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In this issue and in the true spirit of the season, we shine a light on our people and businesses that need a little extra. Our area’s “Hurricane Teams” of Hometown Heroes jumped right in to help our community and our neighboring areas to rebuild from the double whammy of two back-to-back hurricanes! Also, our City Lifestyle National Giving Campaign is once again “Making Spirits Bright” and is in full swing calling for nominations for those in our communities who can use that extra help as well. Please take a minute to check this out and see how you can nominate any person or family in need.
This month we also highlight all the many events and activities our area has to offer that helps spread holiday cheer, including our Shop Local/Local Favorites pages which showcase local businesses and their products, selections, and services.
My hope for us all this season is to feel joy, kindness, love and peace. Let’s come together and help out and give back where we can, and enjoy this magical time.
Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and see you around town!
RYNNI HENDERSON, PUBLISHER
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Rynni Henderson | rynni.henderson@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Elizabeth Mueller | elizabeth.mueller@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Tyler Laborde | TJosephLaborde@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Gainesville Area Women's Network (GAWN), Leza Mueller, Laura Bialeck, Life South Gainesville, Ruth Dean, Escapology Escape Rooms Gainesville, PRP Regeneration Specialists, Kasi Gizzie, Italian Tile Imports, Rayna Spellman, Matheson History Museum, Joanna Talbot, Campana's Comfort Solutions, Mobile Dumps, Jon Bernard, Bin There Dump That North Central Florida, Sarah Karremans, Ryan Smith, Pavlov Media, Heart Mind Healing, Caitlyn Adams, Shelley Vickers, Shoppes at Thornbrook, Oaks Veterinary Hospital, Ashlea F. Crawford, Bluehour Photography, Edo Sushi & Hibachi, DR Horton, Linda Rocha, Millhopper Family Dentistry, Rynni Henderson, Carson Springs Wildlife Sanctuary, Captain Brady, Ann Miller-French, Club Synergie, Walker Furniture, Danielle Whitslar, Jaquline Mueller, Todd Martin, The Home Place, Fannie Lin, Michelle McElroy, La Fiesta Mexican Grille, Jane Osmond, Sweetberries, Scuola Pizza, Angelik Hands, John F. Crawford Homes, Shawn Morel, Christine Miller, Millhopper Montessori School, LLC, Club Pilates, Corrina French, Samantha Howell, Freddie Wehbe, Make It Happen Marketing, CycleBar, Joanne Edde, First Federal Bank, Gratium Wealth, Alachua County Hospitality Council, Clay Electric, University of Florida Performing Arts.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
1: The Home Place carries mahjong merchandise, offers classes with a certified instructor and game nights. 2-4: Congratulations to Edo Sushi & Hibachi for their Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting. 5-6: We do love to give and receive door prizes at GAWN: Gainesville Area Women's Network! 7: Thank you to DR Horton - Avalon Woods for hosting a Business After Hours.
8-10: Thank you to DR Horton - Avalon Woods for hosting a Business After Hours. 11: Congratulations Sighle! After 37 years working at Mac’s today is Sighle's last. Enjoy your retirement! 12: Congratulations Joanne Edde First Federal Bank for winning a Wes Skiles Water Stewardship Award. 13: Celebrated Gratium Wealth Planning Ribbon Cutting with the Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce. 14: Alachua County Hospitality Council Fall/Halloween themed meeting.
A Gainesville holiday tradition continues December 7 with the annual Operation Santa Delivery at Santa Fe College.
The free event, that’s sponsored by Santa Fe College, LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, and ShandsCair runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The highlight is Santa’s arrival by helicopter at Santa Fe’s north field.
Community organizations will be offering games and fun activities for kids and opportunities for free photos with Santa.
For more information call LifeSouth at 352-334-1000.
Still planning your holiday or corporate party? Escapology Gainesville offers the perfect venue. You can rent their beautifully decorated space, with or without Escape game experiences. Enjoy a large screen TV with Bluetooth connectivity for music and karaoke, adding extra fun! They also provide a holiday tree ready for you to decorate and the room will be decorated for beautiful holiday photos. Contact Ruth Deane at deanescapology@gmail.com for more information or call (352) 554-4656.
Need a dumpster for your DIY or contractor renovation project? Call Bin There Dump That. An easy-to-use residential friendly design, and driveway protection system. Offering five different sizes of roll off dumpsters,and the right fit for any project! Square dumpsters, double rear loading doors, and ground level loading. Don't strain, stretch or stress trying to lift heavy items into a bulky trailer. Check us out online @ Bin There Dump That NCFL
No matter the size of your project, our design team will be with you every step of the way. Owned and operated by a Gainesville family, our commitment to quality and exceptional customer service have made us a trusted name in our industry and the communities we serve. Experience the beauty and quality of our selections at 2400 NW 10th Street just a short drive away, conveniently located just off of exit 354 in Ocala
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The Board of Directors of the Matheson History Museum is pleased to announce the hiring of Salvatore “Sal” Cumella as the museum’s new executive director. A graduate of the University of Florida, Cumella is the founder and principal planner at Helios Preservation Consulting LLC. Previously, he served as the senior planner for the City of Fernandina Beach and the Historic Preservation Planner for the City of Gainesville. Sal can be reached at 352-378-2280 and SCumella@ mathesonmuseum.org.
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As temperatures drop, make sure your home stays cozy and comfortable throughout the holiday season. Campana's Comfort Solutions Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help you prepare for the cold with reliable heating services. From furnace tune-ups and inspections to emergency repairs, our team ensures your system is operating safely and efficiently. Don’t wait until the chill sets in—contact us at 352-682-1132 to schedule your winter maintenance, and keep your family warm all season long!
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With our new 1-Hour service, we’ll stay on-site while you quickly fill the dumpster—perfect for a fast cleanup before or after your Holiday activities! Our priority is to deliver outstanding customer service and simplify your project. Let us handle the dump runs so you can stay focused on the job. Please visit us online at mobiledumps.com or call 352-317-9515
Pavlov Media's high-speed fiber internet will Light Up Your Life!
Gainesville City Lifestyle welcomes Pavlov Media to our community partners! Pavlov Media now offers customized packages to meet your unique Internet needs. No matter what package you choose, you will receive the following features and benefits with Pavlov Media: Speeds up to 8 GBPS; Unlimited data; No Contracts; Free Installation. Don't delay – sign up now for reliable connections, blazing-fast speeds and added security. Reach out to 888-799-7249 customerservice@pavlovmedia.com to learn more!
As the holidays approach, it's easy to feel overwhelmed, but our offerings provide a space for relaxation and connection. Whether you’re interested in meditation, mindfulness, or energy healing, our expert-led sessions are perfect for grounding yourself during this busy time. We also have a selection of gifts for treating yourself or checking loved ones off your shopping list. Visit us today and make self-care a priority this season! heartmindgnv.com
Come network with us at our GAWN Holiday Showcase Event!
Join us for the GAWN Holiday Showcase on December 4th! Network, enjoy appetizers, shop local vendors, and enter our raffle supporting the Displaced Homemakers Program. Don't miss out on exciting door prizes, holiday cheer, and connecting with fellow professionals. Be sure to bring plenty of business cards! Register today at www.gawn.org for a fun-filled event with food, networking, and festive spirit.
Support your local community by shopping The Shoppes at Thornebrook!
Local businesses are the heart of our economy, and when you buy from them, you're not just purchasing unique, quality gifts—you’re helping sustain jobs and foster creativity. The Shoppes at Thornebrook offers a wide variety of artisanal products, perfect for thoughtful gift-giving. By choosing local, you’re making a positive impact on your neighbors and the environment. Join us for the Holiday Market Friday December 6th 4-8pm! Visit https://shoppesatthornebrook.com/ and make this holiday season truly special!
Meet the Newest Team Member at PRP Regeneration Specialists!
We are very excited to introduce the newest team member, Michelle Beaver. Michelle is a Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing(MSN) and board certification in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care. She is excellent in patient education, preventative care, and health promotion making her the best at overseeing our Medical Weight Loss Program! If you would like to get an appointment with Michelle at our office please call (352)260-4061.
Welcome Corrina French, Club Pilates' New Studio Manager!
We're excited to have Corrina join our Management Team. Her talents and vision will be a great addition to our Gainesville Studio!
Congratulations to Samantha Howell on her Promotion to Regional Lead Instructor! Samantha will now guide and inspire our instructors across all studios, ensuring an exceptional experience for everyone. Well done, Samantha!
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Meldon Law, the official injury and accident law firm partner of the Florida Gators, is excited to announce a new partner for the Meldon Law Charity Stripe Campaign. For every free throw made by the Gators during the 2024-2025 season, Meldon Law will donate $19.71 to Ronald McDonald House Charities, commemorating the firm’s founding year and continuing its tradition of giving back to the community.
Oaks Veterinary Hospital is now better than ever with a new doctor, new team, and new level of care! We want to celebrate this next chapter with you! Please join us for an Open House on Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm for an interactive hospital tour and fun kid and pet friendly activities! Check out our website: oaksvet.com to learn more or check us out on Facebook - search Oaksvet!
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OUR HEARTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH EVERYONE IMPACTED BY THE HURRICANES.
THROUGH THE EFFORTS OF STUDENTS, RESEARCHERS, FAMILIES AND FRIENDS.
To all the families affected by Hurricane Helene, and to the students and researchers working hard to learn more and protect our communities: our hearts are with you in this challenging time. Your resilience and strength are an inspiration to us all. Together, as a united community, we will support each other in rebuilding and recovery. From neighbors to researchers, we stand ready to offer whatever assistance is needed. Brighter days are ahead, and we are here with you every step of the way.
Hurricane Helene hit the Florida coast on Thursday, September 26th. Hurricane Milton followed right behind and hit the Florida coast on Thursday, October 10th. Clay Electric Cooperative, Inc linemen continued to work until all homes in their area had restored electricity.
Bin There Dump That NCFL: Roll Off Dumpster Rental
Bin There Dump That NCFL / Roll off dumpster rental / Follow us @ Bin There Dump That NCFL. / Call today! (352) 900-5253
Scuola Pizza: Daily & Weekly Specials
Scuola Pizza / Join the list for Weekly Specials and Updates / 5240 NW 34th Blvd Suite A, Gainesville / (352) 451-4122 / https://scuolapizzagainesville.com/
The Home Place: Happy Everything Bases and Attachments
The Home Place / Happy Everything Bases and Attachments / Starting at $21.95 / https:// thehomeplacefl.com/ / Call (352) 554-5615
Shoppes at Thornebrook: Holiday Shopping
Shoppes at Thornebrook / Holiday Shopping for perfect thoughtful gifts / https://shoppesatthornebrook.com / 2441 NW 43rd Street, Gainesville, FL
La Fiesta Mexican Grille: Authentic Mexican Cuisine
La Fiesta Mexican Grille / Join us for authentic Mexican cuisine during the holidays / www.lafiestagrille.com / Call (352) 335-8484
Arashi Yama Sushi & Hibachi Lounge: Holiday Drinks
Arashi Yama Sushi & Hibachi Lounge / Holiday inspired drinks and som e of the best and most creative sushi / www.arashiyamagainesville.com / Call (352) 505-6000
CycleBar Gainesville: First Ride FREE
CycleBar Gainesville / FIRST RIDE FREE! / Premium Indoor Cycling! / www. cyclebar.com/location/gainesville / (352) 545-4445
SweetBerries: Frozen Custard
SweetBerries / Frozen custard ice cream. Check out our Flavor of the Day Calendar! / https://sweetberries.com/gainesville/ on-5th-ave/flavors / Call 352-378-4972
Cabi Style with Leza: End of Season SALE!
Cabi Style with Leza / Cabi Fall 24
Collection & New Arrivals SAMPLE SALE! / Shop with confidence with your own personal stylist / elizabethmueller. cabionline.com / Call (352) 359-6023
Mobiledumps: The Dumpster Rental Alternative:
Mobiledumps / On-wheels, 14 cubic yards, newer dumpster rentals. “1-Hour” Service
Starting at $269 / www.mobiledumps.com / Call (352) 317-9515
Personalize Your Christmas Tree with Unique Themes and Creative Touches
BY MICHELLE MCELROY
Decorating a Christmas tree is a chance to showcase your personal style and creativity. Start with a high-quality pre-lit tree, which saves time and ensures a brilliant, even glow throughout the tree. Once it’s set up, choose a theme that reflects your taste, whether it’s traditional red and green or something whimsical and modern. The theme will help guide your decor choices. Next, add layers of texture and dimension with ribbons, bows, and garland. Drape them throughout the tree, weaving them in and out to create visual depth. Use bows strategically to add extra flair and cohesion. Fill in themed and sentimental ornaments. Select a topper that complements your theme—whether it’s a classic star, an angel, or something more unique to your style.
For added height and grandeur, place your tree on a sturdy table or blocks. This also makes room for more gifts. Complete the look with a tree skirt to hide the base and pull everything together.
If the decorating process feels overwhelming or you’re pressed for time, consider calling The Home Place. They have Holiday design services and can handle the decorating for you, ensuring your tree is as stunning and festive as you envision.
https://thehomeplacefl.com/
Thornebrook will be decorated in winter wonderland attire as we herald the holiday season. Celebrate with local shops and vendors, food trucks, and our annual tree lighting. At 6pm, the tree will be lit alongside a carol sing-a-long and Santa will arrive!
Japanese old fashion
Join Us At Arashi Yama Sushi & Hibachi Lounge This Holiday Season!
ARTICLE BY LEZA MUELLER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY FANNIE LIN
The holiday season is all about spending time with family and friends, and Arashi Yama Sushi and Hibachi bar is excited to offer some amazing seasonal drinks for you to enjoy. Whether it’s for festive activities, holiday parties or simply dinner, our drinks are the perfect complement. Come by for happy hour and celebrate the season with those you love!
https://www.arashiyamagainesville.com/
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
Create Your Heaven on Earth Through Elevated Consciousness with Ann Miller-French of Angelik Hands, LLC
Ann’s heart-centered practice was established in early 2016. She is a Quantum Life Coach, Light Language Practitioner, Artist, Reiki Master Teacher, Medium, and Animal Communicator. Ann offers quantum biohacking tools for transformation of body, mind, and soul! Ann specializes in unity consciousness, inner child work, grief therapy, self–love, wellness, and support for addictions, PTSD, anxiety, and more. She has been working globally with clients and her local community for many years. Ann lives in Newberry with her husband.
As a local artist, Ann’s art is showcased on Instagram –lightlanguageartbyann. She has a beautiful collection of her paintings on display and available for purchase at Sound Awake Healing Collective in Newberry. 5% of all proceeds received from the sales of her art will be donated to local charities in Florida. Have you scheduled your free discovery call yet? It’s a $475 value, and 10% of all proceeds from services booked with AngelikHands will be donated to the Jungle Primate Sanctuary in Gainesville. (414) 429-5117 AngelikHands.com
ARTICLE BY ASHLEA F. CRAWFORD | PHOTOGRAPHY
BY BLUEHOUR PHOTOGRAPHY
John F. Crawford Homes is a distinguished builder known for crafting custom homes that embody elegance and innovation. Featured in the Parade of Homes, their latest design showcases open spaces, modern finishes, and thoughtful details. With a commitment to quality and client satisfaction, each home reflects the homeowner’s unique vision, making John F. Crawford Homes a leader in creating dream living spaces.
https://www.johnfcrawfordhomes.com/
A LEADER IN CREATING DREAM LIVING SPACES.
LOVE STEINHATCHEE, FLORIDA.
BY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAWN MOREL
In the aftermath of a devastating storm, a community was blessed. The outpouring of donations and helping hands were more than we had hoped. The hardship that so many have faced was made easier by the help of the multitude of people that love this little town that we call home. As a resident of Steinhatchee, this is a big thank you to all who contributed and supported us and have continued to do so. We are building back and looking forward to more beautiful sunsets.
ARTICLE BY CHRISTINA MILLER, OWNER/HEAD OF SCHOOL: MILLHOPPER MONTESSORI SCHOOL, LLC
Generosity and sharing are not always easy for young children to understand and they do not come easily due to the developmental stage of poor impulse control. However, they both can be learned.
Children need to understand the needs and feelings of others which helps them build positive relationships, therefore, generosity is an important social skill and there are ways to help children understand the positive effects of being generous.
The holiday season is a perfect time to show children how good it feels to give to others. There are books that underscore the joy of giving and sharing; Little Robin’s Christmas, by Jan Fearnley, and Pass it On, by Sophy Henn, are two books I would recommend.
Sharing is also difficult for young children and can be learned by example. Some of the things that parents
can model for their children may be sharing a talent you have with your child’s class at school or baking cookies together as holiday gifts. Sharing non-material things, such as feelings, while taking turns telling each other what you are thankful for at the dinner table sets an example too. You may want to help your child make a care package for a sick friend. Of course, having your child see you model your participation in charitable events will also send a strong message.
Finally, explaining to your child that they may not always get thanked for their sharing, giving help, or their generosity is vital. It should not discourage them or negate their gift, because giving something without thought of return is true generosity.
https://www.millhopper.com/
Christina Miller, Owner/Head of School: Millhopper Montessori School, LLC.
DECEMBER EVENTS
University of Florida Performing Arts
University of Florida Performing Arts
Join us at the University of Florida Performing Arts for their December Events.
An Evening with David Sedaris, Monday, December 2 at 7:30 pm
Voctave: It Feels Like Christmas, Thursday, December 5th, at 7:30 pm
Call the Box Office at 352-392-2787 or go to https://performingarts.ufl.edu/tickets/ for tickets and information.
DECEMBER 6TH
Shoppes at Thornebrook: Holiday Market
Shoppes at Thornebrook | 5:00 PM
Thornebrook will be decorated in winter wonderland attire as we herald the holiday season. Celebrate with local shops and vendors, food trucks, and our annual tree lighting. At 6pm, the tree will be lit alongside a carol sing-a-long and Santa will arrive! Participating stores will be open late. (View the full Thornebrook Directory here – http://shoppesatthornebrook.com/directory/)
DECEMBER 7TH
Join us for the Oaks Veterinary Hospital Open House!
229 NW 75th Street, Gainesville, Florida | 11:00 AM
Please join us for an Open House on Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm. Meet Dr. Meghan Abbott and the rest of our team who are looking forward to meeting you and your furry family members! Take an interactive tour of the hospital, fun activities for kids and pets, including photos with Santa and much more!
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DECEMBER 10TH
Holiday Open House @ Club Synergie
Club Synergie | 3:00 PM
Holiday Open House December 10th from 3pm to 7pm. Sparkle and shine with DIY gift ideas and discounted infrared sauna, red-light and body contour treatments. Must reserve your ticket ahead of time as space and supplies are limited. Call or text 352-214-0094 if you have any questions or to reserve your spot. Club Synergie
DECEMBER 26TH, 27TH OR 28TH
Carson Springs Wildlife Adventure
Carson Springs Wildlife Sanctuary 8528 E County Road 225, Gainesville, FL 32609
Experience an unforgettable wildlife adventure at Carson Springs on Dec 26, 27, or 28 at 10am. Enjoy a guided 2-hour tour with professional zoologists, witness big cat feedings, and get up close to exotic animals. Perfect for families! Tickets: $35 (11+), $15 (2-11), free for infants. 100% of proceeds go to animal care. Book now at www.carsonspringswildlife.org
MARCH 1ST
Millhopper Family Dentistry | 8:00 AM
Save the date for the annual Care to Share event on March 1st, 2025. Millhopper Family Dentistry and their team of dentists, hygienists, and volunteers will work to help 100 people in need of dental work – treating patients in need of a filling, extraction, or cleaning. The event is first come first serve and starts at 8 am.
Power your home with blazing-fast fiber internet from Pavlov! Stream, game, and holiday shop without missing a beat this winter.
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