Family Magazine Summer 2018

FAMILY MAGAZINE

Issue 03: Volume 04 Summer 2018

Early Learning KEYS TO YOUR CHILD’S SUCCESS

Real Estate

NEIGHBORHOODS WITH CHARACTER

Weddings WITH STYLE

Farm Families SUMMER 2018

PERSISTENCE, DETERMINATION DILLIGENCE

opening fall!

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-Head Brewer: Ali Perbtani

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A Residence of Legend Senior Living™

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ALF# Pending

F ROM T H E P U B L I S H E R Family Magazine is very pleased to announce our Editor-in-Chief, Jeweliana Register. As a recent graduate of Nova Southeastern University, Jeweliana brings much insight and enthusiasm to our community. We are so delighted, and very fortunate, to have this bright young lady join us full-time after interning with us during the summer of 2017. Being a Columbia County native, many people already know Jeweliana; however, if you don’t know her, be sure and introduce yourself— Mantha Young and she is always on the lookout for new Jeweliana Register friends and great stories!

In this issue of Family Magazine, we have three special sections. Local agriculture is featured with Deas, Dicks and Townsend generational farm families and Cultiva and Lakeland Sands cooperations. In collaboration with the Early Learning Coalition of Florida’s Gateway, we’re bringing you essential information about early childhood education, accompanied by a comprehensive provider listing for Columbia, Suwannee and Hamilton Counties. In the second installment of the three-part Family Living series, we’re highlighting some of the great communities in Columbia County.

Look for the feature on the day-cation at the fabulous Suwannee County Parks and Recreation playground, as well as the weekend getaway to the Georgia waterfalls. As always, check out our easy, breezy recipes and keep an eye out for the trendy fashions presented by the Corbin and Skinner families!

Mantha

“Just living is not enough. One must have sunshine, freedom, and a little flower.”

—Hans Christian Andersen

PUBLISHER Mantha Young EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jeweliana Register TRIUMPH EDITOR Ruth Williams CREATIVE DESIGN Sarah Nichols DIRECTOR OF MARKETING Shellie Young MARKETING TEAM Cindy Ricketson Abbey Rocco CONTRIBU TORS Dr. Terri Andrews Dr. Pamela S. Carswell Befaithful Coker Joy H. Coleman Esta Eberhardt Holly Frazier Tammy Johns Susan K. Lamb Karen Leslie Natalie Metzger Melissa Ryan Anne Smith Delaine Spradley Dr. Lorrie Wheeler Hayli Zuccola

North Central Florida Advertiser 358 NW Main Blvd, Lake City, FL 32055 386-752-8280

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photography, or illustration only with written consent of the publisher. Family Magazine, its officers, staff members or contributors do not warrant the accuracy of or assume a responsibility for any of the material contained herein. All submissions, text, and photography received by Family Magazine have been considered authorized for publication.

Member of Florida Magazine Association

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CORNERSTONE HOME CARE

Five Star Care!

The only agency in our area to receive Both Top Awards.

Cornerstone Home Care is extremely proud to announce that they have been awarded a 5-star rating in both quality of patient care and patient satisfaction! This government regulated Medicare rating system is in place to evaluate these two important areas of the healthcare industry, with the average rating in the state of Florida being 3.5 stars out of 5. Servicing Columbia, Suwannee, Hamilton, Lafayette and Alachua counties, Cornerstone Home Care feels so honored to receive this wonderful recognition from their patients and their government evaluations. In fact, out of the entire state of Florida, just six agencies were awarded this double-five-star rating!

Aside from their excellent quality of care, the team at Cornerstone Home Care strive to create those meaningful relationships with their patients. In some cases, their team may be the only human interaction the patients have for days or even weeks, so it is important that their staff build trust and instill confidence within their “It’s more than just patients. That confidence clinical,” Gaylene in quality care and patient satisfaction is what sets Connell expressed. Cornerstone Home Care apart, and what creates an “It’s all about atmosphere for excellent relationships.” experiences.

“It’s more than just clinical,” Gaylene Connell expressed. “It’s all about relationships.”

For more information about the Medicare healthcare rating system, or to read more about Cornerstone Home Care’s evaluation, visit medicare.gov.

Lic # 299991606

CORNERSTONE HOME CARE is one of 6 agencies in the state of Florida to acheive this status.

484 SW Commerce Drive, Suite 101, Lake City, FL 32025 • (386) 344-6935 Summer 2018 | 3

spring

RONSONET BUICK • GMC

Summer Family Fashion......................8 Heroes With Paws............................12 National Ice Cream Month........................16 Farm Families..............18 PAL: Police Athletic League...................28 Lake City Train Club...............34 The Canopy........................................36

RE

AD

Georgia Waterfalls....................48 Easy, Breezy Summer Party.........................50 Outdoor Kitchens......................52

E

T S E e h t B f BESTo

Smoothie Recipes.......................................46

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IC

2 017

Cumberland Island...................40

Persistence, determination and diligence is still a requirement for farming, whether family or corporate.

ERS’ CHO

Best 93 SERVICE

DEPARTMENT in Lake City!

FamilyLiving

We tell you everything you need to know about buying a home in the right neighborhood.

The ultimate weekend road trip.

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The Legacy of Richardson Community Center....................................58 Shirley Rentz Creates Perfection.....................60 Early Learning: A Special Section..............61 Real Estate: A Special Section.........................93 Summer Reading List......................122 Sour Orange Pie Recipe...........................123 The Brick Guy 22............................124 How To Avoid A Relapse................................126 Turmeric: The Golden Spice..................128 Weddings With Style: A Special Section....................................129 Gateway Art Gallery..........................150 Deciding To Change: Bruce Williams...............154

Servicing All Makes & Models!

Ronsonet.com 4 |

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And The Race Is On: Equus.........................155 The Benefits of Essential Oils.................158 On The Cover: Scarlett Bromley, 4, and her brother Saul, 2, enjoy life on the farm. Their parents are Daniel Bromley and Kate Townsend Bromley. Daniel is employed by Townsend Brothers Farm, and Kate is a teacher at Suwannee High School.

Photo by Tammy Johns Photography

Lake City’s Only Local Family Owned & Operated New Car Dealership!

Norbie Sr.

Norbie Jr.

Mitch

Feedback From Our Customers . . .

“This dealership is The Greatest, friendly people, and know how to treat their customers. I have had business with the Ronsonets for a long time.

Not just as being an Adult but I remember my parents dealt with them. Thank you Ronsonets for being the best in the business.” ~ P.H.

“Ronsonet is the best dealership in north Florida the people there are great to deal with!! Friendly customer service satisfaction at its best... I would recommend Ronsonet Buick GMC to everyone. Go by and see them you won’t regret it!!!!!” ~M.L.

“Ronsonet has great sales & service departments. I recommend to give them a visit.” ~ F.W.

“Ronsonet is the best dealership around! We have purchased several cars, trucks and SUVs from Ronsonet Buick GMC over the years and have always been pleased.

The prices are great and the service and follow up care is fantastic! The folks in service do everything they can to get your routine service or your unexpected repair handled and get you back on the road. We love the folks at Ronsonet!” ~S.P.

“Great family oriented business who love their customers! Shopping local is always the best!” ~R.L

“From sales to service, this is Lake City’s only locally owned and operated new car dealership. They get you the best deal out there and still provide that same down home care like the old days. Love these people!” ~ S.S.

“Wonderful dealership, awesome people and has an great Service Department. My next auto purchase will definitely be from Ronsonet!” ~ H.H.

RONSONET BUICK • GMC

Ronsonet.com | 386.752.2180 HWY 90 EAST, 3 BLOCKS EAST OF DOWNTOWN LAKE CITY Summer 2018 | 5

Braxton, son of Adam and Jennifer Hitt, enjoys this state-of-the-art playground in Suwannee County.

SUMMER

PLAY Tammy Johns Photography

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Looking to get outside and have some fun this summer? Consider visiting a local park, like this one, First Federal Sportsplex, maintained by the Suwannee County Parks & Recreation Department. The park features loads of fun activities for the kids, everything from slides to swings to ziplines! Pack a picnic for the family and head to the park for an afternoon of memory making.

The Latest Breakthrough in

Mammography Technology

By Jeweliana Register

With comfort and clarity at the center of their vision, the team of Lake City Medical Center and Invision Lake City is committed to bringing a comfortable, advanced mammography experience closer to home. The first facility in North Florida and South Georgia to provide this machine, the center has teamed up with Invision Imaging to bring the Senographe Pristina™ to Lake City. Not only is this new technology state of the art, but it also brings forth greater accuracy in screenings and a more comfortable, relaxed mammography experience.

patients can be rest assured that the pain will be minimized, and the results will be maximized.

For more information on the new Senographe Pristina™ at Invision Imaging Lake City, call their dedicated staff at 386-755-2020.

Designed primarily with input from women, the Senographe Pristina™ seeks to solve popular complaints with traditional mammography machines. Long gone are the days of painful screenings on bulky, loud machines with sharp edges. The comfortability factor was a top priority, so the machine features rounded edges and a sleek, thin image receptor that minimizes the pain and maximizes the clarity for early detection.

Senographe Pristina™ brings a new element of ease to the patient, and the hometown environment provides an added level of relief. Avoid the traffic to Gainesville or Jacksonville for your annual checkup and choose to visit your local mammotechs, made up of all women who have a combined 50+ years of experience in women’s health.

“It’s the latest technology that is available in this entire area,” Sheila Jenkins, R.T.(CT)(R), explained. “It adds an opportunity for women’s breast health to go far beyond anything this area has ever experienced.”

With this new piece of equipment, 3D technology is now accessible to the patients at the Lake City Medical Center and Invision Lake City. The technology is referred to as digital breast tomosynthesis, and it delivers superior diagnostic accuracy while still maintaining the same low dose of FDA-approved radiation of 3D mammography systems as 2D mammography exams. This is made possible by the X-ray sweeping motion that is positioned around the breast during the exam, with images being taken by a “step-and-shoot” method. Not only does this reduce the chance for blurry images, but it also minimizes the amount of radiation emitted during the exam.

It is recommended that women begin yearly mammograms at the age of 40 (though if there is a family history of breast cancer, the patient may be recommended to begin screening earlier in life), but it has been observed that some women skip their yearly exams because of the pain of their first mammogram experience. With the Senographe Pristina™,

Summer 2018 | 7

summer Family Fashion

By Anne Smith Photography by Tammy Johns Photography Clothes and Accessories: Belks, Good Cotton, Southern Sisters

Encouraging Families To Create a Pictorial Legacy Featuring the season’s fashions is always so much fun. Summer 2018 is no different—except we are featuring two families: the Corbins and the Skinners. At Family Magazine, our mission is to share how people can enrich their families and their communities. We chose to feature these two families who are regarded for their value of family and positive interaction within their communities, while also taking the opportunity to encourage families to create a pictorial legacy, just as we have done here with the Corbins and Skinners.

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the

skinner

family

The Fain and Hannah Skinner family of Live Oak is certainly on the go with their eight-year-old twin boys, Kole and Kale. When not busy with them, they will be found helping manage their family’s businesses, Skinner’s Paint and Body and Skinner’s Body and Fitness. This active family enjoys the outdoors, both boating and swimming in the area’s beautiful springs. During the summer, the

Skinners bundle in as much fun as possible by packing up the family and traveling in their motorhome to the beach, Disney World, and local campgrounds. Fain and Hannah realize that living in the Suwannee Valley area is a great blessing to them. They appreciate the small-town hospitality, traditional values and being able to support and partner with local schools and organizations.

Summer 2018 | 9

the

corbin

family

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Travis and Adrienne Corbin with their daughters Annalise and Annastyn are very involved in their Live Oak community.

Travis works for Pilgrim’s Pride as the Manager of Refrigeration. Adrienne started teaching dance in 1996 at The Dance Shop, which she purchased in 2005.

Travis and Adrienne’s daughters are full of life!

Annalise is a straight-A student, has been dancing since she was one and competing in dance for three years. Annastyn is a bubbly and sassy one-anda-half-year-old that loves Minnie Mouse, Elmo and Peppa Pig. She will also begin dance this year.

Summer 2018 | 11

WITH PAWS Animals Who Donate Blood and Save Lives Article and Photography by Hayli Zuccola

Parked in front of shopping centers or crowded functions, it’s common to see mobile blood banks seeking donations from healthy individuals. What most people don’t realize is that humans aren’t the only ones in need of these life-saving donations: animals need them too. The following six animals can only be described as furry heroes, spending their lives at some of the local veterinary clinics, donating blood to help restore the health of sick puppies and kittens.

Willow, Addison Animal Hospital

trauma. A crossmatch is performed to see if Willow’s blood is compatible with the patient’s. Most of the time it’s a match due to the fact that dogs don’t have as many blood types as humans and most domestic dogs share a similar type. After her donation, Willow is rewarded with a large can of food and her fellow canine is given back its health.

“A blood transfusion restores not only their health, but their life,” says Dr. Clifford Addison, who is the founder of Addison Animal Hospital. “Believe me, there are a lot of little pups and dogs running around North Central Florida that have Willow to thank for their lives.”

When she isn’t on the clock, Willow spends her time either in the front office, in the back of the clinic, or taking care of kittens. Being a big ball of love, sometimes Willow forgets she’s a dog and treats the clinic kittens as if they’re her own.

Willow & Sookie When entering Addison Animal Hospital, customers are instantly greeted by Willow, a tan and white pit bull with a smile so big it covers most of her face. Behind the counter, she stands up on her hind legs to welcome everyone who walks through the door in hopes that they’ll offer her a tasty treat or a nice conversation. In 2010, Willow was hit by a car in a remote area. Lucky for her, a technician from Addison Animal Hospital was nearby and took her to the clinic where she was nursed back to health, becoming a permanent member of the Addison team. Eight years later, Willow still calls Addison Animal Hospital home, and besides welcoming patients, she has the very important job of donating blood to other dogs in need. Sometimes older dogs and puppies are in need of blood donations due to parasites or excessive blood loss from 12 |

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Sookie, Addison Animal Hospital

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Summer 2018 | 13

Bob, Caring Hands Animal Hospital

Phoenix, Caring Hands Animal Hospital

samples co-exist, they’re a match; if they start clumping, this means the blood types are not compatible. Most of the patients in need of a blood transfusion are kittens who suffer from parasites or severe loss of blood from fleas.

“You think ‘blood transfusion,’ this is like a major illness, and it’s probably only as simple as flea anemia or GI parasites,” says Dr. Bethany Cody.

When Caring Hands was established, they had the pleasure of meeting Felicity, a charcoal stray cat with a litter of kittens who needed a place to stay. Now that she’s older, Felicity no longer donates blood, but continues to earn her keep by filling other necessary roles.

Felicity, Caring Hands Animal Hospital

Although Willow gets most of the attention, she isn’t the only furry employee admired for donating blood. Sookie came to Addison Animal Hospital as a stray cat with a broken leg, and just like Willow, she helps keep the place running, at least from a distance. Being a cat, Sookie isn’t as eager to make new friends as Willow and prefers to spend time in the back of the clinic sleeping on stacks of towels. This six-year-old feline will also do anything for treats, including sliding down the hallway in search of any tasty morsel she can find.

Felicity, Bob & Phoenix At Caring Hands Animal Hospital, donations from dogs are made by the employees’ pets, and at this vet, cats rule the roost.

Cats have an A/B blood-type system which generally works regionally with 90 percent of the cats in the United States being type A and a small pocket of type Bs living in California.

Due to people constantly traveling, Caring Hands performs a crossmatching test before one of their cats can donate blood.

For this procedure, blood from both the donor and the patient feline are added into a syringe with an anti-coagulant. If the

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“She’s an assistant administrator, so she likes to help with the administrative work; she likes to lie on the paperwork and on the keyboard,” says Dr. Marie Leslie.

Since Felicity has retired, two other cats help pick up the slack when donations are needed. Bob is a rather aloof cat who had to be given up by an employee, but that hasn’t stopped him from creating a home for himself at Caring Hands.

“Bob has a substance abuse problem,” Dr. Leslie jokes about Bob’s addiction to catnip. If he hasn’t received a serving of his special stash in a few days, Bob has the tendency to become grouchy and turns into a treat monster.

Phoenix, a tailless orange tabby cat, is the baby of the group and acts as a comfort cat to those who need him. Whether it’s a stressed co-worker or a pet owner who just lost their furry best friend, Phoenix has the ability to sense when someone needs affection. Besides being there for people, he likes to help by cleaning or taking care of sick pets—going so far as to try to steal an unsuspecting puppy on one occasion!

“They get The Ritz...They’ve got annual bloodwork; they get dentals every time they need it; they get premium food; they get all the attention they want. If anything goes wrong with them, everyone’s on top of them, taking care of them. Life as a clinic cat is a pretty good life,” Dr. Leslie says.

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Photo by Delaine Spradley Photography

Cousins enjoying ice cream! Janie Spradley, Austin Spradley and Alice Spradley. Parents Rebecca and Brannon Spradley of Old Town enjoy spending time with their daughters. Delaine & Jonathan Spradley of Lake City are always kept busy keeping up with Austin.

National

Ice Cream Month

Ice Cream and a Book— Does it Get any Better?

By Anne Smith

Scoop up the kids and prepare them for an entertaining afternoon of homemade ice cream paired with a great book. Children will really like being able to help prepare this recipe, and it’s an excellent opportunity to teach measuring skills. Once the ice cream mixture is in the churn, you have the opportunity to snuggle up and enjoy reading this book about a silly monkey!

July was designated as National Ice Cream Month by President Ronald Reagan in 1984. As a food that is enjoyed by over 90 percent of the American population, he also felt it was both fun and nutritious!

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Diane Duncan of Jasper is well known at the Hamilton County Property Appraiser’s Office for her homemade ice cream. She is carrying on the office tradition, as this recipe came from Sharon Wetherington, a long-time employee at the property appraiser’s office who has since retired. Get out the churn and enjoy an old-fashioned scoop of ice cream with this proven and tried recipe!

Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream • 1 Cup Milk • 9 Eggs • 2 Quarts Half-and-Half • 3 Cups Sugar • 1 Tablespoon Vanilla Extract Instructions: In a double boiler or medium saucepan, mix together milk, sugar and eggs until well blended.

If needed, add additional milk or half-and-half. Heat mixture over mediumlow heat, slowly stirring or whisking, until mixture boils—about 10 minutes.

Cool for about 10 minutes.

Pour mixture into a large container and add half-andhalf. (If you find any lumps in the mixture after cooking, press through a strainer before refrigerating.) Chill several hours or overnight.

Pour ice cream mixture into the ice cream churn, adding additional milk if needed.

Follow the ice cream churn manufacturer’s instructions.

Add any flavors you enjoy to this basic recipe, such as strawberry, chocolate, cherry, pineapple, peaches or any combination!

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Summer 2018 | 17

Persistence, Determination and Diligence Farming still requires all the above key factors and plain ol’ grit as the old-timers would say. The businesses and families in this special Family Magazine section represent agriculture at its finest.

Be sure you know the conditions of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds; for riches do not endure forever, and a crown is not secure for all generations. —Proverbs 27:34-35

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The #1 Selling Farm Truck for Over 40 Years!

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Cultiva Farms USA intercepts demand for distribution and catering to the east coast by operating in Jennings, Florida, reducing transport Robert Wolfe Photography

costs and waiting time.

Federico Boscolo President of Cultiva

Cultiva Farms USA Welcome to the South

By Joy H. Coleman

Cultiva Farms USA has completed its new cold storage facility, part of a $10 million project to build a leafy salad crop farm on a 460-acre ranch at Timber Lake, Jennings, Florida.

have approximately 600 more tunnels that are 100 percent organic by May 2018.

Baby leaf, radicchio, and organic productions are the three strategic points in which the Italian company specializes in the production of ready-to-use vegetables in Italy, the United Kingdom, and the U.S.

Cultiva Farms USA is a partnership between an Italian family company, Cultiva, and Taylor Farms, the largest American producer of freshcut vegetables and fruit. The partnership is bringing specialized Italian growing “ We see this project as an exciting opportunity not only for our company but for techniques to the U.S. They are encouraging agriculture and Hamilton County overall,” Federico Boscolo, President of Cultiva significant production of salad crops in the Farms USA, said in a release. “Bringing new agricultural techniques to the east eastern U.S., closer to the metropolitan areas coast of the United States has the potential to dramatically increase production where most of the consumption takes place. while creating local job opportunities in Jennings. We are thrilled with our The Hamilton County Development Authority progress and thankful for the community’s continued support of our business. ” awarded a two-part grant to support the company’s growth, based on its commitment to employ 34 people and the completion of its cold storage facility. Both commitments have been met. The new cold The U.S. is characterized by a strong concentration of both agricultural storage facility allows the product to be stored, cooled and shipped production and product processing. The ‘big 4’ of the sector, Taylor Farms, covers a large part of the territory, guaranteeing more than 60 in Hamilton County, rather than being shipped from another location. percent of fresh leaf cultivated in the U.S. Almost all of the cultivation Cultiva Farms is the first company producing baby lettuce in high is carried out in the fields of California and Arizona. This is because the tunnels, or hoop houses—not hydroponic or vertical farming. The farm atmospheric conditions—very strong and short rains—make it difficult includes 800 tunnels, providing 125 acres of covered to do the same in the East, where there is the greatest consumption area to produce conventional spinach and of fresh-cut product. Cultiva Farms USA intercepts this demand for arugula year-round and provide protection distribution and catering by operating in Jennings, reducing transport costs and waiting time. Thanks to its 30-year experience in the against adverse climate conditions. cultivation of radicchio in California and Arizona, Cultiva has been able Cultiva hopes to have in production to develop this joint venture with Taylor Farms. an additional 80 greenhouses to test organic productions. Their goal is to

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Bill Gates

Investment Company Farms

in Suwannee and Hamilton Counties Lakeland Sands LLC owns 2,845 acres in Hamilton County and 4,956 acres in Suwannee County per the property appraisers’ websites for the respective counties.

“Lakeland Sands Florida, a subsidiary of Cascade Investments LLC, which oversees the Gates fortune, in recent years purchased thousands of farming acreage in North Florida to include Hamilton County. The just under 3,000 acres purchased in Hamilton is being utilized for a variety of produce crops to include corn, sweet potatoes and scallions among other things. I am thrilled with the agricultural growth in Hamilton County in recent years. Our farm land is one of our most valuable assets.”

—Karen L. Williams

Executive Director Hamilton County Chamber of Commerce

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Summer 2018 | 21

Fifth Generation Farms Columbia County

By Joy H. Coleman

Photography by Tammy Johns Photography

It has long been said that farmers, ranchers, and fishermen provide the economic underpinnings of our country. For the most part, they’re individuals known as holding fast to their values, integrity, and character. By their actions they provide a sense of what’s right in the world.

Delvey and Cindy Dicks are nestled right in the middle of that group. As a member of the fifth generation of the Joseph Dicks family, a pioneer farm family with deep roots in Columbia County, Delvey has been a farmer and rancher his entire life. Cindy served 35 years as an educator and school counselor with the Columbia County School System.

Delvey, Cindy and their family set out on an extraordinary new adventure opening Fifth Generation Farms, a farm-to-table, fresh market and deli in August of 2011. The overall goal was to create a marketplace where their pasture-raised beef could be sold directly to consumers while also providing an opportunity for other small family farms and artisans to sell their goods at a sustainable market value.

Delvey explains, “We have all been actively involved, working side by side in its development from the ground up. After all, it’s about the future of our family farm.” Cindy adds, “The whole experience has proven to be quite a journey and education—as none of us had a retail background. It has been a walk of faith as the Lord has opened doors and provided just enough to keep us going step by step.”

“Not long ago, sitting around the dinner table with our now adult children, we talked about the qualities it takes to build a strong family bond. There were seven traits we unanimously agreed were most important for us: • • • •

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Being Christ-Centered Unconditional Love, Acceptance and Forgiveness Honesty/ Trust / Transparency Perseverance

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• • •

Willingness to Give and Take Fairly Always Wanting the Best for Each Other A Great Sense of Humor”

Spend some time with this couple and you’ll quickly feel the heartbeat of genuine Southern love. The two met at the Magnolia BBQ when Delvey was 16 and Cindy was 15. She shares, “We dated through high school. During college, we decided to date others but always stayed in touch. Somewhere along the way we realized even with our many differences, we fit. We were much happier together than apart!”

When asked if looking back in twenty years, what they would want to see, the Dicks respond: “That we were striving to be our best selves and doing what we were designed to do. We want to look back and know we were good stewards of our blessings and helped to make a difference for the generations coming behind us. To see that we applied what we have learned through our life journeys to help make life better for others. ” When asked how long he has farmed, Delvey laughs, “Really, my whole life. It’s all I’ve ever done. My older brother Regal and I were helping Daddy before we even started school. Being so young, we would have to team up to handle a one-man job. Once in school, we would return home to a list of chores needing to be done while there was still daylight. Full-time farming, I guess you could say 43 plus years.”

Pictured Above: Randall Boyette, Matt Dicks, Brady Dicks, Haley Boyette, Abigail Dicks, Casey Dicks, Delvey Dicks, Cindy Dicks, Owen Dicks, Sarah Ann Dicks, Carolina Dicks, Amos Dicks.

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Stephen M. Witt Attorney at Law

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LAKE CITY, FL • (386) 243-8335

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618 E. Duval St., P.O. Box 2064, Lake City, FL 32056 Res: 386-755-2863 Fax: 386-752-1732

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whynotfresh.com Summer 2018 | 23

Quint, Zach, Damon, Albert, Roger, Barry, Ashton Deas

The Deas Brothers Family Farm Hamilton County

By Susan K. Lamb Photography by Tammy Johns Photography

“Roger and I are doing what we are born to do! We’ve farmed from the time we were six years old!” says Hamilton County farmer Damon Deas of himself and brother Roger. “We farm the same land our grandfather owned and farmed.” The Deas brothers currently own and lease about 3,800 acres where they have 1,300 heifers, 320 acres of tobacco, peanuts rotating from 600 acres to 1,000 acres each year, field corn grown for feed and grain, and small grains like rye and oats.

“My father’s father was born in 1890, and it was part of his family’s farm when he started farming. He never left the farm, and the only time dad, the late Quinteen Deas, ever left was during WWII for the service,” Damon says. After college, Damon and Roger knew what they wanted.

“We started farming together,” Damon said. The Deas’ uncle Albert, a farm partner now retired, and wife Mittie still help at times.

“We’re the only ones in Hamilton County growing tobacco today,” Damon points out. “We grow 320 acres of flue-cured tobacco. Tobacco is not as important today in the grand scheme of things as it once was.”

In 2005, federal legislation allowed the government to pay farmers who wanted to give up their tobacco allotments, vastly reducing the number of tobacco farmers.

The Deas farm went from a cow/calf operation in 1998 to developing crossbred heifers. “We have 1,300 right now, but cull and market each spring.” In 2004 they diversified again and began growing peanuts.

“Roger’s part is equal; we split duties…When we started, we took different roles. I’m the guy you see out front dealing with people. Roger inherited our dad’s ability to train horses, love to work cattle off one.”

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Damon was seriously injured in 2016 while working cattle when his horse stepped into a sink hole covered with foliage. It took months for him to recover.

Damon’s wife Becky works in Valdosta, Georgia, a few miles away.

“But, she supports me, helps me and runs down equipment parts for me.” Both Damon and Roger’s children are following in their fathers’ footsteps on the farm. “Roger’s boys Quint and Barry work for us; his wife Ann is our accountant.” Damon says.

Damon and Roger’s farming days are long and many. But, as a family farm where Damon and Becky’s youngest son Zachary has returned and taken over the tobacco curing, it’s easier now. Damon and Zachary, along with Roger and his sons Quint and Barry, do everything on the farm. “We have five full-time employees and bring in as many as 25 or more in the summer.” Damon and Becky’s son Daniel serves in the military, serving his country.

It’s not all work and no play on the Deas farm. “Cane grinding is something that always fascinated me and Roger. We’ve been grinding for maybe 25 years. We try for the first week in December and host the kindergartners. We just grind, eat good food, enjoy and relax.” Damon explains.

There are also legislative tours. “I’m the Hamilton County Farm Bureau president, and I love to bring the legislators here and educate them about farming,” Damon reveals. “It all started with Andrew Crenshaw when he was elected as our state representative—he wanted to know his area, so here we are today. We host them and try to feed them well.”

Welcomes Our New Youth Pastor Scott Connelly We also welcome Denise, his wife, and daughters Destiny and Savannah

COME WORSHIP WITH US! 207 2nd St NE, Jasper, FL 32052

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Summer 2018 | 25

Townsend Brothers Farm Inc. Suwannee County

By Susan K. Lamb Photography by Tammy Johns Photography

“

We’re proud to be a part of the community and the contribution to the economy we’ve been able to make.

We feel blessed to raise our families here and be part of this community.

Top Row: Daniel &Kate Bromley, Ashlyn Hurst, Amos Townsend, Trey Townsend, Lee & Shelly Townsend, Angie & Clif Townsend, Ben & De Broughton, Travis & Laine Tuten & Dale & Daniel TillmanBottom RowSaul Bromley, Etta Broughton, Titus Tuten holding Magdalene Tuten, Mikah Tuten, Sawyer Broughton, Scarlett Bromley, & Albey Broughton

”

Townsend Brothers Farm Inc. is a licensed and bonded freight shipping and trucking company running an immense farming operation in Suwannee and Madison Counties. The freight-hauling business delivers the farm’s products such as watermelons, carrots, peanuts, corn, snap beans, carrots and sweet potatoes.

These lifelong farmers grew tobacco for years until they gave up their tobacco allotments in 2000. Legislation passed Congress to pay farmers to give up their government allotments and get out of the tobacco business. This opened new avenues for the brothers: fruits and vegetables.

The Townsend brothers, Lee and Clif, grew up on the Suwannee County farm started by their great-great-grandfather, George Washington Townsend, who came from Madison. The Townsend brothers’ late father, Donald L. “Donnie” Townsend, farmed this land. Lee and Clif run the nearly 5,000-acre farm, which started on CR 249 in Live Oak.

Watermelon season starts in March when the seeds are planted and runs through harvest, which is May to July, Lee says. “We do seven different plantings of watermelons.” This lengthens the season for customers awaiting sweet, juicy watermelons. “We sell most by contract, some through brokers; some are sold to Townsend Brothers Farm customers,” Clif notes.

Lee and Clif are proud of their pioneer heritage. “We never did anything but farm; never formally educated,” Clif says with a grin. Those who know these super farmers know they are among the top growers and run their business hands-on 24/7 like clockwork using keen minds.

Clif laughs when asked if his and Lee’s kids will one day take over the farm. “I would never strap kids with this! Get your retirement first!” Clif tells his kids. Lee agrees. Both brothers have grown children involved, including one of Clif’s daughters who does a good bit of tractor work from inside a huge air-conditioned tractor cab, not uncommon on large American family farms. Lee’s son, Amos, runs a packing shed overseeing shipping and receiving, while his son-in-law, Daniel, manages the field, supervising production and irrigation.“Since we were big enough to walk, we used to pick up sticks preparing new ground on the farm,” Clif said. For the non-farmer, when farmers clear land to gain more planting fields, every single stick or piece of wood had to be picked up, no matter the size before the new crop was planted. This was a huge and timeconsuming task.

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This family farm has 20 to 25 full-time employees.

During busy seasons, it is well over 100. The brothers have 2,500 acres in Suwannee County and lease 2,000 in Madison County.

Farm families are all part of the business, no matter their title. Clif’s wife Angie and children Laine Tuten, De Broughton and Dale Tillman all take part. Lee’s wife Shelly, sons Trey and Amos, and daughter Kate Bromley do so as well.

These two very serious but fun-loving farmers belong to the Suwannee County Farm Bureau and the Florida Peanut Federation where Clif serves on the board. “Farming may be difficult, but we are so thankful to be able to do what we love, and for all the blessings God has bestowed upon us being able to carry on year after year with hopes our children may do the same,” Clif adds. He reminds readers farming is not about having fancy equipment, but about keeping up with today’s quickly changing technology to make a profit and still do what the Townsend brothers love: farm! “We MUST stay current and evolve with technology and precision agriculture in order to ensure we are being the best possible.

Summer 2018 | 27

A Vibrant and Vital Live Oak Institution

By Susan K. Lamb

The Police Athletic League (PAL) Cameron all did a great job,” Terry says. program has been around for many “Sheriff Cameron was really hands on in years in Live Oak and has its home at the this program,” he comments. “You get former Suwannee Middle School, aka a lot of bang for the buck with PAL. We Douglas High School. This have paramedics, police “Jimmy called me one is where adults who care and other important Saturday afternoon and about school-aged kids, people in our community said he needed someone who come in during and what they become, to help officiate a game— the summer program to spend time together that’s how I got involved.” familiarize these kids with every weekday after school, as well as several what goes on in their —Terry Brinson weeks in the summer. professions.” The summer The program is free to all children. PAL’s program is at the Douglas Center, mission is to help youth realize their 9th Street SW, Live Oak. Breakfast and lunch are free for kids attending. full potential as productive members of society. These volunteers want to be the best friend ever to these kids.

“Our late Sheriff Robert Leonard actually initiated this program here,” PAL Board Chairman Terry Brinson says of this kids’ program that helps them expand their horizons and take pride in realizing their full potential. “He called Jimmy Cherry (deputy and school resource officer) one morning and told Jimmy he wanted him to ride to Jacksonville with him. Jimmy did...and they visited a PAL program there.” When they came back, Sheriff Back, left to right: PAL Recreation Aide Jalon Perry, PAL Leonard began PAL with Jimmy running Board Chairman Terry Brinson, PAL Athletic Director Jimmy Cherry. Front: SCSO Deputy/School Resource the program for many years.

Officer and PAL worker Arthur Lee Robinson.

Today Jimmy is still a vital part of the program as the athletic director, also wearing many other hats. Arnold Philmore is the PAL executive director who runs the programs, making sure these kids have a fun place to play, learn and grow. The program nurtures a special relationship with youth professionals and police officers.

Since its beginning, PAL has grown immensely. “There’s been a lot of support. Our current Sheriff Sam St. John is doing a great job with PAL. Sheriffs Leonard, Al Williams and Tony 28 |

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PAL keeps kids off the streets and safe; teaches them about everyday life, trust, fun, respect for others, about making good decisions; gets them ready for the next school year; and provides an athletic program to work off energy, make friends and learn how to work well with others. Activities include reading, math, physical activities, art activities, great presentations, and pool days. English- and Spanish-speaking personnel are available.

For more information, call 386-647-4637.

Arnold Philmore Executive Director

Sam St. John

Suwannee County Sheriff

What Does PAL Do? • Helps Bridge the Gap between Police and Community • Improves After Schoolers’ Social/ Emotional Skills • Improves Leadership Skills • Provides Good Youth Organized Sports Experiences • Creates a Safe Play Area

During the school year, the gym is open 3:15 – 6:30 p.m. when kids participate in activities like basketball, football and cheerleading. Uniforms and trophies are provided through generous donors and, often, lots of prayer. Each summer, about 120 kids attend the program, while the afterschool programs bring in about 35 to 40 kids daily. PAL youth meet at the gym or adjoining classrooms for all activities.

PAL is supported by Suwannee Valley United Way, Suwannee County Commission, Live Oak City Council, Suwannee County Sheriff ’s Office, Live Oak Police, and other generous benefactors. The need steadily increases. Stop by, visit, get to know the program, and become a supporter in whatever way you can.

CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Terry Brinson, Jimmy Cherry, Arnold Philmore, Robert Ford, James Cooper, Suwannee County Sheriff Sam St. John, Tammy Mobley, Maurice Perkins, John Yulee and Teresa Ford.

—All working for the future of Suwannee County by investing in its youth.

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HEALTHCARE AND REHABILITATION Teresa Byrd Morgan, JD, BCS

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ACCOUNTING | TAXES | STRATEGIC PLANNING

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Residential or Commercial

By Natalie Metzger

Holly Frazier Photography

Family—Their Strong Foundation. The Medeiros Family: Ashley, Travis, (in front) Kenzie and Olivia.

The Hentzelman Family: Matt, Stacey, Mabrey, (in front) Kinley.

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Trademark Construction Group, Inc., delivers high-quality construction services in not only Columbia County, but all of North Florida. Founders Travis Medeiros and Matt Hentzelman have built their company by establishing relationships with their customers. They listen to their customers’ ideas and value their opinions. Their aim has always been customer satisfaction, and their attention to detail is always at the forefront. Travis and Matt expect exceptional performance from their team members in every area of their work, valuing honesty, hard work, and prudence.

These Lake City natives love their growing community and take pride in giving back, putting their heart and soul into every project.

Trademark has been making a community impact for the past 11 years, not only through designing and constructing quality homes and businesses, but through sponsoring baseball, soccer, and softball teams and mentoring the Columbia County FIRST FRC Robotics Team 3556.

Residential or commercial, their team focuses on what you want.

Versatile is how to describe Travis and Matt. No job is too big or too small for Trademark Construction Group, Inc. They are as comfortable building a 20,000-square-foot commercial development, as they are designing a complete kitchen remodel or creating a custom-built home. Trademark can flawlessly execute any construction project with focus on the customer and their needs—no detail is too small. Through understanding and communication, your dream becomes a reality.

Anyone who has remodeled or built a new home knows changes are part of the process. Due to their ability to design, this duo can adapt quickly to customers who may require changes during a project. Being one of the only firms in town to design commercial or residential plans, many contractors

Commercial

Hart 2 Hart Academy Phase III slated to be completed by September 2018.

Left to right: Matt Hentzelman; Dallas Hart, owner of Hart 2 Hart Academy, and Travis Medeiros. engage Trademark for these services alone. Even more, Trademark takes care of all permits and has extensive experience with scheduling construction projects to take all the worry out of the process for their clients. Because of their ability to execute everything under one roof, their projects are more affordable and flexible.

Creative. Affordable. Problem-solvers.

This is Trademark Construction, Inc. A significant range of businesses have trusted Travis and Matt to have a worryfree experience. A partial list includes churches, restaurants, car washes, law firms, appraisal offices, hospitals, prisons, schools, daycares, private medical offices, and manufacturing facilities. Even with such a diverse commercial history, the

owners also have an extensive archive of custom-designed and built residential properties. A customer remarks, “There is nobody else who is going to build my house for me,” when speaking with Travis about upcoming plans to start construction.

Trademark Construction Group, Inc., has become synonymous with exceptional design and fine craftsmanship. Matt and Travis have built a construction company unlike any other.

“We truly appreciate all of our clientele.

The best part of my job is seeing the looks on the faces of our customers when we hand them the keys to their new business or first home,” says Travis.

Commercial

Trademark Construction Group, Inc., worked closely with Candler Moses and Associates of Lake City from concept to reality in restoring their historic downtown building.

Summer 2018 | 31

Family—their strong foundation

These two have a real passion for what they do. Being family-owned and operated, it is important they share core values of a strong belief in family, teamwork and a love of community. Travis states, “So many of my own favorite memories come from lazy days spent with my family playing games in our home, and I love the idea that we are contributing a small part of this for someone else.”

When asked to what they attribute their success, both gentleman respond the same way: “our parents.” Matt explains, “My parents have been together for 45 years. Every day of my childhood, they woke me up, took me to school, and they went to work. My brother and I witnessed commitment and dedication every day without realizing it.”

Residential

Trademark Construction Group, Inc., has become synonymous with exceptional design and fine craftsmanship.

We chose Trademark Construction for a new house construction along with other projects. We found Matt and Travis to be forward-thinking when building and remodeling, which saves time and money. All the jobs were excellent and exactly what we expected. We would highly recommend Trademark for any construction project.

163 SW Midtown Place, Suite 101 Lake City, FL 32025 386-755-5254

—Lee and Suzanne McDuffie Travis adds, “It’s funny how similar we grew up. My father and Matt’s mother both worked as nurses at the V.A. Medical Center in Lake City. My mother and Matt’s father were both teachers in Columbia County. My parents, married for 47 years, have created such a stable foundation on which my brother and I based our futures. We work to bring the same level of perseverance to our lives and our company.”

Because of the strong foundations of each of their families, Travis and Matt have their own beautiful families as well. Both are married to Lake City natives and each have two daughters who inspire them to continue a legacy of commitment, dedication, hard work, and loyalty.

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Florida License CGC1514780

Roots embedded in Columbia County Travis and Matt are both proud Columbia High School Alumni. After high school, Matt continued his education at the University of Florida Rinker School of Matt Hentzelman Building Construction and later received his General Contractor’s License with the state of Florida. Travis attended the University of North Florida, earning his degree in Finance and Investments from the Coggin College of Business. The two childhood friends decided to partner to bring the highest level of quality construction services, and they do it at a fair and competitive price.

Travis Medeiros

Photo courtesy of: Nancy Foster/SheKnows.com

Spend the day at the springs and come home to this delicious, slow cooker taco recipe ready to eat and enjoy!

Recipe Exclusive

EASY SLOW COOKER

15

MIN Prep Time

Adobo Carne Asada Soft Tacos Ingredients: • 2 lbs skirt or flank steak • 1 (7 oz) can/jar chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (You will only use the sauce) • 2 garlic cloves, diced • 2 large oranges, juiced • 2 limes, juiced • 1 teaspoon kosher salt • 1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

LAKE CITY 2016 East Duval St. Open 7 Days A Week 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

• 1/2 tsp ground cumin • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro (for the slow cooker) • 8 corn tortillas • 1 cup chopped onion • 3/4 cup chopped cilantro (for the soft tacos) • 3/4 cup chopped tomatoes • 3/4 cup queso fresco cheese, crumbled • 1-1/2 cups green or red salsa

LIVE OAK 1529 South Ohio Ave. Open 7 Days A Week 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

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Directions: To a slow cooker, add the adobo sauce, garlic, orange juice, lime juice, salt, pepper, cumin and cilantro. Stir together. Using tongs, dredge each side of the meat in the adobo mixture. Lay the meat as flat as possible at the bottom of the slow cooker. Cover, and let slow-cook for 6 to 8 hours. Just before serving, lay the corn tortillas onto a large plate, spreading them out as much as possible. Carefully lay another plate that is the same size over the plate with the tortillas, and warm in the microwave for about 20 seconds to make them soft. Add the meat, and top with onion, cilantro, tomatoes, queso fresco cheese and salsa. Serve while warm.

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STARKE 1374 South Walnut St. Open 7 Days A Week 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

Summer 2018 | 33

Involving the Kids The purpose of the Lake City Train Club is to get kids involved and interested to become more creative and develop skills such as working with wood, painting, soldering, and building objects to scale.

This requires being an odds-and-ends person: one who uses various materials and techniques, creatively improvising to achieve a desired effect.

Club members have traveled Highway 90 and taken photos of old buildings, houses, or sites they wanted to recreate, then built replicas to scale. With such a hobby as this, children are able to learn on a variety of levels.

L A K E

C I T Y

TRAIN CLUB

By Joy H. Coleman Photography by Anne Smith

Even if you don’t recall the last time you were devoted to anything resembling a hobby, we bet you remember your parents or grandparents at their favorite pastimes—cooking, creating, tinkering. Whatever you remember them doing becomes a framework for the many memories carried of them. You can picture them involved in that activity with their tools and creations filling the house or garage. Neighbors and extended family called on them for whatever their hobby produced, whether it was the bestbarbecued meats or an expert clock repair.

Mason Farnell is one such guy. He and Dale Crane, Paul Daly, Dutch Delvene, Mark Friedman, Don Gilbert, Domingo Magnanti, Jack Herndon, Ken Lee, Andy Masseo, Worley Millard, Bob Filipiski, Lawrence Schoate and Clarence Snyder make up the Lake City Train Club.

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ups We o r lcome G

Let me ask: Did you have trains under the Christmas tree when growing up? If you didn’t, surely you knew someone who had them and you played under their tree.

The clatter of the Lionel O scale model engine and the cars hitched together going ‘round and ‘round is a hallowed sound resonating from generation to generation.

The Lake City Train Club meets every Thursday to design, build, work, and develop Lionel O displays. They’ve been working together since 1990 and do the work with diligence.

TRAIN CLUB

Creating structures, models, and connections all require developing

o

City Train Club re ay Lake pth tour. Inter cently hos M e e t o e d s m d 30 4-H ted gr n ints fro ited t n a s e t u d o r u p o f sa v n Farnell: 386-365 r. Maso -0890 re welcomed and in M l l . ca

an evolving intellect and broad skill set. This group creates the track plan, tables, electric wiring, scenery, LED connections, fiber optics, etc. To say they’ve continued using their noggins past retirement is an understatement. With this hobby, you never quit learning. Mason says, “We all learn from each other. We know how to appreciate each other’s strengths and contributions.”

That’s why they love to bring others to the Club. There’s always something to do, some way to expand, something to add, something to learn. This isn’t a sit-back-and-watch-it-on-a-TV-screenor-computer deal. It takes time and it is work. “But once you get it up and running,” Mason beams, “it’s absolutely worth it.”

Hobbies enrich our lives, give us something fun to enjoy and afford us the opportunity to learn. We’re fortunate to have many options available—don’t wait to find one for yourself!

Tradition at the Festival of Lights at Stephen Foster …………………………………

The Club’s intricate display has been a part of the Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park’s annual Festival of Lights in White Springs for many years. They’re widely known for exhibiting the largest portable railroad display in north Florida. They’ve also diligently recreated Downtown L ake City as it was in the 50s and 60s.

Summer 2018 | 35

The

C AN O PY AT H AR P E R L AK E

By Jeweliana Register

A Premier Independent and Assisted Living, Memory Care and Wellness Living Community

The Canopy is a Concordis Community

Concordis Senior Living is an owner, operator, and developer of senior housing communities. They operate an expanding portfolio of senior communities throughout the southeastern United States. Concordis strives to provide the most complete services available in assisted living environments. Together, our goal is to provide an outstanding senior care environment that enables our residents to enjoy life and prolong their independence.

Amenities

Apartment options and pet friendly. Relax and enjoy life under The Canopy.

Coming soon to Lake City, The Canopy at Harper Lake is a premier residential living community that focuses on independent living, assisted living and memory care. Dignity is at the center of their mission, and the staff focuses on individual care that is personalized to each individual’s wants and needs. Whether you are looking to start a new chapter of your life or are simply needing more care each day, The Canopy will welcome you into their home and their close-knit community with open arms.

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• All day dining • Housekeeping and linen services • Maintenance Free • Transportation • Exercise programs to promote health • Enjoy social gatherings, guest/family visits and parties • Pet-friendly • A variety of concierge services • Monthly wellness checks • 24-hour staffing • Engaging recreational and social activities • Personalized care

With construction still underway for the residential community, the plans for each room style are shown here.

There are so many options to choose from, everything from The Blake—a studio apartment with one bedroom, one bath and a kitchen—to The Columbia—a one-bedroom apartment with one bath, a kitchen, a walk-in closet and a separate living room—to the companion memory care option named The Marion—one-bedroom with two beds and one bath. Not only are all the rooms brand new, but the spaces are pet-friendly! The best part?

Residents can leave all the chores to the staff, so you’ll have more time to do what you love and enjoy life to the fullest.

centers. Residents can also enjoy a variety of social engagements on site, such as book club meetings, exercise programs, happy hours and live music with dancing in the evenings.

The site serves the needs that their residents currently have, all while preparing for the needs they may have in the future. Not only is the staff comprised of licensed professionals, but they are passionate people who focus on an individualistic approach to health. The on-site staff is comprised of physical and occupational therapists, speech therapists and home health service professionals, all of which have the goal of healthy living in mind.

Joy Roberts, Executive Director, and Ashton Crowder, Director of Marketing, welcomes the community in for a tour of the grounds.

The outdoor spaces are just as beautiful as the living arrangements.

The premises feature a restaurant style dining hall that serves three meals every day, each of which are made with a senior nutritional diet in mind and are freshly prepared. Some consider the dining hall to be one of their favorite places on site because they have the opportunity to spend time with their fellow residents and get to know others in their community. In addition to this area, The Canopy has a spa, a beauty and nail salon, on-site pet grooming, and multiple wellness

Life Will Be Fun at The Canopy

The Canopy’s goal is to help each resident enjoy their life to the fullest each day, regardless of the challenges that may present themselves now or later. The Canopy’s staff will go above and beyond, meaning that not only will they offer assistance for everyday tasks like brushing a resident’s hair or tying their shoes, but the staff will also help residents enjoy their favorite activities, like painting or cooking. Lifelong learning is a top priority at The Canopy, so be sure to check out their variety of classes in areas such as culture, exercise, art, current events, literature and computer instruction.

The Canopy at Harper Lake is also staffed 24/7 with every staff member being trained for Alzheimer’s and dementia care. So, rest assured, you or your loved one are in good hands!

Whether you are looking to transition yourself or planning for a loved one, The Canopy at Harper Lake may be the place you are searching for. Close to home, the beautiful community is sure to provide an inviting, safe space for peace of mind. Relax and enjoy life under The Canopy.

Micah Linton

Brad Womble

As co-owners, Micah and Brad are pleased to provide this exceptional residential community to our area.

They are confident the residents will enjoy this inviting and safe space at The Canopy on Harper Lake in Lake City.

Summer 2018 | 37

The Columbia

Available Floor Plans

The Blake

The Santa Fe

The Marion

The Harper

Client Testimony “I want my father to live the remainder of his life in comfort and luxury. The reason he is moving is because I want my father, a 91-year-old World War II Veteran, to live with honor, respect and dignity, and I feel that The Canopy can provide that.”

—Stacy Parsons, daughter of Robert Henshaw

Joy Roberts Executive Director

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Call Today for an Appointment.

Ashton Crowder Director of Marketing

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WE ARE A REGISTERED NON PROFIT 501(c)(3) Photo courtesy of Jessica Spears of JC Photography

Summer 2018 | 39

C��b�����d I����d GEORGIA’S SECLUDED PARADISE By: Hayli Zuccola Photography: Friends at the Greyfield

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Residing along the coast of Georgia is Cumberland Island—a remote oasis spanning across 18 miles of beachfront overlooking the Atlantic Ocean—filled with clusters of 300-year-old live oaks, wild horses roaming along the shore and centuries of history beneath the sugar sand-covered surface.

Summer 2018 | 41

“It’s a place to go if you want to truly relax and rest,” says Mantha Young, who spent a weekend at Cumberland Island with her husband, Rick, taking advantage of everything the island had to offer.

There is only one way to get to Cumberland Island, and that’s by ferry. Visitors can either take the ferry provided by the National Park Service or by the Greyfield Inn—the island’s only commercial establishment. With a two-night reservation booked, the Youngs took the complimentary ferry provided by the inn.

Greyfield Inn was built over 100 years ago by Thomas and Lucy Carnegie who built the home for their daughter Margaret Ricketson. In 1962, Margaret’s daughter, Lucy R. Ferguson, converted the mansion into an inn, and it has been overlooked by the family ever since. A night at the inn is simple—no Wi-Fi and limited cell phone service—but unforgettable. The day starts at 7 o’clock with a light breakfast of coffee, homemade granola, yogurt and orange juice. A full breakfast is served at 8:30 a.m. along with the day’s itinerary. The inn offers birdwatching tours, hiking trails, bicycle and kayak rentals, and tours of the island’s must-see attractions like Plum Orchard and the Dungeness Ruins.

Greyfield Inn seeks quality local food suppliers to insure they serve only the freshest of ingredients. It was of little surprise to see Wainwright Dairy of Live Oak on their supplier list.

Wainwright Dairy offers farm-fresh, all-natural milk and cheese.

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The Youngs spent the first day enjoying the biking trails, walking along the picturesque beaches and taking in the local wildlife.

“You wake up in your room in the morning time and you look down and you just see these horses. It’s just such a part of the charm,” Mantha says.

Due to the fact that the island is void of any restaurants or shops, the Greyfield Inn provides their guests with a picnic lunch complete with a wicker basket, checkered napkin and a meal crafted with items from the Greyfield Garden—a 1.5-acre organic garden that supplies the inn with fresh produce, herbs, fruit, and even flowers.

Six o’clock marks cocktail hour at the inn, which includes light refreshments paired with a charcuterie board of sorts that guests enjoy until the dinner bell rings at 7:30—yes, there is an actual bell. Again, local ingredients make their way to the community-style dinner table and, being in a prime coastal location, part of the three-course meal is bound to include some seafood. Being the only place for guests to get food, the inn’s chefs are very accommodating—if a patron has a particular food allergy or dietary need, arrangements are made accordingly.

While the Greyfield offers noteworthy food, a fully stocked library and large porch swings overlooking the grounds, there is far more to witness during a trip to Cumberland Island. The island holds at least four thousand years of human history. During its peak civilization, the island was home to Spanish mission churches, British military outposts, African slave villages and an antebellum plantation, all of which have since disappeared. In order to survive on the island, fields were filled with lush crops like cotton, indigo, rice, citrus and corn. Nowadays those fields are nonexistent and have since turned into forests.

During day two, the Youngs experienced the historical aspect of the island with a visit to the Dungeness Ruins. The ruins are

Andrea Fox and Mary Frances Jones relax in the oversized porch swing

First African Baptist Church

Michelle Rosbruck inside church

One of the guests at Greyfield Inn was Carolyn Grillo (left), assistant editor at America’s Test Kitchen located in Boson, Massachusetts. Mantha Young (right) quickly started asking for recipes—of which several can be found in this issue of Family Magazine. America’s Test Kitchen is dedicated to finding the very best recipes for home cooks and testing cookware and supermarket ingredients so viewers can bypass marketing hype to buy the best quality products. As the home of Cook’s Illustrated and Cook’s Country magazines, they also produce the mostwatched instructional cooking shows on public television, publish more than one dozen cookbooks each year, and run an online cooking school that offers over 200 online courses for novice to advanced cooks. Find them at americastestkitchen.com.

Thank you, Carolyn, for making this happen!

from the mansion built in 1884 as a winter home for Thomas Carnegie, his wife Lucy, and their nine children. Although Thomas didn’t live long enough to see the mansion completed, Lucy continued to spend time on the island, even building other estates for her children including The Greyfield Inn and Plum Orchard. In 1959, the mansion caught fire, some believe by arson. The only remaining structures are the brick and stone walls of the once 35,000-square-foot building.

Plum Orchard Mansion was built in 1898 and was the winter home of George Lauder Carnegie and his wife, Margaret Thaw.

Now, the home is available for visitors to take free tours of the 22,000-square-foot building to see its architecture, furnishings, and machinery used to operate the home.

Wild horses roam the beach

Organic flower and vegetable garden

Mantha and Rick Young on the stairs to Greyfield Inn

The First African Baptist Church is one of the limited pieces of history on the island not built by the Carnegie family. The one-room church was established in 1893 as a free place of worship by African American residents of the island and was rebuilt in the 1930s. In September 1996, it was the site of John F. Kennedy, Jr., and Carolyn Bessette’s wedding.

Cumberland Island isn’t your typical vacation destination and certainly isn’t for those who love the hustle and bustle, but, rather, it is a destination for the person who truly wants a relaxing vacation. Its wildlife, hiking trails, biking paths, kayak tours and camping inside the National Park make it ideal for the adventure seeker. It’s a place for the history buff and architecture admirer. Staying at the Greyfield could even mean an attraction for the foodies—did someone say warm homemade biscuits, yum! Cumberland Island is a unique getaway that’s not far from home—bordering on the FloridaGeorgia state line. The only thing you have to ask yourself now is “when can we leave?”

Summer 2018 | 43

SUMMERTIME BERRY PANNA COTTA One evening during the Youngs’ stay at Greyfield Inn, after an exquisite entrée of marinated skirt steak with a variety of fresh vegetables from Greyfield’s organic garden, they were treated to a delightful homemade Summer Berry Jam Panna Cotta dessert.

Panna cotta is both delicious and simple! This recipe was found and adapted for Family Magazine Readers. This dessert is very light and refreshing. Plus, the options for toppings are endless!

INGREDIENTS 1 cup whole milk • 1 tablespoon unflavored powdered gelatin • 3 cups whipping cream 1/3 cup honey • 3 teaspoons granulated sugar (or more to your taste) Dash of salt (Just a bit!) • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla flavoring (Add a bit of vanilla bean if desired.)

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Place the whole milk in a small bowl and sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over the stop. DO NOT STIR! Let it stand for 3 to 5 minutes. The gelatin will soften, but do not stir, as this will prevent the crystals from dissolving properly.

2. Pour the whole milk mixture with the gelatin into a heavy saucepan and stir over medium heat just until the gelatin dissolves, but the milk does not boil—about 5 minutes.

3. Add the cream, honey, sugar, and salt. Keep stirring over heat until the sugar dissolves, about 5 to 7 minutes.

4. Remove from the heat.

5. Pour into glass containers until they are half full. I liked using the small mason jars.

6. Cool slightly and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate at least 7 hours.

Top with fresh fruit, berries, homemade berry sauce (see below) and a bit of granola if desired. Panna cotta can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, so it is a perfect make-inadvance dessert.

Yields: 6-8 servings, according to container sizes.

EASY Berr y Sauce INGREDIENTS

INSTRUCTIONS

2 cups of fresh or frozen berries. (If using fresh, add about two tablespoons of water.)

In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, place berries, 1 tablespoon sugar or honey, lemon juice, and zest. Cook for about 5 minutes, mixing occasionally until the liquid (this is the juice releasing from the fruit) thickens. Add water if the sauce is too thick, or more sugar to make it sweeter. Your choice!

1-5 tablespoons granulated sugar or honey to taste • 1 teaspoon lemon juice 3-6 grates of lemon zest • 1 tablespoon water

*Note: If desired, use ½ tablespoon cornstarch to thicken: In a small cup, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth, then add it to the saucepan. Simmer the mixture for a few minutes. It will thicken as it cools.

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Summer 2018 | 45

SMOOTHIES A naturally delicious way to enjoy your daily dose of vitamins and antioxidants! Find your smoothie ingredients at

Good Morning

GREEN SMOOTHIE

What is açaí?

Grown on palm trees in the South African rainforest, açaí berries have become a popular addition to smoothies due to their superfood qualities. Known as nature’s “purple gold” because of its vibrant violet color, açaí berries are packed full of fiber, antioxidants, calcium and healthy fats. Some claim this food can help prevent aging, promote weight loss, reduce the risk of cancer and help prevent heart disease. So, blend some açaí into your favorite recipe today and enjoy the tasty benefits of this delicious fruit.

Recipe courtesy of allrecipes.com

Ingredients: • 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped • ½ cucumber, diced • 1 avocado, peeled & pitted • 2 stalks celery • 2 ounces baby spinach leaves • 1 lemon, juiced • 1 apple, cored • 1 banana • 2 cups of ice • 2 cups of water

Amazing

AÇAÍ

SMOOTHIE BOWL

Recipe courtesy of eatingwell.com

Directions: Blend the romaine lettuce, cucumber, avocado, celery, spinach, lemon juice and water on high power for about 30 seconds. The mixture should be smooth. Follow by adding in ice, banana and apple to the blender, blending for 30 more seconds, or until completely smooth. Pour into the glass of your choosing and enjoy a boost of antioxidants to start your day.

Ingredients: • 3 ½ ounces pure, unsweeted açaí fruit puree • ¾ cup nonfat, plain Greek yogurt • 2 tablespoons fresh raspberries • ½ cup frozen blueberries • ½ frozen banana • ¼ cup coconut water • 2 teaspoons coconut flakes • 1 teaspoon chia seeds Directions: Combine açaí, yogurt, blueberries, banana and coconut water in a blender; puree until smooth. Pour smoothie into a bowl and top with raspberries, granola, coconut and chia seeds. Enjoy this filling smoothie bowl in the morning for a boost of energy!

Benefits of green smoothies Did you know green smoothies can offer a boost to your energy level? Packed with antioxidants and minerals, the leafy greens included in these treats may help lower cholesterol and strengthen your immune system. Not only will the greens help promote healthy hair, skin and nails, but they may also improve mental clarity and focus. Enjoy your green smoothie with no guilt, knowing you are caring for your body way beyond the surface level.

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Summer 2018 | 47

GeoRGiA

Waterfalls THe UlTiMATe WeekenD RoAD TRiP

Georgia on your mind? Well, perhaps it should be for the ultimate weekend road trip! Some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the entire country are located just a few hours from us North Floridians. Truly breathtaking cascades. We’re talking gorgeous Georgia hiking trails that lead to majestic waterfalls!

On your summer bucket list should be a trip to eight of the most stunning waterfalls in Georgia. The trip, from the first to the last waterfall on the list, is less than 200 miles with 5 hours of travel time. This allows ample time to stop and enjoy each waterfall for a few hours. See a map of the falls at bit.ly/GeorgiaFalls to make planning your road trip easier!

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Amicalola Falls

DeSoto Falls

Anna Ruby Falls

With its name derived from a Cherokee word meaning “tumbling waters,” Amicalola Falls is Georgia’s tallest waterfall at 729 feet and is located inside Amicalola Falls State Park in Dawsonville, Georgia.

These falls, named after the Spanish explorer who explored the area in the 16th century, are located in the Chattahoochee National Forest in Lumpkin County, Georgia, along Frogtown Creek. There are actually three waterfalls on Frogtown Creek, though only two are accessible for viewing.

Helton Creek Falls

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Helton Creek Falls is a series of two waterfalls located within the Chattahoochee National Forest in Union County, Georgia. The falls are a top attraction for families because there is a pool at the base, where visitors can swim and enjoy the cool waters!

Anna Ruby Falls, near Helen, Georgia, is another kidfriendly destination in the Chattahoochee National Forest. Twin falls are created where two separate creeks— Curtis and York Creeks—join at the base of the falls to form Smith Creek, which flows into Unicoi Lake.

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Minnehaha Falls

Panther Falls

Minnehaha Falls, one of the most accessible waterfalls in North Georgia, is located in Rabun County. The picturesque 100 feet of cascading falls tumble over a series of ledges, making this stop one you don’t want to miss.

A series of cascading falls in the beautiful Chattahoochee National Forest tumbles into a deep pool with a sandy beach, making Panther Falls one of the most beautiful and popular destinations in Rabun County. This is a stunning display of nature for sure!

From the base of Panther Falls, continue along the trail to see a second waterfall, Angel Falls.

Holcomb Creek Falls Another opportunity to see double waterfalls in Rabun County is on Holcomb Creek Trail, a 1.75-mile loop trail leading to Holcomb and Ammons Creek Falls. Holcomb Creek Falls cascades over 100 feet. An observation deck is provided for viewing the falls.

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Tallulah Falls Located in Tallulah Gorge State Park, a series of six falls cascade into the 1000-foot deep gorge. The suspension bridge, 80 feet above the rushing waters of the Tallulah River, is an excellent place for taking photos during your trip.

Summer 2018 | 49

Easy, Breezy Summer Party Summer is great for a no-fuss wine and cheese party. With the heat of 90-degree days upon us, consider this summer alternative in lieu of heavy steak and barbecue. Pair with crisp wines and enjoy. So simple, easy and breezy!

Photo courtesy of FoodFanatic.com

Cool Cucumber Tea Sandwiches Ingredients: • 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened • 1 cup peeled, seeded, and finely chopped cucumber • 1/2 cup minced green onions • 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper • 48 white bread slices How to Make It:

Stir together first 7 ingredients. Spread mixture on 1 side of 24 bread slices; top with remaining 24 bread slices. Trim crusts from sandwiches; cut each sandwich into 4 triangles with a serrated knife.

Bacon-Parmesan Minis Ingredients: • 1/2 cup butter, softened • 1/2 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour • 1/2 cup half-and-half • 1 large egg • 1/8 teaspoon salt

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Photo courtesy of Jennifer Davick

• 4 bacon slices, cooked and crumbled • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese • 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives

Green Goddess Dressing Ingredients: • 3/4 cup mayonnaise • 3/4 cup sour cream • 1/2 cup loosely packed fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon • 2 teaspoons white wine vinegar • 1 teaspoon anchovy paste • 1 teaspoon lemon zest • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 1/3 cup chopped fresh chives • Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste How to Make It: Process first 9 ingredients in a food processor until smooth, stopping to scrape down sides as needed. Stir in chives; season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cover and chill 2 to 24 hours.

Serve with assorted vegetables.

How to Make It:

Step 1: Beat butter and cream cheese at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add flour to butter mixture, beating at low speed until blended. Shape mixture into 24 balls and place on a baking sheet; cover and chill 1 hour.

Step 2: Place dough balls into cups of a lightly greased 24-cup miniature muffin pan; press dough, forming a shell.

Step 3: Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Whisk together half-and-half and next 2 ingredients.

Sprinkle bacon into pastry shells; top each with 1 teaspoon of cheese. Drizzle half-andhalf mixture over cheese. Sprinkle chives over half-and-half mixture.

Step 4: Bake at 375 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.

Remove from pan to a wire rack and cool 5 minutes. Serve warm.

Grilled Pear Crostini with Gorgonzola Ingredients: • 3 firm, ripe Bartlett pears, cut into 1/4-inch-thick wedges • 1/2 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened • 4 ounces gorgonzola cheese, crumbled

Photo courtesy of Dishmaps.com

• 1/4 cup butter, softened • 2 tablespoons dry sherry • 36 French bread baguette slices, toasted • 1/2 cup finely chopped, lightly salted roasted pecans • 2 tablespoons finely chopped rosemary • 1/4 cup honey How to Make It

Step 1: Preheat grill to 350 to 400 degrees (medium-high heat). Grill pear wedges, covered with grill lid, 1 to 2 minutes on each side or until golden.

Step 2: Stir together cream cheese and next 3 ingredients; spread about 1/2 tablespoon on each baguette slice. Top with grilled pears; sprinkle with pecans and rosemary; and drizzle with honey.

Summer 2018 | 51

ouTDooR KiTcHeNs

Walking into the Kirsch family’s backyard is like stepping into something found only on the cover of Better Homes and Gardens. A glistening pool, white brick fireplace, outdoor grill and a country chic design popularized by HGTV’s Joanna Gaines are

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A Summer Getaway Right in Your Backyard

By Hayli Zuccola Photography by Entirely Sweet Photography

enough to make any visitor feel a little jealous while simultaneously dreaming of getting their own outdoor kitchen. It is the ideal space for summer cookouts, pool parties and spending quality time with friends and family.

The Kirsch Family Outdoor living spaces are rising in popularity, especially outdoor kitchens. The Kirsch family decided to make better use of the space they had by expanding their living space.

Spending quality time with family and friends has never been sweeter!

Summer 2018 | 53

“Summer life in Florida, to me, is best spent around a pool, and especially if you have kids because in this day and age, keeping kids close...I mean, try to put a price on that.”

isaiah cully, Builder After buying their house two years ago, Alex and Becki Kirsch decided to add a pool to their backyard for their two children Oliver and Elinor; a project that suddenly expanded to include an outdoor kitchen—a space that brings all the components of an indoor kitchen to the sunny outdoors. While the pool is undoubtedly a hit for the kids, the outdoor kitchen is the true showstopper. White columns invite guests into the tranquil space complete with a large German-smeared fireplace and cushy seating arrangements that are perfect for a cozy winter night or savoring ice-cold lemonade by the pool.

The other side is dominated by a robust grill that’s ready for charring summer fruits or searing juicy burgers and a kitchen island that holds a small fridge and extra storage. The island, covered with splashes of colorful reclaimed wood and a concrete countertop, features specially made swivel chairs welded to the frame, making cleanup from a messy recipe a breeze.

“When making design choices for the space, I definitely took inspiration from Joanna Gaines’ style.

If I could shiplap all the things, I would!”

—Becki Kirsch

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Summer 2018 | 55

All of this is sheltered under a reclaimed-wood ceiling that helps draw the eye to every corner of this backyard oasis, which also contains a bathroom and a shower that’s definitely convenient after a long day by the pool. Of course, it’s the serene accent furniture and decorative elements that help tie it all together.

When they aren’t enjoying time outdoors, Alex and Becki act as full-time parents to their two kids and have also been foster parents for the past two years. Alex works as the Director of Technology at HUB Industrial Supply, a career he was made for, considering his technological skills at home go so far as to rig his phone to control the water slide, outdoor music, adjust the pool’s chemicals and turn the jets on and off.

While the overall design of the space stemmed from the ideas brought forth by the Kirsch family, it became a reality and was even kicked up a notch with the help of Isaiah Cully, the owner and founder of IC Construction. Together they created something both functional and jaw-dropping.

Overall, the combination of an outdoor kitchen and a refreshing pool helps create the perfect summer getaway, even if it is only in the backyard.

Interested in adoption or becoming a foster parent?

The Kirsches are foster parents and encourage others who are interested in becoming a foster family to contact Partnership for Strong Families at pfsf.org or 352.244.1500.

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Kick off Summer with these

Delicious Recipes From Alex and Becki Kirsch carne Asada Tacos • 2 limes, juiced • 4 cloves garlic, crushed • 1/2 cup orange juice • 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper • 1/4 cup olive oil • 1 jalapeño, minced • 2 tablespoons white vinegar • 2-pound flank steak • Tortillas Directions: In a gallon-size resealable bag, combine lime juice, crushed garlic, orange juice, cilantro, salt, pepper, olive oil, jalapeño, and vinegar. Put the flank steak into the resealable bag, sealing it tightly. Make sure all the meat is exposed to the marinade, massaging the bag around to coat. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.

Heat an outdoor grill to high heat.

Remove the flank steak from the marinade and discard excess marinade. Cook on the grill for 7 to 10 minutes per side. Once done, remove from heat and let rest 10 minutes.

Slice against the grain and serve in warmed tortillas with your favorite toppings. We like to add pickled onions, Cotija cheese, cilantro, and pico de gallo.

Grilled peaches with Mascarpone cream 6 peaches ¼ cup melted butter 2 cups heavy whipping cream 8 ounces mascarpone (room temperature) ¼ cup powdered sugar ½ teaspoon vanilla

Mexican street corn salad • 4 ears fresh corn, shucked and rinsed • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise • 2 ounces feta or Cotija cheese, finely crumbled • 1/2 cup finely sliced scallion greens or red onion (if using red, soak in cold water to remove the bite)

• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped • 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and stemmed, finely chopped • 1 to 2 medium cloves garlic, pressed or minced (about 1 to 2 teaspoons) • 1 tablespoon fresh juice from 1 lime • Chili powder or hot chili flakes, to taste • Kosher salt Directions: Place corn directly over hot side of grill and cook, turning occasionally, until charred on all sides and tender crisp, about 7 minutes total.

Remove from grill and let rest until cool enough to handle. Remove kernels from cob and transfer to a large bowl. Add mayonnaise, cheese, scallions or red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, and chili powder and toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and more chili powder to taste. Serve immediately.

Directions: Halve peaches and remove pits.

Brush melted butter on both sides. Place peaches on medium-low grill, cut side down.

Cover grill; cook until charred and softened, 4 to 5 minutes. Whip heavy cream until almost stiff. Add mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla and continue to mix until smooth. Serve with your favorite pound cake or alone for a quick summer dessert!

Summer 2018 | 57

The Legacy of

Richardson Community Center

Linard Johnson, 1969 Richardson High School Graduate

By Befaithful Coker Photography: Evan Leslie

The legacy of Richardson Community Center does not start from the time it opened its doors at the once infamous Aggie Jones Boneyard, but instead begins from a time when education was not afforded to Americans of African descent.

In 1890, E. T. Holmes, a citizen of Jacksonville, opened a private school in Columbia County named Finley High School to serve the minority population at a cost of fifty cents per month. This new trend of education to minorities was a method to teach a larger group many skills that were useful in the workforce.

According to the records of the Columbia County School District, in June 1906, Lake City School for Colored was opened and located on the corner of Leon and Church Streets.

Mr. Henon Richardson served as the school principal, and Annie Mattox served as his assistant until 1913. The school served first through sixth grades.

In 1913, John L. Hopps became the principal, and the school expanded to nineth grade. The name of the school was changed 58 |

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to Richardson Academy in 1920; the following people served as school principal until its relocation to Richardson High School in 1928: E. J. Madison, Annie Mattox, Thomas D. Everett, Herman R. Tunsil, and E. R. Rolfe.

In 1928, the Columbia County School Board received a signed petition along with $2,000 from county taxpayers requesting a larger school.

The school board agreed.

Construction immediately began on the property once known as Aggie Jones’ Old Bone Yard and included a two-story building with eleven classrooms, an office, library, and auditorium. The school served first though twelfth grades from 1930 until its last graduating class of 1969.

In 1966, in anticipation of the possibility of integration, many districts

The legacy of Richardson High shaped the character of many students. —Linard Johnson

Johnson remained in Lake City after graduating to teach in the public school system and serve as an elected school board member. He is now an ordained preacher and a member of the Richardson Community Center Board of Directors.

PickleBall

Don & Sandy Houston take PickleBall to Competition Level at Richardson Community Center

2018 Winter Blast Pickleball Tournament King/Queen 2.5+ players.

Of the many programs offered by Richardson Community Center, one of the fastest growing is the pickleball program. What is pickleball?

According to the USAPA Pickleball, it is a paddle sport created for all ages and skill levels.

The rules are simple, and the game is easy for beginners to learn; however, it can develop into a quick, fast-paced, competitive game for experienced players. Sandy (Glover) Houston became interested in the activity as a sport to enjoy with her husband Don. The couple has

around the State began Freedom of Choice. This effort was to demonstrate there was no need to utilize legislature to integrate schools if households were afforded an opportunity to do so willingly. Students from Richardson High School began attending elementary and high schools around the county. Richardson served as an integrated ninth-grade center for students county-wide from 1970 until its closure in 1975. Those serving as principals for Richardson High School included Hosea Lee Roundtree, Rubin R. Kenon, A. L. Green, C. W. Banks, G. W. Ellis, and Martin Luther Ferguson.

“The legacy of Richardson High shaped the character of many students,” says one such student Linard Johnson, member of the 1969 Richardson High School graduating class. Johnson

since been instrumental in moving the program to a competition level sport, and Don provides pickleball instruction. Sandy explains that the participants of pickleball have much fun playing with friends, getting exercise, and being competitive.

Sandy shares the joy of returning to Richardson after going through the instruction program—she now teaches others. She enjoys working with citizens of all ages and backgrounds, finding special enjoyment working with those seeking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

would remain in Lake City after graduating to teach in the public school system in Hamilton County and serve the local community as an elected school board member. He is now an ordained preacher and a member of the Richardson Community Center Board of Directors.

Johnson shares that his time at Richardson High School was filled with just as much discipline as academic instruction under Principal Ferguson.

His experience at the school has kindled a passion for remaining active as a member of the Board of Directors of the Richardson Community Center Recreation Department.

The facility, located at 255 NE Coach Anders Lane, Lake City, is now owned

by Columbia County Parks and

Call the Richardson Community Center for more information at 386-754-7095.

LakeCityFLPickleBall.com

Recreation and is under the direction of Mario Coppock. The center offers a wide array of community programs such as adult pickleball, square dancing, volleyball, open basketball plays and leagues, tennis lessons, football teams, summer youth programs, exercise and fitness training, and STEM support activities, as well as provides meeting space for the community and serves as a polling place.

Beginning as one man’s vision for all citizens to have access to education, the legacy of the Richardson Community Center continues today, bringing the community together and enriching the lives of all citizens.

Summer 2018 | 59

Shirley Rentz

Creates Perfection

By Ruth Williams Photography by Dr. Terri Andrews Photography

Melt-in-your mouth, old-fashioned banana pudding is just one of many tasty desserts Shirley Rentz creates. “Chunk O’ Nuts,” launched in January 2013, was a revelation from God, says Shirley.

Homemade peanut brittle was the first brittle sold, but she has since expanded to include almond, pecan, cashew and coconut brittle.

Her delectable treats are constantly in demand. Her sweet potato and pecan pies are not measured by exact measurements, but are guaranteed to be a taste of perfection each time!

Mama’s Ole Fashion Banana Pudding Ingredients: • 1 box Nabisco vanilla wafers • Approximately 8 ripe bananas • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, plus ¼ cup for meringue • 12-ounce can evaporated milk • 4 eggs (room temperature) • ¼ cup flour • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract • 1 stick butter

Directions: Separate yolks from egg whites and set aside. Using a medium-sized double broiler, bring water to a boil. Melt butter and add flour, stirring mixture with a whisk until all lumps have been dissolved and mixture has a pasty consistency. Turn burner down to medium. Add sugar, stirring until mixed well. Add milk alternately with egg yolks, stirring as you go. If pudding thickens too much, you may add more milk until it is just thick enough to pour. Add vanilla extract.

Slice bananas. Line a medium-sized glass baking dish with butter or margarine. Place wafers in dish until bottom of dish is covered. Add banana slices on top of wafers.

Cover with layer of pudding. Repeat layers until all mixture has been poured. Line the top layer of pudding with wafers.

Using electric beater, beat egg whites until they begin to thicken. Add ¼ cup of sugar (a little at a time) to egg whites. Continue beating until a peak is formed in the meringue. Place on top of banana pudding. Place under broiler and brown the meringue. It only takes a few seconds, so please watch it carefully. You may also use a torch to brown the meringue. Serves approximately 8.

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Early Learning A Key to Your Child’s Success Photo by Delaine Spradley Photography

Our community recognizes and values the impact of early learning. This special section shares important information by professionals committed to children’s educational success.

Luke and Kate Pinchouck enjoy the children’s section of Columbia County’s Public Library.

A Special “Thank You” to their parents Lee and Lauren Pinchouck.

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Early

Learning

Shapes Your Child!

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VPK

Early Learning: A Key to Your Child’s Success

LaShone Surrencey, Executive Director of the Florida Gateway Early Learning Coalition

As we begin our 15th year, the Early Learning Coalition of Florida’s Gateway remains as committed today as we were 15 years ago to continuously improve our service offerings giving families the right tools to help their children succeed now, and later in life.

Are you aware that up to 90 percent of brain development happens in the first 5 years of life? At birth, the clock starts on the prospect of successfully capitalizing on your child’s innate aptitude, access and joy of learning. This is the importance of your child being in a quality learning environment at an early age. Early learning is quality care and education for young children, especially during the critical early stages of their growth and development. Often people confuse early learning with “daycare” or “babysitting.” Early learning is so much more than that!

Investing in your child’s future by their attendance in a quality early learning environment prepares your child for success in school, college, career, and life. By contrast, a poor start can account for life-long, nearlyimpossible-to-make-up gaps in achievement, standard of living and life outcomes. The positive and negative effects of early learning are magnified for children from low-income homes and those with special needs or other disadvantages. Poor quality early care and education increases the risk of negative outcomes not just for your child, but for all children, especially the most vulnerable children who are less likely to have access to high-quality programs.

Placing your child in a quality early learning environment is one of the best opportunities you can do for your child. Enroll your child in an early learning program of your choice, such as voluntary prekindergarten (VPK) or school readiness. You may find out more information about these programs by contacting the Early Learning Coalition Resource & Referral office in your area.

Start your child’s journey in the right direction—choose early learning!

The Early Learning Coalition of Florida’s Gateway is committed to supporting parents and quality early learning programs that lead to children’s educational success.

Placing your child in a quality early learning environment is one of the best choices you can make for your child.

A

Language Skills and Vocabulary Development Increase through Exposure and Practice.

B

Social and Emotional Skills are Strengthened.

C

Classroom Skills such as Organization and Listening to Directions are Taught.

Who is the Coalition?

THE EARLY LEARNING COALITION is a non-profit Florida coalition governed by a board of directors.

The governor appoints the chairperson and two other members to the board of directors to assist with maximizing funds allocated to Columbia, Hamilton, Lafayette, Suwannee and Union Counties.

The board’s priority is to provide school readiness services for as many children as possible and to ensure as many children of working parents are in quality early learning programs within the first five years of life. Board members also inform our local and state leaders of the needs of early learning in our counties. They are committed to supporting parents and quality early learning programs that lead to children’s educational success.

www.elcgateway.org Contact us at: 386-752-9770 or 866-752-9770

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Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten Key Benefits of Early Childhood Education

By Joy Coleman

Young children are like sponges, absorbing information the first 5 years of life. Every new experience, every word they learn, every behavior they adopt during this impressionable time can be an investment in a more fruitful future.

Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten offers an opportunity for children to receive an educational foundation to prepare them for their journey of lifelong learning.

While basic educational benefits such as literacy and numeracy are measurable, what children achieve towards becoming well-rounded individuals is invaluable.

Here are 10 essential benefits of early childhood education: 1. Socialization

Socialization with people other than a child’s family in a safe environment is an essential foundational element for all other areas listed below.

5. Teamwork

Showing and instilling the importance of teamwork teaches respect for the opinions of others, listening, cooperation and equality. Many preschool activities are centered around teamwork because a person learning to work in a team is more socially attuned and employable!

6. Resilience

Resilience is gained in a consistent, secure and fair environment with clear expectations and predictable consequences. Children can develop skills in managing themselves and their emotions. A teacher provides a challenging environment where children can learn by first-hand experiences.

They may have bumps, bruises or lose a game from time-to-time, but this is the foundation for building coping strategies for greater challenges in life.

Learning how to share, cooperate, take turns and persevere, guided by professionals who have the children’s best interests at heart, is especially important for children who may not be used to sharing with siblings at home.

3. Lifelong Learning

8. Patience

Lessons given in a fun and exciting way encourage children to be effective learners. The goal is to inspire a thirst for learning with eagerness and enthusiasm.

A love of reading, learning, discovery, and nature all takes root in preschool.

4. Respect

Children are taught the value of respect for others. This is not limited to people and belongings, but includes respect for their environment, immediate and global.

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Valuing difference and diversity are important in a child’s early development.

Early education guides children to appreciate and accept differences and become well-rounded contributors to society. Children learn that everyone is unique in their own way with their own culture, beliefs, and ethnicity.

“We, as teachers and parents, must put ourselves in the place of all children, who find it hard to learn. We must invest in them now and we will earn great dividends. The moment we quit is the moment they fail.”

—Connie Anderson

Board Chair, Early Learning Coalition of Florida’s Gateway

7. Concentration

Preschool children explore every opportunity to discover new experiences, friends, and environments.

Their minds are so lively and imaginative.

Educators balance this zest with the ability to listen, follow directions, attend to tasks and participate in group activities to develop the critical life skill of concentration.

2. Cooperation

10. Diversity

Children need to be involved in an abundance of social experiences to practice the social skill of patience.

By teaching through examples, role modeling, and social experiences, they can develop patience and learn to wait for their turn.

9. Confidence and Self-Esteem

A strong sense of well-being provides children with confidence, optimism, and self-esteem, which encourages children to explore their talents, skills, and interests.

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WHAT IS VPK? The Voluntary Prekindergarten Education Program—or VPK—is a free prekindergarten program for 4- and 5-year-olds who reside in Florida. Participating children must be 4 years of age on or before September 1. Parents can enroll their child in the state’s free, VPK education program that year or wait until the following year when their child is 5.

More information can be found at elcgateway.org.

Unlock Your Child’s Full Potential.

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To learn more call us at 386-752-9770 or 1-866-752-9770

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North Florida Arts & Sciences Academy is Lake City’s only private school designed completely around an arts education. With a focus on developing a child’s artistic abilities, as well as their academic knowledge, the academy is reaching a unique and diverse set of students within Columbia, Suwannee and Hamilton Counties. The school curriculum focuses on not only enriching students’ lives inside the classroom, but also providing them with life skills. Whether it is teaching students how to read and write in cursive or allowing them to care for animals on the academy’s farm, the children are receiving a diverse education.

With a focus on the arts, students at North Florida Arts & Sciences Academy are encouraged to pursue what they are passionate about, whether it is playing a musical instrument or jazz dancing. The school also prides itself in being a bully-free environment full of encouragement. Character development is at the center of their mission; therefore, many activities focus on more than just learning the material. The goal is to create lifelong learners who have an appreciation for the arts.

Serving grades K-12, acceptance to North Florida Arts & Sciences Academy requires an interview and informal evaluation. Each student is placed based on their knowledge level of each subject, so a student could be at a third grade level age-wise, but completing fifth grade science courses.

Each child’s learning is completely personalized to their unique needs, and every student is offered the opportunity

“We dare to be different and choose to be great. That’s not just a slogan—we live it every day! I really believe that each child has greatness inside. We really care about each child. We take them where they are, test them to see what they know, then teach them what they need to know.”

—Tony Buzzella to enhance their musical talents through courses in music, art, drama and dance.

For more information about North Florida Arts & Sciences Academy, or to learn about enrollment opportunities for your child, call 386-628-1606.

About Founder and Headmaster Tony Buzzella A veteran of Florida’s education system, Buzzella has always had a passion for the arts and education. A talented performer himself, Buzzella moved in 1980 from Miami to Live Oak, where he taught band and chorus, and eventually secured a seat on the Columbia County School Board. With extensive knowledge and experience in the realm of education, Buzzella set out to create a space for North Florida’s best and brightest artists to develop their talents, and thus, North Florida Arts & Sciences Academy was born!

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To learn more call us at 386-752-9770 or 1-866-752-9770

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Take Time

By Dr. Pamela S. Carswell, Executive Director of Teacher Preparation Programs, Florida Gateway College

for a Selfie!

Life with children is exhilarating, dynamic, and full of fun...until it isn’t. Life with children can also be exhausting, demanding and laden with meltdowns.

What are you doing during these times, both the fun and not so fun? I challenge you to take time for a selfie. No, not the kind you take with your cell phone but the kind that requires you to reflect on your day, week and month. Self-reflect on the times you were with children. If you are honest, it is very likely that a phone was in your hand during these times.

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Live in the Moment When you are with your child at a park, play or any other “fun” time in life, take a few pictures or a short (1-minute) video, then put the phone away. Interact with your child, make eye contact, smile and show your child that you are living in the moment.

Just notice the next time you are around children. During exciting times, children are surrounded by proud adults with a phone in their hand taking pictures and video.

During the challenging times, those same parents are desperately trying to defuse the situation with media on a mobile device.

Children are growing up with technology everywhere. This constant immersion is not always a positive factor in healthy development. Children need social interaction, human contact, and hands-on experiences to develop language, cognitive, motor and social-emotional skills.

The next time you are tempted to grab your cell phone, tablet or other technological device, think about what you are teaching your children. Many difficult times can be avoided by talking to children and explaining what is going to happen. They need to know the plan.

—Dr. Pamela Carswell

Technological devices such as cell phones and tablets cannot provide the interactions needed for healthy development. In fact, research shows that exposure to technology can have adverse effects on the development of young children (Tomopoulos, Dreyer, Berkule, Fierman, Brockmeyer, & Mendelsohn, 2010). When children are routinely exposed to media, they are more likely to have lower cognitive and language development scores (Tomopoulos, et al., 2010). The American Association of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children younger than 18 months avoid use of all

screen media. The AAP also suggests if a parent of a child age 18 to 24 months would like to introduce digital media, they should choose only high-quality programming that they watch with their child.

For children ages 2 to 5, the AAP recommends no more than 1 hour per day of high-quality programs, and the parent should watch the programs with the child (Council on Communications and Media, 2016).

The next time you are tempted to grab your cell phone, tablet or other technological device, think about what you are teaching your children. Many difficult times can be avoided by talking to children and explaining what is going to happen.

They need to know the plan. When things don’t go according to the plan or life happens in the form of a meltdown, pull out a prepacked bag with age-appropriate activities such as books, finger puppets, crayons and magnetic drawing pad. Attempt to defuse the situation through positive interactions and hands-on activities. When you are with them at a park, play or any other “fun” time in life, take a few pictures or a short (1-minute) video, then put the phone away. Interact with your child, make eye contact, smile and show your child that you are living in the moment. You will remember the event better living it first-hand instead of behind the screen of your device, and your child will enjoy making memories together.

References Council on Communications and Media. (2016). Media and Young Minds. Pediatrics Nov 2016, 138 (5) e20162591; DOI: 10.1542/peds.2016-2591; Olson, S. (2016). Toddler Tantrum: Using Tablet Devices to Calm Kids May Damage Parent-Child Relationship. www.medicaldaily.com/toddler-tantrums-badbehavior-375702; Radesky J., Silverstein M., Zuckerman B., Christakis D. (2014) Infant self-regulation and early childhood media exposure. Pediatrics. 2014;133(5):e1172-e1178.; Radesky JS, Peacock-Chambers E, Zuckerman B, Silverstein M. (2015). Use of Mobile Technology to Calm Upset Children Associations With Social-Emotional Development. JAMA Pediatrics. 2016;170(4):397– 399. Doi:10.1001/jamapediatrics.2015.4260; Shaheen, S. (2014) How Child’s Play Impacts Executive Function–Related Behaviors, Applied Neuropsychology: Child, 3:3, 182-187, DOI: 10.1080/21622965.2013.839612; Tomopoulos S., Dreyer B., Berkule S., Fierman A., Brockmeyer C., Mendelsohn A. (2010). Infant Media Exposure and Toddler Development. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2010;164(12):1105–1111. doi:10.1001/archpediatrics.2010.235

Digital Media

Only a Short-Term Fix Often, there is an increase in digital media consumption for children who have problems self-regulating (Radesky, Silverstein, Zuckerman, Christakis, 2014 and Radesky, Peacock-Chambers, Zuckerman, Silverstein, 2015). You know the times when life with children isn’t considered fun. They often occur in the form of a meltdown. When a child is having a hard time self-soothing or modulating their emotional state, it is tempting to try to calm the child with digital media. Although meltdowns are difficult for everyone, digital media is only a short-term fix that actually tends to worsen the behaviors in the long run (Olson, 2016). In reality, calming a child through digital media is limiting social interactions between a caregiver and a child. When a child is consuming digital media, important human interactions are not happening—the very interactions that build pathways in a child’s brain and help them learn and bond with other people. This is one of the most important reasons for limiting digital media. Skills needed for success in school such as higher-order thinking skills, task persistence, impulse control, creative thinking and self-regulation are best taught through unstructured play (Shaheen, 2014) and responsive parent-child interactions (Council on Communications and Media, 2016).

The time that a child is being exposed to digital media can be better used to enhance a child’s learning and develop skills through human engagement.

To learn more call us at 386-752-9770 or 1-866-752-9770

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THE IMPORTANCE OF

WITH YOUNG CHILDREN 1. Reading to young children sets them up to succeed.

The more you read to your children, the more knowledge they absorb.

Reading to babies and toddlers gives them a head start, helping to prepare them for school. Reading with your children helps them develop skills needed when they start to read for themselves.

2. Reading develops language skills.

While you speak with your children every day, the vocabulary you use is limited. Reading books ensures they are exposed to vocabulary on different topics. The more words they know, the better.

Everyone knows reading to our children is important. But did you know that toddlers and preschoolers who are read to every day receive many benefits? Reading enhances a child’s vocabulary, helps them understand how to read and write, and helps them to understand different topics about the world and everyday life. The importance of reading to young children cannot be emphasized enough. As parents, we need to make reading a priority.

3. Exposure to reading exercises your child’s brain.

Reading to young children stimulates their brain activity and gives them a needed boost to support early reading skills.

It is important for children to learn to follow words across the page from left to right and to turn pages. These are pre-reading skills. This helps them become better readers later on. Children who enjoy reading not only do better in language and literacy, but in different subjects as well.

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4. Reading enhances a child’s concentration.

You may think it is useless reading to a toddler who wants to constantly turn pages, swap books, or throw them around, but reading with your little one is extremely important at this age. By consistently reading together every day, he will learn to concentrate and sit still for longer periods of time, which helps later when attending school.

5. Reading together encourages a thirst for knowledge.

Reading together leads to questions about the book and the information within. It gives you a chance to speak about what is happening and use it as a teaching moment.

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6. A range of books teaches children about different topics.

Providing children with different types of books on different topics (or even in different languages) gives them a wide range of information to learn. There are informative books on different animals, places or objects and books to teach important life skills such as sharing, being kind, and appreciating diversity.

7. Reading develops a child’s imagination and creativity.

A great benefit of reading with a child is watching their imagination grow.

When we really engage with a book we imagine what the characters are doing and imagine the setting as reality. Seeing the excitement in a child’s eyes when she knows what is going to be on the next page, or having her guess what is going to happen, is an amazing experience.

“I read my eyes out and can’t read half enough... The more one reads the more one sees we have to read.”

—President John Adams

8. Reading books with children helps develop empathy.

When children can put themselves into the story, it helps them develop understanding. They learn to identify with characters and feel what they are feeling. Children then begin to understand and relate to emotions.

9. Books provide entertainment.

With so much technology, it’s difficult not to get caught up in the hype of it all. Choosing a book that interests your child and reading it together (or letting them flip through pages alone) is a better option. The benefit is that your child is more likely to choose a book to read for pleasure over another activity when bored.

With so many benefits of reading, parents will want to prioritize reading in a child’s early years to help them succeed later in life. Reading with your child establishes a connection of love and trust, as well as increasing their vocabulary.

To learn more call us at 386-752-9770 or 1-866-752-9770

10. Reading together creates a bond.

There’s nothing better than cuddling up with your little one and reading a book or a bedtime story together.

Spending time together, reading and talking, can bring you closer to your child. For parents who have a busy lifestyle, relaxing with your child and enjoying each other’s company while reading is a great way for you both to wind down, relax, and bond.

Moriah McCall enjoys her one-on-one time with dad, Arnie.

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9,500 SQUARE FEET

Phase III Expansion

To keep up with its growing student population, Hart 2 Hart Academy is expanding their private school with a new 9500-squarefoot building to allow for more student enrollment. They currently have 80 students enrolled in kindergarten through 8th grade. The projected goal for next year is 120 students through 12th grade, and spots are filling up quickly.

Travis Medeiros and Matt Hentzelman of Trademark Construction Group, Inc., discuss construction layout.

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The new one-story building, currently being built by Trademark Construction, will add an additional six classrooms, a library, a computer lab, and a full cafeteria (as the current cafeteria has become a classroom due to the growing need for space). This new space will allow the addition of four new teachers.

Hart 2 Hart has a provisional accreditation by the Association of Independent Schools of Florida (AISF) and most recently was accredited by the Florida League of Christian Schools (FLOCS). Principal and Owner Dallas Hart clarifies, “Part of the accreditation process is to conduct anonymous surveys of parents, staff, and management to measure the quality of our services.

One example of our success is the private school’s re-enrollment rate: we had 80 students enrolled last year and 78 are committed to returning next year. (One moved out of town, and the other is meeting her family’s original intention to attend public school.)”

Furthermore, Hart 2 Hart’s early learning center invites the Early Learning Coalition (ELC) of Florida’s Gateway to assess the quality of learning and environment. They determine if students are happy and able to learn and if teachers are teaching with intention. With a rating scale of 1-5, ELC awarded Hart 2 Hart a high 4.

“For us” Hart continues, “we see our successes with the students in their behavior and academic achievement. We hear it from parents. On more than one occasion we have Simply put, we show how parents stop by just to education and a Christ-centered say, ‘Thank you.’ The environment produce excellence. thank you is not just for We want to make a positive providing an educational diff erence in the lives of every child facility, but for being a that walks through our doors. resource to the entire family.”

—Dallas Hart, Owner

To learn more call us at 386-752-9770 or 1-866-752-9770

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“I’ve worked with Dallas Hart of Hart 2 Hart Academy for almost 10 years, and she continues to surprise me with her professionalism and kindness. It has always been clear that her students are her top priority.”

—Travis A. Medeiros Trademark Construction Group, Inc.

To Give ‘More’

Quality is very important at Hart 2 Hart Academy.

With the addition of specialized faculty, we anticipate that students who have struggled in reading and have transferred in behind will see significant gains this coming year. We have faculty that cares for each and every child. Our focus is to not only challenge students who excel academically, but also reach the child who gets lost or left behind because they didn’t fit the standard mold of education. Some children need more. Our purpose is to give them ‘more.’ That’s where we excel, and that’s the reason we exist.

—Dallas Hart, Owner

Hart 2 Hart’s mission is to provide each child with a strong educational foundation while instilling values of citizenship, compassion, spiritual growth, respect, and love. Each child is encouraged to successfully fulfill their lifelong learning goals with commitment, self-confidence, and pride.

The school is dedicated to strengthening families by bringing focus to the needs of students. Every student is encouraged by receiving a strong start as they prepare for the future at Hart 2 Hart.

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“Simply put, we show how education and a Christ-centered environment produce excellence. We want to make a positive difference in the lives of every child that walks through our doors,” says Hart.

Year-Round Sporting Program Hart 2 Hart partners with Connect Church. Through this partnership, the school offers an afternoon year-round sporting program. Students engage in various sports that change every six to nine weeks.

The program is very cost effective and is operated as a ministry to students and families. The program is very popular and family-friendly. It affords children of all economic levels the opportunity to play sports.

Summer Enrichment Program Hart 2 Hart is open through the summer in order to curtail summer learning loss. Combining fun with learning, the summer enrichment program assists with retaining math and reading skills.

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MAXIMIZE EARLY LEARNING Traveling may have been one of your biggest passions before you started a family, and having children does not mean it has to stop. Bringing your children along for the adventure is not only a great way to create lasting memories, but it also promotes curiosity and wonder in a child. Travel is never wasted on kids—it’s actually the complete opposite! It enriches their early years and encourages lifelong learning. Check out these five big reasons to load the car and embrace your adventure today.

By Jeweliana Register

FAST TRACK DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES New places mean new sights, new smells and new sounds. These changes in scenery can be good for a child, encouraging them to explore and begin to find ways to express themselves. Your child may begin to speak more fluently or describe sights in greater detail when travelling.

INSTILL CURIOSITY AND LIFELONG LEARNING Children who travel have a tendency to ask questions.

Whether it be an inquiry about a language spoken in the area or a thought about the food in a region, children try to fill in the gaps of information that are sparked by their curiosity. This ache for knowledge is then turned into a passion for learning, which is a trait that will follow them for the rest of their lives.

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TEACH CULTURAL AWARENESS Nothing drives the message of diversity home like experiencing it firsthand. Traveling will give your child an appreciation for people, no matter how different they may seem on the outside. After all, each person is unique, but under all the surface-level attributes, we are all the same. It also gives children an early understanding that the world is a big, beautiful place just waiting to be explored by them.

PROMOTE FLEXIBILITY AND ADAPTATION Just go with the flow. Children tend to enjoy their routine, but sometimes breaking them away from a tight schedule is just what the doctor ordered. Not only will they have a blast exploring, but they will be learning about the value of adapting to what comes. Your day may not always go exactly as planned, but that is okay! Embrace the adventure and each moment as it comes.

IMPLANT INDIVIDUAL VALUES We learn by doing. By instilling the value of travelling in your child at a young age, you are increasing the likelihood they will find it important later in life and continue to enrich their lives with every journey.

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To learn more call us at 386-752-9770 or 1-866-752-9770

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EPIPHANY CATHOLIC SCHOOL

By Jeweliana Register

Diversifying and Reaching Out

Kindergarten - 8th Grade Since opening their doors in 1959, Epiphany Catholic School has been serving our local community and instilling servanthood values in the lives of their students. Within recent years, the school has begun to diversify and reach out to a larger population of students, including residents of Branford and Live Oak. With its evergrowing population, Epiphany’s Principal Rita Klenk has explained some of the school’s main goals, as well as their vision for the next step.

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Transportation is now available due to being blessed by two families in their Diocese with the funds to purchase the vans. The blessing of the transportation options has been pivotal for the growth the school has seen in recent years. Pick-up locations are in Live Oak and Branford, with transportation available to the high school, Saint Francis Academy, in Gainesville.

“We have some tremendous families who are non-Catholic that see this as the place for their students to be,” Klenk explains. “I think faith in general in today’s world is imperative to families who see some of what’s going on around us to be problematic, so I think the fact that the kids can learn about God and then also about the Catholic faith and compare it to their own is a good thing, especially since we are in the Bible belt.”

Rita Klenk Epiphany Catholic School Principal

Principal Rita Klenk is excited for the students returning in the fall to have access to the library that is being converted into a collaborative, interactive learning center.

To learn more call us at 386-752-9770 or 1-866-752-9770

Summer 2018 | 79

“Our vision is diversity. The change in diversity has been our biggest asset and our biggest goal. Really by making ourselves available through transportation in this rural area, we’ve been able to afford anyone from Branford and Live Oak the opportunity to come to Epiphany, and it has been wonderful,” Klenk expresses. “While it has been primarily Catholic students, it is open to anyone in those areas to hop on the bus and come to our school. With that new layer of diversity, I think

non-Catholic, Epiphany’s students are given the unique opportunity to experience the Catholic faith and compare it to other denominations and different religions. The diversity in population and their willingness to serve any and all families who are interested in enrolling their children in Epiphany helps make a private education affordable and accessible to all.

Additionally, Epiphany has been blessed by many

it has opened us up to the possibility of serving more.”

With the population of the school being about 55% Catholic and 45%

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Learning beyond the four walls of a classroom is highly valued at Epiphany. If there is a need in the community, the students and staff seek creative solutions to the problem in a hands-on way. For example, the students spent the remainder of their school day one Friday afternoon assisting the Florida Gateway Foodbank with overflow food options to share with their families, friends, neighbors and local churches.

“They had so much fresh produce delivered, and there was no way to get word to enough agencies to push it out before the weekend, so they asked if they brought the entire truckload to our school and unloaded it, would we would take it. Well, 6,700 pounds of food showed up here,” Klenk describes. “In an afternoon, the kids and the staff were able to divvy up the food to every student with the premise that they would pass it forward to their families, neighbors, friends, and local churches, and we sent all the food out of the door before dismissal. At the end of the day, I said to myself, I can’t believe we just gave away three-and-a-half tons of food. So, instead of learning math that day, we did the distribution of food, we organized everything, and the kids unloaded it.”

Last summer, Epiphany added on a basketball court for the students to enjoy, and the administration has goals of converting their largest classroom into a STEM lab next summer.

Epiphany was blessed by two families in their Diocese with the funds to purchase the vans that make that transportation possible.

The two families had never stepped foot on the campus, nor had they met the staff, but they believed in Epiphany’s mission and wanted to provide a way for the students in other areas to attend the school. The blessing of the transportation options has been pivotal for the growth the school has seen in recent years, and the donors have become great supporters of Epiphany’s mission since then.

Students are Taught the Value of Community

local donors, like Lester and Ann Scaff and James Montgomery. Their generous donations and faith in the values of Epiphany have supported countless projects and dreams for the campus.

Last summer, Epiphany added on a basketball court for the students to enjoy, and the administration has goals of converting their largest classroom into a STEM lab next summer. Before the students return this fall, the library will be converted into a collaborative, interactive learning center.

Another opportunity for students to learn through serving is forthcoming: Upon finding out that the Catholic Mission church in Mayo did not have kneelers in their church, Klenk began working to see how her students could help.

There is a plan in the works to have her students learn how to build these wooden kneelers with donated supplies from the community in order to fill this need. Not only will this industrial arts project benefit the children by teaching them a valuable skill, but it also will bless so many members of the church in a tangible way.

“Though we may be small in number, we can make a big impact,” Klenk shares.

More than just learning from the pages of a textbook, Epiphany’s curriculum encourages students to reach out and make a difference within the community. With diversity and outreach on the forefront of their mission, the population of Epiphany Catholic School strives to help those in need, whether that is through filling their pantries or providing transportation to their campus. Their giving spirits and heart for service are what sets them apart, and the best is yet to come.

Epiphany Catholic School 386-752-2320 Kindergarten - 8th Grade 1937 SW Epiphany Ct, Lake City, FL 32025

www.elcgateway.org

Book now for 10% off your next session Exp: August 10th 2018

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1937 SW Epiphany Ct. Lake City, FL 32025

To learn more call us at 386-752-9770 or 1-866-752-9770

Summer 2018 | 81

COLUMBIA COUNTY AUNT MARCIA’S

252 SW Horton Drive, Fort White, FL 32038

386-497-2683

BELMONT ACADEMY

1476 SW Walter Avenue, Lake City, FL 32024

386-487-0487

CHILD CARE GUIDE

BETHLEHEM PRESCHOOL HOUSE OF BREAD

712 SW Bethlehem Avenue, Fort White, FL 32038

386-454-1788

BULLFROGS & BUTTERFLIES

1226 SW Grandview Street, Lake City, FL 32025

386-755-1768

BUSY BEE PLAYSCHOOL #2

375 NW Orange Street, Lake City, FL 32055

386-755-0195

CASTLE HILL ACADEMY

(GOLD SEAL)

200 SW Woodbranch Lane, Lake City, FL 32024

386-754-6565

CHRIST CENTRAL

PRESCHOOL & DAY CARE

359 SW Dyal Avenue, Lake City, FL 32024

386-755-5795

A comprehensive guide to local child care, school readiness, VPK, before and after-school care, drop-in services and faith-based programs.

List as of April 31, 2018 The ELCFG does not license, recommend or endorse any particular program over another.

CHRIST CENTRAL MINISTRIES

AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM

217 SW Dyal Avenue, Lake City, FL 32024

386-365-2128

COLUMBIA CITY ELEMENTARY

7438 SW SR 47, Lake City, FL 32024

386-758-4850

DORA’S PARADISE & LEARNING ACADEMY

1787 N US Highway 441, Lake City, FL 32055

386-288-1741 or 386-292-1520

www.elcgateway.org

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www.elcgateway.org

Publix Plaza Lake City, FL 386-754-3722

back-to-school

kids

hair cut

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Childcare Center • VPK & After School Programs Live Oak 386-362-3340

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Lic.# C03LA0007

Your Birthday Party Fun Zone

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• Wall-To-Wall Trampolines • Ninja Course • Birthday Parties • Foam Pits • And More!

801-917-1935

GainesvilleGetAir.com To learn more call us at 386-752-9770 or 1-866-752-9770

Summer 2018 | 83

EASTSIDE ELEMENTARY

HAPPY HEARTS WEST

(GOLD SEAL)

256 SE Beech Street, Lake City, FL 32025

522 NW Turner Avenue, Lake City, FL 32055

386-755-8220

386-752-4411

FIRST UNITED METHODIST

HAPPY HOUSE, INC.

(VPK ONLY)

(GOLD SEAL)

973 S Marion Avenue, Lake City, FL 32025

544 NW Lake Jeffrey Road, Lake City, FL 32055

386-752-3424

386-752-4736

FIVE POINTS ELEMENTARY

HARRIETTE’S RIGHT WAY

(VPK ONLY)

303 NW Johnson Street, Lake City, FL 32055

879 NW Sunshine Place, Lake City, FL 32055

386-755-8230

386-755-1930

FORT WHITE ELEMENTARY

HART 2 HART ACADEMY, INC.

(VPK ONLY)

388 SW Birley Avenue, Lake City, FL 32024

386-466-1114

18119 SW SR 47, Fort White, FL 32038

386-497-2301

FORT WHITE LEARNING CENTER

(VPK ONLY)

18033 SW SR 47, Fort White, FL 32038

JEWEL’S LITTLE RASCALS

1777 SW Leslie Glen, Lake City, FL 32025

386-758-2368

JOHNSON’S LOVE N LEARN

386-497-5944

141 SW Arrowhead Terrace, Lake City FL 32024

FULL OF JOY FAMILY CHILD CARE HOME

386-344-6179

KOUNTRY KIDS DAYCARE

3435 SW SR 247, Lake City, FL 32024

386-697-6338

1468 S Marion Avenue, Lake City, FL 32025

GREATER HEIGHTS ACADEMY

993 NW Lake Jeffery Road, Lake City, FL 32055

386-365-5941

386-752-5412

LAKE CITY KIDDY CLUB

1290 SE Baya Drive, Lake City, FL 32025

GREEN GABLES LEARNING TREE

162 NW Gwen Lake, Lake City, FL 32055

386-755-0256

LAKE CITY LEARNING CENTER

386-755-7677

(VPK ONLY)

HAPPY HEARTS EAST CHILD CARE CENTER

386-754-2222

149 SE Lochlynn Terrace, Lake City, FL 32055

416 SE Ermine Street, Lake City, FL 32025

386-719-2227

386-755-3953

236 SW Columbia Avenue, Lake City, FL 32025

(GOLD SEAL)

LOLLIPOP CHILDCARE CENTER

www.elcgateway.org 84 |

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LOLLIPOP HANGOUT, INC.

WEE CARE

AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM

PRESCHOOL/DAYCARE

346 SE Ermine Avenue, Lake City, FL 32025

6170 SW CR 240, Lake City, FL 32024

386-752-2580

386-754-5111

MELROSE PARK ELEMENTARY

WEE CARE, TOO

(VPK ONLY)

820 SE Putnam Street, Lake City, FL 32025

386-755-8260

MY LITTLE RED SCHOOL HOUSE

1544 SW McFarlane Avenue, Lake City, FL 32025

386-487-5626

2665 SW Windchime Place, Lake City, FL 32025

386-438-3100

WESTSIDE ELEMENTARY

1956 SW CR 252B, Lake City, FL 32024

386-755-8280

HAMILTON COUNTY

NANNY’S PLACE

231 NE Jacksonville Loop, Lake City, FL 32055

386-719-5535

NEW STANDARDS CHILDCARE

894 N Marion Avenue, Lake City, FL 32055

386-623-5790

BROWN’S EARLY LEARNING

317 SE Martin Luther King Drive, Jasper, FL 32052

386-792-1712

CHERRY FAMILY DAY CARE HOME

11176 NW 38th Drive, Jasper, FL 32052

NIBLACK ELEMENTARY

386-792-9371

(VPK ONLY)

837 NE Broadway Avenue, Lake City, FL 32055

386-755-8200

DONNA HOLDEN-HINES FCCH 510 SW 2nd Street, Jasper, FL 32052

386-792-1842

PINEMOUNT ELEMENTARY

HAMILTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

(VPK ONLY)

324 SW Gabriel Place, Lake City, FL 32055

(VPK ONLY)

386-755-8179

5686 S US Hwy 129 Jasper, FL 32052

386-792-8000

PRIDE & JOY CHILD CARE

640 NW Madison Street., Lake City, FL 32055

3311 NW US Hwy 441, Jennings, FL 32053

386-752-7041

RICE FAMILY DAY CARE HOME

1473 NW Avery Glen, Lake City, FL 32055

386-938-4342

OVER THE RAINBOW

306 W Hatley Street, Jasper, FL 32052

386-319-7144

386-792-3814

SUMMERS ELEMENTARY

(VPK ONLY)

1388 SW McFarlane Avenue, Lake City, FL 32055

386-755-8250

MARIA SANCHEZ FCCH

SANDY GANDY FCCH

1113 Southern Street, Jennings, FL 32053

386-938-2053 www.elcgateway.org To learn more call us at 386-752-9770 or 1-866-752-9770

Summer 2018 | 85

THE LIVING WORD PRESCHOOL

LEARNING STATION

1126 US Hwy 41 NW, Jasper, FL 32052

1519 2nd Street, Live Oak, FL 32064

386-792-2701

386-362-7901

SUWANNEE COUNTY ADVENT VILLAGE WEE CARE

LIVE OAK LEARNING CENTER

(VPK ONLY)

843 SW Marymac Street, Live Oak, FL 32060

10693 Dowling Park Drive, Dowling Park, FL 32064

386-658-5385

386-362-4944

RENATA BEASLEY LARGE FCCH

BRANFORD ELEMENTARY

1707 Ruby Street, Live Oak, FL 32064

386-205-0959 | 386-364-0784

26801 CR 247, Branford, FL 32008

386-935-5700

BRANFORD LEARNING CENTER

RIVER OAK TECHNICAL COLLEGE

(VPK ONLY)

(GOLD SEAL)

415 SW Pinewood Drive, Live Oak, FL 32064

103 NW Express Street, Branford, FL 32056

386-647-4230

386-935-0607

STEPPING STONES PRE-SCHOOL

BRANFORD LOVE- N- CARE

202 W Duval Street, Live Oak, FL 32064

(GOLD SEAL)

105 NE Reynolds Street, Branford, FL 32008

386-935-2635

386-364-7004

SUWANNEE PRIMARY SCHOOL

(VPK ONLY)

BRIGHT STARS ACADEMY

1625 SW Walker Avenue, Live Oak, FL 32064

386-647-4635

12715 CR 136, Live Oak, FL 32064

386-362-3600

TENDER TOUCH LEARNING CENTER

BUILDING BLOCKS ENRICHMENT CENTER LLC

409 Hillman Avenue, Live Oak, FL 32064

386-330-6276

TINY PRAYING HANDS LCCH

611 SE Demorest Street, Live Oak, FL 32064

EBENEZER DAYCARE

411 Parshley Street, Live Oak, FL 32064

386-364-4422

FLORLENE JOHNSON FCCH

1510 Ruby Street, Live Oak, FL 32064

386-208-2273 712 Glass Street, Live Oak, FL 32064

386-364-5487

WEE KARE ACADEMY

519 S Ohio Avenue, Live Oak, FL 32064

386-362-3340 | 386-249-2966

386-364-1483

www.elcgateway.org

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www.elcgateway.org

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888-372-8874 Summer 2018 | 87

Public Schools

Columbia County Schools

Working Together for the Common Good As a nation, we value education. It is the great equalizer of our democracy.

American writer and historian James Truslow Adams wrote, “There are obviously two educations. One should teach us how to make a living and the other how to live.” In the public-school system, this is the goal for every child, and this is more readily attainable when the community works in partnership with their school system.

Each of our counties are under excellent leadership with their superintendents and school board members.

Governor Scott announces Florida Students Lead the Nation in Reading and Mathematics Governor Rick Scott today announced Florida’s results on the 2017 National Assessment of Educational Progress reading and mathematics assessments. The results show that Florida is the only state to have improved significantly in grade 4 mathematics, grade 8 reading and grade 8 mathematics between 2015 and 2017. Additionally, three Florida urban school districts earned top spots for performance among large urban school districts: Duval County Schools, Hillsborough County Schools, and MiamiDade County Schools.

Governor Scott said, “Florida students have again outpaced their peers and have demonstrated once again that our states’ commitment to providing a high quality public education for each student has paid dividends.

My wife, Ann, and I benefited from public educations, so we understand the important 88 |

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role that our schools play in ensuring our students can grow and achieve. A large part of today’s success comes from a commitment from Florida taxpayers to continue to invest in Florida schools.

During my time in office, state funding for Florida’s K-12 public schools has increased by $3.2 billion or 37 percent.

Every Floridian should be proud of the results that our educators and schools have delivered for our students today.”

Florida has been a national leader in developing and refining school-based accountability for two decades. In that time, the standards and statewide assessments became more rigorous. As a result, student performance has improved continually.

Today, 56 percent of Florida schools are rated A or B, and only 8 percent are rated D or F. (flgov.com) Excerpt from an April 10, 2018, news release.

To see the article in its entirety, visit: flgov. com/2018/04/10/gov-scott-florida-students-leadthe-nation-in-reading-and-mathematics.

Lex Carswell, Superintendent of Columbia County Schools, believes all students, teachers and staff should have Lex Carswell a safe, nurturing SuPeRInTendenT school that provides an education that will prepare students for their future.

Carswell has spent the last 32 years as an educator in the capacities of classroom teacher, coach and administrator. He served as an assistant superintendent for 7.5 years and as the administrator of facilities for kindergarten through university with the Florida Department of Education in Tallahassee for 3 years.

Carswell graduated from Columbia High School, Lake City Community College, and Florida State University with his bachelors and masters degrees.

PARTIAL

2018-2019 Schedule First Day of School August 13 Labor Day Holiday September 3 Veterans Day Holiday November 12 Thanksgiving Break November 19-23 Winter Break Dec 21 - Jan 7 MLK Day Holiday January 21 Presidents Day February 18 Spring Break March 18-22 Good Friday Holiday April 19 CHS Graduation May 24

Columbia County Schools Contact Information: columbiak12.com 372 West Duval Street Lake City, FL 32055 386-755-8000

Memorial Day Holiday May 27 Last Day of School May 29 FWHS Graduation May 31

We seek to: • Provide a safe, positive, efficient, and student-driven learning environment.

• Offer a world-class educational opportunity for all students.

• Be a positive influence on everyone we come in contact with.

• Develop world leaders of tomorrow.

• Give our best every single day to every single student.

In 2018 we are focusing on implementing rigor at a higher level in our classrooms to assist with student achievement!

School Board Members

Danny Green dISTRIcT 1

Dana Brady-Giddens dISTRIcT 2

Steve Nelson dISTRIcT 3

Keith Hudson dISTRIcT 4

Stephanie Finnell dISTRIcT 5

Service • Humility • Integrity • Ownership

www.elcgateway.org

Hamilton County Schools Rex Mitchell seeks to create a safe and positive learning environment for staff and students in the Hamilton County Rex Mitchell School System. Elected SuPeRInTendenT as Superintendent of schools in 2015, he has served 38 years in education, with all but 2 of those years in Hamilton County.

PARTIAL

2018-2019 Schedule First Day of School August 20 Labor Day Holiday September 3 Thanksgiving Break November 19-23

A lifelong resident of Hamilton, Winter Break Mitchell attended Hamilton County December 17 - Jan 2 Schools, graduating from Hamilton County High in 1976. He earned MLK Day Holiday his Bachelors of Science in Physical January 21 Education at Valdosta State College in Presidents Day 1979. Becoming certified in secondary February 18 math, he taught math from 1979 to 1992 at Hamilton County High.

Spring Break During those years, he also coached April 15 - 22 baseball, football, and basketball, Memorial Day Holiday leading the basketball team to win state championship in 1992. From May 27 1993 through 1995, he served Last Day of School as dean of students. Graduating with June 6 his Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Valdosta State HCHS Graduation University in 1995, he was appointed June 7 principal of Hamilton Middle School, where he served until 2001. After moving to the district office in 2001, he served as coordinator of curriculum, director of instruction, and finally as assistant superintendent for teaching and learning until his retirement in 2013. Upon retirement, Mitchell taught and coached in Echols County, Georgia, for 2 years.

Hamilton County Schools Contact Information: hamiltonfl.com 5683 Highway 129 South, Suite 1 Jasper, FL 32052 (386) 792-7800

School Board Members Cheryl McCall dISTRIcT 1 Gary Godwin dISTRIcT 2 Saul Speights dISTRIcT 3 Johnny Bullard dISTRIcT 4 Suzette Wiggins dISTRIcT 5

We are committed to providing the best educational experiences for our students:

Our mission is “Changing Lives Through Quality Education”

Suwannee County Schools Ted L. Roush is a product of the Suwannee County School District and a graduate of Branford High School. He Ted L. Roush attended North SuPeRInTendenT Florida Community College, Florida State University, NOVA University, and Florida A&M University. He obtained a Masters in Educational Leadership and school principal certification.

His work experience in education began 25 years ago as a substitute teacher while in college. Since that time, he has invested over 23 years serving as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and assistant superintendent of administration. He was recognized as Teacher of the Year in 1998 for Fort White K-8 School. His administrative experience includes all levels, kindergarten through 12th grade, in the following arenas: oversight of curriculum, program and teacher evaluation, facilities, finance, career and technical education, athletics, and other extra-curricular programs.

PARTIAL

2018-2019 Schedule First Day of School August 10 Labor Day Holiday September 3 Veterans Day Holiday November 12 Thanksgiving Break November 19-23 Winter Break Dec 24 - Jan 4 MLK Day Holiday January 21 Presidents Day February 18 Spring Break April 15-19 Memorial Day Holiday May 27 Last Day of School May 29

Suwannee County Schools Contact Information: suwannee.k12.fl.us 1729 Walker Avenue SW, Suite 200 Live Oak, FL 32064 (386) 647-4600 School Board Members

Jerry Taylor dISTRIcT 1

Catherine Cason dISTRIcT 2

Tim Alcorn dISTRIcT 3

Ed daSilva dISTRIcT 4

Ronald White dISTRIcT 5

Expect Excellence

Suwannee County School District will be a system of excellence ensuring all students are prepared for personal success.

To learn more call us at 386-752-9770 or 1-866-752-9770

Summer 2018 | 89

Green Gables Learning Tree

By Jeweliana Register

encouragement, creative learning and play. They believe in equal rights for all children and vow to always provide quality care and education for their students.

Fondly named after the children’s book Anne of Green Gables, Lake City’s Green Gables Learning Tree was founded in 2008 by Sara-Jo Roberts Santillana.

Conveniently located off of Highway 90, Green Gables serves infants (ages six weeks and up) to 12 years old. Their services range from VPK and preschool to daycare and private education through fifth grade.

Upon entering the building, you are greeted by the detailed, colorful murals that adorn the walls of the center.

Painted by Sara-Jo’s husband Abraham, the walls are splashed with storybook characters that have come to life. Scenes of the silly walking fish and sly cat from Dr. Seuss’ Cat in the Hat are skillfully drawn alongside the caring siblings and adorable tiger of Take Me to the Zoo. The murals may make you feel as though you have stepped into a storybook, and they are sure to impress your little reader as well.

Green Gables Learning Tree is committed to diversity and growth, two values that are implemented through

The staff sees the value in free time and outside play, so much so that the summers are filled with water days and playground time. Perhaps the children’s favorite activity, Green Gables planted a banana tree on the playground that allows the kids to learn about responsibility and patience. Not only do the children help water and fertilize the plant each day, but they get to enjoy the fruit when it is ripe!

Green Gables Learning Tree accepts funding from the Florida Gateway Coalition, private pay and other scholarships. Ask about the scholarships available today!

SPECIAL OFFER No registration fee for the months of August and September. Call today!

Registered VPK students will receive a FREE BOOKBAG filled with children’s books and other goodies as a thank you for choosing Green Gables!

“A banana tree gives you the opportunity to watch it grow after putting in the hard work to take care of it. Well, that’s how I look at children.

I plant seeds and instill knowledge, creativity and value in each child,

To start your adventure today, contact Green Gables Learning Tree at 386-755-7677 162 NW Gwen Lake Avenue, Lake City, FL 32055 Serving infants (6 weeks+) to children 12 years of age 90 |

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www.elcgateway.org

nurturing them until they grow like a mighty tree,” Sara-Jo expressed. “I love watching them grow and learn throughout the years.”

In addition to outside learning through play, Green Gables also strives to provide state-of-the-art curriculum for its students. Technology is often incorporated into the daily learning practices by teaching the students how to utilize iPads and laptop computers for their studies. The children learn important life skills like teamwork and creative problem solving through these efforts, and the center makes it a point to incorporate music and art into the classroom as well.

The early years of a child’s life are foundational and really set the tone for the remainder of their lives, so SaraJo and her staff work to create a safe, interactive learning experience for all children. Green Gables Learning Center strives to provide children with the tools necessary to succeed throughout all levels of education and fall in love with learning at an early age. To start your adventure today, contact Green Gables Learning Tree or stop by for a tour of their facility.

Sara-Jo is a wife, mother and daycare owner who has a passion for traveling and teaching. Upon graduating from what was formerly Lake City Community College with her A.A. in Economics and her A.S. in Early Childhood Development, Sara-Jo worked at a local daycare for several years where she encouraged children to fall in love with learning. Sara-Jo has always called Lake City home, so when the opportunity arose to open up her own center, she was ecstatic! For the past 12 years, she has been serving the community and impacting the lives of children by promoting creative and lifelong learning.

The Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten program is a free, high-quality early education program to prepare children for success in Kindergarten and throughout their educational career. Children must be 4 years of age on or before September 1st of the current school year to be eligible. If their 4th birthday falls February 2nd through September 1st in a calendar year, parents can postpone enrolling their child in VPK that year and wait until the following year when their child is 5 years old. The parent or caregiver must be a Florida resident. Classes are offered during the school year and summer through VPK certified providers.

Apply for a certificate of eligibility now for the 2018-2019 school year at elcgateway.org under the VPK box.

Free, High-Quality Early Education For more information, visit elcgateway.org or call 1-866-752-9770

This Early Learning Section is Made Possible by the Following Businesses: Cambridge Prep Academy............................ Pg 65 Cuts By Us....................................................... Pg 83 Delaine Spradley Photography.................... Pg 81 Dr. Terri Andrews Photography................... Pg 77 Epiphany Catholic School.............................. Pg 81 Get Air Trampoline Park................................ Pg 83 Green Gables Learning Tree......................... Pg 90 Hart 2 Hart Academy..................................... Pg 75 Hunter Peeler................................................. Pg 65 Jason Melvin, Farm Bureau Insurance......... Pg 67

Print City.......................................................... Pg 67 Lake City Kiddy Club...................................... Pg 67 Magnolia Pediatrics....................................... Pg 75 The Music Academy....................................... Pg 77 North Florida Arts & Science Academy....... Pg 66 Party Down 4 Less......................................... Pg 77 Rountree Moore Toyota................................ Pg 87 Trademark Construction Group, Inc............ Pg 75 Wee Kare Academy, Inc................................. Pg 83

Summer 2018 | 91

Our backyard is your backyard.

feeding the future™ 92 |

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2014 Columbia County Information Guide | 21

Neighborhood CHOOSING A

JUST AS IMPORTANT AS THE HOME YOU CHOOSE Holly Frazier Photography

FamilyLiving This is the second of a three-part series on neighborhoods in Columbia, Suwannee and Hamilton Counties. Lake City, Columbia County, has a strong heritage of neighborhoods, so much so, the Garden District (residential area behind the Department of Transportation) on Marion Street is being targeted for revitalization by a much younger demographic. We trust you will enjoy learning about a few of the many subdivisions available to the homebuyer.

Purchasing a home, whether it’s your first or fifth, is more than just square footage and storage space. There is a perfect neighborhood for everyone. But, do your homework ahead of time, and remember, no one is more familiar with neighborhoods than your local realtor.

As the saying goes, “It’s all about location, location, location.” Your neighborhood has a huge impact on your day-to-day life—way beyond the move in.

Don’t shy away from the hard questions about the property or the neighborhood, and you will be assured of making that smart purchase.

Summer 2018 | 93

Listing & Selling North Florida Real Estate SHOWING YOU ANY PROPERTY, ANYWHERE, ANYTIME REGARDLESS OF WHOSE SIGN IS IN THE YARD!

Nancy Rogers

“YOUR NORTH FLORIDA REALTOR” Broker Associate/Realtor/GRI

386-867-1271

Am I Ready to Buy? Call for a FREE Buyer’s Consultation

If you have consi dered selling, then con tact Nancy today for a FREE Comparative M arket Analysis. Let her show you the difference th at selling with her and Un ited Countr y can make!

 Nancy was the best!! Fast, efficient, straightforward and prompt! Would recommend her to everyone! Couldn’t have asked for better service.

- Vicki

 This lady was great to work with. She knows her market and is very responsive to any and all questions. If I didn’t know the answer she got it quickly. I highly recommend giving her a call.

- Justin

 My husband and I truly believe Nancy was heaven sent. She goes above and beyond to help you find just what you are looking for. She makes you feel like you’re her only client.

- Terry & Julia

 Nancy is so knowledgeable and always willing to help. She knows the business inside and out.

She will do whatever it takes to make sure you are taken care of. Nancy is OUR realtor.

- Micki

Residential • Commercial • Investment • Business • Vacant Land

18 Years Experience

With first time home buyers, specializing in USDA (Rural Development), FHA, VA and Conventional Loans, Including government assistance programs such as SHIP.

Email: RealtorNancyRogers@gmail.com • www.DicksRealty.com 94 |

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NEIGHBORHOODS HISTORIC DISTRICT

The Oaks

By Joy H. Coleman

Lake City, Columbia County, boasts many fantastic neighborhoods. If you are considering moving, here is a listing of various types of neighborhoods to consider: • The Oaks • The Garden District • Lake Forest • Forest Hills • Historic Lake City

The Garden District

• Woodborough • Emerald Lakes • Spring Hollow • Rolling Meadows

Lake City’s Historic District presents beautiful homes sitting timelessly among the old oaks. Their history and construction date back into the 19th century.

The tasteful beauty of these historic homes is a magnet for many a homebuyer. The architecture has withstood the test of time and is often unmatched.

What’s not to love about these homes? Quaint, unique, offering a glimpse into the past.

Businesses are also intertwining themselves in the Historical District. This beautiful area with its close proximity to the courthouse and post office has a natural appeal. The owners of these businesses are taking great pride in keeping the renovations true to the past.

The Garden District

The houses within the Historic District illustrate the evolution of American domestic architecture in nine distinctive styles. The District is also closely identified with early pioneers who contributed to the physical and cultural development of Lake City.

The South Oak Street Historic District is a designated Heritage Preservation Site. The tour begins on the Center Street edge of Oak Street and proceeds down the west side of Oak for four blocks to Lakewood Avenue, then back toward Center on the east side.

Two homes with Marion Street addresses and one home on West Center are included.

Rolling Meadows

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NEIGHBORHOODS THE HISTORIC DISTRICT

The former office of Dr. Barney Vanzant on Lake Isabella has been reverted back to a residential home.

Seifert Law Firm is located in the Historic District, across from Lake Isabella. This “Little Free Library� box is located close to the entrance.

THE OAKS Situated south of town in the rolling hills of North Florida, just outside Lake City, The Oaks of Lake City Equestrian Community is a lifestyle community offering 200 acres of common area and 9 miles of trails for riding or appreciating unspoiled nature. The Oaks is one of the few equestrian communities with a community barn.

There are two types of home-sites here, equestrian or residential. The Oaks offers one-acre and two-acre homesites for those desiring less land. A limited number of

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residents can enjoy the open space and direct access to the trail system. Nestled among equestrian parcels lies an opportunity to experience the open space without the higher maintenance levels of a larger parcel.

The Oaks allows for an elegant rural atmosphere without isolation. Being within close proximity of I-75 makes for a short drive time to not only Lake City, but Gainesville and Jacksonville as well.

NEIGHBORHOODS THE GARDEN DISTRICT, LAKE FOREST AND FOREST HILLS These quaint well-established neighborhoods are well worth checking out. Featuring smaller to moderately sized homes, these neighborhoods are experiencing a re-emergence focused on preserving their original charm.

All areas offer easy access to downtown and the Historic District. The neighborhood is still on the upswing and would be perfect for someone who wants to be part of preserving the charm of a come-back neighborhood.

Forest Hills’ tranquil area of charmingly-sized homes was originally developed in the 1960s. Some homes are elevated with fantastic views through 100-year-old oak trees. It is

bordered by a clear, spring-fed creek emptying into Alligator Lake.

In these neighborhoods homes vary in lot sizes and styles.

You’ll find colonial two-stories or one-story ranch homes; some are recently restored, others are comfortably lived-in and well maintained.

Nearby schools include Epiphany Catholic School, Covenant Community School, Summers Elementary, Richardson Middle, Columbia High, and Community Education.

WOODBOROUGH ON LAKE JEFFERY AND EMERALD LAKES These neighborhoods provide prestigious, quaint homes, many with lakefront views. As a homeowner, you have access to the boat ramp. This is truly an investment in a desired location to build your own private oasis, yet keep close to all amenities.

Lovely homes with lake access combine to create a beautiful park-like ambience.

restoring and renovating the houses.

Many homes have been updated, and the well-maintained properties offer the feeling of nature’s beauty right out the back door! These homes provide many opportunities to enjoy the sunrise over the lake or sip hot chocolate on the deck in the evenings.

The neighborhood has seen a dramatic revival over the past decade. Older residents are selling to young families who are

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NEIGHBORHOODS SPRING HOLLOW AND ROLLING MEADOWS These neighborhoods are known for their friendly and warm community connection. It’s a very popular area, family friendly and in a great location! Both are experiencing a new life as younger families are moving into the area, renovating the properties.

Known for beautifully wooded half or one-acre properties, Rolling Meadows offers easy access to SR-247 and a short commute to Lake City. If you want a home that offers beauty and privacy, this could be the neighborhood.

Spring Hollow has an almost mountain feel—so quiet and

THE BLANCHE DOWNTOWN

This new type of neighborhood is one we felt compelled to include. Once completed, the iconic Blanche with its one and two bedroom apartments will become a mixed-use community/neighborhood in Lake City.

Mixed use is characterized as a pedestrian-friendly development with access to residential, cultural, commercial and institutional uses. The Blanche is reportedly going to include multi-purpose community event space, traditional office space, co-working and shared office space, storefront retail and restaurants, along with residential apartments and corporate/short-term furnished apartments.

The Blanche is expected to foster a great sense of community for the downtown area of Lake City—truly a unique neighborhood.

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trees galore. Being located on Lake Jeffrey Road is a huge plus, with quick access to shopping and to I-75 via Bascom Norris.

Located minutes from town yet tucked away in the privacy of rolling hills, these homes are spacious, uniquely designed, and offer great areas for entertaining. Utilities are underground and city water is available. Nearest schools include Westside Elementary, Lake City Middle, and Columbia High.

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LOAN T YPES 7 TYPES OF HOME LOANS

Which One is Best for You?

For most of us, purchasing a home wouldn’t be possible without help from banks or lenders. If you don’t have the entire purchase price up front, loans are essential. But the variety of loans is confusing, even among the best of us. Check out these common types of home loans so you’re able to make an educated decision for your family.

FIXED-RATE LOAN

The most common type of loan, a fixed-rate loan, assigns a single interest rate and monthly payment for the life of the loan, typically 15, 20, or 30 years.

Best For: Homeowners who crave predictability and aren’t going anywhere soon. You pay X amount for Y years, and that’s the end. The rise and fall of interest rates won’t change the terms of your loan, so you’ll always know what to expect.

Working with a local mortgage partner that understands your needs is more important than ever. In a seller’s market, inventory moves quickly, and a partner that provides quick closing options is crucial. Ameris Bank has a wide variety of traditional and specialized mortgage options, paired with a famously fast plan of action to close loans as quickly as possible.

—Mike Jones Mortgage Branch Manager, Ameris Bank

ADJUSTABLE-RATE MORTGAGE

ARM loans offer interest rates lower than you would get with a fixed-rate loan for 5 or 10 years, though, after that time period, your interest rates and payments will change, usually once a year, roughly similar to current interest rates. So, if interest rates shoot up, so does your monthly payment. If interest rates go down, you pay less monthly.

Best For: Homebuyers with lower credit scores. This is also a great loan for people who plan to move and sell their home before their fixed-rate period is up and their rates start changing.

FEDERAL HOUSING ADMINISTRATION LOAN

Typical loans require a down payment of 20 percent of the purchase price of your home. With a FHA loan, you can put down as little as 3.5 percent.

Best For: Homebuyers with minimum savings for a down payment.

Conditions: Most loans are limited to $417,000 and don’t provide much flexibility. The interest rates are fixed, with 15- to 30-year terms, and buyers must pay mortgage insurance, which is about 1 percent of the cost of your loan.

VETERANS AFFAIRS LOAN

If you’ve served in any branch of the United States military, and if you qualify, you can score a home with no money down and no mortgage insurance requirements.

Best For: Veterans who have served 90 days consecutively during wartime, 180 during peacetime, or six years in the reserves. The VA requires this to apply to your primary residence and it must meet “minimum property requirements” (no fixer-uppers allowed).

USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT LOAN

USDA loans are designed for families in rural areas. Pay attention: all of North Central Florida is considered rural, even in the Lake City limits.

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The government finances 100 percent of the home price— meaning no down payment necessary—and offers discounted interest rates.

Best For: Families in rural areas who are struggling financially. The catch? Your debt load cannot exceed your income by more than 41 percent and you will be required to pay a funding fee of an upfront premium, typically 1 percent.

BRIDGE LOAN

Also known as a Gap Loan, a Bridge loan is an excellent choice if you’re buying a home before selling your previous residence. Lenders will wrap your current and new mortgage into one payment; once your home is sold, you pay off that mortgage and refinance.

Best For: Homeowners with excellent credit and a low debt-toincome ratio, and who don’t need to finance more than 80 percent of the two homes’ combined value.

STATE HOUSING INITIATIVE PARTNERSHIP

SHIP provides funds to produce and preserve affordable home ownership. Each county works a bit differently, but generally the county commissioners decide how to spend it within specific guidelines.

Best For: The program was designed to provide down payment assistance and additional closing costs, as well as repairs needed to bring the home to code.

MORE INFORMATION:

Florida Housing Coalition’s SHIP hotline: 1-800-677-4548 Visit srecinc.org (Click the Programs tab and select SHIP).

On the USDA, VA, and FHA, up to 6 percent of the purchase price can be rolled in the loan. Home ownership is a reality for everyone.

If not for today, then tomorrow or soon. A realtor will work with you.

In addition, if you’re short on money to close, don’t worry. There are programs available to help!

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FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYER

KNOW THESE TERMS! 1

OFFER Also referred to as a sales contract, this is the agreement between a buyer and a seller that spells out the transaction of real estate.

2

HOME INSPECTION Completed by the professional of your choice, this step of the process looks at the physical condition of the property being purchased.

3

EARNEST MONEY Usually held in an escrow or trust account, this is the good faith money that is provided by the buyer to the seller.

4

CONTINGENT When a transaction/offer has been approved, but only if certain criteria is met. Some examples of the criteria may be home inspections, loan approval and/or appraisal.

5

CLOSING COST The home insurance, taxes and other fees that are paid at the closing of the transaction. These can be paid by the buyer, the seller or both at closing.

6

APPRAISAL When a professional inspects the home to determine the market value. It is the combined value of the property and the land, so it could take a few weeks to complete.

7

TITLE A document listing out the rights of the property.

A preliminary title is typically given by the title company before the buyer accepts the property.

8

SIGNING Typically a process that takes about an hour, this is when the buyers sign on the dotted line to officially purchase the home! This closing can be scheduled after receiving the green light from a lender.

9

INSURANCE Once you decide on a home, you’ll need to gather quotes for home insurance. Consider the pros and cons of each insurance company before deciding and giving the information to your lender.

10

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RECORDING The day the ownership of the property is transferred to the buyer. You’ll receive the keys and officially be a homeowner!

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“It has been my experience that a first-time homebuyer, after choosing their Realtor, needs to be pre-qualified based on their current situation and goals for home ownership. Their Realtor is able to help them connect to lenders and programs such as VA lenders, USDA programs, and conventional lending.”

—Samantha Prueter Broker Associate, Remax Professional

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By Jeweliana Register

Considering purchasing land or buying a new home?

Congratulations on such a big step! Whether you are breaking ground tomorrow or still looking for that perfect property, check out these tips about internet and cable providers from Tim Robinson at 21st Century Timothy Robinson Communications that can save you tons of time and money.

Owner

Check before you commit It is crucial to gather all the information and fine print before you sign on the dotted line. Your dream home may sit on twenty acres in the country, but that does not mean that you do not have options when it comes to cable, satellite and internet providers. It also does not mean that your area will be eligible for all providers, so be sure to investigate your options before sealing the deal, when possible.

Know your deal breakers Do you love streaming videos? Do you hate dealing with slow internet when you are surfing the web? If so, ensuring your internet is strong is the key to keeping you sane. Try setting your expectations realistically when searching for a homesite, keeping in mind your wants and needs with the service each provider can give. A house is usually a long-term obligation, so if you’re not willing to compromise on specific non-negotiables, you may want to reconsider your commitment.

Think about your needs: present and future Do you work from home most days? Does your business have to be connected to a VPN? If so, knowing your parameters of service is crucial! Think about not only these current needs, but also those that could arise in the future. Will your kids want to play video games? Do you dream of working from home?

Understanding the impact this will have on your service ahead of time can be a game changer in the long run. Take as many of these into account now and save yourself a potential headache later.

Call today for more information 844-663-9434 or send us an email at info@21centurycom.com

With so many possible scenarios out there, 21st Century Communications is here to help. Give them a call at any step of the process to receive advice from the experts and obtain a list of providers in your area. Take the guess work out of the connection process and let 21st Century Communications do the work for you!

21st Century Communications: Servicing Columbia, Suwannee and Hamilton county, as well as all bordering counties.

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B U Y E R S’ G U I D E QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE HIRING A REAL ESTATE AGENT Congratulations, you’re ready to purchase your first home!

Your emotions are probably all over the place – from excited to nervous to overwhelmed – so you may be considering bringing in an expert. House hunting can be intimidating, so why not have an expert in the field as your guide? When it comes to choosing an agent to work with, take a look at these five questions to ask before signing on the dotted line.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN THE BUSINESS?

While experience doesn’t necessarily mean that one agent is better than another – there is no denying that practical experiences in the field can teach you so much about the industry. So, take the agent’s years of experience into consideration, along with any previous experience they have and the area they have it in.

WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM THE COMPETITION?

Ask your agent about their skills and expertise that gives them an edge on the competition. Maybe it’s their knowledge of loan types, their negotiation style or their familiarity with the community. Find out their strengths and choose the agent who is most compatible with your needs.

“Buying or Selling Real Estate is a huge decision, perhaps it may even be your largest lifetime purchase or sale. For this reason alone it is so important for you to interview several Realtors to determine who is the best fit for you and your family. There are no silly questions and you should feel completely comfortable discussing all things real estate with the professional you choose. A Realtor should be able to walk you through the entire process from start to finish, explaining it all as you go.

Before you choose...Interview!”

— Nancy Rogers GRI Broker Associate, United Country Dicks Realty

WHAT IS YOUR RATE?

Real estate agents work off of commission, so knowing their rate ahead of time can be so helpful. Some agents may work for 1 percent whereas others may work for 7 percent, and some agents may split their commission with others as well. For example, if the buying agent is different than the selling agent, the two realtors normally split the agreed-upon commission.

Understanding the financial aspects of the deal can help you to best navigate your options.

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HOW CAN YOU HELP CONNECT ME WITH OTHER PROFESSIONALS WHO CAN AID US IN THIS PROCESS?

During your home search, you may need help with loan servicing or a home inspection, so why not know ahead of time if your agent can assist you? Many times, agents have connections with locals who they trust to assist you in various aspects of the process, so knowing about those ahead of time can save time and energy later on.

WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU OR THE HOME-BUYING PROCESS?

Perhaps one of the most important questions to ask, this final inquiry gives the real estate agent the opportunity to share some of their knowledge and expertise with you. A great agent will take the time to get to know you and your needs in order to best serve you, so make sure you feel comfortable with his or her expertise.

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HOME INSPECTION

Why It’s So Important Have you recently found your dream property? Do you have an accepted offer on your hands? Before you sign your closing documents, be sure to have a home inspector check out your potential home. This traditional step in the real estate process is anything but obsolete – it’s crucial! Check out these top three reasons you should have your home inspected by a professional.

HOME INSPECTORS SEE ISSUES BELOW THE SURFACE.

HOME INSPECTIONS CAN GIVE YOU PEACE OF MIND.

Whether it’s an issue with the electrical system or some leaky duct work, home inspectors are trained to find these underlying issues with the home. While the naked eye may not be able to see that the soil is eroding under the home’s foundation, a professional inspector will give you all the details on the situation.

There’s nothing worse than purchasing your dream home, only to find out there are some major issues with the foundation or plumbing. Rest assured, with a home inspection, you will have an overview of the home’s current situation and its predicted future dilemmas. You’ll feel as though you have all the facts and can make a more informed decision about purchasing the property. Remember this is one of the most valuable investments you will ever make and the peace of mind is worth the cost.

HOME INSPECTIONS CAN BE USED AS A NEGOTIATION TOOL. If the inspector does find any major issues with the home, a buyer may use this as leverage for negotiating a lower price for the home.

Be sure to consult your real estate agent about the best way to go about this, but do not be afraid to negotiate.

The seller may even offer to fix the issue out of their own pocket before you close.

“Your home is probably the most valuable investment you will ever make. A home inspection will give you that much more information to help make that decision more soundly.”

— Roger Whiddon Whiddon Construction

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CREDIT SCORE GOOD CREDIT FOR HOME BUYING PLUS HOW TO CORRECT BAD CREDIT SCORES WHAT CREDIT SCORE IS NEEDED TO BUY A HOUSE IN 2018?

The minimum credit score you need to purchase a home will depend on the type of home loan for which you qualify. A credit score of 620 is typically the minimum score that lenders require for conventional home loans (see page 102 for the various home loans available). A conventional home loan can be obtained from almost any bank or mortgage company and is not backed by the government. People with scores in the 600s may pay a percentage point or more in interest than those with higher credit scores.

HOW CAN YOU FIND YOUR CREDIT SCORE? Aspiring homebuyers should visit AnnualCreditReport.com to get a free copy of their credit reports from all three of the major credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax).

The credit reports contain the information credit scores are based on. Each bureau may have slightly different information on file and may have a different credit score for you. Make sure all information on the reports is accurate; if it isn’t, go online to the credit bureau’s website and dispute the inaccurate information.

“Get pre-qualified for a loan in order for you to know what you can afford to buy.”

— Jennifer Lowe Mortgage Originator, Peoples State Bank

HOW CAN YOU RAISE YOUR CREDIT SCORE? If you find that everything is correct on your credit report, but the score is still less than stellar, there are steps to take to boost the score.

It’s important to note that repairing bad credit is a bit like losing weight: It takes time and there is no quick way to fix a credit score. In fact, out of all the ways to improve a credit score, quick-fix efforts are the most likely to backfire, so beware of any advice that claims to improve your credit score fast. The best advice for rebuilding credit is to manage it responsibly over time.

CEASE THE LATE OR MISSED PAYMENTS. Because the bulk of a credit score is determined by payment history and amounts owed, you can improve your score by making sure you’re paying bills on time going forward. Of all the items on your credit report – this is a biggie! Late and 110 |

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missed payments cause red flags everywhere. TIP: You may want to set up automatic reminders or automatic bill pay with a bank to ensure you don’t forget to pay on time. Know this – this information will stay on your report for seven years. Ouch!

REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF DEBT YOU OWE. This is easier said than done, but reducing the amount you owe is going to be a far more satisfying achievement than improving your credit score. The first thing you need to do is stop using your credit cards. Use your credit report to make a list of all your accounts and check recent statements to determine how much you owe on each account and what interest rate you are being charged. Find reputable programs that can help you with your debt. Many churches and communities host a Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University program. Find out more at daveramsey.com. His organization is dedicated to providing common sense solutions to debt.

A FICO credit score is a credit score developed by FICO, a company that specializes in what’s known as “predictive analytics,” which means they take information and analyze it to predict what’s likely to happen.

In the case of credit scores, FICO looks at a range of credit information and uses that to create scores that help lenders predict consumer behavior, such as how likely someone is to pay their bills on time (or not), or whether they are able to handle a larger credit line. (www.credit.com) CREDIT CARDS. Manage them responsibly. In general, having credit cards and installment loans (and paying timely payments) will rebuild your credit scores. Someone with no credit cards, for example, tends to be higher risk than someone who has managed credit cards responsibly.

WHO NEEDS MY INFORMATION? Not only is your credit score needed in order to secure a home loan, but it may be needed when you apply for insurance, buy a car, rent an apartment or purchase a cell phone.

A good credit score is important for anyone to have. For most of us, loans are a necessary part of life. Build a solid credit history, so you can maintain a high credit score. It may greatly impact your quality of life now and in the future.

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Summer 2018 | 111

WHY WORKING WITH A REAL ESTATE AGENT

BENEFITS YOU Agents are

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—Teresa Brannon Broker, Brannon Real Estate

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Complete Summer 2018 | 113

S E L L E R S’ T I P S NINE SIMPLE WAYS TO PREPARE YOUR HOUSE FOR MARKET It’s no secret that it’s a sellers’ market, so if you are looking to transition, now is the time! Whether you have outgrown your starter home or are looking to downsize, preparing your home for sale can seem like a daunting task. Check out these nine ways to prepare your house for the market.

DEPERSONALIZE AND DECLUTTER

While we love for our homes to have those personal touches, potential buyers may have a hard time envisioning their families living in the home if there is too much clutter.

Consider storing away your family photos and keepsakes for your next home and allow the house hunters to see a clean slate in your home. Put the knickknacks away and decorate with clean, but inviting pieces.

MAKE THE NECESSARY REPAIRS

Some buyers are looking to purchase a home in mint condition, so if your home needs some improvements, consider making those before selling. Not only could it add value to your home, but it may also help the house sell faster.

“Kitchens and bathrooms is what sells homes. Consider replacing knobs and pulls on your cabinets and possibly new countertops. Upgrading the appliances is always a plus. In the bathroom fresh paint will make a big difference. Don’t forget the curb appearl—be sure the grass is mowed, the hedges are trimmed and even consider pressure washing your sidewalks.

—Heather Law Remax Professional, The Beauchamp Team

NOD TO NEUTRAL

You’ve probably heard it before, but neutral color schemes are the way to go! You may love the bright pink walls in your guest bedroom or the dark red dining room, but some buyers may be turned off due to the color of the rooms. Opt instead for cool grays, neutral browns and creamy white hues for major rooms in your home.

REVAMP AND REDECORATE

If you are concerned about your room looking small or your space looking outdated, consider switching things up.

Rearrange the furniture until you feel it compliments the size of the room, even if that means demoting a piece to another room. Consider investing in new décor that is modern and complimentary to give your space a little facelift before the potential buyers stop by.

ORGANIZE YOUR STORAGE SPACES

UP YOUR CURB APPEAL

A potential buyer’s first impression comes from the outside of your home, so why not impress them right from the start?

Adding a few fresh flowers and some bushels of greenery can really make a landscape pop. Simple freshening up can go a long way when it comes to curb appeal.

FRESH AND CLEAN

Presenting a freshly cleaned house is very important in the showing process. Not only do buyers want to see a clean environment where they can envision themselves living, but they also want to know that the home is well maintained.

Strive to keep all surfaces shiny and spotless while it is being shown.

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A huge selling point for most homebuyers is storage space, so make the most of yours! Clean out your closets and pantries to showcase the amount of storage available. A garage or storage shed is a bonus for most homeowners, so show yours off by decluttering and sprucing it up.

HIGHLIGHT KEY SPACES

That awesome reading nook is perfect for the avid reader, and the kitchen has a beautiful window, so why not highlight them?

If you feel a space deserves more attention, consider placing an eye-catching plant in the space or adding a pop of color to grab the buyer’s interest. If an area looks too dim, consider adding a lamp to brighten it up and draw the eye to it.

LET GO

Perhaps the most important of all the steps, begin to let go of your home before putting it on the market. You have so many great memories here, so it makes sense that you may be a little attached to your home. Just remember that your home is going to be a blessing to someone else just like it was to you, and that change can bring about great things. Happy selling!

The Beauchamp Team

PAM BEAUCHAMP 386-303-2505 RemaxPamB@gmail.com

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LOVE THY NEIGHBOR

The Wethingtons With a heart for service, John and Mary have spent the past 50 years reaching out to those in need. Whether it is a neighbor with a lawn that needs to be mowed or a struggling single parent needing some encouragement, they are there to lend an ear or a helping hand. The couple is also quick to offer a room in their beautiful home to those in need and a seat at their table for those who are hungry.

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The Bible calls us to love our neighbors, and this couple has definitely answered that call. Pastor John and his wife Mary Wethington serve at The Journey of La Esperanza (The Journey of Hope), a church in Lake City that offers services in both Spanish and English each week.

Not only do they have an amazing ministry, but the couple has just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. They married in Kentucky in 1968, just 17 days before John had to leave for Vietnam. Their first year of marriage was spent sending letters to each other, and they explained that though the odds were against them, God kept them together and continues to bless them. Not only were they blessed with three beautiful biological children, but they were blessed with four adopted children as well.

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LOVE THY NEIGHBOR The couple has partnered with various churches in Honduras for some time now, providing a roof for a pastor’s home and chairs for their congregation’s services.

When Hurricane Irma hit, they even opened up their home to a group of South Florida travelers who could not find a hotel for the night.

“It’s easy to go to church on Sundays and then not do anything else, but this team really encouraged us to get out and find ways to help the community,” Mary expresses.

“Helping others is what it is all about.”

With a passion for serving others, John and Mary currently have their sights set on finding ways to help the homeless in our community and fill the needs of others. Their current plan is to begin a laundromat ministry on Sundays.

We know their kindness reaches far beyond these efforts.

Their joyfulness in giving is an inspiration to all, and a great reminder to love your neighbor every chance you get!

The Journey of Hope congregation served alongside the Northbrook Baptist Church from Boiling Springs, South Carolina, during a week-long “Love Your Neighbor” service event in Lake City.

EMBRACING THE COMMUNITY AS A NEIGHBORHOOD

“Love Your Neighbor”

With their reputation for service and hospitality, the Wethingtons were approached by Northbrook Baptist Church from Boiling Springs, South Carolina, to help coordinate a week of service. After some planning, the 60 members who attended the trip headed for Lake City for a week-long “Love Your Neighbor” event. John and Mary offered assistance to them every step of the way, with Mary even cooking dinner for their group and The

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Journey crew one evening. Full bellies produce awesome accomplishments!

The group spent the week encouraging the homeless and filling needs within the community. They ranged from youth to adults, and most of the adults who joined are teachers at a technical college, so they came with amazing skill sets. During their mission, the group installed a roof on a pastor’s home and served in Lad’s Kitchen, the Christian Service Center and the Hospice Attic.

They also hosted a large “Love Your Neighbor” event at their church where they provided clothing for those who attended. The event featured bounce houses and snow cones for the kids, as well as hamburgers and hotdogs for all to enjoy. The youth spent their time coloring with the children in attendance and sharing the love of Jesus with the community. It was truly an inspiration to all.

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Home is where the heart is . . .

Whether you are planting your roots in a charming neighborhood or looking to build your dream home on one of Columbia Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beautiful lakes, embrace the little moments that come with living in our community. Enjoy spending time with those who matter most and create moments that will last a lifetime. A home is more than just four walls â&#x20AC;&#x201C; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about the people and memories that live inside.

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summer reading list

FOR YOU AND YOUR TWEEN TO DELVE INTO THIS SUMMER

By Joy H. Coleman

School’s out for summer! In my childhood and tween-age home, that meant time on the bayou, beach, and wetlands of the Florida panhandle! Sweet! Then mother gave each of us a summer reading list and encouraged—well, maybe a bit more than encouraged —us to read and discuss them by the end of summer. Here are a few from mother’s list of classics that still enrich lives today.

Little Women

by Louisa May Alcott The March sisters are cemented in our country’s literary imagination. This novel follows the journeys of Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy March as they grow up in Civil War-era Massachusetts.

Little House on the Prairie

by Laura Ingalls Wilder These novels were inspired by Wilder’s childhood spent on the midwest frontier in the late 19th century.

The Secret Garden

by Frances Hodgson Burnett Flip these pages to explore the enduring adventures of Mary Lenox, Dickon Sowerby, Colin Craven, and their secret garden at Misselthwaite Manor.

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Treasure Island

by Robert Louis Stevenson It is safe to say that the characters in this book are not all virtuous, hardworking and self-sacrificing, but it is loads of fun. Youngster Jim goes to look for treasure and gets mixed up with pirates like the ruthless Long John Silver.

Pippi Longstocking

by Astrid Lindgren This kid has outrageous adventures.

She tells tall tales and is strong enough to lift a horse with one hand.

The Chronicles of Narnia

by C. S. Lewis Seven of the most beloved books written by C. S. Lewis, The Chronicles of Narnia interweave stories past and present to create the fictional, fantastical world of Narnia.

A Little Princess

by Louisa May Alcott This is the story of imaginative, indomitable Sara Crewe, a young girl living in a London boarding school run by the mean-spirited headmistress, Miss Minchin.

Anne of Green Gables

by Lucy Maud Montgomery Here’s the story of Anne Shirley, an imaginative orphan girl whose adventures wake up Green Gables, a farm in fictional Avonlea where she is sent to live at age 11.

Charlotte’s Web

by E. B. White

Heidi

by Johanna Spyri

This book tells the story of a friendship between a pig named Wilbur and an eloquent spider named Charlotte A. Cavatica.

You’ll be transported to the Swiss Alps, where young Heidi and her grandfather live alongside their neighbors Peter and Bridget, and to Frankfurt, where Heidi befriends Clara Sesemann.

Image: Joe Keller

SOUR ORANGE PIE

Think of sour orange pie as Northern Florida’s answer to Key lime: Its custard-like filling is made with the juice of wild sour oranges. Since fresh sour oranges are hard to source, we re-created their ultra-sour taste with frozen orange juice concentrate, lemon juice, and orange and lemon zests. We mixed the juice with sweetened condensed milk for sweetness and egg yolks for structure. Slightly sweet animal crackers make a crunchy crust to contrast the tart filling. Chilled and topped with orangeflavored whipped cream, this sunny pie is bright and refreshing.

If sour oranges are available, use ¾ cup strained sour orange juice in place of the lemon juice and orange juice concentrate in the filling.

CRUST 5 ounces animal crackers • 3 tablespoons sugar

Instructions 1. For the crust: Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 325 degrees. Process crackers, sugar, and salt in food processor until finely ground, about 30 seconds. Add melted butter and pulse until combined, about 8 pulses.

Transfer crumbs to 9-inch pie plate.

2. Using bottom of dry measuring cup, press crumbs firmly into bottom and up sides of pie plate. Bake until fragrant and beginning to brown, 12 to 14 minutes. Cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes.

3. For the filling: When crust is cool, whisk condensed milk, orange juice concentrate, egg

Shell ROTELLA® T Energized Protection™

Pinch salt • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted yolks, lemon zest and juice, orange zest, and salt together in bowl until fully combined. Pour filling into cooled crust.

FILLING 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk

4. Bake until center of pie jiggles slightly when shaken, 15 to 17 minutes. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until fully chilled, at least 3 hours; or cover with greased plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

6 tablespoons thawed orange juice concentrate • 4 large egg yolks

5. For the whipped cream: Whisk cream, sugar, and orange zest together in medium bowl until stiff peaks form, 2 to 4 minutes.

¾ cup heavy cream, chilled • 2 tablespoons sugar

2 teaspoons grated lemon zest plus 6 tablespoons juice (2 lemons) 1 teaspoon grated orange zest • Pinch salt • Whipped Cream ½ teaspoon grated orange zest Editors at America’s Test Kitchen

6. Slice chilled pie and serve with whipped cream.

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BUILDING A CAREER ONE LEGO AT A TIME By: Hayli Zuccola

The Smith residence is like a LEGO emporium: brick buildings line the back wall to form a small village, planes fly overhead, and pirate ships float beside the miniature community. In the adjoining room, a motorized Ferris wheel, carousel and a roller coaster that consists of over 4,000 pieces hypnotize and amaze all who encounter them. The back room is purely inventory. Covered from floor to ceiling, plastic bins organize LEGO pieces by size, style, color and sometimes all three.

Nearby, a special shelf features an army of Minifigures lined up and ready for some sort of impending battle. The central area consists of storage bins filled with miscellaneous bricks and figures ready to be cleaned and sorted. While this seems like the home of a rather meticulous LEGO hoarder, which it partly is, it’s actually the site of an online business started by Mark and Angie Smith.

The Smiths have had an interest in LEGO since they were young, but it wasn’t until they were about to have their second child that they rekindled their adoration for the brand that was founded back in 1932.

They unboxed the LEGO they had stashed away in the attic and began building and buying sets and parts whenever they could at a reasonable price. The parts they didn’t need they sold online, which grew into a hobby and later expanded into a full-on business. As the inventory poured in, they began to develop a routine, almost like a mini factory.

Mark, who has to balance his LEGO business with his other career, is the collector: finding the best deals and visiting as many LEGO stores as he can while traveling for his other job.

So far, he’s been to 18 different

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LEGO stores in the states, as well as several countries including the United Arab Emirates (Dubai), Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium and England, which has the only store that can turn a photo of your face into a LEGO piece of art—of course, Mark had to test it out for himself.

Once the inventory is brought in, the treasure hunt begins, and every individual item is sorted in an attempt to recreate a set, remove any LEGO knockoffs, or find any unique pieces.

“We enjoy doing it. We love finding the rare piece, you know—it’s like the hidden gem,” Mark says.

After the kits are assembled, any used pieces go through a sterilization process, getting dipped into various liquids and put through a cycle in the washing machine. Then, everything is inventoried and each item is uploaded to an online platform under the name The Brick Guy 22. Currently, they have 145,000 bricks available for purchase and an estimated 100,000 waiting to be sifted through.

Angie is the queen of PR, handling the social media, processing the online orders and getting every order packaged and ready to ship. Being an online business, their customer base is widespread: shipping everywhere from Maine to California and all the way to Italy, Ireland and Lebanon.

Despite it being a job, this business is something the Smiths can be a part of as a family and a career they hope will continue to grow and one day separate from their home, either as a storefront or in a building near their home where their inventory may be stored and uploaded online. Whatever the case may be, the Smiths show no signs of ending this unique business adventure that’s fun for their entire family.

“The whole family can build and sort and play together,” Angie says.

LEGO’s founder, Ole Kirk Christiansen, created the name “LEGO” from taking the first two letters of the Danish words LEG GODT, meaning “play well.”

Laid end to end, the number of LEGO bricks sold in a year would reach more than five times around the world.

LEGO Minifigures are the world’s largest population, with over 4 billion of them around the world!

Source: natgeokids.com

Summer 2018 | 125

H OW

TO

AVO I D

A

Relapse

By Melissa Ryan, C.R.P.S. Owner, Living Hope Recovery Center

Unfortunately, relapses do happen. Relapses are a part of many people’s recovery story, but they don’t have to be. Sadly, 85 percent of individuals relapse within the year following treatment, according to drugabuse.com. Here is a brief overview of ways to avoid relapse triggers.

DON’T ISOLATE.

GET THE CORRECT AMOUNT OF REST.

Isolation is common among addicts. Let’s first explain the difference between isolation and solitude; it’s easy to confuse the two since both involve spending time alone. Isolation, rather than being a purposeful act of self-love, is a fear-based act of hiding out. Isolation is not a choice one makes to initiate and maintain personal growth; on the other hand, solitude does encourage personal wellbeing. Solitude is an important part of self-care that allows for creative thinking and original ideas.

Most addicts in early recovery attempt to overdo things. Often, individuals in recovery will attempt to make up for lost time and opportunities, which their drug use has robbed them of.

It is important to have accountability partners and a sponsor to help recovering addicts identify if they are isolating. In recovery, individuals are needed to “call them out” if they are isolating and gently encourage them to stay connected to their recovery plan.

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Unfortunately, some recovering addicts will sacrifice sleep and other important self-care methods in the name of “catching up” on lost opportunities. This short-sided approach and incorrect look at recovery will often times lead to burnout and relapse.

God designed humans to sleep. All adults should try to obtain 7 to 9 hours of sleep per 24-hour interval.

INTAKE PROPER NUTRITION. Balance is so important to being healthy and happy. Diet is no exception to that rule; however, just like in all areas of

an addict’s life, this can become too extreme. A healthy diet doesn’t require a person to starve oneself, nor does it mean that an individual should binge eat. An average woman needs to eat about 2000 calories per day to maintain a healthy weight or 1500 calories to lose one pound of weight per week.

An average man needs 2500 calories to maintain his weight or 2000 to lose one pound of weight per week. However, this depends on numerous factors such as quantity and quality of exercise, genetic makeup, and the type of calories one consumes.

REGULATE EMOTIONS. This is “the process of influencing the way emotions are felt and expressed,” according to Psychology Today. Emotions are an important ingredient to everyday life, and some emotional responses don’t require any regulation. For instance, if the emotion matches the situation and helps one feel better, there’s no need to worry about changing the way things are handled. An example of this would be if one attended a funeral and started crying while others are crying. Crying at a funeral can help that person feel better and is appropriate to the situation.

On the flip side, “losing your cool” with an unfriendly coworker may also make one feel better, temporarily, but it’s not appropriate or very helpful. One should always try to express anger in other ways that allow release of those uneasy feelings or, instead, try to find a way to calm down.

LIVING HOPE RECOVERY CENTER

Sam Ryan

Living Hope Recovery Center is a state licensed addiction recovery center, concentrating on giving personal one-on-one service.

Therefore, only 10 patients at a time are admitted at this small family-owned facility, which offers an integrated health care program.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Both mindfulness and breathing exercises are great tools to help anyone who struggles with trying to control anger. There are several examples of how to practice these on YouTube.

However, one the biggest things anyone can do for emotional regulation is try to avoid situations that trigger unwanted emotions. For example, if being late creates unbearable amounts of stress on an individual, then that person needs to make sure they leave the house 15 minutes earlier to enjoy the peace that comes with being on time and not hurrying everywhere.

ESTABLISH HEALTHY BOUNDARIES. Healthy boundaries assist recovering persons in staying sober and keep them emotionally and physically safe. Saying “yes” too many times and overcommitting is a mistake that plagues a lot of recovering addicts and is often a sign of codependency.

Remember, it’s ok to say “NO.” According to PsychCentral.com, “codependency is characterized by a person belonging to a dysfunctional, one-sided relationship where one person relies on the other for meeting nearly all of their emotional and self-esteem needs.” Being codependent means all of one’s happiness is based on someone else, and that is a miserable way to live. Our happiness needs to come from God and only God. Living for any man’s or woman’s approval will always lead to disappointment.

In summary, addiction is a cunning, baffling disease, and sometimes a relapse happens—but it doesn’t have to. Anyone can implement these techniques to increase their chances of staying sober and avoiding a relapse.

386-365-4635 sam@livinghoperecoveryflorida.com 1531 SW Commercial Glen Lake City, Florida Melissa Ryan, C.R.P.S.

Summer 2018 | 127

Turmeric The golden-yellow spice used as a central component in Asian cooking for thousands of years

By Anne Smith

Studies have revealed It’s not the spice itself that’s key, rather it’s an active compound within turmeric called curcumin. Research has found that curcumin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Also, a number of studies have indicated that the consumption of turmeric through curries can ensure antioxidant protection by helping neutralize free radicals—which is a good thing!

to treat a multitude of diseases and illnesses including cancer, heart disease, depression, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes and more.

“Curcumin is not only a good preventative for various diseases, including a variety of human cancers, but a growing body of data indicates that it may even be helpful in conjunction with conventional chemotherapy for enhanced clinical outcomes. In addition to cancer, curcumin Many nutritionists agree if only one thing has been shown to be potentially effective could be taken to improve their health, it in a wide variety of diseases, including would be curcumin. This is an amazing, rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, Alzheimer’s powerful natural medicine that can be used disease, inflammatory bowel diseases, depression and liver problems, just to name a few thus far studied,” says Ajay Goel, PhD, Curcumin, which is in turmeric, is the of the Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Laboratory at Baylor single most effective herbal supplement University Medical Center in providing health benefits.

Dallas, Texas.

—William Stevens Licensed Nutrition Counselor Start incorporating this Nutrition Health Center, Lake City wonderful spice into your diet and reap the benefits!

William Stevens, nutrition consultant of Nutrition Health Center, recommends Doctor’s Blend for those wanting to gain greater benefits from turmeric.

Doctor’s Blend™ Turmeric Curcumin has black pepper extract added, which enhances the body’s ability to absorb the curcumin, allowing it to reach the extremities of the body, rather than it being consumed by glucuronidation in the liver.

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Fights Inflammation

Supports Cardiovascular Health

Supports Joint Health

Aids in Pain Relief

Alleviates Depression

Helps Regulate Glucose Levels

Improves Brain Function Helps Prevent Cancer

Promotes Healthy Weight

Improves Skin Health

Improves Gastrointestinal Health

Fights Signs of Aging

Turmeric Latte Here is one recipe that is taking the nation by storm: turmeric latte. Make this ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator, then just heat and enjoy!

Makes for a cozy warm drink at night.

• Fresh Turmeric 3cm piece, peeled (or ¾ teaspoon turmeric powder) • Fresh Ginger 2cm piece, peeled (or ¼ - ½ teaspoon ground ginger) • Honey 1 heaped teaspoon • Almond, Cashew Nut or Hazelnut Butter 1 heaped tablespoon • Milk 1 ½ cups • Ground Cinnamon ½ - ¾ teaspoon • Vanilla Extract 1 teaspoon • Salt a good pinch Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth and frothy. Warm up in a small pot and pour into mugs. Sprinkle over more cinnamon to serve, if so desired.

Recipe courtesy of nadialim.com

FAMILY MAGAZINEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

WEDDINGS

By Jeweliana Register

w it h

HONOR & HEIRLOOMS

BACHELORETTE

Fairy Tale Dress Real Life

Party Ideas

Kaley & Bronson

Say "I Do"

“I TELL PEOPLE ALL THE TIME, GOD HAD OUR PATHS CROSSING IN ONE WAY OR THE OTHER...”

B “WE WENT TO THE SAME SCHOOL, THE SAME CHURCH...”

ronson Davis and Kaley Carter’s love story began in May of 2016 when the pair met at Fair Oaks, a ranch that belongs to Kaley’s uncle. At the time, Kaley was in another relationship, but her uncle was determined to introduce her to his ranch hand who attended the same church as her. The pair coincidently met in the church, introduced themselves and discussed their church, but their story did not begin to unfold until a few months later. In October, Bronson asked Kaley to come out to a hoedown party at the ranch, but little did he know that Kaley was now single and questioning whether or not this was a date. Spoiler alert: it was once Bronson discovered she was available! The two hit it off that night, taking a hayride together and singing “Forever” by Kari Jobe on the beautiful, starry night. The pair quickly realized that this was their forever, and so they began planning their wedding for May 19, 2018.

Bronson and Kaley both describe every aspect of their relationship as a God thing, and the details of their big day

Summer 2018 | 129

were no exception! Kaley explained that when they were looking at venues for their wedding day, she called C Bar Ranch, expecting all dates to be booked way in advance.

She explained that when she was asked by the coordinator what her date was, she simply responded with “it’s in May,” as she did not think there would be any openings for the month. To her surprise, the coordinator responded with “the only weekend we have open for the entire year of 2018 is May 18, 19, and 20.” Cue the happy tears!

With their date secured, the couple began planning their dream wedding, enlisting the help of local vendors like Relish Catering, Celebrations florist, Emerson Nursery and Sugar Refined. The dreamy details of their day can be seen in the whimsical greenery and gorgeous floral arrangements, but the love in the air is what set the day apart. The love between the couple and the love that they share for Jesus was evident throughout the ceremony and reception.

“Everything that day just pointed to Jesus,” Bronson expressed. “My best man’s speech, her maid of honor and matron of honor’s speeches, our pastor during the ceremony, the others that spoke, the songs that were played, the fact that we took communion…

Everything that entire day just really pointed to Christ.”

“...AND HE EVEN WORKED FOR MY UNCLE AT ONE OF MY FAVORITE PLACES ON THE PLANET.” Family and friends are very important to the couple, and the pair expressed that they loved having their favorite people with them on such an important day. Kaley described how much it meant that her two “Gainesville dads” were able to play such a large role in the ceremony, one of them speaking at the wedding and the other playing the keyboard as she walked down the aisle and later playing their first dance song as well. Matthew West’s “When I Say I Do” was even sweeter when it was played by someone they loved so much! Their bridal party was comprised of some of their very best friends who have walked through life with them, so it was so heartwarming to have them by their side as they said“I do.”Oh, and we can’t forget about how neat it was to have their adorable fourlegged ring bearer, Harvey, stand at the alter with them!

With so many personal touches, like the Gator groomsman cake that proudly represents their alma mater, the couple felt right at home celebrating their love with 200 of their closest friends and family. In fact, Bronson and Kaley joked

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Designing the Wedding of Your Dreams

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about scouring the stores to find about 150 bottles of Yahoo! for their guests to enjoy. Kaley’s family always has a fridge full of the delicious chocolate milk, so it only seemed fitting to include it as their signature drink.

Bronson and Kaley’s love story is all about trusting God’s timing and having faith in it. With their wedding day behind them, Kaley recalled all the little things that worked together perfectly to cause the two of them to meet and fall in love in the first place.

The newlyweds recently moved to Melbourne, Florida, to begin their lives together. Bronson is currently working for Harris Corporation as a software engineer and Kaley is a freelance graphic designer and independent marketing consultant with Arbonne. And thus, the adventure of Bronson and Kaley Davis begins!

“...IT’S EASY TO SAY, GOD GAVE ME YOU.”

Wedding Specialists Catering: Relish Catering Photography by Maria Berlin Location: C Bar Ranch Dress: Ivory & Lace Flowers: Celebrations of Live Oak Ferns and Greenery: Emerson Nursery of Lake Butler Cakes: Sugar Refined of Gainesville Hair and makeup: Sandy Alvarado at Simply BeautyFull of Gainesville

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6Dresses

Stunning MOTHER OF THE BRIDE OR MOTHER OF THE GROOM

Jade Couture This elegant amber satin chiffon gown is sure to complement the brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dress. It features beautiful lace and beading detail throughout, a jewel neckline and A-line skirt.

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Mon Cheri This stunningly attractive blue crepe knee-length sheath with illusion bodice and three-quarter sleeves with hand-beaded lace is completed with a beaded lace keyhole back and center slit.

Faryn Dress This gorgeous silver floor-length ball-gown-style dress has a flattering pleated skirt and has pockets.

3Frequently ASKED QUESTIONS

What length should the dress be?

This completely depends on the formality of the affair and the time of day the wedding takes place. If the wedding is during a hot summer day, you may consider opting for a knee-length dress with simple details, especially if it is an outdoor wedding in Florida. If the ceremony and reception take place in an elegant dining hall, you may choose to wear a long, formal gown with stunning details and embellishments. Choose the dress that will give you the flexibility to enjoy the day, no matter what style it may be.

Desma Dress This unusual floorlength dress with a bateau neckline has a shimmering floral print, a high neckline, and a flattering pleated skirt.

What color should the MOB wear?

Traditionally, the mother of the bride coordinates with the color palette of the wedding. She may opt for a darker color in the palette—such as navy, gray or black—to stand out from the wedding party. She should strive to fit effortlessly into the bridal party, but not look as though she is a bridesmaid.

What color should the MOG wear?

It is typically understood that the mother of the groom chooses her dress after the mother of the bride decides on her attire. The mother of the groom may choose to dress similarly, or she may take a different route and match the groom’s tie.

While color choices may vary, she should follow the lead of the mother of the bride. For example, if the mother of the bride chooses a knee-length dress, the mother of the groom should also, in order to not disrupt the cohesiveness of the families.

Jasmine Black Label So sophisticated, this knee-length dress is made of soft crepe with a stretch lining and a flattering V-neckline. The peplum waist is accented with a beautiful beaded belt.

Soulmates This gorgeous two-piece lace and silk chiffon dress, shown in deep ocean marine, is very figurefriendly and comes in a variety of colors.

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Noteworthy

Bachelorette Party Ideas

www.lineliam.etsy.com

Allison Espenship, Kaycie Kinsey, Esther Curry, Katee Robey, Amanda English, Ragan Norris, Kaci Young, Ashley Morris

Y

ou have the guy of your dreams, you have the perfect dress, and you’ve set the date, so all that’s missing is your best friends to stand by your side on your wedding day. Now that he’s gotten down on one knee, it’s your turn to pop the question… To your bridesmaids!

Whether you ask over a brunch or with a box of personalized gifts, once they say yes, it’s time to get planning. There’s so much to celebrate!

sy.com

am.et

.lineli www

1 | FamilyMagazine 136 | FamilyMagazine

Bridal Bash.

m

iam.etsy.co

www.linel

There’s nothing better than a weekend getaway with your girls. Bachelorette weekends are all the rage, and for good reason. Get out of town for a long weekend of fun with your bridal party as a way to destress and celebrate the beginning of your new chapter. Plan your perfect beach vacay or head to your favorite city for a weekend of sightseeing. Grab your besties and travel to your favorite place for a weekend of laughter and memory-making!

Personalized Shirts.

Whether you are searching for the perfect accessory to flaunt on your bachelorette weekend or a way to take your bridal Instagram photos to the next level, look no further than these awesome bridal party shirts. Go traditional with titles or get creative with fun sayings. The more personality, the better!

We love these awesome shots of Katee Robey, Lake City native and owner of Etsy boutique Line Liam, celebrating with her bridal gang.

Not only is their joy contagious, but their bridal shirts give us a glimpse into their personalities.

They celebrated Katee’s engagement with a trip to Marion Street and Halpatter for a great girls’ night. Load the confetti guns and grab your girls for an adorable bridal party photo like this one.

Gifts for Your Girls.

It’s time to thank the gals who are keeping you sane during your wedding planning. Think of all your inside jokes and the memories you’ve made over the years to find some inspiration.

Whether you chose to gift them robes to wear as you all get ready for the big day or a meaningful piece of jewelry, don’t forget to give your besties some love. After all, you’ve all been talking about this day for years, and it’s time to celebrate that it’s finally here!

Photography by June Rose Photography

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANGEL SHAW PHOTOGRAPHY

Honor & Heirlooms Creative Ways to Incorporate Family Legacy into Your Wedding

“...There’s nothing that keeps you grounded like the special little details.

Being able to wrap the same handkerchief my grandmother used on her wedding day around my bouquet somehow made the flowers, and the day, more beautiful.” —HOLLY KEY

F

amily is forever. With all of the details of your wedding day swirling in your head as you prepare, you may be wondering how you can incorporate your family’s legacy into your ceremony, reception and wedding photos. Read how these two beautiful brides chose to honor their family’s legacy on such a special day.

HONORING A LOVED ONE: CHRISTOPHER AND RENEÉ WILLIAMS

Y

our wedding marks the first day of your new life as husband and wife, so it only makes sense that you want to hold your loved ones close on that day.

Unfortunately, sometimes our loved ones are not able to be with us during these special times. While nothing can take their place, there are so many sweet ways to honor someone you love on your special day, like providing a seat for them at the ceremony or playing a song in their honor at the reception. Read on to see how Reneé Faulkner Williams honored her mother on her wedding day.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROB WOLFE PHOTOGRAPHY

There are so many times in a girl’s life when she needs her mom by her side, and her wedding day is no exception. In June of 2013, Reneé’s mother, Monika Faulkner, lost her very short battle with breast cancer. Reneé explained that her husband Chris was present during this battle and was even in the room on that day, but little did the pair know that in four years they would become best friends, fall in love and decide to marry.

Knowing that the couple wanted to honor her mother in a special way on this day, they began to brainstorm ideas for tributes—everything from songs to memorabilia to speeches.

With the help of their family friend and wedding coordinator Lorrie Wheeler, they decided on the perfect tribute: a sparkler tribute to “If It Wasn’t for a Woman” by Kellie Pickler.

“The sparkler tribute was so fitting for my mom who had a very lively, bright, warm and sparkly personality and fashion sense,” Reneé explained. “The song was a perfect fit as well— it fit our story exactly!”

Reneé went on to explain that they also made sure to include a photo of her mother with her boots and belt buckle at their sign-in table to ensure her presence was with them on such a special occasion, especially because she is the reason they fell in love in the first place! Lorrie began the sparkler ceremony by sharing a precious memory of Monika, explaining that Monika had always prayed for this day and must be smiling from Heaven now. Chris then started the “spark” that connected his family to Reneé’s with her mother as the bridge. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house!

“I don’t believe the outpouring of love for my mom and our families that day can be adequately captured in words. Our photographer, family, and friends helped create precious memories that we will treasure for years to come.”

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROB WOLFE PHOTOGRAPHY

FAMILY HEIRLOOMS: ALVIN AND HOLLY KEY

F

amily heirlooms are priceless. Whether it’s a strand of pearls that has been passed down for five generations or grandma’s engagement ring, heirlooms mean so much to those who have the privilege of possessing them. If you are looking for a way to add a sentimental touch to your day, look no further than your family heirlooms. Check out how Holly Key incorporated her family’s heritage into her wedding look.

Almost every young girl has spent time dreaming up their perfect wedding, so when the day arrived for Alvin and Holly, the couple wanted to make it as special as they could. With their closest family and friends around them, they recited their vows and committed their lives to each other, but not without incorporating three very special family heirlooms.

For something to hold, Holly chose to wrap her bouquet full of sunflowers with the handkerchief her grandmother received on her wedding day in 1947. She also chose to accessorize her bridal look with the necklace Alvin’s stepmother wore on her wedding day. Holly completed her look with a sunflower clip in her hair from her childhood. Every symbolic item made their special day unforgettable.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROB WOLFE PHOTOGRAPHY

“So they are no longer two, but one flesh.

Therefore, what God has joined together, let no one separate.” —Matthew 19:6

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5 Ways to

Stay Present & Enjoy Your Special Day

By Jeweliana Register

Y

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our wedding day is something you’ve been dreaming about since you were a little girl. Whether you have always envisioned the party of the century or an intimate ceremony with your closest friends and family, your wedding day holds a special place in your heart. With all the planning that goes into your big day, it’s no surprise that you want to savor every beautiful moment.

With all the hustle and bustle and the last-minute details, you may feel overwhelmed and overextended, making it hard to focus on what really matters during your celebration of love.

Check out these tips on how to unwind and stay present during this exciting time.

Take a good look around

Your carefully crafted table décor and hand-picked floral arrangements are on display after countless hours of planning and execution, so take the time to check out the little details of your big day. Be sure to schedule time to stop and smell the roses—figuratively and literally—before your guests arrive. Whether it’s taking a few minutes to stand in your reception hall or finding time to take in the glory of your ceremony space before the seats are filled, make it a priority to step back and take a look at the beauty surrounding you.

Hand over the reigns

As tough as it is, hand over the reigns—and the cell phone—to someone you trust on your wedding day.

There is nothing worse than having to deal with inevitable problems and unforeseen crises on the day of your wedding, so let someone else be in charge of the details. Whether it’s a catering emergency or a lost ring, eliminate the stress and let someone else take care of it. Your day will still be beautiful, and your mind will be clear and calm.

Make time for quiet moments

With the business that most wedding days involve, make it a priority to schedule some one-on-one time with your people. Schedule time for a breakfast with your maid-of-honor, a moment to give gifts to your mother and new mother-in-law, time to get ready with your bridesmaids, and a period for shared quality time with your family. Most importantly, make it a priority to schedule some time for a quiet moment with your bride or groom. Whether it’s a moment to pray together before the ceremony or time to read letters to each other before the reception, take a breather and just be together.

Let go of perfectionism

As difficult as it is to hear, your wedding day may not be perfect. Unfortunately, things happen, and our plans can sometimes be thrown out the window. In order to be truly present on your big day, it’s important to let go of your idea of perfection and just let it be. Your effort and planning thus far will carry you through, even if it is not exactly as you imagine. At the end of the day, you’ll be married to your best friend and have the blessing of celebrating it with your loved ones. Avoid spending the day stressing over the little things and embrace the big things. You’ll thank yourself later.

Embrace the moment

“I think being in the moment is important because... ultimately, I’m walking towards my forever and marrying the man I’ve prayed for my whole life. That’s what really matters.”

—KRistah Couey adam

Similar to the other tips, this is one that is so simple that it can be complicated. Embrace every moment of your day. Stop and enjoy the time you spend laughing with your bridesmaids while you’re getting ready. Take heart in the special moment shared with your mom and dad during the first look. Be in the moment as you walk down the aisle. Embrace your loved ones as they come up to congratulate you after your first dance. Cherish the time as you celebrate your love. After all, love’s all that matters in the end.

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Food Trends For your bIG dAy

Let them eat cake… and appetizers, entrées and signature cocktails. With so many delicious food options, you may be wondering where to even begin. Check out these food inspirations sure to wow your guests and their taste buds.

Signature Cocktails Who doesn’t love a hand-crafted cocktail? Showcase your personalities with a his and hers beverage menu. Some options could be his favorite whisky and her favorite champagne combined with some awesome other flavors. For something blue, try out a blueberry mojito. If flower power is more your speed, consider a lavender-infused champagne. For something more minimalistic, opt for a classic, black-and-white martini. The best part? Most cocktails can easily be made mocktails by eliminating the alcohol from the recipe.

Fresh Floridian Cucumber, 3-4 slices Strawberry, 3-4 slices 1 1/2 ounces Tito’s Vodka 1/2 ounce elderflower liqueur 2 ounces lemonade 1/12 ounce Sprite Mint sprig Muddle cucumber and strawberry together. Add vodka, liqueur, and lemonade; shake and pour over ice. Top off with a splash of Sprite. Garnish with fresh cucumber, strawberry and a sprig of mint.

Large Batch (Approximately 1 gallon) Cucumber, 16 slices Strawberry, 16 slices 6 ounces Tito’s Vodka 2 ounces elderflower liqueur 8 ounces lemonade 1/3 ounce Sprite Mint sprigs

Marion Street bistro & brew House

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Muddle slices of cucumber and strawberry. Stir together with vodka, liqueur, and lemonade. When serving, top each glass with a splash of Sprite and garnish.

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Appetizer Sampling Relish Catering Relish Catering

This option offers the perfect solution for the couple who wants to grab some amazing photos together after the ceremony. Eliminate the likelihood of your guests feeling bored—and hungry!—while waiting for your reception entrance by providing an appetizer sampling. Whether you opt for a cheese course, a fruit and veggie bar, or mini appetizers, this is a great way to tide your guests over until the main course.

Caffeination Station Are you or your fiancé coffee junkies? If so, this trend was made for you. Setting up a coffee bar at your reception can be as simple as placing some carafes on the table with sugar, flavored creamers and personalized cups. If you are looking to take your coffee experience to the next level, consider bringing in your favorite coffee cooler from Ellianos or purchasing syrups to accompany the coffee. Enhance the set-up with sprigs of greenery or your favorite flowers and a coffee bar sign for a complete coffee experience that serves as décor as well.

Mini Treats The perfect solution for cocktail hour. Whether you are serving mini grilled cheese and soup shots or mini sliders, your guests will surely appreciate the snack before dinner is served. Your mini treat options are not limited to just savory snacks. Think milk and cookie shots or strawberry shortcakes in mini jars.

These bite-sized snacks are perfect for the party that keeps on going.

Stylish Bars

Relish Catering Halpatter Brewing Company

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Eliminate the need for pre-made plates by opting for a serveyourself food bar. Some ideas include a potato bar stocked with different cheeses, meats and fixings, or a pasta bar complete with delicious sauces, meats and vegetables. As for snack options, consider an olive oil bar with a variety of cheeses and breads to pair with the oils, or a popcorn bar with flavorful seasonings and fun mix-ins. As for desserts, the sky is the limit! Think a cupcake bar, a build-your-own s’mores bar, or a cheesecake and pie bar that is filled with fresh flavors and classic favorites.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DERRAL BOMAR

Fairy Tale Real Life

Almost every girl dreams of being a princess on her wedding day, and Kristah Couey Adam definitely embodied that on her big day. This classic ball gown dress from the David’s Bridal Collection is a modern-day princess’ dream come true. Not only does it have the timeless, full skirt and delicate lace details, but it also features a sleek, flattering v-neck and a detailed, embellished belt. The gorgeous chapel train is the icing on the cake—this dress is fit for a royal!

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY HOLLY FRAZIER PHOTOGRAPHY

How He Asked

Brandon & Megan

T

he two lovebirds had been together for about four years when Brandon decided to pop the question, and so with the help of Holly Frazier’s organization and photography skills, the elaborate planning began.

Brandon and Megan love adventuring together, and the pair is no stranger to a Universal Studios trip. Originally, Brandon was planning to propose on “The Mummy” because the couple has countless photos from this ride and know how to perfectly time their poses to the shot. After giving this some thought, Brandon decided against this because of logistics—like the ring possibly falling out of its box on the ride. Yikes! Then, after some serious investigating, Brandon chose to propose on the lawn of Central Park in Universal: a quiet spot that the couple typically visits to get away from the hustle and bustle of the crowds at the theme park. With their history in mind, Brandon created a storybook to highlight the most important moments of their love story, with a blank page at the end for a photo of the proposal.

When the big day arrived, the carefully executed plan (that was coordinated completely through Snapchat videos between Holly and Brandon so not to spoil the surprise!) was set in motion. Brandon led Megan to the book as Holly snapped away, waiting for Brandon to drop to one knee with the ring. As he popped the question, she let out an excited “YES!” By this point, a crowd had gathered to experience the magical proposal—so there was lots of clapping and celebration all around. The couple celebrated with a ride on “The Mummy” to create a special “engaged” photo to add to their book and spent the rest of the day enjoying their favorite theme park.

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELISSA HOUGH PHOTOGRAPHY

Romantic Proposals

Thomas & Jessica

T

homas Miesch met Jessica Ashley a little over two years ago in One Love Café in Gainesville, and it was love at first sight.

Flash forward to November of 2017, where we find Thomas designing an engagement ring and planning out a very special proposal. The couple had plans to spend Christmas weekend at Sanibel Beach, but little did Jessica know, Thomas was planning to propose! On Christmas Eve, the couple was taking a sunset walk down the beach when they came across an old, rusty box lodged in the sand. As Jessica opened the mystery box, she found a small ring box tucked inside containing a beautiful, vintage-style engagement ring. As Thomas proposed, Jessica hugged him and replied with an ecstatic “YES!” Thomas and Jessica are currently planning their dream wedding at Clark Plantation for May of 2019.

“I wanted to spend the rest of my life with her and didn’t want to wait any longer,” Thomas said. “I chose to propose at Sanibel beach so that we had somewhere nice to return to for our anniversaries.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DELAINE SPRADLEY

High School Sweethearts

C J & Lexie

C

J and Lexie’s story began back in August of 2014 during their time at Columbia High School. CJ explained he knew immediately she was the woman he would marry one day. After dating for three and a half years, CJ knew it was time to ask her to be a part of his family, so he began the strategy of the perfect proposal. The couple had plans to spend their spring break in St. Augustine with Lexie’s family, so it seemed like the perfect time to pop the question. After asking for her mother and stepfather’s permission for her hand in marriage, CJ got down on one knee at Lexie’s favorite place: Joe’s Crab Shack on the beach.

These high school sweethearts are set to wed at Majestic Oaks in February of 2020.

“I have known that Lexie was the woman for me since I first laid eyes on her,” CJ said. “She is my best friend and I am very blessed to have such an amazing woman to spend my life with.”

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VOW RENEWAL Nuptials in Norway J O N N Y A N D H O L LY F R A Z I E R

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W

hen Jonny and I married

twelve years ago, we were not concerned with the typical things most would be when planning a wedding. Therefore, we did not end up with the most important thing left from the wedding day: pictures. Over the years, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve missed not having them, so when Jonny and I decided on a vow renewal for our anniversary, selecting a photographer was

the

most

important

aspect.

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve

known for years that I wanted Brian with Mountain and Mood to be that person and it worked out for us to travel and meet him in Norway to make that happen. It was the most incredible, once in a lifetime experience that we will never forget. Not only were we left with amazing memories, but phenomenal images to boot!

-Holly Frazier

Photography by Mountain and Mood

Summer Summer2018 2018 | | 149 149

You don’t have to be an artist to appreciate where we live.

Art is everywhere in North Central Florida.

Our rural landscape is inspirational. Living here is like a breath of fresh air. Exquisite rivers, crystal-clear springs, lakes, wetlands, and plentiful wildlife abound. Farms dot the landscape, fields of wildflowers show their colors, and the scenic backroads are peaceful. These images are richly represented in the Gateway Art Gallery with vibrant colors through the eyes of our regional artists.

each form increases our quality of life by encouraging us to reflect, remember, and create.

Here you will find every form of visual art supported by the Gallery: paintings, drawings, sculptures, woodwork, stained glass, photography, digital art, mixed media, jewelry, woven and fabric arts... Each form provides different expressions;

On display at the Gallery, you'll see Carolyn Tarkington’s photos of birds, handcrafted jewelry by P. Lynn Hutchins, scenes captured beautifully in watercolors by Jim Riley

The artwork in the Gallery is for all to enjoy and is available for purchase. The Gallery's goal is to enrich life through advocating the value of art, encouraging people to participate in the arts, and providing a place for it to be appreciated.

gAtewAyartgALLery eclectic and ViSually StiMulatinG

By Joy H. Coleman

and Wally Reichert, Del Porter's intricate marquetry (inlaid wood), and sculptures such as Jeffrey Fuller's crustal relief on Aberdeen out of soft crystal and soapstone, and many other local artists' work.

Cultural projects are not simply a luxury. They play a fundamental role in generating the economy of a community.

Civic institutions, like museums, public galleries, art organizations, performing art institutions, arts councils, and individual citizens have the opportunity to lead change by supporting and promoting those who carry out communitybuilding programs.

There is convincing evidence that strong social connections are necessary ingredients of community economic success.

One Chicago study found that the single-most important

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factor separating healthy neighborhoods was called “collective efficacy,” meaning, it isn’t wealth, access to healthcare, crime, or some other factor that topped the list.

The most elusive ingredient—the capacity of people to act together on matters of common interest—made the greatest difference in the health and well-being of individuals and neighborhoods.

Every two months, the Gallery features a local artist, complete with reception and refreshments. In addition, classes for different visual art forms are offered throughout the year for community participation in the arts. To receive information on upcoming events, including classes, contact Christine Brewer, President of the Art League of North Florida, to join the mailing list.

reAsoNs to suPPort the Arts the arts promote true prosperity. The arts are fundamental to our humanity—they provide an outlet for expression, allow creativity, and embody the human experience. Art transcends culture and brings people together, regardless of ethnicity, background, and age. the arts create a positive social impact. The arts bring people together, promote unity, encourage community participation, and provide forms of activity. the arts promote health and wellbeing. Patients who are exposed to (or participate in) the arts experience reduced anxiety and depression, require less pain medication, and have shorter hospital stays. the arts inspire creativity and boost innovation.

Exposure and participation in the arts foster creativity, which enhances creative thinking that leads to innovative ideas. Per the Conference Board's Ready to Innovate report, creativity is among the top 5 applied skills sought by business leaders. the arts improve academic performance. Students involved in the arts tend to earn better grades, score higher on standardized tests, and are less likely to drop out of school.

Learn more at americansforthearts.org.

The Gateway Art Gallery is so much more than an art gallery. It provides an outlet in the community for youth and adults to express their creativity and serves as a cultural hub for Columbia County.

cody grAy PresideNt of gAtewAy Art gALLery

The Art League of North Florida is the governing body of the Gateway Art Gallery. The Art League is a non-profit which works to enhance quality of life by promoting North Florida as an artistic community supporting and sustaining development and diversity of visual arts through exhibits, workshops, and educational programs geared toward all citizens of the community.

Art is a nation’s most precious heritage. For it is in our works of art that we reveal to ourselves and to others the inner vision which guides us as a nation. And where there is no vision, the people perish.

—LYNDoN JoHNsoN, on signing into existence the national endowment for the arts

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gAtewAy Art gALLery BoArd of directors Cody Gray – President Christine Brewer – Vice-President ron BauGhn – treasurer ViCki shanks – secretary Jeanne Van arsdall – Past President laurenCe eliane Breyton – Curator wally reiChert – Board Member Carolyn tarkinGton – Board Member lauren PinoChuCk – Board Member steVe sMith – Board Member Art LeAgue of North fLoridA officers Christine Brewer – President Pat sinor – treasurer JiM riley – Past President

how to suPPort gAtewAy Art gALLery Contact:

christiNe Brewer President, Art League of North Florida christinegbrewer@cloud.com

904-477-7075 Art is for everyone. The presence of it stirs our hearts, builds stronger neighborhood ties, opens conversations, and provides a stage where all can connect at whatever depth we choose.

The Art League of North Florida operates the Gateway Art Gallery and works to enhance the quality of life in our local communities by supporting and sustaining the development of arts through exhibits, workshops, and classes. Here are a few ways you can join our mission and connect with others who share an appreciation for the arts: • Become a Sponsoring Partner of Gateway Art Gallery to further our goals of enriching our community life and the development of the arts in one of the largest growing areas in the state of Florida.

• Join as a MeMber of the art League of north fLorida annual Cost: student (ages 12-17) – $10 individual (adult) – $25 family – $40 • Become a member of the Youth Art League or sponsor a Youth Membership to encourage someone you know to further develop their interest in the arts.

• Contribute to the “Auction for the Arts” to be held September 14, 2018, 6 – 8 p.m. at the Gateway Art Gallery.

• Contribute the donation of a weekend stay at any of your wonderful and favorite locations. This donation will give your company exposure to our broad range of patron members.

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You’re never too old to discover something new and never too old to stop learning.

2018 gAtewAy Art gALLery cLAsses 168 n Marion aVenue, lake City, Fl August cLAsses

acrylics Dottie List acrylics/watercolor Jeanne Van Arsdall acrylics Dottie List Basic Jewelry Making Linda Schenavar wood Carving Charles Kime turkish Marbling Christine Brewer

aug. 9th

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aug. 15th

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aug. 23rd

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Call Gallery for date and time of class Call Gallery for date and time of class Call Gallery for date and time of class

sePteMBer cLAsses

acrylics Dottie List youth art Project Melinda Roth

sept. 6th

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acrylics/watercolor Jeanne Van Arsdall acrylics Dottie List woodcarving Charles Kime Basic Jewelry Making Linda Schenavar turkish Marbling Christine Brewer

Call Gallery for date and time of class Call Gallery for date and time of class Call Gallery for date and time of class

• do they esPeciALLy Love to offer Art educAtioN for youNg PeoPLe? Yes! • do you hAve to Be A ProfessioNAL Artist to tAke A cLAss? No! • cAN you tAke A cLAss if you hAve No skiLL? Yes! • do you hAve to Be “good"? No! • cAN you Be A MAture studeNt? Yes! • cAN you tAke oNe course ANd stoP? Yes! Whatever appeals to you, Gateway Art Gallery only asks that you are interested, curious, and willing to try something new!

For more information contact:

gateway art gallery

168 North Marion Avenue , Lake City, Florida 32055 (386) 752-5229 gatewayartgallery13@gmail.com

LAureNce eLiANe BreytoN newly appointed curator Laurence Eliane Breyton is the newly appointed curator of the Gateway Art Gallery in Lake City. She was born in Fontainebleau, France, moving to the U.S. and becoming an American citizen in 1959.

While modeling for several mediums at the Ringling Art School in Sarasota, her interest in art was born.

Studying with the talented artists of the school piqued her interest in painting and photography.

She is also skilled in critiquing and selling art.

Laurence attended Wichita State University pursuing Fine Arts and Photography. Her creative spontaneity has led her to create several one-of-a-kind originals in multiple mediums. Since 2008, she calls O’Brien home.

In 1974, Laurence joined the United States Air Force, where her first assignment sent her to Germany. She spent several years documenting Europe through her photography. She retired from military service in 1996.

Classes Available in: • Acrylics • Basic Jewelry Making • Watercolor • Woodcarving • Turkish Marbling Ask About Youth Art Projects Local Artisan Work On Display; Available for Purchase

“Where Art is Life” 168 N. Marion Ave. Lake City, FL 32025 • (386) 752-5229 • GatewayArtGallery13@gmail.com Hours: Mon. - Fri. 9:30am - 5:30pm • Sat. 9:30am - 3pm

Summer 2018 | 153

DECIDING TO CHANGE

Bruce Williamss Outreach Minister and Motivational Speaker

By Ruth Williams Photography Dr. Terri Andrews Photography

Recently turning 40, Bruce Williams’ 20s and 30s were shrouded in darkness and turmoil stemming from substance abuse. He says his life experiences with drugs could be classified as a “lifealtering ordeal.” Like many who have been addicted to drugs, his initiation and derailment came during his early teen years “sneaking and consuming alcoholic beverages with friends, eventually leading to experimenting with various drug substances, which provided an aimless and vain existence.”

Bruce states, “Wanting to be a part of the crowd, I spent many years in the grips of addiction. You spend countless hours looking in vain trying to get your life in order, to no avail.” With many humiliating experiences, constant disappointments from poor choice, after poor choice, a turning point came from “simply making a decision to change,” Bruce recounts.

Bruce believes recovering addicts have an advantage: “When a person makes up their mind to change a bad habit, defects have to be recognized.

Truthfully acknowledging a problem forces one to deal with their defects that many people wouldn’t normally consider otherwise.” He now believes overcoming any addiction is a day-today process.

Bruce confesses his strength to change and confidence came from God. In time past, his actions were motivated by self-interest and instant gratification. Now his heart mantra is, ‘I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me’ (Philippians 4:13).

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He gives special thanks to his wife Xenia for her constant encouragement; family and friends who never gave up on him during his wayward years; Minister Philip J. Mobley of Northside Church of Christ for being a wonderful spiritual advisor, brother, and counselor; and Andrew and Makeba Murphy, two examples of support and friendship through the good and bad times.

Overcoming any addiction is a day-to-day process.

In 2016, Bruce won a Toastmasters Ice Breaker award for public speaking.

This has led to speaking before groups and mentoring young people as an outreach minister and motivational speaker.

He enjoys giving insights on substance abuse and has given presentations on the strongholds of drugs at the University of Florida to medical students training to become professional counselors, drug addiction specialists, and doctors. He also speaks to area youth on the powers of choice—how people, places, and things can be assets or hindrances, but it is by the choices we make that which is determined.

By Hayli Zuccola

On Saturday, May 5, men and women adorned with bright bow ties, extravagant hats, colorful suits and spring-inspired sundresses sipped on mint juleps and devoured pimento cheese biscuits while waiting under an enormous white tent until the starting gates opened and the 144th Kentucky Derby began. For those two minutes, all eyes were drawn to the race—some people were cheering while others couldn’t help but hold their breath. The 20 contenders made their way around the track until the first hoof scraped across the finish line. Justify wins!

The crowd roared with excitement—most of the joy coming from those who won their bets. Although it seems like this moment was captured from the seats at Churchill Downs, in actuality, it all happened at the Oaks Equestrian Center in Lake City during Haven’s Fourth Annual EQUUS, a Kentucky Derby viewing party that is as close to the Derby one can get without heading to Louisville.

Two hundred people attended the first annual EQUUS, and the event raised a total of $20,000. This year, 450 tickets were sold and a total of $56,250 was raised through ticket sales, silent auctions and other donations. These proceeds are used within our five-county area including Columbia, Suwannee, Hamilton, Union and Lafayette.

“It’s an investment in our community and in the growing awareness of Haven’s services,” said Joseph Brooks who is the Director of Business Operations at Haven.

While the most significant part of EQUUS is creating something that benefits an important cause, it’s done in such a one-of-a-kind way that it continues to gain attraction.

Before EQUUS became the prime event in Lake City, Haven established the Derby Dash fundraiser, an antique car show and 5K race held during the horse-racing season and therefore had a light emphasis on the Kentucky Derby. After a while, Haven handed the reins, so to speak, to local citizens in order to try something different that would be a fun and unique way to raise money for Haven’s various programs including patient and family care, transitions and community outreach, advanced care planning, Healing Hearts and Camp Safe Haven.

While most elite fundraisers revolve around a dinner party, the Haven EQUUS Planning Committee took it a step further by incorporating the Kentucky Derby into the mix, complete with themed food, music, horses, and a live showing of the race all set inside the Oaks Equestrian Center—a location so fitting, the party was bound to be a success.

—Joseph Brooks

It’s exciting to be around over 400 people cheering for a horse race.

It makes you feel...a little bit like you’re there.

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Once arriving at the equestrian center, guests are escorted on golf carts to the front entrance up the hill. After checking in, patrons bid on silent auction items available throughout the stables ranging from gift baskets to vacations and get their photo taken in front of Churchill Downs at the Derby photo booth or with one of the horses at the venue. Beyond the stables is where the main event takes place—under the big white tent. Tables topped with red and green floral arrangements surround the front stage for live music and a big-screen TV viewing of the race.

Leading up to the renowned Derby, appetizers made their way around the rings of seats, and complimentary beverages continued to flow from glass to glass, one of which was a mint julep saison farmhouse ale provided by Halpatter Brewing Company who has brought samples of a limited edition Derbyesque beer since the second year of EQUUS. This year, Halpatter also donated half of the proceeds made at their brewery from their special mint julep ale to Haven.

If the conventional mint julep doesn’t burn, I mean, quench your taste buds, there were other mixed drinks available for purchase as well as non-alcoholic beverages. Before the race started, guests could bet on which horse they thought would win the Derby. At the end of the race, a winning ticket would be drawn and one lucky person would win a prize.

Patricia Stuart with daughter Magnolia

As 6:46 approached, everyone gathered to their seats, their eyes glued to one of the many televisions displayed around the tent. After a mere two minutes of anticipation and excitement, Justify crossed the muddy finish line while simultaneously breaking the 136-year-old Apollo Curse. The three-year-old Thoroughbred would go on to win the 2018 Triple Crown. Although the race was over, the party certainly wasn’t.

The night wouldn’t be complete without a buffet-style dinner provided

by Relish Catering. Before EQUUS even began, Chef Robbie Thomas set up an outdoor kitchen complete with stoves and a fridge right next

—Melissa Olin Derby Hat Winner

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—Linda Dowling and David Tannebaum Cutest Couple

to the main event, insuring that every delicious entrée was fresh and never ran out. The meal was completed with a choice of Derby pecan pie or a twist on strawberry shortcake. Then came the announcement of the best hat and bow tie winners.

While the event was without a doubt a lively, unmatched experience for all who attended, the main purpose of EQUUS was to raise money for and celebrate everything Haven does for their patients and families, as well as for the community.

To stay up to date on next year’s EQUUS or to purchase tickets, follow Equus - Benefiting Haven Hospice on Facebook or visit beyourhaven. org/equus.

The Fourth Annual EQUUS was sponsored by Odom Moses & Company/Raymond James, Nutrien, All Things Visual, Edward Jones, Relish Catering and the Lake City Medical Center, as well as dozens of “Grandstand,” “Rose” and “Jockey” sponsors.

Summer 2018 | 157

Essential Oils Why We’ve Fallen in Love With Them

By Jeweliana Register

No longer exclusively for wellness gurus, essential oils have been making their way into households across the country in recent years. With so many amazing proposed health benefits, essential oils can change the lives of families all over. Oil users can have unique experiences that make them believers in these little bottles of liquid magic, but each one perhaps has the same theme: essential oils have changed their health for the better.

Afton Brown Young Living

wellnessdropcollective.com aftonmb@gmail.com

Afton Brown, a Young Living distributor and mother of three, describes her family’s journey with essential oils as a pivotal transition into healthy living.

“Oils are at the beginning of my family’s journey into all things natural wellness.

At the time that I started digging into this

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world, our two girls were always sick— ear infections, tummy bugs, and sore throats every few months,” she explains.

“It felt like the norm, but I tell moms now that it is not normal for our kids to be like this… We started using essential oils to change our lives, and my girls went from antibiotics and tubes in their ears to a much healthier immune system.”

Afton explains that when the next ear infection came around, she decided to skip the antibiotics and try a natural remedy. Their family chose to eat healthy, use lavender and basil oils around their girls’ ears, and stay home to allow time to

recover. After that, there were no more ear infections. While they believe that antibiotics and medications are great tools, the Brown family was ecstatic to discover that oils could launch their journey into living healthy, natural lifestyles.

A lot of people always say that they don’t know how to use them or how to get started, and with over 200 different oils, you’re not going to know it all. I don’t know it all. You can get a guide book, research the oils and ask for advice.

—Afton Brown Lauranell Thomas, wellness advocate and nurse of over 30 years, explains that DōTerra essential oils came into her life at just the right time and has been a passion of hers since day one. Lauranell shares that during a time of difficult grief and sadness after losing her parents, she found the comfort and emotional support of essential oils.

THE

TOP

5

Essential Oils Lauranell Thomas

Nurse/DōTerra Wellness Advocate

lbrythomas@hotmail.com 407-928-2824

So, how exactly do these little bottles of oils make such a large impact? The trick is to use certified pure, therapeutic grade oils that are safe to consume. Oils can be used in a multitude of different ways, from aromatherapy, topical application, and ingestion. These oils affect the body on a cellular level, meaning they can assist the body with a plethora of emotional and physical concerns. As the oil community jokes, if you have an issue, there’s an oil for that.

“A lot of people always say that they don’t know how to use them or how to get started, and with over 200 different oils, you’re not going to know it all. I don’t know it all. You can get a guide book, research the oils and ask for advice,” Afton explains. “If you just use them as

My introduction to DōTerra was on more of an emotional side rather than a physical one. I was able, along with the help of these oils, to come off of every medication that I was on. When something like that happens, it stirs a passion in you, and you can’t quiet it.

From then on, it was my heart talking and my drive to help people on that level that pushed me to share my story.

—Lauranell Thomas

you need to, it’s not hard. Get your kit and start diffusing. Diffuse what smells good and what makes you feel good. If you have an ailment that comes along, you’ll learn how to treat it. If you want to replace a toxic cleaner, you’ll learn what to use. What I love so much about oils is that they are these little, teeny tiny bottles that are so potent, and you don’t really need much of it. You can get rid of all that junk in your house and just have those staple items like baking soda and peroxide, and then you mix them with your oils—that is all you need!”

Getting started is often the hardest part of anything in life, and diving into this world of essential oils is no exception. If you are feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to start, consider investing in a starter kit and learning about each oil as you go.

“If you are skeptical, I get it, but what do you have to lose? You’ll probably save an awful lot of money, and you will be learning how to take care of yourself from the inside out,” Lauranell suggests.

“If you are unsure about something, ask questions, get educated and have someone there to answer your questions.

I have watched people’s lives change.

Again, it goes back to it changing my life, so why would I not share that gift with someone?”

Whether you are looking to make a lifestyle change or simply find a natural solution to a problem area in your life, consider investing in pure, therapeutic grade essential oils. The decision to take care of your mind and body is one that you will never regret, and the difference they make may amaze you!

S TA R T H E R E !

With so many essential oils on the market, you may be wondering where to even begin.

Check out these favorites to see what they can do for you.

1. Lavender: Known for its calming scent, lavender is used to help with sleepless nights, enhance circulation and relieve stress. Lavender is also used to help with stretch marks, scarring, minor burns and other skin conditions.

2. Peppermint: Not only used to freshen breath, peppermint is used to soothe upset stomach, support respiratory health, relieve aches, and keep creepy crawlers at bay!

3. Lemon: This citrus oil has been known to aid with anxiety relief, combat acne, increase circulation and promote a healthy digestive system.

4. Frankincense: This oil has been used to reduce inflammation and provide immune and mood support.

5. Rosemary: This essential oil promotes digestion, supports respiratory function, relieves tension, and can be added to shampoo to promote healthy hair.

This information has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to be substituted for professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or cure.

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