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Are you a candidate? Schedule a free consultation to find out!
In a Montessori Early Childhood classroom, highly trained teachers create a customized environment crafted to your child’s unique abilities, interests, and learning style.
This approach to learning is “hands-on.” Dr. Maria Montessori believed (and modern science has affirmed) that moving and learning are inseparable. In the prepared classroom, children work with specially designed manipulative materials that invite exploration and engage the senses in the process of learning. All learning activities support children in choosing meaningful and challenging work at their own interest and ability level. This child-directed engagement strengthens motivation, supports attention, and encourages independence with responsibility. Uninterrupted blocks of work time (typically 2+ hours in length) allow children to work at their own pace and fully immerse themselves in an activity without interruption. Your child’s work cycle involves selecting an activity, performing it for as long as it remains interesting, cleaning up the activity and returning it to the shelf, and making another work choice. This cycle respects individual variations in the learning process, facilitates the development of coordination, concentration, independence, and a sense of order while facilitating your child’s assimilation of information.
A Welcoming Space
A Montessori Early Childhood classroom feels more like a home than a school. You’ll see children happily working individually or in small groups, at tables or on the floor near small mats that delineate their own space. Specially designed learning materials are displayed on open shelves, easily accessible to the children. Classrooms also include low sinks accessible to the children, child-sized furniture, cozy spaces for quiet reading, reachable shelves with work available for free choice, and child-sized kitchen utensils so the students can eat, prepare, and clean up their snack on their own. Teachers gently guide students to help maintain the organization and cleanliness of this environment to keep it orderly and attractive and to help your child understand how to care for materials and clean up after themselves—skills you will be happy to observe carrying over in your home.
The Pets and Kids Issue!
Summer is winding down, kids are getting back to school, and soon fall will be here. Since we associate the “back to school” season with kids, our August issue is dedicated to these cutest members of our community— our kids and our pets. This issue is definitely one of my favorites. Having always had a home full of boisterous pets, I continue to be fascinated by the special bond between our kids and our pets, and the love and joy they bring to our world.
They both have a way of making us feel special, and their loyalty and sense of wonder is refreshing. In this issue, we take you into the lives of some of our local business owners and the children and pets they cherish. What our children and our pets all share in common is that they need us. They need our care, and our attention and intention shapes how they are raised and who they become. You’ll hear from pet care and nutrition experts, and take a peek into the world of the Pepedogs story.
As always, don’t forget to check out our Local Favorite Picks, our Calendar of events with new fall happenings, and all the fun and worthwhile activities going on around town in our City Scene.
We hope this issue inspires you to pour a little extra into the kids and pet kids in your life this month. And see you around town!
Elizabeth Mueller | elizabeth.mueller@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Makayla Richardson
makayla.richardson@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Tanya Consaul | tconsaul@gmail.com
Tyler Laborde | tjosephlaborde@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS
Gainesville Woman's Club, Donna Cohen, Angelik Hands, Ann Miller-French, Scuola Pizza, Tanya Consaul Photography, Club Synergie, Two Men and a Truck, Florida Saltwater Flats Fishing Charters, Jordyn Chiodo of Jordyn Chiodo Photography, Humane Society of North Central Florida, Shakespeare Animal Fund, Shoppes at Thornebrook, Susan Hicks, Rabell Realty, MobileDumps, Solar Impact, Campana's Comfort Solutions Heating & Air Conditioning, Carson Spring Wildlife Conservation Foundation, EnCore Pilates, The Hippodrome Theatre, Latin Chapter of Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce, PPIR At Your Place, Linda Rocha, Alachua County Hospitality Council, Top Hog BBQ, Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Han's Restaurant and Night Club, Kenny Vogel, Earthwise Pet Jonesville, Ronald McDonald House of North Central Florida, Heartwood Soundstage, La Fiesta Mexican Grille, High Springs, Scuola Pizza, PRP Regeneration Specialists, MobileDumps, Club Pilates Gainesville, Cabi Style with Leza, Adrienne Fletcher, Lisa Jordan, Allison Katherine, Momentum Rehab and Chiropractic, James Thompson, Spray Net First Coast, Katrina Gomez, PepeDogs, J & K Canine Academy, Wendy Wiggs, Leza Mueller, Christina Miller, David Johnston, & Koss Olinger.
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
Visit rmhcncf.org for more information.
Experience our non-stop service between
Experience our non-stop service between Gainesville and Fort Lauderdale! Gainesville and Fort Lauderdale!
city scene
1: Introduction to Light Language Workshop with Ann of Angelik Hands, LLC, at Sound Awake Collective 2: Donor Legacy Celebration! Gainesville Woman's Club acknowledging City Designated Historic Tree w/ Dave Conser, City Arborist! 3-5: Donor Legacy Celebration! Gainesville Woman's Club. 6-7: Opening Night at the Hippodrome Theatre: The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
8: Great Latin Chapter of Greater Gainesville Chamber Of Commerce meeting event! 9-10: Great PPIR At Your Place Event at The Best Restoration 11-12: Great Alachua County Hospitality Council meeting at Top Hog BBQ at Oaks Mall! 13-14: Congratulations to Huddys Escape Gainesville on their recent ribbon cutting: Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce!
One-Day Room Transformations
Want
business monthly
Gainesville Woman's Club Hosts ‘Preserving the Legacy Celebration Reception.
Gainesville Woman’s Club thanked Legacy Society contributors for their gifts of $90,000. The Florida Designated Historical Clubhouse, built 1961, is a Gainesville landmark and community treasure, and rental venue for community events. GWC President Renae Clements and MC Ilene Silverman, spoke of memorable moments and impact of 200 GWC members’ community volunteer service. Dave Conser, City Arborist, recognized GWC for preservation of the magnificent Twentieth Century Oak on the West University Avenue landscape.
Animal Communication & Animal Reiki with Ann Miller-French
Experience a one-of-a-kind remote session with Ann of Angelik Hands, LLC. Ann is a naturally gifted Animal Communicator and a certified and experienced Reiki Master. She is a 'voice' for the animals and has been working with pets and their human companions for many years. She specializes in PTSD, depression, anxiety, pain management, and more. Ann is also a Reiki volunteer at Jungle Friends. Please contact Ann at 414-429-5117, Newberry, AngelikHands.com.
Join us Tuesday through Sunday for Scuola Pizza's Daily Specials. Tuesday is Senior Night. 25% OFF for Seniors
Wednesday is Carryout Special: Large 2 topping pizza & Large Salad $25 Thursday is $10 OFF ANY Family Pack: Take Out Only. Four (4) Hours Notice Please Friday is Complimentary Appetizer with the purchase of a bottle of wine Saturday & Sunday is Pizza Party Special: Buy 2 Pizzas get 1 FREE & 2 Liter of Soda.
Photography by Gainesville Woman's Club
Photography by Ann Miller-French
Photography by Tanya Consaul Photography
$89 CO2 Facial at Club Synergie
Experience the latest treatment in Korean skincare at Club Synergie for only $89 (normally $200)! The CO2 Facial, now FDA-approved in America, infuses carbon dioxide into the skin to encourage an increased flow of oxygen. Benefits include deep hydration, skin regeneration, tissue tightening and brightening, as well as a reduction in the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and darkness under the eyes. Call/text 352-214-0094 and mention this offer when booking. Offer expires 9/30. Scan to
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Moving Tips for Furry Friends
Moving can be stressful for our four-legged family members but keeping toys, beds, and treats handy helps reduce anxiety. Crating or restricting pets to one area allows them to safely relax away from the commotion of move day. Ensure pet IDs and microchips are up to date in case your pet accidentally slips out. After the hustle of moving, take a break to explore your new surroundings. See the Movers Who Care® difference https://twomenandatruck.com/movers/fl/gainesville
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Florida Saltwater Flats Fishing Charters
A great option to spend time with kids is on the water fishing and or scalloping in Steinhatchee. And to make it even more enjoyable, hire a guide. Then Mom and Dad can both relax and enjoy their day without all the hassle. Steinhatchee offers beautiful scenery as well as history. It's almost like stepping back in time. For the pet lovers there are nature trails, as well as dog friendly beaches. Inshoreredfish.com
Photography by Two Men and a Truck
Photography by Florida Saltwater Flats Fishing Charters
“Raise the Woof”: Fixing Leaking Roofs to Save Lives
The Humane Society of North Central Florida (HSNCF) is committed to creating a community where every pet finds a forever home. Our dedicated team of volunteers and staff advocate to save lives and end the needless euthanasia of healthy and treatable pets. Through our efforts, we connect pets with loving owners, promote responsible pet ownership, and provide essential care to animals requiring assistance. Visit www.humanesocietyncfl.org for ways to make a lasting difference and save lives.
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Shakespeare Animal Fund is here to help our beloved pets.
Shakespeare Animal Fund—a non-profit dedicated to animals, helps pay emergency veterinary bills for elderly, disabled and others who can’t afford help when their pets are suffering. Thousands of people do without food and medicine to try to get help for their beloved pets. That’s where we step in and stop the suffering. Want to help: Go to shakespeareanimalfund.org or email jwebb.shakefund@gmail.com
Join us at the Shoppes At Thornebrook's Tailgate Party
Join the Shoppes at Thornebrook as they celebrate the return of the football season and wish the Gators a successful season on Friday August 29, 2024 from 4pm to 8pm. Fun for the whole family! There will be a variety of food trucks, music with Kiss 105.3, and pop-ups from your favorite local vendors. Interested vendors can apply here: https://forms.gle/hVeiAtjekrZTt7oX6
Photography by Jordyn Chiodo of Jordyn Chiodo Photography
Photography by Shakespeare Animal Fund
Susan Hicks, Incoming President for Women’s Council of Realtors Gainesville
Meet Susan Hicks, Realtor with Rabell Realty & incoming President for Women’s Council of Realtors Gainesville-Alachua 2025.
Susan’s colleagues describe her as approachable, personable, and authentic. Susan credits her love for the industry & community, her desire to foster relationships, and her goal to elevate Realtors in a positive light with a creative & collaborative approach as reasons she became involved in a leadership role with the WCR Board after 7 successful years in Real Estate.
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MobileDumps is proud to be part of Gainesville's business community.
MobileDumps appreciates the warm welcome from Gainesville. We have enjoyed participating in the local charities and events, and to better serve you have recently invested in two new 16-yard trailers (That’s Max with two of our kids in the photo). Our main goal is to provide excellent customer service and streamline your operations. Let us handle the dump runs while your team focuses on the job and secures more work! Please visit us online at: mobiledumps.com
Solar Impact: North Central Florida's Top Solar Company
Solar Impact is a local residential and commercial solar system design-buildmaintain company, serving Gainesville and the surrounding area including Ocala, Newberry, Jonesville and High Springs for the last 17 years. We'd love to help you make the switch to clean, affordable solar energy. Contact us at (352) 338-8221 for a free expert evaluation and solar solution!
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Photography by Mobile Dumps
Photography by Solar Impact
Campana's Comfort Solutions Heating & Air Conditioning
Campana's Comfort Solutions Heating & Air Conditioning had the opportunity to tour the Trane/American Standard manufacturing facility in Tyler, Texas, gaining hands-on experience with top-rated equipment. American Standard is ranked number one by Consumer Digest, reflecting the quality we strive for. We were honored to bring our install manager, Garret, who has over 23 years of HVACR experience. His expertise is invaluable to our team. Schedule your free estimate today and experience our exceptional service!
Help us choose a name for our NEW little Lioness.
Summer is baby season at Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation and we have the pleasure of announcing the arrival of our baby white lion born March 4th, 2024. We also have lots of baby lemurs that guests can hold and interact with. Guide Only Tours are Saturdays and Thursdays at 10 am. Please contact us at (352) 468-2827 for Tours & name ideas for our precious new little Lioness. https://www.carsonspringswildlife.org/
Do you know local Olympians or Team USA Olympic hopefuls?
Do you know any local Olympians or Team USA Olympic hopefuls? Have you ever seen them training? Most of us wouldn’t choose their lifestyle for 30 days, let alone years on end. Let’s unite around greatness, in the spirit of sport, and in the desire to support the dream of every single one of our hometown heroes and Gator greats, whatever their summer Olympic event. Go Team USA!
Photography by Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation
Keep your pet healthy with a little help from locally owned Earthwise Pet Jonesville!
Take a closer look at the label on your pet’s food and treats. Do you see ingredients like corn products, by-products, brewers rice, soy, ground pecan shells or BHA? If so, it’s time to make a change! Visit our store for personalized nutritional advice, and we’ll show you why these ingredients are harmful and how to choose healthier options. Discover how high-quality, ethically sourced food can transform your pet’s health, reduce vet visits and be affordable. We have countless success stories of pets thriving after a diet change. Come in today and let us help your furry friend live a healthier, happier life!
https://jonesville.earthwisepet.com/jonesville/
ARTICLE BY KENNY VOGEL PHOTOGRAPHY
BY EARTHWISE PET JONESVILLE
Local Favorites
SMALL BUSINESSES ARE THE HEARTBEAT OF OUR COMMUNITY! SHOP LOCAL!
PRP Regeneration Specialists: Services
PRP Regeneration Specialists / Orthopedics, Aesthetics, and Health & Wellness Regenerative Medicine / Located in Jonesville, FL / 352-260-4061 / www.prpregen.com
Scuola Pizza: Daily Specials
Scuola Pizza / Daily Specials Tuesday - Sunday / 5240 NW 34th Blvd Suite A, Gainesville / (352) 451-4122 / https:// scuolapizzagainesville.com/specials/
Club Pilates
Gainesville: Memberships
Club Pilates Gainesville / Memberships for high-quality, life-changing training / https://www.clubpilates.com/location/ gainesville / (352) 559-314
MobileDumps: The Dumpster Rental Alternative
MobileDumps / On-wheels, 14 cubic yards, clean dumpsters, no property damage! / Starting at $299 / (352) 9950066 / www.mobiledumps.com
Cabi Style with Leza: Hostess VIPerks
Cabi Style with Leza / Hostess VIPerk / FREE Fall 24 item when you host a qualifying cabi Fashion experience by August 31st! / elizabethmueller. cabionline.com / 352-359-6023
Lisa Jordan
PASSIONATE ABOUT CARING FOR YOUR PETS.
ARTICLE
AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA JORDAN
WHAT LED YOU TO WORKING WITH DOGS?
I started in Charleston, South Carolina, when I had just gotten out of the U.S. Navy in the 90s.
I had the opportunity to work with rescue groups to do emergency grooming on pets. And work with special needs pets and terrified clients. It gives me a warm feeling when they come back and they see a happy, comfortable little dog. I love helping pets.
Some of my favorite times are working with show dogs. I have always had a competitive spirit. Competing at the national dog grooming competitions really helped me hone my skills.
Before owning my own business, I was a store opener, grooming manager for PetSmart and also their Southeast regional trainer.
While other business owners find it challenging to hire people who care, I have been fortunate to have the most amazing ladies who care and want to achieve the highest standard in our industry.
After 30 years, I have never lost my passion for the industry. I love the artistry. I love exceeding my client’s expectations. I love the great reveal and watching my client’s eyes when they see how beautiful their dogs can look.
DO YOU HAVE A MENTOR?
Bobby Ellis was my mentor. She owned The Grooming Boutique and was one of the most talented groomers I have ever had the pleasure to know. She passed away a few weeks ago, but I will always remember her sweet soul.
FAVORITE QUOTE
My favorite quote is “Perfection is our lowest standard.”
https://www.naturespetgrooming.com/about-us
ARTICLE BY ALLISON KATHERINE
Dog’s Life It’s a
FROM RESCUE TO RANGER
As a young pup in a pet rescue I never imagined having the life I have now. I was a shy little girl who dreamt of finding my person. The moment I met my mom, I knew my life would be forever changed. I went from being a number in the masses to living the life most dogs dream of— I was queen of the farm. I loved lounging around with the kitties but longed for more interaction, more adventure. When Mom took me to her office at Momentum Rehab and Chiropractic the first time, I knew I’d found my calling. Making people smile, sharing the love, made me so happy. That’s when I earned the title of Puplick Relations Officer. Now I don my uniform and enthusiastically head to the office to brighten people’s days with hugs and kisses.
In my time off, I enjoy hiking, biking and traveling with my family. I was bestowed the prestigious honor of Bark Ranger at Zion National Park by Ranger Bill. I wear my badge proudly as I travel the country exploring state and national parks. Whether it’s a long road trip or a weekend camping, taking in new sights and smells is such a beautiful adventure. From where I started to where I am, I know I’m a lucky puppy. I make sure Mom knows I’m grateful. I hope everyone takes time to appreciate their gifts daily too.
https://rehabandchiropractic.com/
Fostering Strong Family Bonds
The Joys and Lessons of Growing Up with Pets.
In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, pets bring a unique and heartwarming joy, especially to children. As a parent of two young kids, a seven-year-old boy and a three-yearold girl, I’ve seen firsthand the profound impact our two dogs and flock of chickens have had on their development and happiness. From the wagging tails that greet us every morning to the gentle clucking of our hens, these animals have become cherished members of our family, teaching my children valuable lessons about empathy, responsibility, and the wonders of nature.
EMOTIONAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL BENEFITS
Pets provide a constant source of companionship and emotional support. Our dogs have been a source of comfort and joy for my children, especially during tough times like starting school or dealing with changes.
TEACHING RESPONSIBILITY AND EMPATHY
Caring for pets is an excellent way to instill a sense of responsibility and empathy in children. Every morning, my seven-year-old son eagerly helps feed the chickens and walks the dogs, learning the
importance of routine and care. My daughter loves gathering eggs from the chicken coop, a task she takes very seriously.
PHYSICAL HEALTH BENEFITS
Pets naturally encourage children to be more active. Our family enjoys weekend hikes with our dogs, which keeps us all active and healthy. These hikes are not just exercise; they are an opportunity for our children to explore nature and bond with us and the pets.
SOCIAL AND EDUCATIONAL ADVANTAGES
Interacting with pets can boost children’s confidence and social skills. Our small chicken coop has turned into a mini classroom, where my children learn about biology, responsibility, and the environment.
At Spray Net First Coast, we believe in fostering strong family bonds and community connections, much like the ones we build with our pets. Our commitment to these values is reflected in everything we do, from our pet-friendly products to our family-oriented services.
OUR HOLISTIC APPROACH CREATES A LANGUAGE AND SUCCESSFULLY INTEGRATES EVERY MEMBER OF THE HOUSEHOLD.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA GOMEZ
“Our house has a small yard, can we still have a dog?”, “We are expecting our first baby, will our dog accept our little one?”, “We are a busy family of 4, are we ready for a dog?”, or “We like to travel, what is the best breed for us?”
These are all very valid concerns and, in many cases, require professional help to avoid common mistakes that could make a longawaited dream quickly turn into a nightmare!
Selection of the most suitable breed for the family dynamics is very important. Sometimes the dog chooses us in some magical way and we feel an
immediate connection. In other cases we may spend endless hours researching or talking to friends about their experiences.
In most cases, it will be a 12 to 16 year commitment when bringing a pet into your family. Planning and taking under consideration size, shedding, activity level and natural instincts are just some of the most basic characteristics you should consider.
Bringing a baby home when you already have a pet can be challenging. Our world is turned upside down when we bring a bundle of joy from the hospital. Imagine from our dog’s perspective, feeling things are changing in their pack and they are no longer the
center of attention. We work with families to navigate the process together and make it as seemingly easy as possible.
Having a dog should be one of the most beautiful experiences in a family’s life. Learning life lessons such as loyalty, compassion, forgiveness, patience, gratitude and unconditional love are some of the few that a dog can bring to our family. PepeDogs has worked with thousands of families for over 25 years. Our expertise provides us the unmatched ability to guide families through this amazing journey gracefully.
https://www.jkk9.com/
Platelet Rich Plasma for Knee Pain
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is biologic therapy that uses highly concentrated platelets derived from a person’s own blood to stimulate natural healing. The blood is centrifuged in the providers’ office using FDA-approved equipment which concentrates the platelets to treat orthopedic injuries and conditions.
PRP can be an effective and safe treatment for young adults and athletes with tendon, ligament, and joint injuries that do not want the downtime or risk of surgery. Some athletes are using PRP to strengthen overused tendons to avoid injury that will inhibit playing time.
Platelet Rich Plasma can stimulate natural collagen, elastin, decrease inflammation, and improve scar tissue, blood flow, and joint lubrication. Benefits after a PRP treatment can take three to twelve weeks and may lead to permanent tissue healing. PRP is especially good for partial tendon and meniscus tears that don’t require surgery.
Case study: 22-year-old with chronic right knee pain. This person injured her right knee playing volleyball in high school and damaged her meniscus. She had arthroscopic surgery in 2019 but did not have any relief from the pain which was affecting her daily life. She had moderate to severe pain showing houses as a real estate agent, going up and down stairs, riding horses, and wakeboarding. Nine months later this is her testimony regarding her Platelet Rich Plasma Treatment: “I had two PRP injections in my knee. Now I’m pain free and back to the activities I love to do!!
To learn more visit: PRPregen.com
Wendy Wiggs APRN-C
Family
Making memories with our families.
1. CAMPANA’S COMFORT SOLUTIONS WELCOMES THEIR NEW BABY GIRL
2. NATURE’S PET DAY SPA & GROOMING
3. SPRAY NET FAMILY
4. MOBILE DUMPS FAMILY
5. CLUB PILATES MASCOT, ZOEY
6. ALEX LEGGETT, SAM MUELLER, & JAQ MUELLER, SISTERS
7. LA FIESTA MEXICAN GRILLE’S PUP, HERSEY
8. HUMANE SOCIETY OF NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA
9. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK GREETERS
10. EARTHWISE JONESVILLE GREETER
LOVE, PETS, AND THE CIRCLE OF LIFE
ARTICLE BY CHRISTINA MILLER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID JOHNSTON
There are so many benefits children can receive by caring for a pet. The amount of love and joy that can be experienced by owning a pet is only matched by the innocence of childhood. For children, pets can also supply many opportunities that assist in their development and help grow their emotional intelligence as well as teach them practical life skills.
A pet’s life span is naturally shorter than a human’s affording children the opportunity to come to grips with the reality of the circle of life.
The lesson that comes with the loss of a pet is an opportunity that can be hard to duplicate outside of the real experience. Think about the many books of your childhood that contained an animal as one of the main characters. This includes those where the animal is a pet such as Where the Red Fern Grows. The outcomes of these stories can be heartbreaking on some levels, yet
they live on as classics that enable children to “try on” different experiences that can help prepare them for life. Responsibility, for example, cannot be learned from a book. Owning and caring for animals facilitates an understanding of nature and all that comes with the mechanics of the food chain. Judging nature with a tender heart alone can form misconceptions in a child’s thinking. For example, how often do we root for the hunted to escape the hunter when watching an animal documentary? Few would admit to cheering for the eagle to snatch the little furry animal, yet we do not want the eagle to starve either. Growing emotional intelligence takes experience and time. With regards to children, it takes guidance, and love. Caring for a pet works wonders too
Christina Miller Owner/Head of School Millhopper Montessori School
Christina Miller Owner/ Head of School Millhopper Montessori School
INVESTING IN YOURSELF AND YOUR FUTURE
Investing in yourself and your future requires discipline and commitment, whether it's your health, relationships, career, or your finances. When it comes to investing financially, many people think of retirement, but the idea of retirement planning can feel overwhelming. Instead, try to reframe your mindset and think of retirement as the longest vacation you will ever take. You invest time and money into planning a vacation because you're excited about the possibilities ahead, and retirement planning should be no different. Start by asking yourself three key questions: when do you want to retire, what will you do in retirement, and how much will it cost? These answers provide a great starting point for your plan. Once you've created a clear roadmap and decided on solid longterm investments to grow your wealth, it is important to stick with them. This requires discipline and commitment. The hard part is staying focused on saving and investing your earnings to maximize your experience during retirement. When your investments
and goals are aligned, day-to-day variations in the market may become nothing more than background noise.
We suggest you start by investing time into planning your financial future. Determine how much money you need to invest to reach your goals, and then make investment and asset allocation decisions accordingly. The specific asset allocation decisions can become easy once the planning is in place. If you're feeling daunted, a fee-based fiduciary can help you build a plan and guide you through the process to ensure you're investing wisely to accomplish your goals.
Securities offered through Valmark Securities, Inc. Member FINRA/ SIPC. Advisory Services offered through Koss Olinger Consulting, LLC. An SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Koss Olinger and Valmark are separate entities.
ARTICLE BY KOSS OLINGER
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL
EVENTS
DAILY
La Fiesta Mexican Grille is offering catering!
9513 NW 39th Ave, Gainesville, Florida 32606
La Fiesta Mexican Grille now offers catering. Call at least 48 hours in advance to order or call to schedule an event at the restaurant. Determine your menu for catering or events when ordering and scheduling. (352) 335-8484
https://www.facebook.com/ lafiestamexicangrille/
AUGUST EVENTS
Heartwood Soundstage
August Events
619 South Main Street, Gainesville, Florida
Matt Mason. Friday August 9th. Doors open 7 pm Show 8 pm. Indoor Show. All Ages. Standing with limited seating.
Nibiru w/ Apex & Bad Bax. Saturday August 10th Doors at 7 pm. Show at 8 pm. Indoor Show.
Kyran Daniel. Thursday, August 15th. Doors open 6 pm, Show 7 pm. Indoor Show. All Ages. https://heartwoodsoundstage.com/ upcoming-events/ for Tickets.
EVERY 3RD SATURDAY OF THE MONTH
Toddler Time Community Event (Every 3rd Saturday)
18555 High Springs Main Street, High Springs, FL 32643
Parents and Tots (kids of all ages really) can join us for a morning of creative play! Expect hands-on materials and mess! Everything is provided, including coffee for the parents! Community events are free and open to the public - we just encourage people to come out and create with us! Good News Arts (706) 254-6750 for more information.
Makeup Permanent Makeup
Microblading
Combo Brow
Lip Blushing
Powder Brow Permanent Eyeliner
Tattoo Removal
Eyelashes Eyelashes
Lash Extensions
Lash Lift
Lash Tint
Falsies
Eyebrows Eyebrows
Brow Shape
Brow Tint
Brow Stain
Brow Lamination
AUGUST 4TH, 11TH, 18TH AND 25TH
Family Days at The Hatchetbury Axe Throwing Bar 213 NW 8th Avenue, Gainesville, FL | 1:00 PM
Join The Hatchetbury for Family Days, August 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th from 1 pm to 7 pm. Get 50% off for the entire family with at least one thrower, age 17 or less. Use code: FAM50 at checkout to get this discount. Book ahead by calling (352) 717AXES, to avoid disappointment or waiting.
The 7th Annual Gainesville Indoor Pickleball Showcase benefiting ElderCare of Alachua Count is bouncing into town August 16-18, 2024! Join us at the Alachua County Sports and Events Center, where every lob, smash, and volley helps us raise crucial funds to enhance services for our seniors. Please contact Emily Grissom, at 352-338-9300, or at egrissom@gainesvillesportscommission.com to register/learn more.
AUGUST 17TH
RED SHOE AFFAIR
EXACTECH ARENA AT THE STEPHEN C. O’CONNELL CENTER | 6:00 PM
The Eleventh Annual Red Shoe Affair promises to be an extraordinary evening in support of Ronald McDonald House families and in celebration of our new house. The festivities will be packed with a silent & live auction, heart-warming family stories, exquisite cuisine as well as open bars, dancing, and much more! Sponsors/Tickets Contact us at 352-374-4404. https://secure. qgiv.com/for/rmhconcf/event/886629/
CONTINUED
AUGUST 17TH
UF Family Fishing Day
7922 NW 71st Street | 8:00 AM
Bring your friends and family for a fun morning of catch-and-release fishing with UF Fishing for Success. All are welcome, especially novice anglers. Use our poles and tackle, or bring your own. Catch bass, catfish, bluegill, and more! From 8 am to Noon. For more information (https://ffgs.ifas.ufl.edu/extension/fishing-for-success/) or contact program coordinator, Bethan Gillett (bgillett@ufl.edu). Admission is free, donations are welcome.
AUGUST 30TH - SEPTEMBER 2ND
2024 Labor Day Family Camp Weekend
Kulaqua Retreat and Conference Center
Must register to attend: https://www.kulaqua.com/2024-labor-day-family-camp.../
Get Ready for a Weekend of Fun, Friendship, and Fellowship!
We’re gearing up for a fantastic Spirit-filled, inspirational weekend, and we want you right in the middle of all the fun! Join us as we create unforgettable moments together. Can’t wait to share this time with you! Kulaqua Retreat and Conference Center (386) 454-1351.
AUGUST 31ST
2024 Season Opener Game for the Florida Gators
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, Gainesville, FL | 3:30 PM
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium will be filled with fans for the 2024 Season Opener Game for the Florida Gators versus the Miami FL Hurricanes. Game starts at 3:30 pm in The Swamp and will be on ABC/ESPN3. Tickets are available at https://floridagators.com/feature/football-season-tickets
SEPTEMBER 16TH - OCTOBER 31ST
Join Movers Who Care® Working to Tackle Food Insecurity
Boxes Across Gainesville
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® will donate, deliver and set up boxes at apartment complexes and local businesses that are members of the NCFAA across Gainesville. On November 1st the boxes are collected and delivered to the Weekend Hunger Backpack Program with Catholic Charities where they weigh and distribute the donations to the local community. Email anyse.medwedeff@twomen.com to help.
SEPTEMBER 28TH - 29TH
Save the Date: Shoppes at Thornebrook 39th Annual Fall Arts Festival
2441 NW 43rd Street
Join us on September 28th and 29th, from 10 AM to 5 PM, both Saturday and Sunday. It’s a weekend of artistic inspiration, culinary delights, and community spirit you won’t want to miss!
Location: Shoppes At Thornebrook, Gainesville, FL Don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate the arts and support talented local artists. We can’t wait to see you there!
DECEMBER 7TH
SAVE THE DATE! Benefit for Shakespeare Animal Fund
Swamp Head Brewery
December 7, Swamp Head Brewery sponsors the 2nd Annual Holiday Costume Pageant, a fun event for dogs and their people, to benefit Shakespeare Animal Fund. There’ll be silent auction items, dog games, costume contests, a raffle for your dog’s face on a can of beer, a free photo with Santa Claus, PRIZES too! Learn more at shakespeareanimalfund.org or email jwebb.shakefund@gmail.com.
