis told GatorCountry.com.
Daniel McMillan
School: First Coast Hometown: Jacksonville, Fla. Height: 6-foot-2 Weight: 220 pounds GC Composite Ranking: 48 Recruited by: DJ Durkin
Fact: UF President J. Bernard Machen was the first to sign the ACUPCC for an action plan to become carbon neutral by 2025.
RECRUITING PROFILES Notable: Long-armed middle linebacker is known as a fierce tackler with excellent lateral quickness. Runs the 40-yard dash in the 4.6-second range. Verbally committed to Florida on Feb. 2, 2012, the day after 2012 National Signing Day. He was the third verbal commitment in UF’s Class of 2013. He had 12 sacks and nine forced fumbles to help First Coast to the 6A state championship and a 13-1 record his junior season. His UF signature broke his high school out of Florida State mode as the ‘Noles have signed six First Coast players since 2008. Quotable: “(Florida) was just like coming to a second home,. I just looked up there in the stands with some of the people out there and I was like, ‘Man, I can’t even imagine what it’ll be like with all of the fans. It just feels like a family.” – McMillan told GatorCountry.com
Matt Rolin (ABOVE)
School: Briar Woods Hometown: Ashburn, Va. Height: 6-foot-3 Weight: 210 pounds GC Composite Ranking: 140 Recruited by: DJ Durkin Notable: An early enrollee who committed to Florida in December of 2012 after originally being committed to South Carolina. Recorded 50 tackles with 23 for a loss, and four sacks in only six games before tearing his ACL, cutting his senior season short. Also scored five touchdowns as a tight end. Was a part of a program that won three-straight AA Division 4 state championships. Ranked the nation’s 22nd best inside linebacker prospect by Rivals. Selected to the Under Armour All-American Game, but did not play due to injury.
Quotable: “(My family) all graduated from South Carolina, but they wanted me to go where I was most comfortable and where I felt I had the best opportunity to play. They were very supportive of my decision and the de-commitment (from South Carolina). I’m thankful for all of them, because they’ve put up with it well.” – Matt Rolin told GatorCountry.com.
DEFENSIVE BACKS (4) Vernon Hargreaves III
School: Wharton Hometown: Tampa, Fla. Height: 5-foot-11 Weight: 185 pounds GC composite ranking: 4 Recruited by: Derek Lewis Notable: Runs the 40 in 4.41 seconds. Committed to Florida on July 26, 2012, a day before Friday Night Lights. Considered the nation’s top defensive back and is ranked No. 2 nationally by Rivals. com as a five-star recruit. Played both offense and defense in high school. Recorded 110 total tackles and five interceptions in his senior season. Was named MVP of the 2013 Under Armour All-America Game with an interception, a pass deflection and five tackles, including several key stops in the open field. Father, Vernon Hargreaves II, has served as a college assistant coach. Chose Florida over Alabama, Florida State, LSU, Ohio State, South Florida, among others.
who’s who of college football. Also made official visits to Florida State, Oklahoma and Texas. Runs the 40-yard in 4.58 seconds and sports a 32-inch vertical. Is strong against the run but is agile enough to defense the pass, even in man coverage. Verbally committed to Florida on Nov. 29, 2012, becoming the 21st pledge of the class. A four-star prospect by national recruiting rankings, he was selected as an Under Armour All-American, but was unable to play due to injury. Made 93 tackles and forced four fumbles as a senior. As a junior, he recorded 93 tackles, 11 pass break-ups, four forced fumbles, four blocked kicks, three interceptions, two fumble recoveries and a pair of special teams touchdowns (one on a kickoff return, another on a blocked punt) Quotable: “It’s a great place. I talk to coach (Will) Muschamp a lot as he is my position coach. Coach is a great guy and a father figure to me. The great thing about him is he coaches my position, so if I choose Florida instead of having a position and a head coach I would have just one coach. We don’t talk just about football. We talk about life outside of football as well.” – Harris told GatorCountry.com
Quotable: “I don’t really set expectations. Whatever happens, happens. Good, bad, or ugly, it doesn’t matter. I’m just going to do my best at whatever I do.” – Hargreaves III told GatorCountry.com.
Marcell Harris
School: Dr. Phillips Hometown: Orlando, Fla. Height: 6-foot-1 Weight: 207 pounds GC Composite Ranking: 48 Recruited by: Travaris Robinson Notable: Son of former Gators player Mike “Mud” Harris, who played for coach Steve Spurrier on Florida’s 1996 National Championship team. Received scholarship offers from all of the
Keanu Neal (ABOVE)
one of the five honorable mention performers at The Nike Football SPARQ Combine in March. Competed in the IMG 7-on-7 tournament and The Opening, where his team won the 7-on-7 championship. Ranked No. 6 safety and the No. 65 prospect overall by ESPN. Rivals has him as the No. 7 and No. 64 overall by Rivals. Had 56 tackles his senior year. Committed to Florida on Feb. 18, 2012. Quotable: “I really liked that Coach Muschamp was on the defensive side of the ball and coaching up the safeties because that is my position. Just the environment, man,” Neal said when asked what made him decide to commit to Florida. Just you know seeing what I’m going to be, where I’m going to be at. It was great and I’m really looking forward to it. All the other guys like Quinton Powell and Nick Washington, those are pretty good friends of mine. I talk to them pretty frequently and were building relationships and I’m looking forward to playing with them.” – Neal told GatorCountry.com.
Nick Washington
School: Trinity Christian Hometown: Jacksonville, Fla. Height: 6-foot-0 Weight: 180 pounds GC composite ranking: 192 Recruited by: Dan Quinn Notable: Runs the 40-yard dash in 4.43 seconds. At the U.S. Army All-American game Washington had two tackles while playing safety. The Super 24 member had 48 tackles one forced fumble and one fumble recovery. Washington picked off three passes and returned one of them for an interception. After committing to Florida, Washington was a big key in getting Ahmad Fulwood, Demarcus Robinson and Marcell Harris to commit to Florida.
School: South Sumter Hometown: Bushnell, Fla. Position: Defensive back Height: 6-foot-0 Quotable: “I grew up loving Weight: 204 pounds Florida and always rooting for the GC composite ranking: 188 Recruiting by: Travaris Robinson Gators. I love the NFL experience there and how the coaches can get me to the NFL. I also love the fast Notable: Runs the 40 in 4.59 pace style the coaches preach seconds. Played in the Under there.” – Washington told Armour All-American Game. A GatorCountry.com. consensus four-star prospect; was
Fact: UF is a national leader in alternative energy research, with strong programs in ethanol production, and nuclear and solar energy.
GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013 19
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RECRUITING PROFILES to a 10-4 record. Ranked as the 66th best offensive tackle prospect in the nation by Rivals. Also had scholarship offers from Vanderbilt, Kentucky and Central Florida.
Notable: Runs the 40-yard dash in 5.25 seconds. The eighth commitment to the class. Is considered to be the center of the future for the Gators. During his senior year, Dillard was named to the Michigan All-State Dream Team. Received 21 scholarship offers from schools such as Arkansas, Florida State, Michigan, Oregon and West Virginia, among others. A three-star prospect by Rivals and the 20th best center prospect in the country. Quotable: “I just felt at home at Florida. I knew ever since I was a little kid that I wanted to be a Gator, and once coach (Will) Muschamp gave me the opportunity to play for the Gators, I took it.” – Dillard told GatorCountry.com.
Octavius Jackson (ABOVE)
School: Colquitt County Hometown: Moultrie, Ga. Height: 6 -foot-4 Weight: 295 pounds GC Composite Ranking: NR Recruited by: Brian White Notable: An under-the-radar prospect from Peach State powerhouse Colquitt County, where he was coached by Rush Propst. Was Florida’s 16th commitment, pulling the trigger on Aug. 3, 2012. Was named first team All-Region 1-AAAAAA after helping the Packers
soft verbal as he entertained other offers. Re-committed in January of 2013. Was named the top 2013 defensive tackle at the Rivals 100 Five-Star Challenge in June. Competed in the Orlando Nike Quotable: “Florida is a good Football Training Camp and The program and close to home. Coach Opening. Played in the Under Muschamp told me he would be Armour All-American Game. The excited for me to be a Gator when No. 4 defensive tackle and No. 31 he offered me.” – Jackson told prospect overall in the nation by GatorCountry.com. ESPN and the No. 6 defensive tackle Notable: Set a Nebraska record for and No. 90 overall by Rivals. This an offensive linemen with four starts past season, Brantley recorded 101 as a true freshman before deciding to tackles (34 for loss) and five sacks as the Raiders finished 3-7. Brantley sit out of football for a year while also received scholarship offers from attending St. Petersburg College. Florida State, Miami and South Also considered re-signing with Florida, among others. Nebraska or Florida State before choosing Florida. Will be eligible to play this fall and will technically be a Quotable: "I love Florida. My whole family has been Gator fans, sophomore, meaning he has three years of eligibility remaining. He was and since I was little, I was too.” – Brantley told GatorCountry.com. the 10th true freshman to start on the offensive line in Nebraska’s history and first to start the season Jay-nard Bostwick opener. Moore is especially strong at School: West Centennial run blocking as the Huskers rushed Hometown: Port Saint Lucie, Fla. for more than 200 yards in each of Height: 6-foot-4 Roderick Johnson (ABOVE) his four starts. In high school, Moore Weight: 250 pounds School: American Heritage was a four-star prospect by recruiting GC composite ranking: 205 Hometown: Delray Beach, Fla. networks. He played in the U.S. Army Height: 6-foot-6 All-American Game that featured Notable: A defensive tackle who Weight: 315 pounds three players who would announce announced his intentions to play for GC composite ranking: NR verbal commitments to the Gators the Florida Gators on National Recruited by: Tim Davis that day in Matt Elam, Sharrif Floyd Signing Day. Runs a 5.29 40-yard and Ronald Powell. dash. As a senior, he recorded 65 Notable: Johnson originally tackles, along with two sacks. committed to Florida in March 2012, Quotable: “At Florida he likes During his sophomore year, Bostwick but withdrew his verbal pledge in that they are in the SEC and the also had 95 tackles, including 11 August after UF wide receivers competition level there. He also has tackles for loss and two sacks. coach Aubrey Hill resigned for Bostwick became one of the eight personal reasons. He recommitted to some friends at Florida they met defensive linemen commitments in Florida in December. Johnson is the during the recruiting process and from home. Gainesville is also closer the Gators 2013 recruiting class. No. 55 player in the state of Florida to home for him. Another thing is Chose the Gators over Alabama, by Rivals.com. Johnson selected Miami, Oregon and South Carolina. Florida over Louisville, Florida State Florida is trying to become a running team and Tyler fits that bill and South Florida. as an offensive lineman. I think that Quotable: “We really enjoyed our Quotable: “I liked the scrimmage is why both parties are interested in official visit to Florida. We are really close with the Florida coaching – I saw a lot. I wanted to be close to each other.” – Brian Moore, Tyler’s father, told GatorCountry.com. staff,” Bernard Bostwick, Jaynard’s home and it doesn’t get any better father, told GatorCountry.com. than Florida.” – Johnson told GatorCountry.com after watching DEFENSIVE LINEMEN (7) the Orange & Blue Debut. Caleb Brantley (RIGHT) School(s): Crescent City Hometown: Crescent City, Fla. Tyler Moore (ABOVE RIGHT) Height: 6-foot-3 School(s): Countryside Weight: 285 pounds High/Nebraska GC composite ranking: 111 Hometown: Clearwater, Fla. Recruiting by: Dan Quinn Height: 6-foot-5 Weight: 312 pounds Notable: Committed to Florida in GC Composite Ranking: NR January of 2012 before becoming a Recruited by: Tim Davis
Fact: UF admitted 1,315 International Baccalaureate students – more than any other university in the U.S. – in fall 2010.
GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013
17
RECRUITING PROFILES RUNNING BACKS (2) Adam Lane (BELOW)
School: Winter Haven Hometown: Winter Haven, Fla. Height: 5-foot-8 Weight: 218 pounds GC composite ranking: 282 Recruited by: Brian White
QUARTERBACK (1) Max Staver (ABOVE)
School: Brentwood Academy Hometown: Brentwood, Tenn. Height: 6-foot-5 Weight: 230 pounds GC Composite Ranking: 491 Recruited by: Brent Pease Notable: After essentially holding a quarterback tryout during their summer camp, the Florida Gators offered Staver soon after the Tennessee-native showed what he was capable of in person. The Gators’ 11th verbal commitment. Threw for 1,948 yards and nine touchdowns while rushing for 298 yards and six touchdowns during his senior season. Led Brentwood Academy to a 9–3 record. Was also offered scholarships by Louisville, Mississippi State and Memphis. He is the 19th best “pocket passer” in the country according to ESPN, which also ranks Staver as the 264th best prospect in the nation and fifth-best player overall in Tennessee. Started for the West team in the Tennessee All-Star Classic. Quotable: “All of the coaches are awesome (at Florida). I loved the campus with all of the palm trees around it and the academics at Florida are good and of course the football is good. I also went out to eat after camp and there were a lot of cute girls around. Everything about Florida is just great.” – Staver told GatorCountry.com.
Notable: Lane was the first verbal commitment of the Gators 2013 recruiting class after announcing for Florida in January 2012. As a senior, Lane ran the ball 205 times for 1,624 yards and 12 touchdowns. He missed most of his junior season with a broken ankle. While rehabbing his injury, Lane performed well at the Under Armour All-America Combine, running 4.72 seconds in the 40-yard dash despite not fully being recovered. Was considered the strongest prospect after putting up 35 reps of 150-pound bench press. Has a 33.6 inch vertical jump. He chose the Gators over Florida State, Ohio State, Georgia, Miami and others. Lane is a three-star prospect and the 29th best running back in the country by Rivals.com.
Quotable: “I’m going to work hard this spring. I’m going to be working on learning the playbook and working out this spring with (UF strength and conditioning) coach (Jeff) Dillman. But the main thing is to get around my new team and work hard every day on getting better as a team.” – Taylor told GatorCountry.com.
Notable: Bailey chose Florida over offers from Florida State, Notre Dame, South Carolina and Central Florida, among others. Committed to Florida in September of 2012. Bailey lined up at quarterback as a junior, but has switched to receiver this season. Bailey teamed with UF running back Matt Jones to lead Armwood to the 6A state championship and finished 15–0 in 2011 before having all of its wins stripped by the FHSAA for recruiting players. Had 658 yards on 40 catches with nine touchdowns. Had four passing touchdowns and 350 yards rushing when playing quarterback. Also named first-team AllHillsborough County. Was an Under Armour All-American. Competed in The Opening and Gridiron Kings. Ranked the No. 8 athlete and was 77th in ESPN’s Top 150. Ranked the No. 7 receiver and No. 63 prospect overall by Rivals. Quotable: “I’m just going to work on getting my speed up. I want to get faster and stronger [before getting to Florida].”– Bailey told GatorCountry.com.
For the best recruiting coverage
Quotable: “The way they treated me, checking up on me through Facebook and stuff, it just made me feel at home and that was a big deal for me,” Lane told GatorCountry.com.
daily,
Kelvin Taylor (LEFT)
School: Glades Day Hometown: Belle Glades, Fla. Height: 5-foot-11 Weight: 216 pounds GC Composite Ranking: 21 Recruited by: Brian White Notable: Early enrollee who runs the 40-yard dash in 4.5 seconds. Bench presses 335 and squats 475. Participated in the Under Armour All-American Game. Will continue
14 GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013
wearing the same number (21) at UF as his father, former Florida Gators and NFL running back Fred Taylor, who rushed for more 11,000 yards during his 13-year NFL career. Kelvin’s uncle, Jerry Campbell, quarterbacked Glades Day to a state championship in 1998. Rushed for 2,423 yards and 41 touchdowns as a senior. Played on the varsity team as an eighth grader. In five seasons, he rushed for 12,121 yards and a state-record 191 touchdowns. The total is second nationally by a high school player, just three yards behind Yulee (Fla.) High’s Derrick Henry, who’s headed to Alabama. However, the National Federation of State High School Associations only recognizes feats accomplished from grades 9-12, so Kelvin officially ranked sixth nationally in career rushing yards with 10,537. Won back-to-back Class 2A Player of the Year honors after leading Glades Day to state titles in 2009 and 2010. Committed to Florida on Feb. 18, 2012 after receiving offers from Alabama, Florida State, Miami and South Carolina, among others.
visit RECEIVERS (6) Alvin Bailey (ABOVE)
School: Armwood Hometown: Seffner, Fla. Height: 5-foot-11 Weight: 170 pounds GC composite ranking: 162 Recruited by: Derek Lewis Fact: In the last few years alone, UF’s Federal and State funded energy research exceeded $70 million.
RECRUITING PROFILES 696 receiving yards and 35 receptions and 11 touchdowns. Was chosen to participate in the Army All-American Game. Robinson is considered the No. 52 recruit nationally by Rivals.com.
Marqui Hawkins (ABOVE)
Quotable: “UF was my first offer and its final now. I just feel the SEC and Florida will get me prepared for the next level the best.” – Robinson told GatorCountry.com.
School: Carver Hometown: Columbus, Ga. Height: 6-foot-2 Weight: 205 pounds GC Composite Ranking: 376 Recruited by: Brian White Notable: Hawkins surprised many when he committed to Florida in May of 2012 without having even visited the UF campus. The Georgia Ahmad Fulwood (ABOVE) native helps fill a position of need School: Bishop Kenny for the Gators, as they has been Hometown: Jacksonville, Fla. lacking in playmakers on the outside Height: 6-foot-4 recently. Ranked as the 50th best Weight: 197 pounds receiver in the nation and 28th best GC composite ranking: 89 player overall in the state of Georgia Recruited by: Brent Pease according to Rivals. Caught 32 passes for 865 yards and 12 Notable: Fulwood was an Army touchdowns during his junior All-American, but due to injury was forced to miss the game. As a senior season. Helped lead the Tigers to a Fulwood had 709 receiving yards and 12–2 record in his senior season. Also had offers from Alabama, 12 touchdowns, a performance that Clemson and Georgia. earned a spot on the Jacksonville Super 24 Team. Fulwood was the Quotable: “I have always liked seventh verbal commitment of the 2013 class. He is a four-star prospect Florida. Coach Muschamp was fired by Rivals and the 15th best receiver up when I told him that I was ready to be a Gator. He said he couldn’t in the country. Was offered by wait to tell all of the coaches when Alabama, Auburn, Georgia, Notre Dame and Ohio State, among others. we got off the phone.” – Hawkins told Gator Country.com. Quotable: “Coach Brent Pease is an offensive genius. It’s ridiculous Demarcus Robinson (LEFT) the things they do on offense. They School: Peach County were running reveres and jet Hometown: Fort Valley, Ga. sweeps. I really liked the offense.” – Height: 6-foot-2 Fulwood told GatorCountry.com. Weight: 200 pounds GC composite ranking: 110 Recruited by: Brian White, Joker Phillips Notable: Robinson is enrolled in January after committing to the Gators on Jan. 7, 2013. His decision marked the end of a unpredictable recruitment after being committed to Clemson twice and Florida once. He chose the Gators over Clemson and Notre Dame. As a senior he had Fact: Every state dollar appropriated to the University of Florida results in a $15 return on investment.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN (5) Trenton Brown (ABOVE)
School: Georgia Military Hometown: Milledgeville, Ga. Height: 6-foot-8 Weight: 350 pounds GC composite ranking: NR Recruiting by: Tim Davis
Chris Thompson (ABOVE)
School: Gainesville Hometown: Gainesville, Fla. Position: Receiver Height: 6-foot-0 Weight: 170 pounds GC Composite Ranking: NR Recruited by: Brent Pease Notable: Runs the 40-yard dash in 4.37 seconds, a scorching time he recorded during a camp at Florida Atlantic this past summer. Earned a scholarship offer from Florida three days after impressing coaches during UF’s Friday Night Lights Camp on July 27. Verbally committed shortly after receiving the offer after a meeting with coach Will Muschamp in his office on July 30, 2012. A three-star prospect by national recruiting networks, Thompson also received scholarship offers from Florida Atlantic, Marshall, Massachusetts and Utah. Thompson caught a team-high 37 passes for 814 yards and six touchdowns in helping GHS reach the regional finals as a junior. Quotable: “I have been a Florida fan since the time I was a little boy. They are my hometown school and the stadium is in my back yard. So it has been a dream to play for the Gators.” – Thompson told GatorCountry.com
Notable: Was named the No. 1 junior college offensive tackle. Runs the 40-yard dash in 5.3 seconds. Was originally a Georgia verbal commitment. Was offered a scholarship by Will Muschamp in February of 2012. Made an official visit to Florida for the season opener on Sept. 1, 2012, against Bowling Green. Was originally expected to sign in Decmber and enroll in classes for the spring semester but he had to stay in junior college for one more semester to complete a class before being cleared academically to enroll at Florida. Coaches have continued recruiting the behemoth lineman despite his verbal commitment to Florida, which he noted several times on his Twitter account, was solid. Quotable: “I have known all along that I was going to decide and sign in December. But it feels really good to be done with the process and moving on with my life. Florida is a very prestigious school to me and everyone else. For me to able to say I play at Florida and in the Southeastern Conference means I have had success in playing football and it gives me a great feeling to know that.” – Brown told GatorCountry.com.
Cameron Dillard (NEXT PAGE) School: Canton High Hometown: Canton, Mich. Height: 6-foot-3 Weight: 290 pounds GC composite ranking: NR Recruited by: Tim Davis
GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013 15
2014 CLASS PREVIEW Andrew Williams was one of the juniors-to-be who impressed coaches during UF Friday Night Lights Camp on July 27, 2012. Photo by Mike Capshaw Wide Receiver – Ryeshene Bronson (Commit) 6’3 182 Fort Myers (Fla.) Burton, Johnny Dixon 6’0 175 Palm Beach Gardens (Fla.) Dwyer, Drake Harris 6’4 185 Grand Rapids (Mich.) Grand Rapids Christian, Ermon Lane 6’2 172 Homestead (Fla.) Homestead, Trevion Thompson 6’2 170 Durham (N.C.) Hillside
Look Ahead To 2014 Florida coaches already eyeing another top signing class
Offensive Line – Tackle – Andy Bauer 6’6 304 St. Louis (Mo.) DeSmet, Tackle – Orlando Brown 6’7 340 Duluth (Ga.) Peachtree Ridge, Guard – Garrett Brumfield 6’3 275 Baton Rouge (La.) University Lab, Tackle – K.C. McDermott 6’6 285 Wellington (Fla.) Palm Beach Central, Tackle – Denzel Ward 6’9 285 Bradenton (Fla.) IMG Academy Defensive Tackle – Travonte Valentine (Commit) 6’3 283 Palm Bay (Fla.) Bayside, Andrew Brown 6’3 286 Chesapeake (Va.) Indian River, Demarcus Christmas 6’3 280 Bradenton (Fla.) Manatee, Gerald Willis 6’3 260 New Orleans (La.) Edna Karr, Khairi Clark 6’3 311 Hollywood (Fla.) Chaminade-Madonna Defensive End – Lorenzo Carter 6’5 221 Norcross (Ga.) Norcross, Da’Shawn Hand 6’5 245 Woodbridge (Va.) Woodbridge, Chad Thomas 6’4 225 Miami (Fla.) Booker T. Washington, Denzel Ware 6’2 215 Crestview (Fla.) Crestview, Andrew Williams 6’4 245 McDonough (Ga.) Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy Linebacker – Shaun Dion Hamilton 6’1 222 Montgomery (Ala.) Carver, Raekwon McMillan 6’3 240 Hinesville (Ga.) Liberty County, Christian Miller 6’4 210 Columbia (S.C.) Spring Valley, Korie Rogers 6’2 218 Buford (Ga.) Buford, Tre Williams 6’2 220 Mobile (Ala.) St. Paul’s
With the 2013 class officially wrapped up, the Florida coaching staff has already begun their evaluations of what is a talented 2014 class inside the state of Florida’s borders and beyond. The Gators will look to sign a class of around 25 next year, and have already gotten off to a solid start, netting four early commitments before the spring evaluation period, including the ever-important quarterback position. With the Gators coming off of a successful 11–2 season, and yet, still having obvious needs, Florida continues to be in the enviable position of having talent on campus while still being able to attract 12 GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013
recruits with promises of early playing time. Here is an early look at the top players in which coach Will Muschamp and his staff are already focusing on: Quarterback – Will Grier (Commit) 6’3 171 Davidson (N.C.) Davidson Day Running Back – Jalen Hurd 6’3 210 Hendersonville (Tenn.) Beech Senior, Leonard Fournette 6’0 215 New Orleans (La.) St. Augustine, Tony James 5’10 163 Gainesville (Fla.) Gainesville, Sony Michel 5’11 185 Plantation (Fla.) American Heritage, Bo Scarbrough 6’1 222 Tuscaloosa (Ala.) Northridge
Cornerback – Duke Dawson (Commit) 5’11 184 Cross City (Fla.) Dixie County, Grant Haley 5’10 175 Atlanta (Ga.) Lovett, D.J. Smith 6’0 180 Marietta (Ga.) Walton, Jalen Tabor 6’0 181 Washington D.C. Friendship, Quincy Wilson 6’2 185 Fort Lauderdale (Fla.) University School Safety – Quin Blanding 6’2 196 Virginia Beach (Va.) Bayside, Todd Kelly 5’11 175 Knoxville (Tenn.) Webb School of Knoxville, Edward Paris 6’1 200 Mansfield (Texas) Timberview, T.J. Harrell 6’1 210 Tampa (Fla.) Tampa Catholic, Wesley Green 5’11 168 Lithonia (Ga.) Martin Luther King Fact: UF offers more than 110 courses related to sustainability.
SCENES FROM THE SWAMP Albert and UF’s cheerleaders perform a skit during a break in the action. Photo by John Parady
Florida gymnasts celebrates after a performance during the Gators’ ‘Link for Pink” meet against Auburn. Photo by John Parady
Florida’s dance squad performs at halftime. Photo by John Parady
Gators signees do the ‘Gator Chomp’ after the Under Armour All-American Game. From left is Kelvin Taylor, Marcell Harris, Keanu Neal, Alvin Bailey, Matt Rolin and Vernon Hargreaves III.
Exclusively featuring
Fact: UF activities generate 100,000 statewide jobs.
GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013 13
DIAMOND FORECAST
2013 FLORIDA BASEBALL SCHEDULE
Taylor Gushue
Jonathon Crawford
PITCHER
Florida will rely heavily on the 1–2 punch of junior righthanders Jonathon Crawford and Karsten Whitson. The highly decorated duo are penciled in as the Friday and Saturday starters. Crawford (6–1, 205) tossed the first no-hitter in postseason play in two decades to kickoff last season’s Gainesville Regional and was named a preseason All-American by Louisville Slugger. He fires fastballs in the upper 90s and posted a 6–2 record with a 3.13 ERA to go along with 73 strikeouts in 77.2 innings last season. The 6–4, 225-pound Whitson is an intimidating presence on the mound and is 12–1 with a 2.69 ERA in 29 starts over the past two seasons. Whitson famously turned down more than $2 million after being selected by the San Diego Padres with the No. 9 overall pick of the 2011 MLB First-Year Player Draft. “They’re our veterans, our 1–2 guys,” O’Sullivan said. “They’re going to be the strength of our team and we’re looking for them to be our team leaders.” The main question will be who will emerge as the No. 3 starter on most SEC Sundays. O’Sullivan likes the possibilities. “We’ve got plenty of options,” O’Sullivan said. “Starting with the older guys – Daniel Gibson, Keenan Kish, Johnny Magliozzi – those three guys will certainly get looks and then two freshmen Tucker Simpson and Eric Hanhold. “That gives us five guys that we’re looking at for that third starter or a weekend starter. I think a lot of that decision making will depend on who in that group as well do we feel comfortable with as the guys at the end of the game, in the 10 GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013
backend of the bullpen. “It’s going to be a combination of what gives us the best chance of winning each game but also keeping in mind that we’re going to solidify the back end of our bullpen.” O’Sullivan believes the strength of the team, other than Crawford and Whitson as the starters, will be in the “overall depth” of the bullpen. One of those pitchers is left-hander Corey Stump, who dropped his arm slot to gain more movement on his pitches in the offseason. O’Sullivan said Stump has the ability to be a weekend starter, but his value as a reliever may be an even greater asset. “Stump is certainly one of those guys that could start on Sundays as well,” O’Sullivan said. “For me, Corey is probably our most effective left-hander. Just knowing that we have Corey Stump down there at any point during the game definitely makes me feel a lot more comfortable, certainly left on left (a left-handed pitcher vs. a left-handed batter, always a favorable matchup).” Overall, it’s going to be a lot of different faces and essentially a different team than a year ago. One thing O’Sullivan wants to avoid, which will be difficult for fans and media, are comparisons to last year’s talented team that included eight players drafted in the top nine rounds led by Zunino at No. 3. “One thing I’m not going to do is make comparisons between Mike or any of our previous players with any of our new players,” O’Sullivan said. “Our new players are going to need time to develop. They are going to need time to develop their own identity and it’s not fair to do that.”
DATE Fri, Feb 15 Sat, Feb 16 Sun, Feb 17 Tue, Feb 19 Wed, Feb 20 Fri, Feb 22 Sat, Feb 23 Sun, Feb 24 Tue, Feb 26 Fri, Mar 1 Sat, Mar 2 Sun, Mar 3 Tue, Mar 5 Wed, Mar 6 Fri, Mar 8 Sat, Mar 9 Sun, Mar 10 Tue, Mar 12 Fri, Mar 15 Sat, Mar 16 Sun, Mar 17 Tue, Mar 19 Fri, Mar 22 Sat, Mar 23 Sun, Mar 24 Tue, Mar 26 Fri, Mar 29 Sat, Mar 30 Sun, Mar 31 Tue, Apr 2 Fri, Apr 5 Sat, Apr 6 Sun, Apr 7 Tue, Apr 9 Thu, Apr 11 Fri, Apr 12 Sat, Apr 13 Tue, Apr 16 Fri, Apr 19 Sat, Apr 20 Sun, Apr 21 Tue, Apr 23 Fri, Apr 26 Sat, Apr 27 Sun, Apr 28 Thu, May 2 Fri, May 3 Sat, May 4 Mon, May 6 Tue, May 7 Fri, May 10 Sat, May 11 Sun, May 12 Thu, May 16 Fri, May 17 Sat, May 18 May 21–26 May 31–Jun 3 Jun 7–10 Jun 15–26
OPPONENT SITE Duke Gainesville, FL Duke Gainesville, FL Duke Gainesville, FL UCF Orlando, FL Georgia Southern Gainesville, FL Florida Gulf Coast Gainesville, FL Florida Gulf Coast Gainesville, FL Florida Gulf Coast Gainesville, FL North Florida Gainesville, FL Miami (Fla.) Gainesville, FL Miami (Fla.) Gainesville, FL Miami (Fla.) Gainesville, FL Jacksonville Jacksonville, FL Jacksonville Gainesville, FL Indiana Gainesville, FL Indiana Gainesville, FL Indiana Gainesville, FL Florida State Gainesville, FL Kentucky * Gainesville, FL Kentucky * Gainesville, FL Kentucky * Gainesville, FL North Florida Gainesville, FL Vanderbilt * Nashville, TN Vanderbilt * Nashville, TN Vanderbilt * Nashville, TN Florida State Jacksonville, FL Ole Miss * Gainesville, FL Ole Miss * Gainesville, FL Ole Miss * Gainesville, FL UCF Gainesville, FL Mississippi State * Starkville, MS Mississippi State * Starkville, MS Mississippi State * Starkville, MS Florida State Tallahassee, FL South Carolina * Gainesville, FL South Carolina * Gainesville, FL South Carolina * Gainesville, FL Florida Gulf Coast Fort Myers, FL Missouri * Columbia, MO Missouri * Columbia, MO Missouri * Columbia, MO USF Gainesville, FL Tennessee * Gainesville, FL Tennessee * Gainesville, FL Tennessee * Gainesville, FL LSU * Baton Rouge, LA LSU * Baton Rouge, LA LSU * Baton Rouge, LA Florida A&M Gainesville, FL Florida Atlantic Gainesville, FL Auburn * Gainesville, FL Auburn * Gainesville, FL Auburn * Gainesville, FL Georgia * Athens, GA Georgia * Athens, GA Georgia * Athens, GA SEC Tournament (Hoover, AL) NCAA Regionals (16 sites) NCAA Super Regionals (8 sites) Coll. World Series (Omaha, NE)
TIME (ET) 7:00pm 4:00pm 12:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 4:00pm 12:30pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 1:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 4:00pm 1:00pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 12:00pm 1:00pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 7:00pm 1:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 1:00pm 1:00pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 3:00pm 2:30pm 6:00pm 7:30pm 7:30pm 4:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 3:00pm 1:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 1:00pm 7:30pm 7:30pm 1:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 1:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 2:00pm
Fact: UF’s annual economic impact on Florida’s economy exceeds $8.76 billion.
TEST YOUR GATORS KNOWLEDGE
GatorS Trivia: 1) What team did Florida defeat in the the 1997 Sugar Bowl to secure their national championship?
A) USC B) Texas C) Ohio State D) Florida State
2) The annual winner of the Florida– Florida State fivalry game is awarded what coveted trophy? A) Commander in Chief’s Trophy B) Governor’s Cup C) War Canoe Trophy D) Centennial Cup
3) 1906 is officially noted as the first year of football at the University of Florida (known as FAC or Florida Agricultural College at the time), but in which year was the first University of Florida (FAC) football team actually organized? A) 1908 C) 1930
B) 1899 D) 1867
4) In 1996, the Gators won their first National Championship while losing only one game to Florida State University. This was a game that featured what many consider to be some of the most controversial officiating in the modern era. Danny Wuerfel and the Gators took their revenge in the Sugar Bowl by beating FSU by what score? A) 52–20 C) 41–12
B) 24–11 D) 73–3
C) A local store owner wanted to print and sell banners and needed something to put on them D) Lake Sue in Gainesville had the highest number of alligators per acre of any lake in Florida and it just made sense
7) At every Florida football game the Gator faithful sings, “We are the boys”. When do they do this? A) At the end of the third quarter B) At halftime C) Before the kickoff D) At the end of the game
8) Which of these players was not a member of the 1996 National Championship team? A) Ike Hilliard B) Ben Hanks C) Fred Weary D) Chris Doering
9) George Edmondson Jr, better known as “Mr. Two Bits”, attended and began his “2 bits, 4 bits, 6 bits, a dollar cheer” at a game. In 1949, featuring his own alma mater because his friends, and the majority of the crowd wasn’t getting behind their home team. He became an icon of Gator football over the next 6 decades. Which school was his alma matter? A) Florida State B) Florida C) Stetson D) Citadel
5) Florida vs. Florida State is certainly one of the most heated rivalries in all of sports, but when did it begin?
10) In 1913, the Gators beat Florida Southern by a margin of what score?
A) 1954 C) 1943
A) 102–3 C) 98–2
B) 1915 D) 1902
6) The Gators were not always known as the Gators. In fact, when the team was first organized, they had no official nickname or mascot at all. They were occasionally referred to as the “Cadets”, and for a time “PeeWee’s Boys” after coach J.A. (PeeWee) Forsythe 1906–1908. How did the Gator become the nickname? A) The University was built in a swamp (the 3rd one burned down, fell over, and then sank into the swamp) B) An alligator found its way on to the field during a game
B) 144–0 D) 91–11
11) The period between 1946–1949, in which the Gators under coach Ray “Bear” Wolf had a combined record of 13–23–2, including a 13-game losing streak, is known as what? A) The Depression B) The Bear years C) The golden era D) The years of the Gator
12) As of November 18th, 2007, Bobby Bowden has a winning record against Florida A) True B) False 500 record against Florida
1–D, 2–b, 3–b, 4–A, 5–d, 6–D, 7–A, 8–D, 9–d, 10–B, 11–C, 12–a
Answer Key:
Fact: UF received more than $678 million in research awards in 2009–10.
GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013
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DIAMOND FORECAST Junior Karsten Whitson is expected to start, possibly on Saturdays, combining with Crawford to give the Gators a dangerous 1–2 pitching punch.
INFIELD
Losing many key players will give Florida a different identity
By Mike Capshaw Photos by Mike Capshaw
2013 GATORS BASEBALL PREVIEW Fans may need a little time to adjust to the Florida Gators’ baseball team, version 2013. Coaches will, too. This season’s team will take on a completely different identity when it takes the field Feb 15 for a seasonopening home series against Duke. Gone are familiar faces such as Mike Zunino, Preston Tucker, Hudson Randall and Stephen Rodriguez. In their place a talented crop of newcomers will mix with veteran returners to try to make a fourth consecutive College World Series trip. The odds will be stacked against them. In the past few seasons, “Sully” sent several batters up to the plate who could change the game with one swing. While this season’s club has a few who can club it, the make-up of the squad will be much different offensively. “Every year your offensive philosophy changes to the personnel you have,” O’Sullivan said. “This year’s personality
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GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013
is different from last year’s because the personnel is different. For us to try to run a lot last year, that was not the strength of our team. “This year, it could be and it should be for us to be successful.” Stolen bases, hit-and-runs and bunting people over to manufacture runs may not be as exciting walk-off home runs, but that’s what it will take to get the job done. And wining games, no matter how, is O’Sullivan’s job. “We’ll run more and we’ll be more active on the base paths –We’ll stress it much more,” O’Sullivan said. “We’ll have to do some things like hit-and-run, but we’re not going to be a team that is anemic at hitting home runs, either. We’re not going to hit as many as we did last year, but we’ll have our fair share. “That’s just not going to be the focal point of our offense like it was last year.”
Look for speed right off the bat in Florida’s lineup. True freshman shortstop Richie Martin impressed throughout fall ball. He’s a contact hitter who “sprays” the ball all over the field. As a fielder, Martin has showed plenty of range by backhanding grounders deep in the hole or chasing high-hoppers down up the middle. He also has a strong enough arm to make all the throws needed from the shortstop position, serving as a solid replacement to Nolan Fontana. He has above average arm strength, but the key is how quickly he gets rid of it. “If the season were to start tomorrow, (Martin) would probably be our leadoff hitter,” O’Sullivan said. “There are a lot of things that goes into that. He competes pitch to pitch. He doesn’t give up on an at-bat and it’s always going to be a competitive at-bat. He can really handle the bat as far as drag bunts and push bunts, he’s really, really advanced. “He handles the bat as well as any young player we’ve had I think.” Once he reaches first base O’Sullivan said he’ll likely give Martin the green light to run to start the season. That mean, he trusts Martin to decide on his own when to steal, or when to stay. “When he gets on base, he’s very disruptive,” O’Sullivan said. “He’s got great instincts. He might be one of those guys that we haven’t had here in a while that can steal 30-plus (bases) in a season. “We just haven’t had that in a long time because those guys are hard to find. Making up the other side of the middle of the infield at second base will be Casey Turgeon, who became the ninth Freshman All-American in O’Sullivan’s seven seasons a year ago. He batted .357 during UF’s seven NCAA tournament games and was named the Most Outstanding Player of the Gainesville Regional after going 6-for-10 with five RBI, four runs, two doubles, a homer and a pair of walks in three games. For the season, the left-handed swinging Turgeon batted .281 with 35 runs, 30 RBI, 11 doubles, 3 triples and 4 homers. O’Sullivan said Turgeon is “arguably our best all-around player” and he will be counted on for leadership despite just being a sophomore. Josh Tobias could end up in the outfield but ideally will play third base. If he’s needed in the outfield, Cody Dent or Zach Powers depending on how Powers’ “arm
Fact: The freshman retention rate of 95 percent is among the highest in the country.
DIAMOND FORECAST Florida sixth-year coach Kevin O’Sullivan talks with, from left, Richie Martin, Casey Turgeon and Cody Dent (partially hidden). comes back” from shoulder surgery that caused him to redshirt last season. No matter where Tobias plays in the field, he’s going to be a key cog in the offense. He’s added muscle in the offseason and hit with much more pop and confidence during fall ball. “For me, he’s one of the keys to our offense,” O’Sullivan said. “I feel like he has the ability to hit in the middle of the order. It’s just a matter of him going out there and doing it. “When we start breaking down our team, player by player, he is one of those guys that, quite frankly, in order for us to be where we need to be, we really need him to have a solid year. “He doesn’t have to be off the charts, not that he’s capable of that, but we don’t need to put the pressure on him to try to do that. Josh has every capability to be a huge lift for our team.” Back around to the other side of the horn are three players who could end up rotating between first base and designated hitter. O’Sullivan said if the season began now Vickash Ramjit likely would start at first but Powers or freshman Kevin Stypulkowski also could fit in there as well. “I think out of the group Vickash is certainly our best defensive first baseman, although Zach Powers is right there with him,” O’Sullivan said. “Vickash has the ability where he also can go to the outfield.”
“I still have to figure that out,” O’Sullivan said, referring to the outfield starters. “A lot of it has to do with the development of Christian Dix and Harrison OUTFIELD Bader and how they come along. If those The outfield is where UF is thin, especially guys start making plays at this level early with projected starting centerfielder Tyler on then we can keep Vickash at first. If not, Thompson leaving the team last week for personal reasons. Justin Shafer is one player we’ll have to put him in the outfield.” for sure who figures into the outfield mix, possibly in left field. CATCHER “He’s one of those guys who flies under Last but certainly not least as far as the the radar for whatever reason,” O’Sullivan defense, and offense for that matter, goes said. “He’s one of our best, purest hitters. is catcher Taylor Gushue, who has big shoes He will definitely hit in the middle of to fill taking over duties for Zunino, who the order.” was the third overall pick in last June’s Along with Shafer and the possibility of draft by the Seattle Mariners. putting Ramjit in right, the coaching staff Offensively, Gushue can hit for power has some options in the outfield thanks to and average. Defensively, he doesn’t have the continuing development of freshmen quite the arm strength Zunino had – after all, Harrison Bader and Christian Dix. The first he’s one of the best catchers in the school month of the season is non-conference play, and SEC’s history – but he threw several so expect the staff to try some different would-be base stealers out during the fall combinations to see what works the best. thanks to his quick release and accurate All 22 of the non-conference games throws. He’s a rare talent because he arrived will be played in the state of Florida with at Florida as a 17-year-old freshman when he 20 of those scheduled as home dates at enrolled in January of what would have been McKethan Stadium. his senior year in high school. He started 39 Fact: The freshman retention rate of 95 percent is among the highest in the country.
of the 52 games he appeared in last season with 28 starts at first, six as a designated hitter and five at catcher. “I think the biggest part of his game that has improved the most is his throwing,” O’Sullivan said. “He’s cleaned up his throwing mechanics – it’s shorter, it’s more efficient, he’s got better carry to his ball and he’s more accurate. That’s all we’re looking for from him. “We know that the offensive is part of his game that has always been a strength but the most important thing for me has been his improvement behind the plate, certainly throwing wise.” Stypulkowski will back up Gushue behind the plate but the freshman should be able to work his way into lineup because he’s a switch hitter. As mentioned previously, he can play first or serve as designated hitter. Gushue certainly has taken control of the catching duties. It helped when he caught a pair of Florida pitchers, Daniel Gibson and Bobby Poyner, on the Madison (Wisc.) Mallards of the Northwoods League last summer. In 21 games, Gushue batted .250 with 14 RBI, 12 runs, two doubles and two home runs. GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013
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GAINESVILLE TURNS TO BASKETBALL Gainesville native Scottie Wilbekin soars for a reverse layup during an 83-52 win against Missouri.
Gators basketball is taking over as UF rises back up to national prominence
By Alex Gray Photos by Curtiss Bryant
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Hogtown= Hoops Town GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013
There’s something different about Gainesville right now. No, it’s not the slightly chilled wind of winter which has mercifully knifed through the stifling layer of humidity which sets up camp in these parts for most of the year. It’s totally unrelated to the seemingly endless amount of dust-inducing construction projects which make campus and the surrounding area an unrecognizable land to proud alumni. This sudden change in Gainesville is metaphysical. The feeling is different. The talk amongst local inhabitants is vastly strange. For the first time in a while, the attention in Hogtown is centered on the team that chooses to dribble a ball rather than the one who flings one in the air (or in the case of this past season, pound it relentlessly). Yes it’s true – in the present moment, Gainesville is a basketball town. Although it’s easy to say that the pigskin has been shelved in the minds of fans when football is in fact in the offseason, the truth is, the Florida basketball team has captured the attention of its school and its surrounding city in a way not seen since 2007. However, even the national champion 2007 squad didn’t enjoy as torrid of an SEC start that Florida’s current keepers of the “House of Horrors” have. The Gators played seven SEC teams during the month of January. No opponent came within single digits of Florida. In fact, the closest game for the Gators during the first month of the year was a 17-point victory on the road at Georgia, where Florida had only won once in the previous four tries, and actually trailed at halftime. That game was one of just three that the Gators didn’t win by 30 points. That’s right, in seven SEC games, the Gators actually won
more games by 30 points than games they did not win by 30. If there is any way to satiate the constant hunger for victory in a community self-dubbed as “Title Town,” obliterating opponent after opponent is certainly a way to perk up the ears around The Swamp. The Florida football team’s lugubrious ending to its resurgent season undoubtedly left a sour taste in the mouths of many Gator-faithful. But the sensitive wound that football season left on the collective body of Florida fans has begun to be treated with the refreshing ointment that is the Florida basketball team. Questions of the legitimacy of their conference schedule aside, this Gators basketball team is good. And much like their football counterparts just across Gale Lemerand Drive, their success so far this season has been engineered by an indomitable will to play defense. Entering the season, Florida coach Billy Donovan expressed his belief that his Gators team could be stout on the defensive end of the floor, and through the Gators’ first half of the schedule, he has proven to be correct. Out of 19 opponents played from November to January, the Gators held 11 teams to under 50 points scored. By the end of January, Florida was ranked No. 2 in the nation in scoring defense, holding opponents to a mere 50.4 points per game, while averaging 73.8. “They’re rock solid,” South Carolina coach Frank Martin said after the Gators held his Gamecocks to their lowest point total – 36 – since joining the SEC 21 years ago. The Gators are indeed solid as a rock when they play defense, as they exhibit few flaws on that end of the floor. The Gators hustle back in transition, the guards defend the perimeter and fight through screens, and nary does a ball
Fact: The fall 2010 incoming freshman class had an average 4.3 GPA and 1945 SAT score.
GAINESVILLE TURNS TO BASKETBALL
handler cut through the lane for an easy bucket. Almost every point an opposing team has gotten this year, they’ve earned. Florida has had enjoyed a heap of attention and praise suddenly thrust upon them as of late, as basketball analysts abound have hyped up the Gators as arguably the nation’s best team, mostly due to their relentless defense. Naturally, Donovan hasn’t been as quick to pat his players on the back in public view, but even the Gators’ coach has been able to talk about just how good his team’s defense has been of late, as seemingly everyone on the Florida roster has brought into the unofficial defensefirst concept. “I think there’s a combination of a couple of things (that have led to the Gators defensive performance),” Donovan said. “I think one, those guys have worked very, very hard up to this point in time. And then I think two, preparation-wise, scouting report, how we’re guarding individual players … being able to adjust, make changes. “In the Georgia game, in the first half, we didn’t do a great job defensively. We made some adjustments and our guys, being older, were able to pick those things up. I’m not so sure with a younger team, with some of the things that we did in the second half against Georgia, a young team would be able to pick those things up. “Our guys understand through scouting, preparation, those things, there is an advantage that can be gained if you’re focused in, if you’re locked in, if you pay attention and you understand things that are going to happen on the floor and you can almost read when they’re going to happen and kind of sniff them out and be ahead of the play a little bit. I think our guys have done a pretty good job of that.”
The Gators have done a pretty good job at a lot of things this season, and are hoping that their journey can end where the football Gators’ didn’t quite make it to – in Atlanta. Before the Gators can reach college basketball’s zenith however, there are a lot of games that remain to be played, and defense alone won’t allow the Gators to cut down the nets in the Georgia Dome. For Florida, although they are gashing through the league in a way not seen in quite some time, the Gators will have to maintain a sharp focus as the season continues to linger on – a fact made harder by the startling amount of attention the team has received as of late, including a top-5 national ranking. “It’s almost like driving a car,” Donovan said. “When you’re out driving in a country field and there’s nothing to look at and you’re looking at the road and all the sudden, you get into a city and there’s a bunch of sights and sounds and things you start looking at.” “If you’re not paying attention to what’s in front of you, you’re going to run that car right off the road and into a pole. Our guys have to understand that the chatter and stuff around them is on the peripheral.” Donovan is correct about that the building buzz around his team. But if the Gators look out of that car window, they’ll see much of that chatter is coming from orange and blue-clad fans cheering them on. Because, for now, Gainesville is a basketball town.
Patric Young has been a dominant force in the paint after opting to return for his junior season.
Fact: Approximately 90 percent of incoming freshmen score above the national average on standardized exams.
GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013
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THE BREAKDOWN
CEO of www.gatorcountry.com Raymond Hines III
COO Bernadette King
CFO Raymond Hines, Jr
MANAGING EDITOR Mike Capshaw
STAFF WRITERS Andrew Spivey David Shepherd Dan Thompson Phillip Heilman John Boothe
REPORTERS Drew Laing Elizabeth Rhodes Alex Gray
PHOTOGRAPHERS Saj Guevara Curtiss Bryant Wes Hall John Parady
CEO Marc Douglass
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
CONTENTS ON AND OFF THE FIELD
06 Hogtown = Hoops Town 08 2013 Gators Baseball Preview 11 Gator Trivia 12 Look Ahead to 2014 26 An Overview of National Signing Day 36 Going Deep 40 Valentine’s Day: From Him to Her
SWAMP SPOTLIGHT
Lauren Douglass
COPY EDITOR Daniel Sutphin
ART DIRECTOR Daniel Tidbury
GRAPHIC DESIGN Daniel Tidbury Lisa Torres Jane Dominguez
PROMOTIONS Amanda Liles Karen Jones Hilah Driggers AnnMarie DeFeo
ACCOUNTING Lynsey Parrish
CIRCULATION Eddy Falla
SPECIAL PROJECTS Lauren Kolansky Daniel Sutphin
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Shane Howell (shane@whpinc.com)
ADVERTISING & SALES Shane Howell Bryan Porter Matt Frey
28 Like Father? 30 Born to Quarterback 33 Gatornole? 14 Recruiting Profiles 21 Homegrown Gator
For advertising opportunities, please contact us at 352-371-5881 or sales@whpinc.com. Magazine subscriptions are available at www.gatorcountry.com For subsciption related questions or concerns, please call (800) 601-4623 or email folks@gatorcountry.com Connect with us: TheGatorCountry @GatorCountry
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GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013
Fact: Florida’s leading university traces its beginnings to a small seminary in 1853.
RECRUITING CLASS OUTLOOK
A Fun R ide By Andrew Spivey
This year’s recruiting class has been fun to follow and that’s largely due to Will Muschamp and his coaching staff. This coaching staff doesn’t give up on anyone, so as a recruiting reporter you have to stay in touch with every recruit even after they commit to another school. This year alone Muschamp flipped Alex Anzalone from Notre Dame to Florida at the very last minute, Demarcus Robinson from Clemson to Florida at the last minute, Matt Rolin from South Carolina to Florida and Jarrad Davis from Auburn to Florida. Muschamp is known for his intensity on the field and that certainly carries over onto the recruiting circuit. Heading into this class Muschamp knew he needed to fill need and, unlike last year, he didn’t wait until National Signing Day to lock down those prospects. Muschamp started building this class in early February of 2012 and the recruiting momentum continued on all the way up until 2013 National Signing Day.
I believe you will look back on the Class of 2013 in a few years and say this was the class that turned Florida from a good team to an elite team. You look at a guy like Kelvin Taylor, who is a power running back and a Gators legacy, or a guy like Daniel McMillian, who is a tough, hard-nosed linebacker that isn’t afraid to hit someone. But the biggest pick up in this year’s class has to be the prospects on the offensive and defensive lines. As Muschamp has said several times the SEC is a game that’s won on the line scrimmage and that is something that has hurt the Gators in Muschamp’s first two years on the job. Now with the addition of Nebraska transfer Tyler Moore and the addition of JUCO offensive lineman Trenton Brown the Gators gain some much needed experience on the offensive line. Muschamp has laid the foundation on the recruiting trail as a fierce and tireless recruiter, so I expect this to be the first of many top classes to come.
Fact: It opened its doors in Gainesville in 1906 with 102 students.
GATOR COUNTRY | FEB/2013
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FEBRUARY 2013
Volume 5
Issue 16
www.Gatorcountry.com
G
IN IT RU C RE L L A FOOTB A ITION – 2013 FLORID
COLLECTOR’S ED
INSIDE
Postal Customer
PRST-STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Tall ahassee, FL permit #296
Muschamp explains the importance of signing high-character prospects like quarterback Max Staver & receiver Chris Thompson
PROSPECTS PROFILES RECRUITING FEATURES BASKETBALL UPDATE BASEBALL PREVIEW FOOTBALL FEATURE
HIGH CLASS
FLIP F OR NEW FLOUR ISH