Our Town - Sept/October 2024 (Gainesville)

B O N U S S E C T I O N : A SHOWCASE THAT LIFTS UP THE KIND WORDS IN CUSTOMER TESTIMONIALS FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES AND ORGANIZATIONS

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2024 | VOL. 15 ISSUE 05 | GAINESVILLE EDITION

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GAINESVILLE VOL . 15 N O. 0 5

ABOUT THIS ISSUE >> JOIN US IN

CELEBRATING THE MANY WAYS WE EXPRESS OURSELVES AND CONNECT WITH OTHERS. IN THIS ISSUE, WE EXPLORE THE CRAFT OF WRITING, THE ART OF TATTOOS AS A PERSONAL CANVAS, THE LEGACY OF THE BAIRD THEATER, THE WONDER OF MUSIC THROUGH A LOCAL BAND, AND THE WORLD-RENOWNED MUSIC FESTIVAL KNOWN AS FEST. WE HOPE THESE STORIES INSPIRE YOU TO FIND AND EMBRACE YOUR OWN FORMS OF SELFEXPRESSION, TOO!

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GVILLE GUIDEBOOK

RECIPE WONDERS: HALLOWEEN POPCORN BALLS

Discover Gainesville’s unique charm through this comprehensive guide, which showcases the best spots in the city, from food and entertainment to parks and natural wonders.

Enjoy a treat and no tricks with this homemade recipe for delicious caramel popcorn balls.

31 K-POP

Genesis Dance Crew at UF unites dancers through K-Pop, focusing on community and leaving a lasting legacy.

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SEPT/OCT

2024

CONTENTS 24 // FROM THE TEACHER’S

69 // VERSES OF THE HEART

36 // FESTIVE FALL

73 //

TOOLBOX A recurring feature dedicated to empowering parents and teachers with the confidence and tools they need to support children’s growth and development.

These events capture the season’s spirit with activities ranging from pumpkin carving to Oktoberfest celebrations.

43 // HISTORY OF THE SCARECROW Don’t get scared as you discover the long history behind the bundle of hay commonly used to keep unwanted animals away.

48 // FALL HORTICULTURE EXPO

This GGC event features workshops, plant sales, and a keynote address by environmental expert Doug Tallamy.

57 // A STAGE ABOVE THE REST

Once a cultural hub showcasing performances and early “talking pictures,” the Baird Theater closed in 1928, but its legacy still impacts Gainesville’s vibrant arts scene today.

Sarah Carey’s new poetry book explores her journey through grief and healing after her mother’s passing, delving into themes of love, loss, and resilience.

Testimonials from local people sharing what they love about the people and places that support our community and need your support too.

101 // FROM CANVAS TO SKIN

Local tattoo artist Josiah Lloyd combines traditional and medieval styles, emphasizing kindness within the industry and the value of the tattoo experience over its meaning.

106 // THE HOUSING CRISIS

Get to know this local band that formed during the pandemic. After releasing two albums, The Housing Crisis plans an East Coast tour.

116 // FEST

Check out the global punk rock festival transforming the city each fall. It celebrates music, community, and the punk ethos.

COLUMNS

INFORMATION

REVIEWS

46 E MBRACING LIFE

62 C ommunity Calendar

129 R EADING CORNER

by Donna Bonnell

54 N AKED SALSA

112 R estaurant Guide

by Crystal Smith

122 C harity Winners

126 F ARM TALES

125 B usiness Directory

by Mother Hen

by Terri Schlichenmeyer

The articles printed in Our Town do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Tower Publications, Inc. or their editorial staff. Our Town Magazine endeavors to accept reliable advertising; however, we can not be held responsible by the public for advertising claims. Our Town Magazine reserves the right to refuse or discontinue any advertisement. All rights reserved. © 2024 Tower Publications, Inc.

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PUBLISHER Charlie Delatorre PRODUCTION DIRECTORS Kaloni Dunlap, Brian Knepp EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ericka Winter Pauley editor@towerpublications.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Donna Bonnell, Hanna De La Garza, Debra Garcia, Summer Jarro, Kaytie Milliken, Ashley Rodriguez, Crystal Smith, Delaney Starling, Joanna Grey Talbot, Cynthia Wonders Winterrowd Hayli Zuccola INTERNS Ashley Rodriguez, Delaney Starling ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jenni Bennett jenni@towerpublications.com DIRECTOR OF SALES Nancy Short nancy@towerpublications.com

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS If you would like us to publicize an event in the greater Gainesville area, send information by the 1st day of the month prior to the next issue. For example, submissions for the JULY/AUGUST issue are due by June 1. All submissions will be reviewed and every effort will be made to run qualified submissions if page space is available.

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OUR TOWN MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED BI-MONTHLY BY TOWER PUBLICATIONS, INC. REPRODUCTION BY ANY MEANS OF THE WHOLE OR PART OF OUR TOWN WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM THE PUBLISHER IS PROHIBITED. VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THE EDITORIAL PAGES DO NOT IMPLY OUR ENDORSEMENT. WE WELCOME YOUR PRODUCT NEWS. INCLUDE PRICES, PHOTOS AND DIGITAL FILES WITH YOUR PRESS RELEASE. PLEASE FORWARD PRODUCT SAMPLES AND MEDIA KITS TO REVIEWS EDITOR, OUR TOWN MAGAZINE, 4400 NW 36TH AVENUE, GAINESVILLE, FL 32606. WE CANNOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR UNSOLICITED PRODUCT SAMPLES.

A Publication of Tower Publications, Inc. 4400 NW 36th Ave., Gainesville, Florida 32606 phone: 352-372-5468 fax: 352-373-9178

EDITOR’ S LET TER

S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 024

Express Yourself Self-expression is a journey that begins the moment we take our first breath and continues throughout our lives, evolving and expanding in ways that both surprise and delight us. Over the past eight months, I’ve been fortunate to witness this remarkable journey unfold in the most innocent and profound ways through my daughter. Every day, she finds new methods to communicate her thoughts, feelings, and discoveries, reminding me of the beauty of human expression in its purest form.

From the exuberant clapping of her tiny hands, celebrating her victories, big or small, to the joyful sounds of “Dada” that echo through our home, her expressions are a constant source of wonder and joy. Her infectious giggles, which seem to bubble up from the deepest parts of her soul, bring light and happiness to everyone around her.

In these simple, everyday moments, I’m reminded of the power and importance of expressing ourselves through words, actions, sounds, and even silence.

One of our most memorable experiences recently was visiting our local art museum. Among the countless works of art, she encountered her very first Picasso. I wasn’t sure how she would react, but as she stared at the vibrant colors and abstract shapes, a smile slowly spread across her face.

It was as if she instinctively understood that art speaks to something profound within us, beyond language and age.

In that moment, I realized that self-expression isn’t just something we learn—it’s something innate, a fundamental part of who we are.

This magazine issue celebrates the countless ways we express ourselves and connect with one another. Whether through the craft of writing, where words can weave poems that transcend time and place, or the enduring art of tattoos, turning skin into a living canvas—we explore the depth and diversity of human creativity. We dive into the world of music, from the electronic sounds of a local band to the collective energy of the world-renowned Fest music festival, where thousands gather to celebrate their love of the punk community.

Each of these stories serves as a reminder that self-expression is more than just a way to communicate—it’s how we leave our mark on the world. It’s how we share our joys, sorrows, dreams, and fears. It’s how we connect with others, sometimes without saying a word. My daughter’s early steps into the world of self-expression inspire me daily, showing me that this journey is one we all share, no matter where we are in life.

As you read through this issue, I hope you find inspiration to explore and embrace your own forms of self-expression. Whether through art, music, writing, or even the simple, everyday moments that fill our lives, I encourage you to celebrate how you connect with the world around you.

After all, self-expression is not just a personal journey—it’s a universal one that connects us all in the most unexpected and beautiful ways.

Ericka Winter Pauley, Editor-In-Chief

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CONTRIBUTORS

S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 024

DONNA BONNELL became the author of her column, Embracing Life, more than 20 years ago.

She shares her personal challenges and victories with the goal of inspiring her readers to analyze why things happen in their own lives. bonneldj@gmail.com

HANNAH DE LA GARZA is a University of Florida journalism and classical studies graduate. Outside of work, she enjoys finding new places to visit and new activities to try out. hannah.delagarza@ufl.edu

DEBRA GARCIA is a senior journalism major at the University of Florida and freelance writer. In her spare time, she enjoys thrifting, listening to Taylor Swift, and playing softball.

2004debbygarcia@gmail.com

CRYSTAL SMITH is a freelance writer and columnist born and raised in West Texas. She received her B.S. in Journalism in 2006 from the University of Florida. She is in love with the Florida landscape. ces03k@gmail.com

SUMMER JARRO is a University of Florida graduate. Along with writing, she loves Disney, watching old films, going to the beach and traveling to new places. summerjarro@gmail.com

DR. KAYTIE MILLIKEN is a dedicated education consultant empowering parents and teachers with practical, research-based strategies and resources. Born and raised in Alachua County, she is a proud UF graduate. kaytlynn.milliken@gmail.com

ASHLEY RODRIGUEZ is a senior journalism major at the University of Florida and a freelance writer. In her free time, she likes to discover new music, learn new languages and play cozy video games. arodriguez34@ufl.edu

DELANEY STARLING is a freelance writer and a senior journalism major at the University of Florida.

When she’s not writing, you can find Delaney pursuing her passion for music, traveling and extreme outdoor activities. delaney.starling@ufl.edu

JOANNA GREY TALBOT is the marketing director for the Matheson History Museum and the author of the blog “Florida Revealed: Dispatches from the Land of Publix, Citrus, and Alligators.” joannagtalbot@gmail.com

HAYLI ZUCCOLA is a New England native who enjoys listening to music and traveling. After graduating high school with her AA degree, she received her Bachelor’s in Journalism from the University of Florida. hayzdesigns@yahoo.com

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GVILLE GUIDEBOOK 100 Things to Do in Gainesville Before You Die

0

Lauren Gonzalez loves Gainesville, and she wants others to as well.

“Gainesville is definitely a very unique town. It’s not a big city, but it’s not really a small town either. We have such a sense of community and culture here,” she said.

“There are so many interesting local businesses, and we have really amazing natural landscapes with springs and sinkholes and a little bit of elevation even for Florida. There are just so many things that I love about Gainesville.”

WRIT TEN BY SUMMER JARRO PHOTO G R APH Y COURTES Y OF L AUREN GONZ ALE Z

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RIDE OR GUIDE

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GAINESVILLE GUIDEBOOK >> 100 THINGS TO DO

G

onzalez, a Florida resident, has lived in G ainesville for the past 20 years .

Her family moved to the area from Tampa Bay when she was nine. She is currently the author of the newly released book “100 Things to Do in Gainesville Before You Die,” sharing the best places to eat, visit, and more in Gainesville that she and other residents enjoy and love.

The book delves into some of the best places people should go to for restaurants, entertainment, nightlife, natural landscapes, and more. Locations featured include the historic Hippodrome Theater, the restaurant Satchel’s Pizza, the state park Paynes Prairie, and many more.

It is the first time Gonzalez has ever published a book after the publishing company Reedy Press reached out to her about writing the book.

“I was so honored that they chose me to be the writer of this book,” Gonzalez said. “I’ve always wanted to be a writer since I was little, basically since I learned how to write ... I just didn’t expect that I would become an author this early in my life. I’m very honored to be able to do this, and I am thrilled that Gainesville has a guidebook like this because nothing like this really exists so far that I’ve come across.

There’s no guidebook that’s kind of all-encompassing of restaurants and trails and parks and historic things in one book.”

Gonzalez has been a travel writer for the last six years.

She started the travel website floridalives.com, where she

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features things to do all over the state. The website started initially as a family project.

“My parents had mentioned the idea that they wanted to visit all the state parks in Florida,” Gonzalez said. “There are 75 of them, so that would be a big, multi-year kind of undertaking, and I have a degree in journalism. I was just testing the waters with blogging and social media back then. So, I decided to take that idea to the next level and turn our little family project into a website where we would document our experiences at all the different parks.

And from there, it just took off and became more about everything in Florida, not just the state parks.”

Gonzalez has enjoyed everything about travel writing, which made it easy when she was given the opportunity to write the book “100 Things to Do in Gainesville Before You Die.” “Every time I visit a place, I’m always thinking how can I make this place accessible to other people to come see it too,” she said. “Sometimes, it’s a matter of researching before I visit a place and not being able to find any information about it. Or maybe I get there … and the parking is in a completely different place, and I think, ‘Wow, it would have been really helpful if this information was available online.’ So that’s kind of why I like to do this.”

Gonzalez used a lot of her own knowledge and favorite spots when choosing 100 places to visit in Gainesville. She also spoke with family and friends, read reviews of locations, and visited places herself. “Many people have told me, ‘I can’t believe there’s 100 things in Gainesville. How did you

pick them all?’ I always tell them it was actually harder to narrow it down to just 100,” Gonzalez said. “There are so many things to do here.”

The book is split into five categories: food and drink, music and entertainment, sports and recreation, culture and history, and shopping and fashion. Each of the categories has about 20 to 25 places.

“I can’t put every single restaurant in Gainesville into the book, which was really hard because there are so many amazing ones,” she said. “But I did try to pick a balance between some of the classic, popular places in Gainesville such as Satchel’s Pizza for example and balance that out with more hidden gems that people might not have heard of before.”

It is hard for Gonzalez to pick her favorite thing in the book, but she definitely enjoys the section on parks in the Gainesville area.

“The parks and trails are my absolute favorite thing. That’s kind of where this whole thing began. That’s my passion,” she said. “I just love all the parks we have in Gainesville and how unique they are. Paynes Prairie is such an amazing natural wonder with the bison and the horses. Some people can’t believe that it exists in Gainesville.

And I love Devil’s Millhopper where you can climb down into a sinkhole. Where else can you do that? That’s so unique.”

Gonzalez has been participating in book signing events in the area and has enjoyed the positive response she has received.

“It was amazing to have people come up to me and tell me that they’ve seen this book was coming out, and they’ve been so excited, and just to tell me the different ways they plan to use it,” Gonzalez said. “I’ve had people say that they can’t wait to look through this book to find some date ideas, or I’ve had people with kids come up and say they’re looking for more kid-friendly ideas. So it’s really been a treat to see people so excited to get some new ideas for things to do around town.”

This book may be her first, but Gonzalez is now considering writing more, featuring her content on her website, travel subjects, and all things Florida.

“I have some more ideas up my sleeve,” she said. “... So it’s definitely not the last book for me.”

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Cynthia Wonders Winterrowd’s

RECIPE WONDERS FOOD ST YLING & PHOTOGRAPHY BY E R I C K A W I N T E R PA U L E Y

HAL

L OW E

A E N P O P CO R N B

LL S

When the chill returns to the air and the harvest season is in full swing, this is a great recipe to “treat” your family and friends who stop by on Halloween! Long ago my mother, Ronelva, invented this variation of popcorn balls that have a softer caramel, which doesn’t setup hard and brittle. It stays chewy and delicious until they are all gone (but it doesn’t take long for them to disappear).

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TRICK OR TREAT

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RECIPE WONDERS >> HALLOWEEN POPCORN BALLS

In the old days, we would give them to the trick-or-treaters when they came to our door, but of course the days of distributing homemade candy are gone. Don’t let that stop you from making a batch for yourself, though. It’s a fun project that you can do with the family and make lasting memories! Make sure an adult handles the cooking of the caramel, however. It is very hot, and the sticky consistency could easily burn. Follow the directions below and the result will be a delicious treat for one and all.

POPCORN BALLS Ingredients: 8 quarts popped corn 1 – 3 cups Planters brand cocktail peanuts 1 cup dark Karo syrup 2 cups white sugar ½ tsp. cream of tarter 5 rounded Tbsp. of softened butter ½ tsp. baking soda 1 Tbsp. vanilla 1 tsp. butter flavor extract

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METHOD: First, pop the corn in an old-fashioned shaker-type popper on your stove or use an air-popper if you have one.

Follow directions on the popcorn label. Keep popping until you have a generous amount in the largest bowl you have.

Shake the bowl to settle the un-popped kernels (there’s always some in there) to the bottom of the bowl. Then lift off the popped corn into a large measuring cup, keeping track of the measurement. Repeat until you have 8 quarts (4 cups = 1 quart) in a real large pan, such as a turkey roaster.

Next, add one to three cups of Planters cocktail peanuts.

Stir and set aside.

Take a heavy cooking pan and put the syrup, sugar and cream of tarter in it. Cook and stir with a wooden spoon until the caramel forms a ball when tested by dripping from spoon into icy cold water. This won’t take long -- keep an eye on it!

All at once you will add the butter, baking soda, vanilla and butter flavor extract. Mix well. No beating is necessary.

The mixture will “fuzz up” and lighten in color.

Carefully lift the cooking pan off the stove and pour over the waiting popped corn. It helps to have someone stirring the hot mixture into the popcorn with a wooden spoon while you are pouring it. Just be careful no fingers get into the caramel until it has cooled! It’s HOT! After a few minutes it will be cool enough to shape into popcorn balls with your hands, covered with plastic bags to keep sticky caramel off your skin. You will want to work quickly, forming the popcorn balls while they are still warm.

Remember to squeeze the popcorn lightly, just enough to hold it together. When they have cooled completely you can wrap the popcorn balls in plastic wrap and tie with orange ribbon. Or if you prefer, let the popcorn lay loosely in the pan like caramel corn. Either way, you will love this fall classic!

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FROM THE

TEACHER’S TOOLBOX

By Dr. Kaytie Milliken

You’ve made it through the Back-toSchool whirlwind! Kudos to all who navigated school list shopping, multiple Meet the Teachers, nervous mornings, and grumpy bedtimes.

DR. KAYTIE MILLIKEN IS A DEDICATED EDUCATION CONSULTANT EMPOWERING PARENTS AND TEACHERS WITH PRACTICAL, RESEARCH-BASED STRATEGIES AND RESOURCES. BORN AND RAISED IN ALACHUA COUNTY AND A PROUD UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA GRADUATE, KAYTIE COMBINES HER PROFESSIONAL EXPERTISE WITH HER PERSONAL EXPERIENCE AS A MOTHER TO PROVIDE VALUABLE INSIGHTS AND SUPPORT. SHE INVITES YOU TO CONNECT WITH HER ON SOCIAL MEDIA @KAYMILLIKEN OR VIA EMAIL AT KAYTLYNN.MILLIKEN@GMAIL.COM.

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Now that we’ve had several days to settle in and make tweaks, it’s time to evaluate our current school day routines.

Take a step back and recall yesterday’s morning, afternoon, and evening. Did the morning hour feel rushed or calm?

What did the afternoon sound like? Did you fall into bed feeling prepared for the morning ahead?

It’s helpful to think of the typical school day in three separate parts: morning, afternoon, and evening. Each time of day has its own set of priorities and special circumstances. Therefore, each time of day needs its own game plan—a thoughtfully designed routine to maximize predictability, independence, and joy.

Whether you’re at home or in the classroom, I encourage you to dive into these practical suggestions to streamline your routines and create a harmonious atmosphere for you and your children.

2. TEACH ROUTINES EXPLICITLY Take the time to thoroughly teach each step of your morning, afternoon, and evening routines. If you have expectations for where he places his shoes and belongings, handwashing, or snacks, each should be taught and practiced. Consider modeling for your children the “perfect,” “imperfect,” and “almost right” way to complete each step.

Here’s the most important part—give positive feedback every time your child meets or exceeds your expectations.

There is no such thing as too much appreciation and kudos for children working to form new habits!

TEACHER’S TOOLBOX >> BACK-TO-SCHOOL ROUTINES

Welcome to From The Teacher’s Toolbox: a recurring feature dedicated to empowering you with tools to support children’s growth and development. Each installment will offer practical, research-based techniques and resources to enhance your skills and confidence as a parent or teacher.

1. CREATE A VISUAL ROUTINE Much like adults use “to-do” lists, children of all ages can benefit from a visual representation of any series of tasks they are expected to complete. Many parents and teachers opt to use task cards, each with an image or icon to represent a common task within a specific routine (i.e., a toothbrush, making the bed, a pair of shoes).

The task cards, displayed in order on the refrigerator, in a pocket chart, or clipboard, are reviewed before and after the day’s routines. Clear, visual steps promote independence and confidence as children learn to complete the tasks without consistent reminders from adults.

Our goal is to maximize predictability. Keeping our kids “in the know” reduces the opportunity for an emotional response to an unwelcome surprise or transition.

3. USE TIMERS While young children often have a basic understanding of time (i.e., the ability to recognize morning, afternoon, and evening), most will still have difficulty estimating the length of abstract terms such as “soon,” “hurry!” and “in a few minutes.” For this reason, the use of timers is critical!

Consider assigning a specific amount of time for getting dressed, brushing teeth, and loading into the car to help keep your kids (and you) on track.

Many parents and teachers use visual timers, but even a familiar song can be used to represent the appropriate length of time to complete a task. The objective is to help children develop time awareness and a mild sense of urgency. Don’t forget to give positive feedback every time they complete tasks “on time!”

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TEACHER’S TOOLBOX >> BACK-TO-SCHOOL ROUTINES

4. SET AUTOMATIC REMINDERS As a classroom teacher, I set several alarms on my phone to ensure I’d taken attendance, signal the end of recess, or remind a student to visit the clinic after lunch. At home, I use my Amazon Alexa device to do the same thing. Alexa has been scheduled to say “Good morning” and report the weather at 6:30 a.m. She gives Fin a 30-minute bedtime warning at 7:30 p.m. On Tuesdays and Fridays, she reminds us to take out the trash. Automatic reminders can help keep your family on track—you don’t have to say a word!

7. SCREEN-FREE LISTS I’m much more lenient with screen time (time spent on iPads, tablets, phones, TV) over the summer. I bet my son used his iPad every day of June and July! But as we get back into the school-day routine, it’s time to help him break the habit.

Together, create a list of alternative activities for screenfree times of day. Keep the list(s) in a common area for easy reference, especially during difficult transitions.

More to come on this soon! Hint for next issue’s topic.

I am a firm believer in the power of a calm “Welcome Home” routine. A predictable, positive afternoon leads to a smooth bedtime—and that’s the ultimate goal!

5. MOM’S MAILBOX, DAD’S DROPBOX Choose a single basket, folder, or spot on the counter for the various documents that need your attention (permission slips, letters, report cards, etc.). Consider including a backpack and folder check for these items as part of your afternoon or evening routine.

6. THE HOMEWORK BASKET Choose a basket or bin to house commonly used homework supplies (paper, sharpened pencils, crayons, highlighters, sticky notes). This is also a great place to keep ongoing projects, books, and a note of encouragement.

As an extra ladder of support, schedule an automated timer to signal the start of homework or chores. In our house, Alexa reminds Fin to grab the homework basket at 4:30 p.m.

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Our listfortincludes:

Build a  Playdoh th  Take a ba and scooters  Ride bikes he ball for Molly  Throw t table  Sensory Mom or Dad h it w k o bo a d ea R Magnatiles  Blocks & om the Art Cart fr y it iv t ac an se  Choo oy rotation t a h it w m o M p  Hel



 Discuss any upcoming changes to tomorrow’s routines.

(Is Dad taking them to school in the morning? Tball practice? Will a babysitter visit this weekend?)  Prepare lunchboxes  Fill water bottles  Pack the backpack  Choose tomorrow’s breakfast options  Select the next day’s clothes. Try a system that allows you to plan and set aside clothes for the week!

9. SPECIAL TIME “Special Time” refers to the few minutes consistently set aside for 1:1 time with your child. During the special time, the child chooses the activity while the adult actively engages—with their undivided attention. A child who expects small but frequent doses of connection is much less likely to use misbehavior as their primary attention-seeking tactic.

See, attention is a currency within our homes and classrooms. Think of Special Time as a daily deposit of positive attention—a consistent opportunity to fulfill the child’s need for connection. Decades of research have shown that even 5 to 10 minutes of Special Time can improve a child’s behavior (Lieneman, Brabson, Highlander, Wallace & McNeil, 2017).

TEACHER’S TOOLBOX >> BACK-TO-SCHOOL ROUTINES

8. CREATE A BEDTIME CHECKLIST Alongside a visual evening routine, you might use a checklist for tasks your family typically completes together.

Consider creating your own version of a “Bedtime Checklist” that prompts you to:

10. CALM IS CONTAGIOUS Children are highly attuned to their caregivers’ emotions and often mirror the behaviors they see. It’s important to take your own preferences and needs into account when designing your child’s routines. I encourage you to light your favorite candle, create a music playlist, or anything else that sparks joy for you. A calm, positive environment helps reduce feelings of anxiety in children—reducing the likelihood of tantrums and tears.

Every small step you take toward creating a structured, supportive environment will pay off in the long run—fostering smoother days and stronger relationships with your children.

Remember to be patient with the process and remain flexible enough to adjust routines along the way. Most importantly, celebrate the progress you make! With these tools in your toolbox, you’re well-equipped to handle whatever this school year brings.

Cheers to a successful, joyful year ahead!

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DANCE REVOLUTION

BRINGING A NEW DANCE SCENE TO GAINESVILLE

K-pop W R I T T E N BY A S H L E Y R O D R I G U E Z

UNDER THE DIMMED LIGHTS OF THE REITZ UNION BALLROOM, DANCERS WALK UP THE STAGE, WHICH HAS SEEN MORE PERFORMANCES, SPEECHES, AND AWARD PRESENTATIONS THAN ONE COULD FATHOM. The dancers take their positions. Some pose with hands on their hips, feet a shoulder-width apart; a few have gone down on a knee, chin resting on their fist; and some have their backs turned to the eager audience.

Behind them, a large display glows with the words “Genesis Dance Crew” in bold letters, surrounded by vivid colors and whimsical designs.

The bright overhead lights turn on. A few members have to fight the urge to break character as they hear the crowd’s shouts of encouragement and admiration. The music will come on any second now, and their endless days of practice

and crafting their dances to perfection will finally pay off.

The sound of a familiar K-pop (Korean popular music) group erupts from the surrounding speakers. The dancers come alive. Heads turn to the front simultaneously, and subsequent moves follow seamlessly. The high-energy performance receives cheers of approval at every beat drop and transition.

However, all good things must come to an end – at least for the audience – and the performance concludes.

Walking off the stage, the members of the Genesis Dance Crew know one last team-bonding experience is in order—a late-night dinner to reward themselves for every moment spent on and off stage. Because behind their perfected performances, a sense of unity is what really keeps the whole operation on its head.

The group’s president, Hannah Young, 20, was a

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K-POP >> A NEW DANCE SCENE

competitive dancer before starting at the University of Florida. She believes joining Genesis has never been about being the best dancer in the room.

“We have a lot of different members and people who may come from different backgrounds or different skill levels in dance,” Young said. “But we all unite over the shared interests of K-pop and dance.”

Even in auditions, Young said the process is far from being cutthroat and pitting the most competitive dancers against each other. Young considers if people have a positive attitude and if they are putting proper care and energy into their auditions. She said she even looks at how auditionees interact with other auditionees to understand how they might treat fellow members.

Delaney Rosson, 20, was one member who previously had very little dance experience. Rosson admits that, initially, she was nervous about stepping into this new avenue of expression. “I was very scared and a very scared dancer,” Rosson said. “The whole environment was very new to me.

I had never danced before and wasn’t used to it.”

Although Rosson had to audition more than once before she was officially a member in the spring of 2024, she said the encouragement and support made her feel welcomed and motivated to try her luck again. She noted that she almost instantly built a connection with Young. Now, she works alongside Young and other executive board members as co-multimedia chair. In this position, she’s mainly responsible for their social media, such as YouTube and Instagram, where they have many of their performances and covers posted.

Their video covers, which are different from their performances onstage, are higher production videos that typically film multiple angles and put more emphasis on certain dancers rather than having one still shot. Current External Vice President Kalina Tringas, 19, said some of her favorite memories are from working on the covers. She shares that she finds every aspect of coming together to film the dance routine fun and loves seeing the result.

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personal favorites. Performances usually occur at numerous UF events, as the group typically stars as special guests for multiple Asian UF organizations, such as the Korean Undergraduate Student Association, the Vietnamese Student Organization, and the Korean American Student Association, among others. Young states they have also expanded into events outside of UF, such as the Gainesville Pride Festival, Megacon, and Titusville.

One of the biggest differences members acknowledged about covers and performances is how long and rigorous practices are. Young said performances require the most practice, so much so that there is an entire week dedicated to practicing every day, which they label “hell week.”

This daunting name may suggest that this is every dancer’s worst nightmare, but Young and Rosson suggest that couldn’t be further from the truth.

“I think some of my favorite memories with Genesis have been during hell weeks,” Young said. “While they are a bit stressful, we get to be in a really big group because everybody performs. So just hanging out with everyone and getting to know each other is fun.”

The group either practices at the Reitz Dance Studio or on the rooftop of Garage 14 to ensure they have as many hours as they need to work on their performances. Young said that when she started in the fall of 2022, they might have stayed up until 4 a.m. at the latest, but now they have cut down those hours to respect every student’s busy schedule.

Rosson said there’s so much more to hell week than practicing for hours. She explained it is one of the times the group will do the most bonding it will ever do in the semester. “I obviously love dancing, and I love the covers and performing and everything like that,” Rosson said. “But I think the memories that happen behind the scenes make Genesis who we are.”

And Rosson believes performance day is a prime example of how the group connects organically.

“You’re getting ready together, you’re eating together, you’re hanging out the whole day, you’re doing soundcheck together, and then you get to perform,” Rosson said. “It’s

very rewarding to see how much work you put into it and how much everyone else enjoys it.”

Genesis co-founder Monica Novoa, 25, echoes this sentiment as she reflects on her time with the group. She had been able to see Genesis change and progress up until her departure. The current physician’s assistant student residing in Davie started the crew hoping to include anyone willing to give K-pop and dancing a chance.

Novoa and two other cofounders, Amaya and Chelsea, began brainstorming the idea of a K-pop dance group in the fall of 2017 when she noticed there was no group in Gainesville dedicated to this dance style. By February 2018, they starred in their first guest performance hosted by the Chinese American Student Association for their Lunar New Year event. Novoa said that they were accepting anyone interested and enthusiastic about dancing for them at the time. Consequently, they would make up the first pioneering group of students called Generation 0. From then on, every subsequent semester would introduce new dancers as “Generations,” the respective numbers would start at 1. Genesis has made its way to Generation 14 in its Spring 2024 group.

“We have a lot of different members and people who may come from different backgrounds or different skill levels in dance,” Young said. “But we all unite over the shared interests of K-pop and dance.”

Novoa shares that she has been happy to see current members embrace the roles she once held or worked alongside.

“I can see how seriously they take Genesis,” Novoa said.

“They really put their all into it. They’re all so interested in the positions we’ve grown to have.

Young proves her commitment to Genesis by keeping in

contact with Novoa about some of the accomplishments and changes Genesis continues to undergo. Young communicates with Novoa to ensure the group isn’t steering too far from what Genesis Dance Crew is at its core.

“I’m always 100% down,” Novoa said. “I’m usually not saying no; I’m more like, ‘I want to see how you guys take it from here. You guys are doing a great job.’”

Some of the changes Young hopes to see for Genesis is continuing to expand where they’re performing, and she said they also want to be able to implement their unique choreography into the covers that they do.

Additionally, one of the major challenges for Young and other members to tackle is making Genesis an official UF organization. Young said this has been a more recent development, but she is optimistic about how that status could get them even more recognition as a group. Young believes that getting funding as an organization could also help them be more independent as they have almost exclusively guest-starred in other events and showcases.

“One of our biggest goals this semester is to do our own personal showcase for our club because we’ve always been the guest performer,” Young said. “But now we want to have our own guest performers.”

As Young approaches her senior year, she thinks about what legacy she will leave behind and what standards she wants to set for Genesis’s future. Having been in the group since her freshman year, Young said Genesis has spanned her whole college career.

“I just really want to keep that uphill trajectory of our club, making it a wonderful environment and making sure that the quality of our pieces is maintained and evolving.

And yeah, just being a really fun club,” Young said.

Novoa looks back at the legacy she’s left behind and expressed her sense of fulfillment.

“You know, everybody wants to build something that will last and make some memories,” Novoa said. “So, the fact that I was able to help create Genesis, and it has made memories for people, has really been rewarding.”

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FESTIVE FALL Celebrating the Harvest Season in Alachua County

L

As the vibrant colors of fall sweep across Alachua County, the community comes alive

n

with a series of festive celebrations that capture the spirit of the harvest season. From haunted corn mazes and lively Oktoberfest gatherings to artistic showcases and cultural extravaganzas — the county’s fall festivals offer something for everyone. Whether you’re in search of family-friendly fun, local arts and crafts, or the rich traditions of autumn, Alachua County’s fall lineup promises unforgettable experiences. Join in the celebration and embrace the magic of this special time of year as you explore the diverse events that make fall 2024 truly enchanting.

WRIT TEN BY DEBRA GARCIA

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FALL FESTIVITIES

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TIOGA OKTOBERFEST

ALACHUA COUNTY >> FALL FESTIVALS

Tioga Town Center, 13085 SW 1 Ln, Newberry Saturday, Oct. 12. 2 - 8 p.m.

NEWBERRY CORN MAZE 20015 W Newberry Rd, Newberry Every Friday & Saturday from Sept. 20 to Oct. 26. 5 - 11 p.m.

Get ready for some scares at the Newberry Corn Maze.

On Fridays and Saturdays, enjoy food, haunted houses, human hamster balls, mini golf, mechanical bull rides, hay rides, and the maze. The maze, which is more like a loop, is filled with ghouls tasked with chasing anyone who crosses their path. The cash-only general admission price is $20 and $15 for children under 10 at the gate. For those who choose to pay online on Ticket Leap, a $5 charge will be added. Admission includes the maze only. Additional attractions require cash.

“Great atmosphere to bring the family,” said Interlachen, Florida resident David Turner. “They had plenty of stuff for the little ones to do. It’s definitely worth the price of admission. Will be going next year.”

Fans of German beer may want to stop by Tioga Oktoberfest. World of Beer will be there, giving guests the authentic German experience. Beer is not the only item on the Tioga Oktoberfest menu. Kettle Creations will be in attendance to sell popcorn and lemonade, Stubbies Pop-up Sausages will treat guests with traditional German sausage, and Wild Man Foods will sell grass-fed proteins and meats to hungry guests.

Meanwhile, other than drinking and eating, patrons can shop around the town center, listen to live KISS 105.3, and watch performers from Momentum Dance get down to the chicken dance, a Tioga Oktoberfest tradition. But the chicken dance is not the only Tioga Oktoberfest tradition.

Every year, a stein hoist is held, during which participants hold out their beer mugs as high and as long as possible.

“The person to keep their arm out and hold it up the longest wins a prize,” said Virginia MacKoul, organizer of the event.”

THORNEBROOK FALL ARTS FESTIVAL

Thornebrook Village, 2441 NW 43rd Street, Gainesville Saturday-Sunday, Sept. 28-29. 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.

For the 39th year, Thornebrook’s Fall Arts Festival returns to Gainesville as a vibrant hub of creativity and culture.

This experience is free, however, several vendors will tempt onlookers to purchase goodies. From paintings, sculptures, exotic photography, face painting, fiber arts, woodwork, pottery, and jewelry — it will be challenging not to bring home one or two souvenirs. Shoppers are bound to get hungry, so it’s a good thing there will be food trucks serving delicious soups, sandwiches, salads, handmade chocolates, and gelato.

“It’s a weekend of artistic inspiration, culinary delights, and community spirit you won’t want to miss,” according to the Shoppes at Thornebrook representative. “This event is perfect for the whole family. Bring the children and immerse them in the world of art and creativity.”

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P H O T O G R A P H Y: T H O R N E B R O O K P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F T H O R N E B R O O K V I L L A G E

HIGH SPRINGS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FALL FESTIVAL

LUBEE BAT CONSERVANCY’S 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FLORIDA BAT FESTIVAL

23718 W US Highway 27, High Springs Saturday, Oct. 19. 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.

1309 NW 192nd Avenue, Gainesville Saturday, Oct. 26. 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Those who attend this festival won’t just celebrate the coming fall season but also the history of High Springs. Alongside fun activities like tug-of-war, sack races, bobbing for apples, face painting, and pumpkin carving, the whole family can explore the town’s historical landmarks and stories that shaped this vibrant community. Sharon Decker, President of the High Springs Chamber of Commerce, has volunteered her husband, Don Decker, to teach tourists about the town’s train layout.

“High Springs is the sweetest little town,” Sharon Decker said. “This history is just amazing.”

This fascinating festival is full of fun flying bats for the whole family. For the 20th year, attendees can learn about bat ecosystems, meet over 100 local vendors, eat fried festival food, support bat conservation efforts, and discover the beloved beer garden with live oaks from the Revolutionary War. “Had a blast last year,” Jess Kurt, a past attendee, said. “Beer Garden was the shizz.”

Tickets for children under four are free, $5 for children ages 5-12, and $10 for anyone over 13. Those 21 or older who want to enjoy the beautiful beer garden must pay $30. All tickets can be bought online or in person. All proceeds will be given to the bats at Lubee. “It’s a day filled with thrilling activities, captivating exhibits, and unforgettable experiences for the whole family. And, of course, the world’s largest bats,” according to the Lubee Bat Conservancy.

P H O T O G R A P H Y: B A T F E S T P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F L U B E E B A T C O N S E R VA N C Y

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ALACHUA COUNTY >> FALL FESTIVALS

MICANOPY FALL FESTIVAL Downtown Micanopy, Micanopy Saturday, Oct. 26, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. and Sunday Oct. 27. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Every year, the small town of Micanopy becomes a hub of local music and art. Over 200 vendors travel to sell their crafts while musicians look forward to performing in one of Alachua County’s more historic towns. Anyone can attend for free to soak in the bustling activity of the usually quiet town.

Micanopy is known for being “the town that time forgot.”

The tradition and ever-evolving quality of the fall festival attract a broad range of the buying public.

GAINESVILLE DOWNTOWN FESTIVAL AND ART SHOW Downtown 111 E University Avenue, Gainesville Saturday- Sunday, Nov. 9-10. 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Gainesville will come together for two days to commemorate local art of all mediums. Guests can visit over 200 artists selling their crafts and watch over 100 bands perform across five stages.

Festival goers can admire unique sculptures, dazzling jewelry, decorative ceramics, and vivid photography, along with live music and dancing.

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The Downtown Festival transforms the historic brick streets at the heart of Gainesville into a celebration of art, culture, and creativity,” according to the City of Gainesville Parks, Recreation, & Cultural Affairs.

As the season’s final leaves drift to the ground, Alachua County’s fall festivals leave behind a trail of cherished memories and a deep sense of community. These celebrations not only highlight the beauty of the harvest season but also showcase the area’s rich cultural heritage, artistic talent, and festive spirit. Whether you revel in the thrill of a haunted maze, savor the flavors of Oktoberfest, or admire the craftsmanship of local artists, the joy of these autumn events will linger long after the season has passed. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the magic — make the most of Fall 2024 before it bids us farewell.

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THE TERROR-IFIC TIMELINE OF SCARECROWS TO GET YOU IN THE SPOOKY SPIRIT

History of the Scarecrow W R I T T E N BY C A M E R O N C O B B

From all over the world, these humanized bundles of hay have been in charge of protecting crops for centuries, but the history of the scarecrow goes well beyond simply warding off birds and helping Dorothy find her way back to Kansas.

THE START OF THE SCARECROW The first version of the scarecrow was thought to be in Japan and known as kakashi, according to modernfarmer. com. Their design likely revolved around field gods, such as Kuebiko, the deity of knowledge and agriculture. Though unable to walk, Kuebiko is said to have a certain “awareness,” making for the ideal being to vigilantly watch over crops.

Scarecrows weren’t originally designed using hay.

Instead, farmers created these standing figures using resources like animal skulls and rotten produce to “watch

over” the spring growing season. In celebration of the autumnal harvest, they’d be burned so their ashes could renew the soil with nutrients like potassium and nitrogen.

During the Middle Ages prior to scarecrows, European farmers would send children into the fields, according to thoughtco.com. Equipped with wooden clappers and their own natural annoyance, they’d keep birds from interfering with crops. But as the plague swept throughout Europe and claimed the lives of many, a substitute would be needed to watch over growing farmland. And so came the first traditional scarecrow!

Fashioned in their more familiar form, the straw bodies were fully clothed and typically topped with a gourd or turnip before being placed in the fields. Resembling a very stiff person, scarecrows helped prevent animals from destroying farmland.

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FALL HISTORY >> SCARECROW FACTS

And while crows are known for scavenging crops in search of insects, nuts and seeds along the top layer of soil, these inanimate guards keep a number of other fowl off the fields (but “scareturkey” just didn’t seem to have the same threatening ring to it).

THE GROWTH OF THE SCARECROW Eventually, farmers all over the world adopted the basic idea of a scarecrow with geographical differences in detail, according to modernfarmer.com. From mythology to religion to superstition, a scarecrow’s image varies from culture to culture.

In ancient Greece, you’d likely have found the fields watched over by a wooden figure modeled after Priapus – the god of fertility, horticulture and viticulture.

Native Americans had several practices for crop protection, too.

With some tribes along the east, adult men tasked to oversee the fields would simply just yell at any invaders, according to thoughtco.com.

Out West, the Zuni tribe opted for the quieter option of decorating cedar poles with animal pelts to fend off pesky creatures.

Scarecrows weren’t originally designed using hay. Instead, farmers created these standing figures using resources like animal skulls and rotten produce to “watch over” the spring growing season.

The early examples among European settlement in North America stemmed from German folklore of the “bootzamon,” or the more familiar English translation, the “bogeyman.”

Even faces in pop culture have been seen keeping a watchful eye over farms. In 2010, British wheat farmer Nigel Britten constructed a scarecrow-version of Lady GaGa, according to telegraph.co.uk.

Crowned by a blonde wig and draped in a white “gown,” Britten said the inspiration for the straw replica came from her look during that year’s Brit Awards.

THE NOW OF THE SCARECROW Just as with many of the world’s solutions, technology changes the way problems are solved. Replaced by more advanced techniques of modern-day farming, such as infrared sensors using ultrasonic waves, the scarecrow population has since dwindled, according to modernfarmer.com.

Though they might not be used much for practical purposes anymore, scarecrows make for iconic yet chilling Halloween decorations and cinematic stars in the horror genre. With the farmland being a popular setting for decades of scary movies (think “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre” and “Children of the Corn”), dozens of haunting films even feature a scarecrow as the villain.

After all, scarecrows were crafted to do exactly as their name suggests: scare (and they’re certainly outstanding in their field).

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Before scarecrows, European farmers in the Middle Ages sent children with wooden clappers to scare away birds.

However, when the plague reduced the population, farmers needed a substitute, which led to the creation of the first traditional scarecrows.

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COLUMN

Embracing Life

BY DONNA BONNELL

EXPRESS YOURSELF Self-Expression! The subject of this edition seemed like it was created for me. It gave me an excuse to delve into a personal lifelong quandary. Why is it so easy for gifted speakers to confidently articulate answers, feelings, or information to an audience? Why is it so difficult for me?

Public speaking and writing are two ways of self-expression via communication. Writing gives me pleasure and purpose. Yet, when speaking to a group, I am a verbal mess. Impromptu is a nightmare, as I need time to organize and process my thoughts prior to talking. Why? My quest began.

Counselor/Podcaster/Writer Jeremy Godwin helped build a foundation for my research. Godwin’s words spoke to me. He said, “Self-expression is more than just words or actions; it’s a celebration of individuality and can take many forms. It’s about allowing yourself to love what you do, embrace who you are, and freeing yourself from wanting to be like someone else.”

Next, I turned to Google and queried, is there a correlation between being good at written communication and being good at verbal communication? An answer came from Philosopher/Writer Bryan Daley. He explained that each has different communication styles and requires distinct abilities; there is very little correlation between the two.

Daley solved an easy piece of the puzzle. My journey was not over; I had to dig deeper.

This part gets a little complicated. I briefly summarized a vast amount of reading and research based solely on my non-medical interpretation: • We mentally process how to learn, understand, and retain information (called cognitive processes).

• Speaking and writing are processed differently.

• Our brains uniquely prioritize and store information for future retrieval.

• Neural pathways mature and develop in different areas of the brain.

• Neurotransmitters are the messengers, sending signals between the brain areas. Some people have fewer transmitters than others.

• How long it takes to receive and respond to information is known as brain processing speed. (This is not related to intelligence.)

• Other factors that may block authentic self-expression are adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), genetics, lack of positive stimuli in childhood, stress, or trauma.

Pensive analysis of the volumes of information I gathered followed. Did any of this mold me into who I am today? If so, how? Voilà! The light bulb went off. I had an epiphany!

My mother was a product of the generation who felt children should be seen and not heard. She had little nurturing and repeated that belief as a parent. In addition, my parents were both alcoholics, and I was the oldest sibling.

My responsibilities were huge, and my silence was golden.

I had little practice in verbalizing my thoughts but became an ardent listener and eventually a storyteller.

My 70-year-old brain may partially operate with the cognitive processes learned/stored from my youth. Perhaps this has caused my brain processing speed to be slow, as it needs time to blend the past with the present. Or maybe my brain was just wired to be a writer.

Every professional position I have held included writing. I wrote office procedural manuals, job descriptions, employee handbooks, newsletters, reports, speeches for top-level executives, and minutes for highly confidential meetings. If I was not hired for that task, it eventually became mine. I thrived in that environment.

Two decades ago, “Embracing Life” was born. This column was the beginning of my breakthrough. I discovered that writing is therapeutic. Most importantly, I can pause, ponder, and verify facts as much as I desire. It has allowed me to publicly share my anxieties, beliefs, opinions, and personal stories. As a bonus, I get positive feedback from readers. That gives me purpose.

I will always be in awe of folks who are talented speakers, but I will give myself more credit. It does not let me off the hook for improving my verbal skills; it only takes the pressure off a bit. Bruce Lee said it best, “Always be yourself, express yourself, have faith in yourself, do not go out and look for a successful personality and duplicate it.”

DONNA BONNELL BECAME THE AUTHOR OF HER COLUMN, EMBRACING LIFE, MORE THAN 20 YEARS AGO. SHE SHARES HER PERSONAL CHALLENGES AND VICTORIES WITH THE GOAL OF INSPIRING HER READERS TO ANALYZE WHY THINGS HAPPEN IN THEIR OWN LIVES. bonneldj@gmail.com

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GROWING TOGETHER The Fall Horticulture Expo: A Celebration of Gardening and Community Spirit

In Florida, where the changing seasons are more subtle, the arrival of fall is marked by community celebrations and outdoor activities. With the summer heat gradually giving way to milder temperatures, residents can experience a unique event that brings the season’s charm to life. On October 19th, the Gainesville Garden Club (GGC) will host the much-anticipated Fall Horticulture Expo, which celebrates gardening and community connection.

WRIT TEN BY HANNA DE L A GARZA

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PLANTING CONNECTION

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The GGC proudly partnered with the following to give this event: Alachua County, UF IFAS Extension, and Florida Master Gardeners.

T

his event, hosted at the Alachua County A griculture & E questrian C enter in Newberry, is set to be a highlight of the season, offering a day filled with gardening inspiration and community engagement. This year’s event, taking place on October 19, is free and open to the public. It will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., promising various activities for nature enthusiasts of all ages.

The Fall Horticulture Expo is the result of a unique partnership between GGC, the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Florida Master Gardeners, and Alachua County.

Founded in 1924, the GGC has played a significant role in the community for nearly a century. Initially created by a small group of members eager to further their garden research and enhance city spaces, the club quickly grew in popularity. By 1930, the club’s success had attracted over 100 women, leading to the formation of garden circles, which still meet monthly.

Over the years, the club has focused on civic projects and city planning, evolving to work on over two dozen community projects. The club also fundraises to sponsor youth enrollment at nature camps. It provides scholarships in horticulture and related fields, continuing its mission to foster friendships, provide educational opportunities,

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and sponsor civic and environmental projects that benefit Gainesville residents.

UF/IFAS Extension, known for its research and educational outreach in agriculture and natural resources, enhances the academic aspect of the expo, providing attendees with access to the latest insights and innovations in gardening and environmental conservation. The Florida Master Gardeners and Alachua County further support the event, ensuring it aligns with the community’s goals of fostering sustainability and environmental stewardship.

After an initial attempt last year that saw limited success, this year’s Fall Horticulture Expo has been meticulously planned to ensure a more impactful and engaging experience. With the collective effort of the GGC and its partners, the event aims to establish itself as a staple in the local community, promoting sustainable practices and environmental education.

One of the key organizers behind the event is Cynthia Nazario-Leary, an influential figure in the gardening and environmental community. Nazario-Leary is known for her extensive work in horticulture and her role in promoting sustainable gardening practices. As the UF/IFAS Alachua County Environmental Horticulture Extension Agent, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the expo, ensuring attendees receive valuable insights and practical advice.

Nazario-Leary is also the Florida M a s t e r G a rd e n e r s Vo l u nt e e r Coordinator. In this role, she collaborates with volunteers and outside organizations to create events that promote educational science-based exchanges with the public.

experiences, stating, “These demonstrations allow people to see the techniques in action and ask questions directly to the experts. It’s a great way to learn practical skills that they can apply at home.”

With the collective effort of the GGC and its partners, the event aims to establish itself as a staple in the local community, promoting sustainable practices and environmental education.

“This event is a fantastic opportunity for the community to come together and learn about sustainable gardening practices,” she said. “Our goal is to inspire people to make a positive impact on their environment, starting in their own backyards.”

Kathy Stephens, Treasurer of the GGC and Vendor Chair of the Fall Horticulture Expo, shared details about what attendees can expect on the day of the event. Stephens highlighted the comprehensive schedule, which includes a variety of workshops, hands-on demonstrations, and opportunities for attendees to engage directly with experts and vendors.

“We’ve lined up an exciting array of activities for this year’s expo,” Stephens said. “From interactive booths to educational talks, there will be something for everyone, whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out.”

The day’s events will feature demons t rat i o n s o n topics such as composting, container gardening, and native plant care. Stephens emphasized the importance of these hands-on

Specific highlights include a Master Gardener plant sale starting at 9 a.m., focusing on native plants and fall vegetables and herbs. “We’re expecting a big turnout for the plant sale, as it’s always a major draw,” Stephens noted. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to support the event and take home some beautiful additions for your garden.”

In addition to the educational workshops, the expo will host a diverse group of vendors, including local nurseries, gardening clubs, and environmental organizations. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase various plants, gardening tools, and eco-friendly products. “We’ve brought together a fantastic group of vendors who share our passion for sustainable gardening,” Stephens said. “It’s a chance for people to discover new resources and support local businesses.”

Family-friendly activities will also be a highlight of the expo. There will be a dedicated area for children’s gardening activities, including educational games and crafts designed to inspire the next generation of gardeners.

The kids’ zone will offer activities such as planting demonstrations, where children can learn how to plant and take home their own plants, wood-cutting crafts, birdhouse painting, and a seed-themed craft. “We want it to be a family-friendly event for all ages, with lots of kids’ activities to get everyone involved,” Stephens shared.

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FALL HORTICULTURE EXPO >> GAINESVILLE GARDEN CLUB

features like the presence of Smokey Bear and firefighting equipment for children to explore. “In the center of the arena, we’ll have firefighting equipment with rangers and Smokey Bear, and children will be allowed to walk on the equipment under supervision. It’s totally hands-on,” she said.

A significant highlight of the Fall Horticulture Expo is the keynote address by Doug Tallamy, a renowned entomologist, ecologist, and conservationist. Tallamy is best known for his work emphasizing the importance of individual actions in environmental conservation, mainly through his concept of the “Homegrown National Park.”

This initiative encourages people to transform their backyards into conservation corridors, creating a collective effort to support biodiversity and ecological health.

“Everyone has the power to contribute to environmental conservation,” Tallamy said during an interview. “By planting native species and reducing pesticide use, we can create habitats that support a wide range of wildlife right in our own backyards.”

His keynote speech, scheduled for 2 p.m., will focus on the importance of planting native species and creating wildlife-friendly habitats in urban and suburban areas.

Paula Waterman, a dedicated member of the GGC and part of the planning committee, played a crucial role in securing Tallamy as the keynote speaker. “Doug Tallamy’s work has had a profound impact on how we think about our role in conservation,” Waterman said.

“His message about the power of personal action aligns perfectly with the goals of our event.”

Waterman emphasized the relevance of Tallamy’s message for the local community. “Doug’s concept of the Homegrown National Park is revolutionary because it empowers individuals to make a difference,” she noted. “His approach is practical and accessible, making it easy for anyone to get involved in conservation efforts.”

Tallamy’s nonprofit organization, Homegrown National Park, aims to inspire and guide individuals in transforming their outdoor spaces. His work has inspired countless people to take action, and his presence at the Fall Horticulture Expo is expected to be a major draw for attendees. “We’re incredibly fortunate to have Doug Tallamy speak at our event,” Waterman added.

The Fall Horticulture Expo promises to be a day filled with learning, inspiration, and community spirit. As the event draws near, the GGC and its partners invite everyone to join in celebrating the beauty and importance of sustainable gardening. Mark your calendars for October 19th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Alachua County Agriculture & Equestrian Center in Newberry. For more information on the event and future activities, visit the GGC’s Facebook page or website at www.ggcfl.org.

This year’s expo is not just an event but a movement toward environmental consciousness and personal responsibility. Join in the celebration, learn new skills, and become part of the effort to create a greener, healthier community.

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COLUMN

Naked Salsa

B Y C RY S TA L S M I T H

LORDY LORDY, LOOK WHO’S 40!

Some people dread turning 40. I was so excited to turn 40 I did it twice.

Two years ago, I spent my 38th birthday celebrating two big milestones — the first was my birthday, and the second was my divorce. On my birthday eve, I put on my reddest lipstick and my bravest face, and I told a judge on a Zoom call that I did, in fact, want to permanently dissolve my 18-year marriage. I followed our court date with a massive party to celebrate my freedom and my birthday. He spent the night planning his next wedding.

I learned so much that summer. I learned to love the quiet that came with being alone.

I learned — maybe for the first time in my life — that I had intrinsic value as a person. Turns out no one’s approval or disapproval of me ever had changed or ever could change how much I was worth.

I also learned it was okay to compartmentalize and keep the good parts of my life with my ex. And it was OK to let go of the rest.

You have to do a lot of packing and unpacking during a divorce, and sometimes, it’s really hard to know where to store the good parts of a bad marriage.

One of my good parts was Italy.

Italy was — and still is — the place where my soul feels most whole. My ex had scored an insanely lucky gig that sent him to the island of Capri every other year for a conference, and the first year I tagged along changed my entire life.

I’m not sure if it’s because it was the first real trip I’d taken since my babies were born or if it was because of the pasta, gelato, and lemon tree terrace that wrapped around our room at the Grand Hotel Quisisana. But the entire island was intoxicating. And truth be told, it was one of the rare moments I felt real joy in our marriage. Just the two of us, waking up on this beautiful Italian island, sharing a cappuccino and a gorgeous breakfast spread on a terrace overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. Deep down, it was one of the things that broke my heart the most to lose in the divorce. Not just the island but the happiness I felt there. I was afraid he held the keys to it.

Thank God for my insanely wise therapist. She helped me see that I not only had the ability to grant my own happiness, but I had permission. So I vowed to myself that for my 40th birthday, I’d go back to Italy.

I didn’t care if I had to Eat, Pray, Love it all by myself, but fortunately, the brother-in-law I kept in the divorce is a travel junkie like me, so he was instantly ready to plan. And although the guy I’m dating is an insanely nervous flyer, he was just waiting for the right travel guide to show him across the pond.

S o t h i s s u m m e r, I boarded a flight to Naples with my ex-husband’s brother and a guy who has shown me what it’s actually like to be loved by someone who likes you.

When I arrived in Capri, everything was just as I’d left it — and yet everything had changed. Rather than a suite at the Quisisana, we had an Airbnb at the top of a mountain overlooking the entire island. Everything really did look different on that trip. The man I’d always gone with wasn’t there, but to be fair, neither was the woman he went with.

I hit many of my favorite spots, and I was delighted to find them all unlocked. He didn’t have the keys to any of it.

It was all still there for me.

I also rented a private boat and dove from the bow into the cool water of the Tyrrhenian. I did a lot of bucket list things this trip that I’d always wanted to try but never did.

Turns out I was able to unlock even more things on my own.

CRYSTAL SMITH IS A FREELANCE WRITER AND COLUMNIST BORN AND RAISED IN WEST TEXAS. SHE RECEIVED HER B.S. IN JOURNALISM IN 2006 FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA. SHE IS IN LOVE WITH THE FLORIDA LANDSCAPE. ces03k@gmail.com

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Thank God for my insanely wise therapist. She helped me see that I not only had the ability to grant my own happiness, but I had permission. So I vowed to myself that for my 40th birthday, I’d go back to Italy.

After several days in Capri and a few days in Venice, the trip ended too soon — as every trip to Italy does. Leaving Venice, I gleefully soaked in the salty sea water that hit my face as I stood in the back of the water taxi on our way back to the airport.

It was Thursday, the evening before my 40th birthday and the second anniversary of my divorce. The flight was delayed by a few hours, but I was sun-soaked, exhausted, and full of joy.

On the plane, just after my second glass of wine, my brother-in-law leaned over and pointed at the TV screen in the back of my seat. It was midnight. In Italy, I was 40.

We had a quiet, giggly celebration, and I dozed until our plane landed in Chicago.

When we got off, it was a mad dash to try and make our connecting flight back home. Thankfully they delayed it, so we quickly grabbed McDonald’s and soaked in the greasy taste of preservatives and freedom before we boarded our final flight around 11 p.m.

It was Thursday again.

If you’d asked me on my 30th birthday what I thought I’d be doing for my 40th, I couldn’t have guessed this in my wildest dreams. But if I had known all the self-discovery, love, and freedom that would be unlocked — I would have asked to turn 40 twice.

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CURTAIN CALL

GAINESVILLE’S BAIRD THEATER

A Stage Above the Rest W R I T T E N BY J OA N N A G R E Y TA L B O T

DOWNTOWN GAINESVILLE HAS CHANGED SIGNIFICANTLY OVER THE DECADES. Still, one of the oldest buildings is on the southwest corner of SE 1st Avenue and SE 1st Street, where Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille is today.

Roper’s Hall was the first building constructed on the corner, but in 1886, the south side of the courthouse square experienced a fire, and the hall burned down. JewishGerman immigrant Joseph Simonson purchased the lot and built a two-story brick building. The upstairs operated as Simonson’s Opera House, which hosted musicians, traveling shows, and even a “stereopticon exhibition.” The ground floor was home to a saloon and cigar store.

Before the advent of “moving pictures,” stereopticons were a popular form of entertainment. The stereopticon, or “magic lantern,” was a type of slide projector. In March

PHOTO: COURTESY OF THE ACLD

1893, the Gainesville Daily Sun reported that “Professor Kelton will give two of his unrivalled stereopticon exhibitions in the Simonson opera house on Monday, March 6 and Wednesday, March 8. Two hundred elegant pictures each night. These trips around the world are an education in themselves. Entirely different pictures each night.”

Simonson owned a variety of businesses (opera house, skating rink, bathhouse, saloon, and artesian mineral water well), and in 1893 he sold the opera house to J.F. Edwards.

The business was renamed Edwards Opera House, and he opened a wine room on the ground floor. Edwards boasted that the opera house could seat 600 patrons.

In 1903, the Edwards Opera House hosted the city’s first traveling Chautauqua. Reverend Clarence Strouse, a winter resident, began this annual tradition in Gainesville. The yearly Chautauqua offered a variety of lectures, “dramatic

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The lobby of the Baird Theater circa 1920s. Photos courtesy of the Matheson History Museum.

readers, musical quartets, singers, magicians, programs of slides, and even horse shows.”

According to the building’s National Register of Historic Places application, in 1904 the wine room was closed after Alachua County went “dry” and was replaced by a drugstore, J. W. McCollum and Co., that occupied the address for 35 years—a succession of businesses operated from the other two stores on the first floor through the 1920s.

It’s unclear what happened to Edwards, but in 1906, Eberle Baird, owner of Baird Hardware, purchased the building and added the third story and theater balcony.

In 1910, Baird also constructed a livery stable and carriage house on the south side of the block for patrons of the theater. That building eventually became the beloved Sovereign Restaurant and today is home to Mojo Hogtown Bar-B-Que. The Baird Theater quickly became a centerpiece of the city’s cultural life. According to the late historian Ben Pickard, the theater could seat 1,000 patrons and was decorated with a color scheme of white and gold with red seats on the main floor and the balcony and wicker chairs in the opera boxes.

The theater hosted a variety of acts over the years, from minstrel shows to touring orchestras and choirs to educational presentations. In August 1913, the Gainesville Daily Sun reported that the theater had hosted the first exhibition in Gainesville of Edison’s talking pictures. “The voices of the different actors and actresses could easily be distinguished, were clear and true to life, and the singing and music was as real as can be.”

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played by women, and the Gainesville Daily News said, “The entertainment was very creditable and was much enjoyed by all present.”

Occasionally, the theater also hosted wrestling matches!

In April 1915, the Gainesville Daily Sun reported on a wrestling match between George Grundahl (“Champion of the South”) and Peter J. Smith (“Champion of New York State”).

General admission was 50 cents, children 15 cents, and ladies accompanied by gentlemen got in free.

The Baird Theater was also a favorite location of the community to hold benefit concerts, graduation ceremonies, recitals, and more. In 1919, the Gainesville High School senior class staged their senior play, “Peggy.”

P H O T O : G A I N E S V I L L E D A I LY S U N

Stanislau “Stassio” Berini and his wife, Louise, both opera singers, met University of Florida President Murphree in Nova Scotia in the summer of 1911. He found out they were looking for somewhere warm to spend the winter, and he invited them to visit Gainesville.

Originally from Poland, Berini performed opera throughout Europe until moving to New York City to perform with the Metropolitan Grand Opera. They began annually visiting Gainesville in 1912, quickly becoming a part of the community.

According to the late historian Ben Pickard, the theater could seat 1,000 patrons and was decorated with a color scheme of white and gold with red seats on the main floor and the balcony and wicker chairs in the opera boxes.

During their time in Gainesville, the Berinis performed at the Baird Theater, local churches, and more. They also began offering singing lessons, which eventually morphed into the Gainesville Oratorio Society. The Berinis’ students performed their recitals and concerts at the Baird. It’s unclear when the Berinis stopped coming to Gainesville, but in 1928, they moved to Phoenix, Arizona, for Stassio to recuperate after a short illness.

One of the most famous visitors to the Baird Theater was former Secretary of State William Jennings Bryan. In 1920, he gave a presentation on behalf of the AntiSaloon League of America to raise funds for the Florida Educational Temperance campaign. Bryan discussed temperance and “problems of the day.”

On March 5, 1925, the Gainesville Sun reported that the Baird Theater had been sold to the law firm of Hampton & Hampton. Following in the footsteps of Eberle Baird, they leased the theater to a management company, the EJ Sparkman Co, who mainly operated the theater

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LOCAL THEATRE HISTORY >> BAIRD THEATRE

as a movie house but still occasionally hosted traveling performers.

In 1927, the theater hosted two groups of Black performers. Based on Gainesville Daily Sun articles, it’s unclear whether the theater always allowed a segregated audience or only for specific shows. In January, the AME Church of Gainesville hosted the “World Famous Williams’ Colored Singers.” In February, the Morehouse College Glee Club and Orchestra was invited by the Union Academy Association.

Advertisements for both performances listed that seats were available for both “white and colored” attendees.

The following year, the Baird Theater cut back to showing movies only two days a week and, in September 1928, was closed for an indefinite period. The management company had recently opened the Florida Theater and no longer needed the Baird.

The former Baird theater building was used by various organizations, including a Boy Scout Troop and the University City Athletic Club (hosted boxing matches).

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After sitting empty for a while, the Cox Furniture Company purchased the theater building after their original building burned down. Under the leadership of local architect Sanford Goin, Cox remodeled the former theater into their new store, which operated at this location until 1991 when the business closed.

Gainesville real estate developers and philanthropists Ken and Linda McGurn purchased the building in 1993 and renovated it into what you see today. One of the original architectural features they saved is the 1887 cornice line on the east facade. Look for it next time you’re downtown!

Although the Baird Theater is another business lost to history, its impact can still be felt today in places such as the Hippodrome State Theatre located a block south and other locally run stage theaters. Gainesville will always be a city for the arts.

8/21/24 11:58 AM

The Baird Theater was first constructed by Joseph Simonson in 1886 as Simonson’s Opera House. He then sold it to J.F. Edwards in 1893, who renamed it the Edwards Opera House. In 1906 Eberle Baird purchased the building, added the third story, and named it the Baird Theater.

Postcard courtesy of the Matheson History Museum.

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COMMUNIT Y C ALENDAR

S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 024

BEE-LUTHER-HATCHEE

9/139/29

Friday, September 13 – Sunday, September 29 Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 3501 SW 2nd Ave. GAINESVILLE – Shelita Burns, an African-American editor, publishes Bee-luther-hatchee, the autobiography of a reclusive 72-yearold woman named Libby Price. Shelita has never met Libby, and when the book wins a prestigious award, she decides to deliver it to her in person. To her profound shock, the actual author of the book is a white man named Sean Leonard. acrosstown.org

PERFECT ARRANGEMENT

Friday, August 30 – Sunday, September 22 Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE 2nd Place GAINESVILLE – Inspired by the true story of the Lavender Scare, “Perfect Arrangement” merges madcap sitcom-style laughs with provocative drama as two closeted U.S state Department employees struggle to maintain their cover – and their sanity – in 1950s America. thehipp.org

YOGA & BATS

Saturday, September 7, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Lubee Bat Conservancy, 18405 CR-231 GAINESVILLE – Join Lubee Bat Conservancy as we partner with local Gainesville yoga studio, Kardiya Yoga, for an all levels 60-minute stretch and flow bat-inspired yoga class. lubee.org

PLANT FOR POLLINATORS

Saturday, September 7, 12 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Millhopper Library Branch 3145 NW 43rd St. GAINESVILLE – Learn about the importance of native plants, wildflowers, and more at this family-friendly event! Each visitor can choose one plant from a variety of native species, available on a first-come, first-served basis. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

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12TH ANNUAL ARTSPEAKS

KICKOFF TO FALL MARKETPLACE

PAINTING WITH BATS

ALACHUA METHODIST CHURCH PUMPKIN PATCH

Sunday, September 8, 3:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.

The Historic Thomas Center 302 NE 6th Ave. GAINESVILLE – This free public event invites community members to gather and share their voices through poetry, spoken word, storytelling, and other forms of community expression.

ARTSPEAKSgnv.org Saturday, September 14, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Lubee Bat Conservancy, 18405 CR-231 GAINESVILLE – Come to Lubee Bat Conservancy for a painting party AND a private behind-the-scenes tour to meet some of the world’s giant fruit bats up close and personal. lubee.org

JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT

Gainesville Community Playhouse 4039 NW 16th Blvd.

Friday, September 20 – Sunday, October 6 GAINESVILLE – Andrew Lloyd Webber’s vivid musical is a reimagining of the biblical story of Joseph and the coat of many colors from the Bible’s Book of Genesis.

After being betrayed by his brothers, Joseph navigates life’s difficulties while discovering his unique gift, helping save a country and reunite his family. gcplayhouse.org

Saturday, September 21, 12 – 5 p.m.

Swamp Head Brewery 3650 SW 42nd Ave. GAINESVILLE – Discover a marketplace of unique, handcrafted goods, from art to crafts. Enjoy food trucks, live music, craft brews, and more while finding one-of-akind treasures. swamphead.com

Located on HWY 441 across from Lowe’s Thursday, September 26 thru October 31, various times Thousands of pink, green and orange pumpkins. Swan neck gourds, elf houses, etc. Free hay-rides Sat. & Sun. 2-5 p.m.

Homemade pumpkin bread for sale.

Large family tented and fenced area for picnicking and playing. Family photo opportunities. Call Alachua Methodist Church for more info: 386.462.2443

SWAMP HEAD BREWERY’S OKTOBERFEST

Friday, September 27 at 4 p.m.

Swamp Head Brewery 3650 SW 42nd Ave. GAINESVILLE – Get ready for a taste of Germany with plenty of beer, oversized steins, and Lederhosen! There will also be a stein-holding competition and Swamp Head’s Oktoberfest German-Style Märzen. swamphead.com

DANCE ALIVE NATIONAL BALLET PRESENTS SWAN LAKE

TOM PETTY WEEKEND

BLOCKTOBERFEST

GAINESVILLE PRIDE FESTIVAL

WHAT THE CONSTITUTION MEANS TO ME

TRICK OR TREAT

Friday, September 27 at 7:30 p.m.

Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road GAINESVILLE – This family-friendly ballet is back by popular demand. Swan Lake is the story of a prince whose fiancée has been transformed into a swan by an evil sorcerer. Tickets are $35-$65. performingarts.ufl.edu Saturday, September 28 at 12 p.m.

Bo Diddley Plaza, 111 E University Ave. GAINESVILLE – Tons of vendors, food trucks, fun activities, and fantastic entertainment. gainesvillepride.org

OKTOBERFEST AT FIRST MAGNITUDE

Saturday, September 28, 1 p.m. – 11 p.m.

First Magnitude Brewing Company 1220 SE Veitch St. GAINESVILLE – Celebrate MAGTOBERFEST with traditional German beers and German-style food. The beer garden will also have live music all day. fmbrewing.com

Thursday, October 10 – Saturday, October 12 Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St. GAINESVILLE – First launched in 2017, the annual Tom Petty Weekend attracts thousands of fans from around the world to Gainesville, all united by their love for the late musician’s music. heartwoodsoundstage.com

Friday, October 11 – Sunday, October 27 Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE 2nd Place GAINESVILLE – A Pulitzer Prize finalist and nominated for 2 Tony Awards, this hilarious, hopeful, and achingly human play breathes new life into our Constitution and imagines how it will shape the next generation of Americans. thehipp.org

10/12

Friday, October 25 at 4 p.m.

Blackadder Brewing Company 618 NW 60th St., Suite A GAINESVILLE – Enjoy the 8th annual Blocktoberfest with Bavarian music, traditional German food by Strega Nona’s Oven and Uppercrust, Blackadder steins, and Blocktoberfest lager. blackadderbrewing.com Friday, October 25, 5 – 8 p.m.

The Shoppes at Thornebrook 2441 NW 43rd St. GAINESVILLE – Trick or treat at the Shoppes at Thornebrook with vendors, food trucks, and treats. shoppesatthornebrook.com

OKTOBERFEST AT TIOGA

39TH ANNUAL FALL ARTS FESTIVAL Saturday, September 28 – Sunday, September 29, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

The Shoppes at Thornebrook 2441 NW 43rd St. GAINESVILLE – This family-friendly annual festival will feature a wide array of artistry, including paintings, sculptures, mixed media, woodwork, pottery, jewelry, and more, along with delicious food. shoppesatthornebrook.com

INFINITY CON

Saturday, September 28 – Sunday, September 29, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Alachua County Sports & Events Center 4870 Celebration Pointe Ave. GAINESVILLE – Infinity Con is coming to the Alachua County Sports and Events Center in Gainesville for two days packed with comic books, art, cosplay, anime, gaming, robots, and more! infinitycon.com

THE GAINESVILLE ORCHESTRA OCTOBER “LES PRELUDES”

Friday, October 4 at 7:30 p.m.

Santa Fe College Fine Arts 3000 NW 83rd St. GAINESVILLE – The journey begins with Wagner’s thrilling “The Flying Dutchman” and Tan Dun’s multi-dimensional “Paper Concerto.” This premiere concert of the season finishes with Liszt’s thrilling “Les Preludes.”

Tickets are $22 -$52 sfcollege.edu

Saturday, October 12, 2 – 8 p.m.

Tioga Town Center, 133 SW 130th Way NEWBERRY – Enjoy live music, dance performances, food, games, and plenty of beer. tiogatowncenter.com

FALL HORTICULTURE EXPO

Saturday, October 19, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Agriculture & Equine Center 23100 W Newberry Road NEWBERRY – This free event will include the fall plant market, food trucks, a kid’s zone, Florida-friendly landscaping ideas, and Florida Forestry Service wildland fire equipment with Smokey Bear. ggcfl.org

OPEN HOUSE & FALL PLANT SALE

Saturday, October 19 – Sunday, October 20, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens GAINESVILLE – In addition to viewing the botanical gardens, approximately 50 booths will be set up selling a wide variety of plants. Coinciding with the Fall Plant Sale, the American Orchid Society will have its annual judged show.

DANCE ALIVE NATIONAL BALLET PRESENTS DRACULA & VAMPYRA Friday, October 25 at 7:30 p.m.

Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road GAINESVILLE – The vampire classic, DRACULA, dark and foreboding, is filled with bone-chilling suspense. The hilarious VAMPYRA is a spoof on the vampire world. Fun Halloween costume contest during intermission! Tickets are $30-$50. performingarts.ufl.edu

FEST 2024

Friday, October 25 – Sunday, October 27 Multiple Locations GAINESVILLE – This annual multi-day, multi-venue music festival encompasses over 15 venues, 350 bands, comedians, and professional wrestlers. thefestfl.com

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR >> SEPT/OCT 2024

DRACULA: A COMEDY OF TERRORS

Friday, October 25 – Sunday, November 10 Acrosstown Repertory Theatre 3501 SW 2nd Ave. GAINESVILLE – When her sister Mina falls ill with a mysterious disease of the blood, Lucy Westfeldt and her fiancé, Jonathan Harker, enlist the help of famed female vampire hunter Doctor Jean Van Helsing. Their hunt for the dangerous and sexy Count Dracula abounds with clever wordplay and quick-change antics. acrosstown.org

FL BAT FESTIVAL

Saturday, October 26, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Lubee Bat Conservancy, 18405 CR-231 GAINESVILLE – Join Lubee Bat Conservancy for a day filled with thrilling activities, captivating exhibits, and unforgettable experiences for the whole family. And, of course, the world’s largest bats! lubee.org

RECURRING EVENTS HAILE EQUESTRIAN RIDE & WINE

First Fridays at 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Haile Equestrian, 7680 SW 46th Blvd.

GAINESVILLE – Enjoy an adults-only evening of horseback riding, wine, charcuterie, and great conversations with us. All riding levels are welcome.

Tickets are $75 per person. haileequestrian.com/events

JAZZ ON THE GREEN

Second Saturdays from 7 – 9 p.m.

Celebration Pointe 5001 Celebration Pointe Ave. Suite 140 GAINESVILLE – Join Celebration Point every second Saturday of the month for live music, food, drinks, and more!

Spread a blanket under the setting sun and catch some beautiful music on the green. celebrationpointe.com

GAINESVILLE CARS & COFFEE

Second Sundays from 9 – 11 a.m.

Whole Foods Market, 3490 SW Archer Rd GAINESVILLE – A gathering for automotive enthusiasts of all types, from exotics and classics to imports and jalopies. The meeting is free to attend; coffee will be provided to attendees, as well as breakfast items for sale. gainesvillecarsandcoffee.com

STORY TIME AT THE ZOO

Third Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.

Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo 3000 NW 83rd St.

GAINESVILLE – Join the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo and the Alachua County Library every 3rd Wednesday of the month for Story Time at the Zoo! Story time is held in front of the zoo on the lawn and is free for all to attend. If you’d like to visit the zoo after story time, tickets are $8 for adults, $5 for children ages 4-12, seniors over 60, UF students and staff with Gator 1 card, and free for children three and under. Zoo Members and Santa Fe College students, staff, and faculty with SF ID are free. sfcollege.edu/zoo

TOT TROT

Tuesdays from 9 – 10:45 a.m.

Florida Museum of Natural History 3215 Hull Rd. GAINESVILLE – Get your toddler excited about science and natural history!

Join Discovery Zone nature ambassadors for an exciting and interactive nature walk. Each program highlights an outdoor area and encourages exploration with a closer look at nature and museum objects. This program promotes sensory experiences, investigation, and exploration with a focus on science. They are recommended for children ages 2-5 years old (an adult chaperone must accompany the child). Tickets are $6 for members and $7 for non-members. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

BIRD WALKS AT THE WETLANDS

Wednesdays from 8:30 – 11 a.m.

(September – May) Sweetwater Wetlands Park 325 SW Williston Rd. GAINESVILLE – Discover the rich diversity of birds at one of north central Florida’s premier birding hotspots during a 2-3-hour guided walking tour. Join us to see why Sweetwater Wetlands Park is the most popular birding destination in the Gainesville area. Walks are free with a park admission fee ($5/vehicle) and are offered every Wednesday morning from September 1st through the end of May. alachuaaudubon.org

GUIDED WALK AT KANAPAHA

First Saturdays at 10 a.m.

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens 4700 SW 58th Dr. GAINESVILLE – Enjoy a guided tour through Kanapaha Botanical Gardens starting at 10 a.m. on the first Saturday of every month. Regular admission price applies for non-members. kanapaha.org

BIRDS AND BREWS

First Sundays, Start Times Vary First Magnitude Brewing Company 1220 SE Veitch St. GAINESVILLE – Join volunteers with the Alachua Audubon Society in front of the Maggie Banner by The First Magnitude Warehouse for a 45-minute birdwatching tour around Depot Park.

Return to the brewery to unwind with a drink! fmbrewing.com

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WED’s

BARNYARD BUDDIES

Wednesdays at 3 p.m. (September – May) Morningside Nature Center, 3540 E University Ave. GAINESVILLE – Morningside Living History Farm is hosting an in-person, socially distant Barnyard Buddies program! This one-hour program is free, but online pre-registration through Eventbrite is required on a first-come-first-served basis.

Youngsters, with an adult, can meet and greet farm animals by helping staff with afternoon feeding on the Living History Farm. September – May.

PLAYLIST AT THE POINTE

Fourth Fridays from 7 – 9 p.m.

Celebration Pointe 5001 Celebration Pointe Ave. GAINESVILLE – A music event that offers an eclectic mix of music from various genres – country, rock, soul, and more. celebrationpointe.com

2nd THURS

Second Thursdays from 5:30 – 7 p.m.

Gainesville Fine Arts Association Gallery, 1314 S Main St. GAINESVILLE – The Gainesville Fine Arts Association is proud to present Artist Meetups every second Thursday of the month from 5:30-7 p.m. Join the conversation about the current exhibitions. Exhibiting artists are strongly encouraged to attend and speak about their work. This event is free and open to the public. gainesvillefinearts.org

GNV MARKET

Thursdays from 4 – 7 p.m.

Heartwood Soundstage 619 South Main St. GAINESVILLE – The GNV Market is Gainesville’s Downtown farmers market every Thursday from 4-7 p.m. Featuring over 40 vendors, fresh produce, live music, and craft beer. gnvmarket.com

HIGH SPRINGS FARMERS MARKET Fridays from 3 – 7 p.m.

23517 NW 185th Rd. HIGH SPRINGS – Florida-grown fruit, vegetables, dairy, and meats, as well as honey, handmade treats, and more. The Farmers Market is produced by The City of High Springs. highsprings.us/farmersmarket

PARKRUN 5K AT DEPOT PARK

Saturdays at 7:30 a.m.

Depot Park, 200 SE Depot Ave. GAINESVILLE – Parkrun is a free, weekly, timed 5K at Depot Park. Participants can walk, jog, or run. The community is encouraged to get active at their fitness and ability level. Parkrun is a global movement that started in the UK and quickly spread worldwide. Every Saturday, over 1,700 events occur with more than 150,000 participants globally. parkrun.us/depotpark

352-854-0294 14906 MAIN ST ALACHUA, FL

ALACHUA METHODIST CHURCH

PUMPKIN PATCH

Mon-Fri 2pm-8pm, Sat 9-8pm, Sunday noon-8pm Thursday Sept. 26th-Oct 31st

• Thousands of pink, green and orange pumpkins, swan neck gourds, elf houses, etc.

• Free hay rides Sat & Sun 2-5pm.

• Homemade pumpkin bread for sale.

• Large family tented and fenced area for picnicking and playing.

• Family photo opportunities.

Hwy 441 across from Lowe's

386-462-2443

Drawing by, Alexa Pope - Santa Fe High School Student

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR >> SEPT/OCT 2024

ALACHUA COUNTY FARMERS’ MARKET

Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

5920 NW 13th St. GAINESVILLE – Don’t forget to bring shopping bags, your grocery list, and plenty of small bills. This market prides itself on being a grower’s only market – meaning the vendors selling produce, plants, and other products must have grown the items themselves. 441market.com

HAILE FARMERS MARKET

Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Haile Plantation Village GAINESVILLE – Take a stroll down the tree-lined streets of the Haile Village Center to browse for groceries, prepared food, and handmade gifts.

Then, continue for more shopping or brunching at the Village Center’s locally-owned shows and restaurants.

COVID-19 recommendations: maintain physical distance, don’t touch products, one customer served per vendor at one time, and protect yourself and others by wearing facial coverings. hailefarmersmarket.com

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open to children ages 5-14 @ jonesville park Travel Ball • Baseball Leagues • Hitting clinics • Camps & Training • Private Lessons

GATORBALLTRAINING.COM

Monday-Friday 8am-5pm and Saturday 9am-12pm

NOW OFFERING PRIMARY CARE! 15652 NW US Highway 441, Suite 2D Alachua, FL 32615 • 386-418-4060

www.OneStopMedCenter.com • COLD AND FLU • ALLERGIES • SKIN AILMENTS • DOT EXAMS • PRE-EMPLOYMENT PHYSICALS • WORKER’S COMPENSATION • XRAY ON-SITE • SPORTS & SCHOOL PHYSICALS • VACCINATIONS • BIRTH CONTROL SEPT/OCT 2024 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

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HUGE SELECTION OF WINE, CHEESE, MEATS, BEER, SPIRITS & CHOCOLATES AS WELL AS WINE PAIRINGS, WEDDINGS, EVENTS, CATERING, DRINK ADVICE AND MORE!

2 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS: Dorn’s Liquor and Wine Warehouse (In Freshmarket Shopping Center) 4140 NW 16th Blvd, Gainesville

(352) 378-0229

New Location: Dorn’s West Liquors 14451 W Newberry Rd. Newberry

(352) 660-2060

NEW LOCATION NOW OPEN! Dorn’s West- Come relax, shop and stay a

little bit to enjoy a drink or glass of wine with cheese and light refreshments at their in-store bar. (Light charcuterie boards and snacks available.)

Check us out on Facebook!

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LOCAL POET

SARAH CAREY’S POETRY

Verses of the Heart W R I T T E N BY H A N N A D E L A G A R Z A

GRIEF IS A PROFOUND, OFTEN ISOLATING EXPERIENCE THAT CHALLENGES THE ABILITY TO EXPRESS THE DEPTH OF EMOTIONS. In the face of such immense sorrow, many find solace in creative expression.

For local author Sarah Carey, poetry became her refuge during a period of profound personal change. Her upcoming book, “The Grief Committee Minutes,” captures her journey, reflecting the raw emotions she felt while caring for her ailing mother and dealing with grief after her passing. Set against nature’s changing seasons, Carey’s poems explore love, loss, and family bonds.

Carey, despite being a 34-year resident of Gainesville, Florida, has roots in the small town of Salisbury, North Carolina. She was born in 1957 to John Jesse Carey and Sally Stanback Malloy. Her father’s work as a chaplain led

to the family’s eventual move to Tallahassee, where John joined the faculty at Florida State University. Here is where Carey would spend her formative years.

As a child, Carey was an avid reader, consuming books that spanned various genres. Her father’s academic career and her mother’s nurturing presence provided a rich environment for intellectual and emotional growth.

“Writing was always a part of my life,” Carey recalled.

“It was a way to make sense of the world around me.”

Carey attended Duke University, initially drawn to the university’s strong English and political science programs.

She excelled in these subjects but struggled with the more rigorous aspects of Duke’s curriculum. Her social experiences also shifted as she navigated sorority life and a heavy workload, which contributed to a sense of isolation and academic dissatisfaction.

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VERSES OF THE HEART >> SARAH CAREY’S POETRY

“At Duke, I felt like an imposter,” Carey admitted.

Recognizing the misalignment between her academic pursuits and personal interests, Carey decided to transfer to FSU. This move proved pivotal for her creative development. Carey shifted her focus to English and humanities, where she found a supportive environment that better matched her academic strengths and passions.

She completed her bachelor’s degree in government and continued her studies to earn a master’s in creative writing, immersing herself in a curriculum that nurtured her literary talents.

After graduation, she SARAH CAREY had difficulty finding a job.

Despite not having formal training in journalism or public relations, Carey reached out to the Florida Flambeau, FSU’s student newspaper, where she took on various assignments, including covering guest speakers and feature stories.

With a growing portfolio, Carey began seeking opportunities in local weeklies, eventually landing a significant role at the Gadsden County Times. At just 25 years old, she became one of the youngest editors in the paper’s history.

Continuing to write poetry alongside her professional work, Carey found opportunities through freelance connections, including a significant role at Citrus & Vegetable 70 | OUR TOWN MAGAZINE 70

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Magazine. This experience led her to a communications coordinator position at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, where she has worked for the past 34 years. Her role evolved from coordinator to director, and her work has been recognized with the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges’ Excellence in Communications Award in 2017.

As Carey’s career progressed, she continued to build on her early successes.

Her poetry, initially published in journals and chapbooks, began to gain recognition for its emotional depth and lyricism.

Her ability to distill complex emotions into verse earned her a growing audience and accolades within the literary community.

Among her early milestones, Carey’s poetry was featured in notable literary journals such as The Florida Review, which was the first journal to publish one of her poems, as well as the Asheville Poetry Review and Alaska Women Speak. Her chapbooks, “Accommodations” and “The Heart Contracts” showcased her burgeoning talent and established her voice in the poetry world.

The foundation laid by these early achievements would be deepened by a personal journey that shaped P H O T O B Y: TA M M Y G R I F F I N -V I N C E N T

her most recent work. In 2016, Carey faced the immense challenge of caring for her mother, who was suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. The experience was both emotionally and physically taxing, casting a long shadow over her life.

Balancing caregiving responsibilities with her writing became a delicate dance, but it also served as a catalyst for her creative process.

“The process of caring for my mother was emotionally draining,” Carey reflected. “I recognized that I needed something, a project or something to immerse myself in, just to deal with everything.”

Amid these challenges, Carey began to craft what would eventually become “The Grief Committee Minutes.” The verses are injected with the raw emotions she experienced, offering readers a window into her personal struggles and moments of introspection. The changing seasons of nature, a recurring motif in the book, mirror the cycles of grief and healing she endured. “‘The Grief Committee Minutes’ emerged from the depths of my experience with my mother,” Carey explained.

“It’s a reflection of that intense period, where every poem became a way to honor her memory.”

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Carey’s new book, “The Grief Committee Minutes,” captures her journey, reflecting the raw emotions she felt while caring for her ailing mother and dealing with grief after her passing.

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VERSES OF THE HEART >> SARAH CAREY’S POETRY

The book is organized into four sections: Flyover, Reverse Universe, Evidence, and Survival Guide. Each section’s name carries significant meaning and guides the reader through Carey’s emotional journey.

In the first section, Flyover, the poem “Flyover” stands out as an imagined conversation between Carey and her mother, envisioning them flying over Miami. This city has dramatically changed since her mother’s childhood. This section serves as an overview, introducing major themes and setting the stage for the emotional depth to come.

The placement of environmental observations, nature, and initial expressions of grief at the forefront aligns with the thematic arc Carey envisioned for the book.

The second section, Reverse Universe, delves into the disorientation and upheaval Carey experienced as her mother’s condition worsened. The title reflects the world turned upside down, a metaphor for the speaker’s changing reality. In this section, the poem “Reverse Universe” uses the image of a radiograph of the speaker’s fractured hand as a metaphor for the broken nature of her world, echoing the themes of transformation and loss.

Evidence, the third section, explores the traces of life and memory that persist despite loss. In the poem “Evidence,” Carey walks along a beach, contemplating her mother’s death amid the backdrop of development and habitat loss. The discovery of deer tracks in the sand serves as a poignant metaphor for the persistence of life and joy, even in the face of displacement and sorrow.

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The final section, Survival Guide, culminates in a message of resilience and hope. The section’s title is derived from the last poem in the collection, which reflects on the unnecessary worries that often consume us. The poem’s imagery of a “river of stars” in the sky symbolizes a breakthrough moment of beauty and hope, suggesting that even in the darkest times, there is a path forward.

“All of us have experienced different levels of loss in our lives, and most of us at some point reflect on our roots and what it means to be of a place, from a place, as well as from the families who define in many ways the people we become,” she explained. “I hope readers find something of their own truths in my work and will find the poems relatable to their own life experience in some meaningful way.”

Looking ahead, Carey envisions more opportunities to connect with her readers through book readings, poetry workshops, and literary festivals. Her plans include continuing to write, with ideas already forming for her next collection, which she hopes will delve into themes of personal growth and resilience. Through her work, she aims to inspire others to find their own paths to healing and self-expression.

“The Grief Committee Minutes,” published by Saint Julian Press, will be released on September 15. The book will be available for purchase through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Bookshop. For more information, visit her website: sarahkcarey.com.

P H O T O B Y: A D R I E N N E F L E T C H E R

in Our Town

GOOD THINGS HAPPEN WHEN YOU CELEBRATE KIND WORDS… The purpose of this special section is to build community, appreciation and hope. In the following pages you’ll find words of encouragement. These are testimonials from local people sharing what they love about the people and places that support our community and need your support.

We hope you’ll find some places you love, and encourage them too ;)

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Little Pine Pediatrics consists of experienced, compassionate pediatricians and friendly, nurturing staff members who take pride in giving their young patients the personalized pediatric care they deserve. They look forward to showing you how they differ from other practices. All of their providers are highly educated professionals who have undergone rigorous academic and clinical training in pediatrics. Little Pine believes in a team approach to your child’s health and well being which allows the doctors to collaborate with parents to provide the highest level of care.

“Wonderful staff! they treated my son like he was their own. They’ll work with you for even same day appointment…

I have not one negative thing to say.” — Kellye G.

Lifelong Partners in Your Child’s Health

Little Pine Pediatrics 15551 NW Hwy 441 Suite 40, Alachua 386-518-0102

littlepinepediatrics.com

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“Everything was perfect. The staff were amazing, so nice. The doctor was so sweet to my girls, and I felt that he was extremely knowledgeable “and did not leave out a single detail. The nurse was very kind and welcoming. You could tell that this is a great place!

Loved our visit!” — Tonya D.

A b c o

At Celebrate Primary Care we offer affordable and personal health care. We are Gainesville’s premier direct primary care medical practice serving businesses and individuals with offices in Gainesville and surrounding areas. Ultimately, that means you or your employees get excellent medical care, when you need it, without having to jump through the hoops of a traditional medical practice. Because we have taken insurance companies out of the primary care equation, costs come down. Imagine a healthcare provider that knows you, and is only an email or text away.

“I love that I will have direct access to my provider (phone, text, messenger and email) and won’t have to wait days or weeks to be seen. I’ll keep my health

o

A Personal Relationship with your Medical Provider

s

Celebrate Primary Care 1216 NW 22nd Ave. | 919 NW 57th St. (352) 474-8686

celebrateprimarycare.com

insurance for emergency care and specialists, but financially this just makes sense. If you’re looking for something better, you should definitely check this place out!” — Monica S. “I just had a patient who is a patient at Celebrate Primary Care, she just went on and on about what an amazing amazing practice y’all have! She’s never experienced such personalized medical care. You are doing great things for people!” — Courtney G. SEPT/OCT 2024 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

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It’s been our pleasure to serve the flooring needs of the Gainesville area for more than 27 years. We’re your family-owned, neighborhood flooring experts. Our flooring team has decades of experience in the industry, and we can help you with your next project each step of the way. We have easy online tools to help you get started on your floor buying journey, like our Flooring Guide. Our Guarantee policy means that if you don’t love your new floors, we’ll replace them for free. Drop by and let us help you choose the perfect flooring for your home and lifestyle.

“I would highly recommend using Carpet One Floor and Home without hesitation and I plan to use

Here to Floor You

Carpet One Floor & Home 227 NW 23rd Ave, Gainesville, FL 32609 (352) 562-0565

carpet1gainesville.com

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them again in the future. It was a positive experience from start to finish, and I am grateful to have chosen such a reputable company for my home improvement project.” — Jennifer S.D. “We had a technically challenging project replacing a hardwood floor that had sustained water damage. Seth, our sales consultant, spent a great deal of time researching reasonable flooring options and was able to find one that matched our flooring nicely. I would heartily

recommend Carpet One, Seth and Joshua as the trifecta of folks one would turn to for flooring needs.” — Dean K.

J j p t

Jewelry Works has been family owned since 2006, serving Gainesville and surrounding areas with high-quality repair services, custom created jewelry, and stunning unique fine jewelry found nowhere else. Caring, thoughtful, and focused on the quality of our products and services, we pride ourselves on our high standards while remaining approachable and realistic with our customers. Our clientele consists of long lasting customers who appreciate our honesty and high skill level, as they know they can trust us with their most treasured jewelry and timepieces.

“The craftsmanship of the work at this location is second to none! The staff here is helpful and friendly, and the options to choose from are so tasteful and accommodating to any needs you may have. This is the only place I will go for a gift that will be

Custom Created Fine Jewelry and Watch Repair

Jewelry Works 6419 W Newberry Road (Located in The Oaks Mall) (352) 333-0301

jewelryworksgainesville.com

unforgettable and treasured for a lifetime.” — Kevin K.

“I cannot say enough great things about Jewelry Works! David and Valissa showed my fiance and me great diamond options, as well as, helped us build her the perfect engagement ring! She gets compliments on it routinely. Very professional, kind, and will work with you to deliver your vision.” — Micah S. SEPT/OCT 2024 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

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The quality of real wood furniture offered at our store guarantees that your choice will look good and function beautifully for years to come. Looking for real heirloom quality you can see and true freedom to choose the style, size and colors that are right for your home? Then you’re looking for real wood unfinished furniture. Wood You has the best selection and lowest prices on ready-to finish furniture. Custom furniture is now available for the home office, media / entertainment room, bedroom, bookcases and wall groupings. If we don’t have it, we can get it!

“Wood You Gainesville was able to design a custom built entertainment center for me. They were able to take the ideas I had in my head and create a great piece for my home. They did great work and I love what they created for me.” — B. Krall

Quality Furniture Made with Real Wood

Wood You Furniture Northgate Shopping Center 2400 N Main St, Gainesville, FL 32609 (352) 373-1107

woodyougainesville.com

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“Wonderful staff, very friendly and helpful. Nice selection of solid unfinished wood furniture with professional finishing available. Purchased Dressers and Desk for Student housing and so far we are extremely happy with the products.” — N. Moore “My wife and I love Wood You. They were super helpful helping us choose a new dining room table and did an incredible job finishing it!

We have a table big enough for our large family and one that will be with us for our grandchildren. Thank you!.” — J.Mitchell

C c t c

Creating a beautiful and functional space in one’s home does not always come easy. Home renovations can feel extremely taxing between hiring contractors, and designers, buying materials, staying on budget, and staying sane. Kaelyn Schmidt, the owner of Kaelyn Schmidt Design believes that thoughtful home development comes from practicality and functionality. This North Florida-based business brings together the services of contracting and design to create a seamless home renovation process.

“Kaelyn Schmidt is talented, detail-oriented, and creative — and she goes above and beyond to help you design your

Let’s design a home you will love and be proud to show off

home the way you envision it! We had a fantastic experience working with her and highly recommend her to other people. I’m a Realtor and she is my go-to for clients and friends who are looking to remodel.

Everyone I have referred to her has been super happy too.” — Danika O “Kaelyn is absolutely wonderful to work with! She has an incredible

Kaelyn Schmidt Design 13411 SW County Rd. 346 Archer, FL 352-215-1221

kaelynschmidtdesign.com

eye and beautiful design taste and ideas. I’ve worked with her on two commercial spaces and she did a great job! I’m so happy with

her suggestions, professionalism and the final products! Highly recommend!” — Jennifer M

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Alachua Blinds and More is excellence in action for all of your window blind and shade needs. With an array of option in a variety of colors and styles, they have been serving our area for over 17 years and operate their business with an attention to detail and work to make your buying experience second to none. Locally owned and operated allows them to offer discounted rates to members of our military, veterans and first responders. Call today or visit their website to request your free, no obligation estimate.

“We called Alachua Blinds and More a couple of months ago and were given a fair quote by Matt. Soon after Matt and his assistant took the measurements, they assured us of installation promptly. They were extremely courteous and professional. At arrival of blinds they promptly made the installation. We have been extremely

Covering all your windows needs

pleased with the professional of Matt and his crew.”

— J. Freeman

“I love these blinds! Matt came to my house and took the

Alachua Blinds and More (352) 494-4778

alachuablindcompany.com

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time to go over all the samples, gave some suggestions and didn’t rush me when I was trying to decide on colors and fabrics. I’ve had the remote blinds for over a year now and they work great!!! I thoroughly enjoyed speaking and doing business with Matt and I would HIGHLY recommend Matt, his company and product!!!!!” — M. Crosby

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We are dedicated to making sure your experience with us is comfortable and pleasant. Collectively we have over 50 years of experience and we LOVE what we do. Our Hair Stylists, Aesthetician, Massage Therapist, Lash Extension Specialist and Nail Artists are waiting to pamper you!

Come visit us and enjoy your time in our inviting atmosphere. Give us a call today to set up your next visit. We look forward to meeting you!

While you are with us, take a look at our new Boutique, Bee and Thistle, and shop our American made merchandise.

“I love my hair cut I received today! It was my first time visiting this place recommended by a friend. I was greeted by the stylist and she was friendly and made me feel comfortable and cut my hair exactly how I

wanted! Can’t wait to return again for color!” — Britt L.

A full service Salon and Spa

Profero Hair Studio 6110 NW 1st Pl, Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 359-3800

proferostudio.com

“This is a small, intimate hair salon. Stacy is wonderful and listens carefully to want you want in a haircut.”— Sande M “Finally! A pleasant environment and someone who listened and cut my hair exactly how I wanted.”— Angela G SEPT/OCT 2024 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

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A family owned local business with over 20 years of pawn broking experience; Pawn Pro offers their customers the best deals and the most money for their unwanted items. They take pride in offering top dollar for jewelry, broken jewelry, electronics, tools and much more. Available 6 days a week Chris strives to create a pleasant experience regardless of what you may be looking to buy or sell. Isn’t it time you got rid of some of those unwanted items? Let the Pawn Pros help!

“First rate service - Something for everyone - great prices, great service, friendly and family driven definitely the raiser of standards and the breaker of the stereotypical mold - not your typical pawnshop - friendly and family oriented. Be

Hometown Local Business

Pawn Pro, LLC 25040 W. Newberry Road, Newberry 352-327-9067

pawnprollc.com

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expected to be impressed!” — Jay M.

“I’ve been a customer for 15 years, YES 15 years and never a regret, always treated well, you can’t find better deals and the owner goes above and beyond on every transaction.” — John C.

“Great place. Very helpful and knowledgeable staff.

Chris is sincere and a real professional.” — Bill M.

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The Masters Lawn Care is focused on delivering top-notch lawn care services while putting the needs of the customer first. Their team consists of certified and experienced professionals who are passionate about lawn care. They take pride in our work and believe that a well-manicured lawn not only enhances the look of your property but also has a positive impact on the environment. Their services range from routine lawn maintenance to full-scale landscaping projects, and use the latest equipment and techniques to ensure the job is done right.

“We recently hired The Master’s Lawn Care to remove a significant portion of our grass and incorporate new beds with our existing ones.

Our experience with the team was great from the beginning to the end.” — A. Hanssen The leader in high quality landscape and maintenance

The Master’s Lawn Care 11417 NW 59th Terrace, Gainesville, FL 32653 (352) 378-5296

TheMastersLawnCare.com

“We are very happy with service we received from The Masters Lawn Care sod installation crew. We found D’Shaun particularly enjoyable to work with. They showed up on time, were very courteous and respectful of us and our property.”

— A. Bernard

“The Master’s Lawn Care always goes above and beyond for our company (Scorpio Construction). I would recommend them to anyone!”

— Alex H. SEPT/OCT 2024 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE | 83 83

We are a family-owned business, originally from the coasts of Southern California, & brought our love for Mexican cuisine to the wonderful community of Newberry, Florida in 2013. We think you of, our patrons, as FAMILIA, & our goal is to always make you feel welcome and satisfied each time. We pride ourselves in the quality, freshness, & vibrant flavors of our food. Our meats are never frozen, and every meal is prepared fresh and made to order. From our fresh Pico de Gallo to our hand-smashed guacamole, you will savor the mouthwatering flavors.

“Cilantro Tacos in Alachua raises the bar every time we go there.

Their food is absolutely amazing and the service is incredible! We just had them cater an event and their food was all people could talk about. Highly recommend this place if you’re passing through and need to eat.” — R. McClellan

Freshness You Can Taste

Cilantro Tacos 12921 SW 1 Rd, Newberry 352-472-1300

eatcilantrotacos.com

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“This place is amazing. The food is delicious and the people

that own it and work there are absolutely awesome. Our meals (giant burritos) were huge and fabulous. Holy smoke we waddled out of there promising to return. Don’t short yourselves people, go eat there. You won’t be disappointed.” — B. Jordan

“Awesome fresh food, fast service great family owned business with wonderful staff. Great experience every time, a family favorite.” — K. Jester

T a a o

The ford franchise in Alachua was purchased from Symder Ford in 1988 by John Waitcus and was renamed Santa Fe Ford. Greg Waitcus was appointed vice president and general manager and has successfully managed Santa Fe Ford for 36 years. Santa Fe Ford now offers Mobile service at your home or work locations. We have four mobile units operated by trained technicians, managed by Morgan Waitcus. Our quicklane will be opening soon.

“We have trusted Sante Fe Ford’s service department to keep our aging fleet on the road, and their reliability and expertise earned our business when it was time to add a new vehicle. Morgan and Jason

Where low overhead guarantees the lowest price

Santa Fe Ford 16330 NW US Hwy 441, Alachua, FL 32615 (866) 371-2255

SantaFeFord.com

made the entire sales process seamless, and we’re confident in our continued partnership with Sante Fe Ford for all our fleet needs.” — Derek

“Santa Fe Ford is the best of the best. They have a huge lot full of inventory with multiple options for each vehicle model. We have purchased multiple trucks to use as delivery vehicles for our Powersports dealership, Polaris of Gainesville. We have also purchased our personal vehicles from there as well. No one beats their customer service or pricing.”— Jennie & Jared Schneider SEPT/OCT 2024 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

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At Nature’s Pet Day Spa, we bring the world-class care and attention your pets deserve. Led by the award-winning coach and grooming expert Lisa Jordan, we’re a woman-owned, local business built on compassion and a commitment to excellence. By using natural products, we focus on your pet’s health. Add a caring atmosphere, and you’ve got a day spa you can trust with your pet’s happiness and well-being.

“I absolutely LOVE this salon! Their products are amazing too!” — Turi D. “I am very pleased for a first-timer and so is Goldie! I’m sure she can’t

The world-class care and attention your pets deserve

Nature’s Pet Day Spa 500 NW 60th St, Suite C 352-331-8681

naturepetsgrooming.com

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wait for her next spa day with such wonderful people! A big thanks to everyone who works there.” — Angela V. “I’ve been taking my two dogs there for many years and have always been happy with the groomers — I’ve used a number of them, but especially love Ashley. They are wildly popular in Gainesville, so book early for an appointment.” — Vassiliki S.

T p o m

The mission of St. Francis House is to create new futures for women and families with children experiencing homelessness in our community by providing safe shelter, support, and connections to the resources they need to obtain stable housing. Since 2020, St. Francis House has assisted over 250 families and 575 children through our programs, ultimately helping them achieve self-sufficiency and secure permanent housing. For more information on St. Francis House, follow us online at @sfhgnv and visit our website at stfrancishousegnv.com.

“St. Francis House truly changed our lives. When we

Creating New Futures for Children and Families

St. Francis House, Inc. 413 South Main Street (352)-378-9079

stfrancishousegnv.com

had nowhere else to turn, they welcomed us with open arms and offered us the shelter and support we desperately needed. With their help and compassion, we were able to find stable housing and regain hope for our future. We will always be thankful for the second chance they gave us!”

— Former St. Francis House guest “Before coming to St. Francis House, I felt like my family was stuck in a never-ending cycle of struggle. Their guidance,

encouragement, and unwavering support transformed our lives. Today, our family is excited and grateful

that we have a new place to call home, all thanks to the incredible team at St. Francis House. Thank you all!” — Former St. Francis House guest SEPT/OCT 2024 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

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Gentle Dental Care has been a leader in the Gainesville dental community since 1978. They take great satisfaction in helping you maintain optimal dental health. Devoted to comprehensive and preventive patient care, the staff at Gentle Dental Care believe their patients should have as much information as possible in order to make important, informed decisions regarding their dental health and treatment options. The most important member of their team will always be you! Stop by today and meet the family at Gentle Dental Care.

“Dr. Webb will treat you like family.” — Rod S. Your health and safety are our greatest concerns!

“Always smiling and always a pleasant experience which is weird when you consider that it is the dentist. Love Dr. Jordan and Dr. Patti.”

— Tony M.

Gentle Dental Care 3655 SW 2nd Avenue 352-378-2555 Drs. Patti and Jordan Webb

GainesvilleDentist.com

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“The Gentle Dental Care staff were very friendly, kind, and concerned about my welfare. I would definitely recommend them if you are looking for a new dental professional to take care of you!” — Michelle G.

T h h t

The team at Next Level Orthodontics strives to maintain an environment that is focused on the quality, mutual respect and superior results while having as much fun as possible. Dedicated and professional, the team at Next Level Orthodontics works synergistically with one goal in mind, to help you get the most beautiful and healthy smile possible while creating a next level customer experience. Welcoming patients of all ages, the team at Next Level Orthodontics is ready to help. Visit them online or call to set up a complimentary consultation.

“Such kind staff and Dr. A is awesome. I waited until my 30’s to start my Invisalign journey and the best decision was choosing this place. I feel like at each appointment my teeth are very carefully examined and my treatment plan evolves as needed to meet my outcome

Elevating the health and beauty of your smile to the Next Level

Next Level Orthodontics 320 NW 76th Dr. Gainesville 352-332-7466

thenextlevelorthodontics.com

goal. Can’t wait until my final result is reached. Loving how much progress my teeth have made already. My only regret is not doing it sooner!” — C. House “I went to Next Level Orthodontics for my braces and from the first

day to the last everyone was so pleasant and kind. I love the work

they did. Now I can be happy smiling and not doubt it. Great thanks to Dr. Akhavan and his staff.” — E. John

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Our Goal at Bangkok Square Restaurant is to be a place where you always know you will get the best authentic fine Thai cuisine. We feature a cozy dining room with soothing warm tones and comfortable furnishings. You will enjoy a relaxing and pleasant atmosphere while indulging in our delicious selections. We enjoy sharing the most fragrant, interesting and flavorful dishes from all over Thailand. Our mission is not only to offer delectable food, but to also offer friendly, efficient service because our visitors satisfaction is paramount.

“We love Bangkok Square! The pad thai is a favorite! The

vegetarian options are yummy. The veggies are nicely cooked and big beautiful chunks. The people are so kind and respectful.” — S. Vani

Family-Owned Serving the Best Authentic Thai Cuisine

Bangkok Square 2 locations | 8181 NW 38th Ln. | 6500 SW Archer Rd. 352-375-4488 Archer | 352-672-6969 39th Ave.

bangkoksquarefl.com

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“I had a great experience here. The servers are very polite and food was full of savory umami flavor.

I had the chicken pad thai and crab meat soup for lunch. Lunch came with crunchy egg rolls and food came out hot and yummy. The price is extremely reasonable”. — Song N

“The only place I get Red Curry from. Always tastes great. The atmosphere there is really relaxing as well. Good place to

have a small get together. They also have outside seating!” — S. Mariee

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Daughtry Tree Service serves both residential and commercial clients. We are fully licensed and insured to work in the beautiful state of Florida.

We are experts in local trees, shrubs, bushes as well as the climate in north central Florida, and can handle all your tree service needs.

With over 30+ years working in the tree care industry, be assured with great confidence that our team will provide the dependable and expert tree services at affordable prices. No job is to big or small. We have the expertise and equipment to tackle them all.

“Everything was top notch from the initial estimate with Emery to when they drove away with my yard looking immaculate. Emory was

professional and friendly and they performed the work flawlessly. I had several trees removed, dead limbs removed

No job is too big or too small

Daughtry Tree Service 26106 NW 3rd Ave, Newberry, FL 32669 (352) 660-0367

daughtrytreeservice.com

from other trees, and the canopy raised throughout the yard. I would not hesitate to use them again and I definitely will recommend their service to anyone who asks.” — Paul Manning “They did a fantastic job of removing two dead palm trees and trimming the remaining three palms for us. Would

definately recommend you call them for your tree maintenance needs.” — Duane Tully SEPT/OCT 2024 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

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The Sleep Center’s commitment is to provide the absolute lowest prices without sacrificing the personal touch and attention of a locally owned, community-committed business. They truly are Gainesville’s Premier Specialty Sleep Shop with Top Name Brands. Their factory-trained Sleep Consultants are not commissioned sales people. Their goal is simple: help and assist in any manner required or needed by consistently providing professional, courteous and responsive assistance to each and every guest.

“Jesse was great. No pressure. Listened to what we needed and filled the need with no up selling. Excellent service. Delivered as promised with a polite and efficient crew to set up mattress and remove trash. Have recommended to friends.” — Henry W. Gainesville’s most trusted mattress retailer 3242 SW 35 Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32608 4994 NW 39th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32606 888.695.2337 (BEDS)

gainesvillesleepcenter.com

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“Excellent customer service - I checked out several stores in Gainesville when I was shopping for a bed but this was the best by far for selection, quality, and no-pressure sales. Save yourself time and go here first.” — Cara M. “If you’re looking for a quality mattress, please visit this location. There’s nobody forcing you to buy anything and they’re truly knowledgeable on all their products. Delivery guys were great and considerate.”

— Brandon F.

S a i R

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STORMS HAPPEN. We can’t prevent them, but we can help protect you through them. Our Energy Roofing Team takes your protection seriously and we want you to experience our commitment. We are dedicated to roofing excellence and our team of experts are seasoned with decades of industry experience and best practices. We have roofing solutions for any budget. We look forward to earning the priveledge to be chosen as your Roofing Contractor.

“Energy Roofing provided an excellent quality roof for my home following highly professional standards of workmanship and at a fair

price. Many of my neighbors remarked how quickly

they completed this task and the beauty of the final product. 5 stars!”— Patrick L.

Energy Roofing 507 NW 60th St suite C, Gainesville 855-766-3852

energyroofingco.com

“Energy Roofing completed a full roof replacement for us and it was one of the most seamless experiences I’ve ever had. I simply cannot recommend Energy Roofing enough!” — Justin S. “I needed a fairly complicated roof repair and Energy Roofing was able to help from the very beginning. There’s NO need to look further!”

— John H. SEPT/OCT 2024 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

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At Elite Esthetics, your beauty is my business. I believe in taking an integrative approach to skincare and building strong relationships with my clients to ensure their results are lasting. Specializing in Antiaging and Acne I use the best skincare products on the market to help you maintain the radiance of your skin. Skincare is more than just a facial and my job does not end after the service. I am an advocate when it comes to skincare and supply my clients with the knowledge and tools to care for and love the skin they are in for years to come.

“Vicki is absolutely incredible! I got a brow lamination/

tint from her and she did amazing. She was so kind and friendly throughout the whole process and made sure I felt comfortable. I could not recommend someone more!” — Gabbie P.

Your Beauty is my Business

Elite Esthetics 6110 NW 1st Pl D, Gainesville (352) 443-1675

www.eliteestheticsfl.com

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“I went to Vicki for a microdermabrasion facial and loved it!

The space was clean and relaxing. Vicki had my skin glowing! I will definitely be back for more treatments and highly recommend her!” — Sarah J.

“I highly recommend Vicki at Elite Esthetics!

She tailors your treatment to your specific individual skin needs and really takes the time to provide you an excellent service! My favorite treatments are the Jet Peel and the SQT Biomicroneedling” —Madison J.

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Our team combined has over 50 years of experience in financial planning and have worked together for close to 20 of those years. Our team is dedicated to crafting a personalized financial plan to help you reach your goals and we will hold your hand through every step of the way. In a day and age where everything is moving to virtual meetings and 1-800 numbers, we really value meeting with our clients in person, face to face and walking through the “what if” scenarios of life. You can schedule a complimentary 1 hour consultation on our website.

“I’m an insurance agent and I work very closely with Tryssa. She is a fantastic professional and I absolutely trust her with my clients.

She’s extremely generous with her time and I would not hesitate to recommend her.” — C. Floyd

A Values Based Financial Planning Practice

Your Financial Legacy 2114 NW 40th Terrace Suite D-1 (352) 780-1919

www.YourFinancialLegacy.com

“Tryssa is such a joy to work with, I cannot say enough positive words about her and her work ethic. I invested my retirement plan with her at Your Financial Legacy.Tryssa walked me through the process, clearly explaining every step and educating me on my options. I love that Tryssa cares about my financial future and that her business is built on investing responsibly.” — A. Miller “Tryssa has been the best at helping me plan for retirement. She truly cares about her clients and goes above & beyond.” — G. Victorero Advisory Services are offered through Inspire Advisors, LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser with the SEC. No compensation was provided to Your Financial Legacy in exchange for the preceding endorsement from Insight Insurance Group. Insight Insurance Group is not a client of Your Financial Legacy and provides no direct SEPT/OCT 2024 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE | 95 services or products, therefore it is believed that no conflict of interest exists.

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No matter what your taste buds are craving, you’ll find classic meal favorites and organic vegan options- Fresh and made to order, including the full menu of unique craft cocktails, beer and wines. Then “swing a club” at the Pink Flamingo “water-featured” Mini Golf course located just out back. Whether you relax outside at the Flamingo bar or watch others play the 18 hole course, the entire family is invited to come spend the day.

There’s something for everyone! Follow the flock to the Pink Flamingo Diner and Mini Golf in historic High Springs.

“Excellent food! The revitalized inside is fantastic!

The staff were incredibly gracious and engaging. Such a great energy here, and I’m glad this is in High Springs.” — Eric

A unique “destination” Diner experience for the whole family

Pink Flamingo Diner 19726 US 441, High Springs, FL 32643 386-454-5775

PinkFlamingoDiner.com

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“My husband and I came in for lunch today and really enjoyed it! He got the High Springs Heaping and I got the California Chicken. I liked getting the mixture of French fries and fried pickles with my sandwich.

(Mine would’ve been killer with bacon added *hint hint*.) Service

was great and the restaurant looks so nice after the remodel. Good job, we’ll be back!” — Tiffany

T p d t

The Great Outdoors Restaurant specializes in hand-selected steaks, fresh seafood, signature entrée salads, homemade soups and desserts. It’s a perfect place to grab a cold, local craft beer after hitting the springs all day or for your family gathering. The amazing patio features luxurious outdoor seating with live music every Friday and Saturday night from some of the area’s best known bands. From craft cocktails to specialty desserts the Great Outdoors Restaurant invites you to make the short drive to High Springs.

“New owners & its great! We loved it before and still do! Great entertainment outside! Dining inside is pleasant too.

Great place to bring friends from out of town and to celebrate those special events!” — Shelley “I just moved here in Jan 2020. Then Covid hit. Finally this place

Great Outdoors Restaurant 65 N Main St, High Springs 386-454-1288

GOhighsprings.com

is back to rockin! Great service. Great food and drink. Great atmosphere. I can’t wait to be a regular since the music is now back! Love this place! So glad I move to High Springs. Come check this place out. You’ll love it!” — Randy SEPT/OCT 2024 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

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Volcanic Sushi+Sake is a Japanese inspired Asian Fusion Restaurant with details on quality fresh food and innovative presentation. Volcanic Sushi + Sake is sure to satisfy your sushi cravings. They have been crowned as the Best Local Sushi in Gainesville for the past 3 years. In addition to Sushi, they offer a wide variety of delicious appetizers, soups and salads. Come in and try the Spring Rolls, Crab Rangoon and Stuffed Wontons.

For the main course you can choose from delicious entrees such as, Wok fried rice, Udon noodles, Ramen bowls, Chicken Teriyaki and more!

“Stopped in for a quiet Sunday lunch and enjoyed excellent food and service! I’ve tried their sushi before, which is also great, but today I focused on their Udon noodles with chicken.

It was a good portion size and I’ll be back to try the pork and shrimp

Japanese Inspired Fusion Restaurant

versions too.” — Ann Marie G. “I really enjoyed our food there today. We ended up getting the lunch

Volcanic Sushi Haile Village Center - 5212 SW 91st Terrace & Hunter’s Crossing - 5200 NW 43rd St 352-363-6226 (Haile) 352-727-7777 (43rd St.)

volcanicsushisake.com

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menu, red curry with tofu and with chicken. Our waiter was very kind and they did a good job, providing us with vegetarian needs and spice preferences. I will say that their red curry is probably

one of the best I’ve had in Gainesville. My friend enjoyed the fried ice cream tempura as well!” — Shreya R.

The End. Or is it really just the beginning?

Now it’s up to you to say something nice or share a positive experience.

We encourage you to take a moment and tell us what you love about these or other local businesses. Words matter – and what we say can have a meaningful impact.

Share The Love by posting on our Facebook page and telling us more about the people and places you LOVE. Love on!

in Our Town

This special section was brought to you by Our Town Magazine and Magnolia Lane Photography

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: Our Town does not endorse any business, product, place or service. Nor does the content of this publication intend to do so, but rather is for your entertainment and informational use. The content used in this publication was collected through various online and offline sources. We have not independently verified any of the claims made in this publication and have no liability for the completeness, accuracy or fitness of any of the information. That means you are solely responsible for verifying any claims. ©2024 Tower Publications, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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Elevating the health and beauty of your smile to the NEXT LEVEL and unleashing the power of joy!

ORTHODONTICS FOR CHILDREN | TEENS | ADULTS

Dr. Amir Akhavan has built a reputation for using state-of-the-art orthodontic technology including Invisalign® clear aligners, InBrace Smartwire™ hidden behind the teeth, modern metal and ceramic braces, digital impressions, and more!

Dr. Akhavan embraces creativity and innovation by putting new ideas and sound technology into practice to help his patient receive the best outcome possible.

Visit online or call to set up a

Next Level Orthodontics | 320 NW 76th Dr. | Gainesville

thenextlevelorthodontics.com 352-332-7466

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complimentary consultation.

Providing orthodontic services to Gainesville, Tioga, Newberry, Alachua and surrounding areas.

Q&A

JOSIAH LLOYD ON THE ART, EVOLUTION, AND SURPRISES OF TATTOOING

From Canvas to Skin W R I T T E N BY D E L A N E Y S TA R L I N G

JOSIAH LLOYD, A FINE ART PAINTER TURNED TATTOO ARTIST, HAS SPENT THE PAST FOUR YEARS LEAVING HIS MARK ON GAINESVILLE’S TATTOO SCENE. With his roots in classical art and a passion for creative expression, Josiah’s journey into tattooing began unexpectedly during a trip to Spain. Now, as a tattoo artist at one of Gainesville’s oldest shops, BodyTech Tattooing, he merges his love for traditional American style with medieval and religious art influences, creating unique and meaningful designs for his clients. In this interview, Josiah shares his insights into the world of tattooing, from the surprising kindness within the industry to the challenges of translating classical art skills onto skin.

 How did you get into tattooing?

JL: I got a tattoo while visiting Spain and saw a pen-style machine. I thought it seemed so close to drawing, so I just gave it a whirl when I got back. And then, when COVID hit, there was a lot of downtime and boredom. I had such a weird route to getting into tattoos because I had worked within art in different capacities, either doing graphic design or working as a painter. It was a little easier than the path a lot of people take because I already have this art background.

 What was it like entering the tattoo industry?

JL: It was really hard. When I realized I wanted to do tattoos all the time, I talked to some of my friends who had been tattooing for a long time. They all had learned under one specific guy [the owner of BodyTech Tattooing], and it seemed like he taught everyone who was a great tattooer SEPT/OCT 2024 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

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in town. Most of them eventually opened their own shops. After seeing how other people have had apprenticeships, I feel very lucky because he was just really good at teaching.

 How would you describe your style?

JL: I really like all the different styles. Because of my mentor’s background, I have an appreciation for the traditional American style. But my first interest in art, at least when I started going to school, was in printmaking. So, I got into etchings. And I’ve always been a big fan of religious art, medieval style art. So, I do a lot of that tattoo-wise. I never wanted to get niched into that, but I always try to take what I like about American traditional tattoos, big thick lines, and bold, black work, and then apply it to medieval imagery.

 What part of the industry do you think would surprise people outside the tattoo world the most?

JL: A thing that I always hear that surprises people is the kindness that comes in the tattoo industry. It’s like a mini-therapy session for a lot of people. I’ve always really enjoyed it when I have somebody new to it, and they expect you to be a grumpy, mean person covered in tattoos. They leave with a change in perception.

 What was it like translating your classical art skills into tattooing?

JL: It’s interesting because it’s similar to graphic design in that you’re still making a product for a person. And when you work as a fine artist, you get this liberty to experiment to the point of failure in hopes of creating something compelling. You don’t really get that liberty with tattoos because you don’t want to go willy-nilly and make a mark that someone’s going to hate for the rest of their life. So, it’s similar to graphic design in that sense – where the client is a participant just as much as you are.

 How do you envision your career moving forward?

JL: I always thought of myself more as just an artist. And so, I [began tattooing] in the same way that maybe when I’m 60, I might pick up doing sculpture. I always thought my main gig was making paintings and trying to find odd jobs that could support that.

 What trends have you noticed in the industry?

JL: There’s been a transition in the industry where you can buy everything off Amazon, open a private studio, and that can be that. There are a lot of tattoo artists operating right now, and that’s affected the way people want to get tattoos – for better or worse. Some people are totally fine getting a really bad-looking tattoo, and I’ve got a ton of them myself. I love that prison-style tattoo. It just looks rough. But because of that, it’s opened a change in the aesthetic of what people want for tattoos, what people expect is possible with tattooing, and how tattoo shops run.

 What advice would you give to someone considering getting their first tattoo?

JL: Don’t make it meaningful. I feel like a lot of people get hung up on the idea that this tattoo has got to mean something forever. How often do we like the same music ten years later? So, when people are thinking about a tattoo, and it’s got this long message – if you keep it simple – remembering that experience in that time in your life is probably going to be the more meaningful thing than the specific image. So, trust the tattoo artist to put something that’s a good image on you, and try not to cram all these ideas into one specific image that will represent what you feel at that time.

“A thing that I always hear that surprises people is the kindness that comes in the tattoo industry. It’s like a mini-therapy session for a lot of people.”

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Q & A >> LOCAL TATTOO ARTIST SEPT/OCT 2024 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

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Our Pool, Your Playground!

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THE HOUSING CRISIS Dylan O’Bryan’s Musical Passion Project

Dylan O’Bryan, once a solo musician, was ready for a change and needed a name for that change. This name needed to reflect his new journey, a journey that would eventually lead him to form a band.

A band called: The Housing Crisis.

WRIT TEN BY DEBRA GARCIA PHOTOGR APHY COURTESY OF THE HOUSING CRISIS

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MUSICAL RISE

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LOCAL MUSIC >> THE HOUSING CRISIS

F

our years ago, amidst the 2020 COVID pandemic ,

O’B ryan , then a UF freshman engineering major, found solace in his guitar and a world of ideas. Secluded in his Sledd Hall dorm room, little did he know that these solitary moments would be the catalyst for a life-altering journey.

That year, before students were sent home during the 2019-2020 UF school year, O’Bryan wanted to make music with his extra time. In the past he enjoyed musical theater in middle and high school, but he never thought that he could ever write original songs or that anyone wanted to hear them.

“I was bored up there, just plunking along,” O’Bryan, 24, said, “I think the boredom of my freshman year led to somehow me trying to write my own songs.”

Before embarking on his first album, O’Bryan searched for a name to encapsulate his passion project. Anticipating the day when he could collaborate with other musicians post-pandemic, he decided against using his given name.

After much contemplation, The Housing Crisis was born — a name inspired by both the 2008 financial housing crisis and the intriguing concept of bands or artists that sound like a collective but are, in fact, the creation of a single individual.

“I was really inspired back then by a few bands or artists that went under names where it sounds like it’s a band, but it was just one person,” O’Bryan said.

After that first year, O’Bryan’s passion for music led him to change majors. He eventually graduated in 2024 with a Bachelor of Arts in Music Theory and Composition. He would later find himself working as a freelance live audio engineer, a testament to his dedication and growth on his music journey.

That summer, O’Bryan began the first EP (extended play — a musical recording that contains more tracks than a single but fewer than an album) of The Housing Crisis.

Influenced by iconic musicians like Simon and Garfunkel, the Beatles, and “Pet Sounds” by the Beach Boys, O’Bryan decided to write electronic folk-pop music. This style would define The Housing Crisis.

Post-pandemic, The Housing Crisis experienced a surge in popularity. They played in numerous venues all around the Gainesville area, including High Dive, The Wooly, Bragging Rights Arcade, The Bull, Flavet Field, and even O’Bryan’s own house. These shows not only showcased their music but also served as a platform for O’Bryan to meet other talented musicians in the Gainesville area who eventually joined The Housing Crisis team. Over this time, he met bass players Eduardo Giralt and Britt Dixon,

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After much contemplation, The Housing Crisis was born — a name inspired by both the 2008 financial housing crisis and the intriguing concept of bands or artists that sound like a collective but are, in fact, the creation of a single individual.

“[We] practiced in the jam room in my house. I sat in on their rehearsals for weeks,” Wampler said. “I don’t see him as often as I’d like; whenever I visit, I see and hear what he’s working on.”

In January 2023, The Housing Crisis officially released its first full album, “Astral Apartments,” with 11 songs.

Around the same time as the release of “Astral Apartments,” O’Bryan was approached by representatives from both 4bitsrecords and Swamp Records. Both Gainesville record labels teamed up to manage and distribute music from The Housing Crisis. According to O’Bryan, Swamp Record managed and produced music and music videos, while 4bitsrecords promoted and distributed everything the Housing Crisis released going forward.

“I think that first album wouldn’t have had nearly as much of a reach or an effect without the support of both of them,” O’Bryan said.

Ever since the release of “Astral Apartments,” O’Bryan has been working on the second album for The Housing Crisis, “Trivial in the Greater Picture,” which was released on June 21. This album consists of nine songs that O’Bryan wrote alone, while Griffin and Dixon helped play the songs live.

The release of “Trivial in the Greater Picture” included many fan favorites, such as “Do You Wanna Float??” “Routine

LOCAL MUSIC >> THE HOUSING CRISIS

drummer Trevor Griffin, and guitarist Kyle Wampler.

Currently, Dixon, Griffin, and O’Bryan live together in a house in Gainesville and practice songs in their living room.

There, they have an entire setup with tons of equipment, including a complete drum kit, upright bass guitars, amps, and a piano.

“Dylan O’Bryan is my roommate, best friend, mentor, collaborator, and one of the greatest people I’ve ever had the honor of calling a good friend,” Dixon, 23, said, who plays bass guitar and sings backup vocals.

While Giralt and Wampler have since left the band after graduating from UF, they look back on the experience with delight.

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LOCAL MUSIC >> THE HOUSING CRISIS

Breaker,” and “Be the Light.”

Quinn Martin, 35, is a big fan of The Housing Crisis who received a cassette of “Trivial in the Greater Picture” before its official release and was ecstatic to hear more of O’Bryan’s work.

“I was really drawn to the raw emotion and songwriting.

I have a soft spot for indie folk,” Martin said. “It’s because those elements that [The Housing Crisis] brings to the table just resonate with me in a way that transcends genre.”

Sam Mason, 26, bought a copy of “Trivial in the Greater Picture” at a recent The Housing Crisis show and is obsessed with it. “[I] have been listening to it over and over again,” Mason said.

On May 12, an episode of WUFT Amplified on The Housing Crisis was aired. This program is a Saturday night Gainesville TV show highlighting new musical talents in the area. This episode featured O’Bryan taking the stage and playing singles from “Trivial in the Greater Picture.”

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“My granddad always watches the Gainesville area PBS channel just passively, so I’m excited for him to see that on,” O’Bryan said.

The future seems bright now that The Housing Crisis has two albums in its discography. O’Bryan, Dixon, and Griffin decided to pursue their love of music outside of Gainesville. The trio plans on moving to Atlanta to find music opportunities, bigger record deals, and a tour on the East Coast.

“I think it’s a good bookend to this whole chapter and the end of five years in Gainesville,” O’Bryan said.

The “Escape from Florida” tour will feature O’Bryan and Dixon visiting east coast cities like Richmond, Philadelphia, Brooklyn, Indianapolis, St.Louis, Nashville, and Atlanta.

Specific tour dates and venues can be found on O’Bryan’s Instagram.

And the beat goes on!

The “Escape from Florida” tour will feature O’Bryan and Dixon visiting east coast cities like Richmond, Philadelphia, Brooklyn, Indianapolis, St. Louis, Nashville, and Atlanta. Specific tour dates and venues can be found on O’Bryan’s Instagram.

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Restaurant Guide

DOWNLOAD THE GCM APP TO SAVE WHEREVER YOU SEE THE ICON

The Paper Bag Deli and Catering — Using only the freshest ingredients and serving the highest quality meats and cheeses, The Paper Bag Deli in Gainesville is quickly becoming the destination for custom prepared meals designed for people with a time sensitive schedule. Serving premium Boar’s Head meats, The Paper Bag has quick serve cold options you can grab and go from the fridge or order hot options from the counter. Have time to stay a while? You can relax on their sunny patio or at the bar-style seating and enjoy a variety of freshly baked artisan sandwiches, wraps, salads and much more.

Enjoy your favorite local and domestic beers or order to go! We have many catering options for corporate, schools, and private parties. Call ahead to pick you order today!

Park Lane Apartments- 5750 SW 75th Court Suite 20 New Location!- 11 SE 1st Ave. Gainesville Open Monday - Friday 10am - 6 pm

(352) 451-4972

thepaperbagdeli.com

Pepperoni’s Pizzeria

Pizzeria — Since its establishment in 2000, Pepperoni’s Pizzeria has been serving up some of the best pizzas, calzones, entrees, wings and salads in town using premium mozzarella and other top ingredients. We also have great lunch specials starting at only $6.99. All of our specialty pizzas are loaded with toppings. Pepperoni’s is locally owned and operated and is proud to serve the High Springs Community and surrounding areas. We are located on U.S. Highway 441 in Mills Plaza.

ORDER PICK UP ONLINE AT PEPPERONISPIZZERIA.COM 19975 NW 244 Street, High Springs (located in Mills Plaza) Monday- Sunday: 11:00am - 9pm

386-454-3858

PepperonisPizzeria.com

Gator’s Dockside

Family-friendly — Gator’s Dockside is a sports-themed restaurant that offers a fun atmosphere for the entire family! We’re known for our big screen TVs, great food, and friendly service. Our signature wings are flavored with our tasty wing sauces that have made us famous, especially our award-winning Scooter sauce. We use only the freshest, highest quality ingredients in all our menu selections, including burgers, hearty sandwiches, made-from-scratch ribs, entree salads, and desserts. We also have some of the best meal deals in town, like 99 cent wings on Mondays. Tuesday night is Kids’ Night — kids eat Free with any adult meal purchase. Enjoy 2-for-1 on select house wine, cold beer and liquors all day, everyday. We can’t wait to see you at Gator’s!

3842 W Newberry Rd #1A, Gainesville New Location! 14126 W. Newberry Rd. Jonesville 352-888-4002 Sunday - Thursday: 11am - Midnight Friday - Saturday: 11am - 1am

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gatorsdockside.com

Restaurant Guide

Cilantro Tacos Cali-Mex Street Food — This family-owned restaurant that was founded through a passion for great food and hosting dinner parties with friends. Originally from Southern California, their love for Mexican food moved to the wonderful community of Newberry in 2013. They take pride in the quality, freshness, and vibrant flavors of their food — with meats that are never frozen and everything prepared fresh and made-to-order. Enjoy the tastefully marinated meats and savor the mild, spicy, and mouthwatering salsas that are created from scratch. They feel their purpose is to spread happiness, make contributions to the community and create lasting memories of fun, laughter, and great times.

When you eat with us, you’re family. So come on in!

Tioga Town Center - 12921 SW 1 Rd Suite #103 352-472-1300 Alachua - 15551 NW US HWY 441 Unit# 50 352-660-3262 Monday - Saturday from 11:00am to 9:00pm

eatcilantrotacos.com

Bangkok Square

Authentic Thai Cuisine — Thai cuisine, blending the best elements of the freshest foods. Thai herbs; garlic, basil, ginger, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal root, chili and more, prepared with the finest blending of fish sauce, shrimp paste, and coconut milk. All of our meals are made to order and prepared on site.

We specialize in vegetarian, vegan and gluten free orders. All of our foods can be prepared to your satisfaction with mild, medium, hot, or Thai hot, balanced to the four tastes: sweet, sour, salty, and slightly bitter. Meals can be prepared for take out and we cater to any event. We also have gift cards available. Save 10% off your next dining experience when a gift card is purchased.

Two Gainesville Locations: 6500 SW Archer Road & 8181 NW 38th Lane Archer-M,W,TH, Friday 11:00am-3:00pm • Saturday-Sunday 12:00pm-3:00pm 38th Ln.-T,W,TH, Friday 11:00am-3:00pm • Saturday-Sunday 12:00pm-3:00pm Dinner: Sunday-Thursday 5:00pm-9:30pm • Friday-Saturday 5:00pm-10:00pm

352-375-4488 Archer 352-672-6969 39th Ave. bangkoksquarefl.com

El Toro

Get Full At The Bull — Bienvenido! Welcome! We are a family owned and family friendly business. We have been serving our guests high quality fresh food for over 28 years. We welcome our guests with our Award Winning Salsa and warm homemade chips, add some fresh guacamole and our homemade white queso and you have a great start to a great meal! Try our Fish Tacos, Shrimp Tacos, Fajitas, Aaron’s Overstuffed Burrito, Nachos Supreme or one of our Daily Specials, we have something everyone will enjoy! We serve Lunch 7 days a week till 4 P.M. and our Kids Meals come with a drink and dessert. Check out our menu on our website. Our outdoor patio is perfect for “Para Cenar Afuera”. So, won’t you please come join us and Get Full At The Bull! See you there!

15202 NW 147 Drive, Suite 1100, Alachua (Rolling Oaks Plaza) Monday – Sat 11:00am – 9:00pm Sunday – Closed

386-418-1039

www.eltorogainesville.com

SPECIAL RESTAURANT ADVERTISING SECTION. CALL 352-372-5468 FOR RATES AND INFORMATION. SEPT/OCT 2024 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

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Restaurant Guide

DOWNLOAD THE GCM APP TO SAVE WHEREVER YOU SEE THE ICON

Piesanos Stone Fired Pizza Italian Restaurant — Piesanos is a locally owed and operated restaurant that is proud to use only the finest ingredients available, including Grande brand premium mozzarella. We are a full service dine in restaurant with an attached take out center and also offer catering. Our dough is made fresh daily and all of our pizzas are baked directly on the stone in our unique Granite Stone Fired Pizza Oven. We offer a great variety of Specialty pizzas, such as our Pizza Antico-(ultra thin crust- Fresh Mozzarella, mini cup & char pepperoni & fresh basil) Specialty Pastas, Calzones, Fresh soups and salads, classic italian entrees, and a great selection of craft beer.

For full menu and list of locations visit: PIESANOSTOGO.COM Now serving 14 locations throughout Florida Mon-Sun: 11am-10pm

Order online or Download our App: PIESANOSTOGO.COM

Big Mill’s Chesesteaks

Best Cheesesteak — If you’re looking for an exceptional cheesesteak sandwich, look no further than Big Mills Cheesesteak in Gainesville. Their unique, exceptional taste is achieved by using only the finest and freshest ingredients available, including 100% freshly shaved ribeye. Conveniently located 20 blocks north of the University of Florida, their menu features a wide variety of sandwiches and salads with every cheesesteak cooked hot and fresh to order. Looking to cater your next office lunch? Big Mills offers ready-to-serve catering solutions for almost any occasion. Stop by today or visit their website and Facebook page for a complete menu and daily specials.

2111 NW 13th St, Gainesville, FL Monday-Friday 11am - 8 pm Saturday and Sunday - 11am - 6pm

352 204-5122

Dave’s NY Deli

www.bigmills.com

Authentic NY deli — Serving classic NY deli favorites since 2009. Dave’s NY Deli continues to be the place to go for authentic NY Deli food. Owner, Melissa says, “Nothing beats quality ingredients combined with a friendly staff.” Dave’s NY Deli serves New York size Pastrami and Corned Beef sandwiches, Nathan’s Hot Dogs, NY Kettle Boiled Bagels, Nova Salmon, Philly Cheesesteaks and Cubans, a big variety of sandwiches, Salad and Wraps. They also offer a Kids Menu. Let’s not forget about the dessert favorites such as, Cannolies and Cheesecake from New York. Come out and enjoy Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at Dave’s NY Deli. Now serving beer and wine. Dave’s NY Deli also offers Catering.

12921 SW 1st Road • Tioga Town Center Monday thru Saturday 8 am to 8 pm Sunday 8 am to 3 pm.

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www.DavesNYDeli.com

Restaurant Guide

Arashi Yama Authentic Sushi and Hibachi Lounge — Are you looking for the newest place in town to enjoy sushi? Welcome to Arashi Yama Authentic Sushi & Hibachi Lounge. Arashi Yama offers some of the best and most creative sushi by using only the freshest and finest ingredients available. Offering a pleasant and soothing dining ambiance. Arashi Yama’s menu includes all your sushi favorites, incredible Hibachi options and a full bar with craft cocktails. Don’t have time to stop in? Arashi Yama offers easy online ordering for all your to-go dining needs or is open for both lunch and dinner.

Visit their website for more information and to check out their delicious menu.

Magnolia Parke - 4780 NW 39th Ave. Suite 1

Happy Hour menu available

Tuesday- Thursday: 11am-3 pm / 4:30-9:30 Tuesday to Thursday 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm Friday: 11 am - 3 pm / 4:30-10 pm Saturday: 11:30 am - 3 pm/ 4:30 pm - 10 pm Sunday: 12 noon - 3 pm / 4:30 pm - 9 pm Monday: Closed

352-505-6000

www.arashiyamagainesville.com

Mi Apá Latin Café

Cuban — When it comes to authentic Cuban cooking, you cannot go wrong with Mi Apá Latin Cafe. Featuring authentic ingredients and classic Cuban recipes, such as Pollo Asado, Croquetas de Jamon, and the best Cuban sandwiches in Alachua County. With three locations, you’re never far from the best Cuban coffee and Cuban pastries. Visit us for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, seven days a week. Whether you’re dining in, driving through, or picking up your online order, your food will always be hot, fresh, and full of Latin flavor! And don’t forget our daily Happy Hour with half-off iced coffee and Kids Eat Free every Wednesday from 4:00-9:00pm

Alachua – 15634 US Highway 441 (386-418-0838) Gainesville - 114 SW 34th ST (352-376-7020) Jonesville - 14209 W Newberry RD NOW OPEN! (352-545-4430)

MiApaLatinCafe.com

Leonardo’s Pizza

Mouth Watering — Family friendly and locally-owned-and-operated pizza joint with a unique, nostalgic atmosphere that is as distinctive as our delicious food. Chicago-style pizzas, hand tied garlic knots, and Italian baked dinners and salad bar, we know you’ll be back for more. Come and see why Gainesville loves our signature deep dish pizza pie, the Big Leo. Since 1976 Gainesville has grown up on pizza from Leonardo’s Millhopper and we are still going strong! Our dedicated staff (many have been with us for 15-20 years) knows how important it is to treat you properly. We take great pride in our welcoming atmosphere. We can’t wait to make you part of our family.

4131 NW 16th Blvd (Millhopper) Sunday - Thursday: 11:00am - 9:30pm Friday - Saturday: 11:00am - 10:30pm

352-376-2001

leonardosmillhopper.com

SPECIAL RESTAURANT ADVERTISING SECTION. CALL 352-372-5468 FOR RATES AND INFORMATION. SEPT/OCT 2024 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

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FEST Gainesville’s Punk-Rock Playground

Gainesville transforms into a vibrant hub of punk rock energy with FEST, an internationally renowned music festival. Featuring diverse acts from across the globe, this event is more than music—it celebrates community, connection, and the punk ethos.

W R I T T E N B Y D E L A N E Y S TA R L I N G

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MUSIC LOVERS

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THE FEST >> MUSIC FESTIVAL

F

all weekends in Gainesville typically revolve

around college football. But during the last

weekend of October, while Gator fans are rooting for their team, downtown Gainesville becomes a punk-rock mecca.

The usual downtown crowds outfitted in orange and blue transform into groups of punk-rockers sporting Mohawks and t-shirts proclaiming band names like “Mustard Plug.” This is the weekend they’ve been waiting for, some traveling halfway around the world to attend FEST, Gainesville’s largest music festival.

The festival debuted in 2002 with 60 bands dispersed across four stages over two days. Over the 22 years since its conception, FEST has grown into an internationally recognized punk music festival spanning three days, with over 350 acts performed across more than 15 venues in downtown Gainesville. Attendance has also grown exponentially. The 3,500 three-day-passes sell quickly, bought out by eager music lovers worldwide. Tickets for individual shows are offered for those only interested in specific artists. With comedy and professional wrestling shows, the entertainment options go beyond music.

Founder Tony Weinbender had been in the punk music scene for years before starting the iconic festival.

Weinbender had experience putting on multi-venue music events from working at a radio station in Virginia. The station had put on a music conference that inspired FEST, saying, “We’re like, let’s do something like what we were doing in Virginia, but let’s not make it a music conference.

We don’t need panels and seminars and stuff like that. Let’s just have fun.” Before FEST gained international attention, The founder worked odd jobs for the first decade to fund his passion project.

One of FEST’s missions is to showcase the ethics in the punk community. Dave Melosh owns Heartwood Soundstage, one of FEST’s bigger outdoor venues. Melosh said, “People think of it as a bunch of rude punk rockers, but it really couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s really these people who are so kind and just loving and respectful, and everybody takes care of each other. It’s probably the kindest and best-tipping crowd we’ve ever hosted.”

Weinbender attributes the festival’s exponential growth to a few key factors: southern hospitality, a unique layout, and the loyal attendees who have affectionately named themselves “Festers.” Weinbender said, “I feel like it’s a

During the last weekend of October, while Gator fans are rooting for their team, downtown Gainesville becomes a punkrock mecca.

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P H O T O G R A P H Y: N I C O L E C . K I B E R T B A S L E R

PHOTO: ERIC A L AUREN

in the past, saying, “It’s exciting as a musician, when you play locally or regionally, that when these people come to your city…you get to share what you do with other people in a broader audience.”

The opportunity for smaller acts to play alongside huge international names is just one aspect of FEST’s driving ethos of equality. Unlike most festivals, FEST has no VIP area, so musicians and fans intermingle freely.

Sharing his favorite FEST memory, Heartwood owner Melosh said, “I’ve been to shows where I saw Laura, Jay, and Grace from Against Me, and other straight-up rock stars were just hanging out…this is way more community than what’s typically in the world where there’s some separation between the bands and everybody else. I think that’s antithetical to the whole FEST mentality.”

Weinbender has always used FEST to uplift the local music scene and Gainesville as a whole, offering free shows for the community. The Civic Media Center (CMC), a nonprofit progressive resource center, also hosts a few shows.

All profits go to their community outreach programs.

great community, and the people who go look forward.

They look forward to seeing the bands, but they also look forward to the new friends they’ll meet and the time they spend with those people.”

Forgoing traditional advertising channels, FEST reached the ears of global audiences just by word of mouth.

Where a typical music festival will have attendees wrangled onto a single field for days, FEST attendees enjoy a choose-your-own-adventure structure. All of the venues are within walking distance from each other, allowing fans to curate their own experience without the hassle of organizing transportation. Gainesville’s wide variety of venues offers distinct listening opportunities, ranging from intimate bars to large outdoor stages.

A significant draw factor for FEST is the geographically diverse lineup. Fans can see a Norwegian punk-metal band in the afternoon and a local Gainesville act that night.

The last day of the festival boasts an international band showcase.

Local musician Dan Stepp has played FEST three times

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Gainesville’s wide variety of venues offers distinct listening opportunities, ranging THE FEST >> MUSIC FESTIVAL

from intimate bars to large outdoor stages.

With 3,500 attendees, FEST weekend brings thousands of dollars into the community through hotels and restaurants. Stepp said, “My hope is that people in the community see the passion that people from outside the community have for the music here. And once Fest is done, I think it inspires people to go out and hear live music more and connect with people who are making art.”

CMC co-founder and long-time Gainesville resident Joe Courter has been a staple in the local music scene since 1975. The CMC hosts free music performances throughout the year and provides services, like a weekly food bank, to the community. Hosting FEST has exposed a mass audience to the CMC’s mission.

For Weinbender, the relationships forged by FEST have been the most memorable moments.

“From the people that you hear meet their life partners at FEST, and then people that have gotten engaged at FEST, and people that have gotten married at FEST, and then they come back years later and they’re like, ‘Hey, look, this is our spawn, and now it’s their first FEST,’” Weinbender said.

“It’s become more than just a music festival. I think that’s what makes me smile most when I’m walking around.”

P H O T O G R A P H Y: NICOLE C. KIBERT BASLER

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P H O T O : M O L LY K I N N U N E N

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Charity of the Month

CONGRATULATIONS

CHARITY OF THE MONTH WINNER June 2024 Winner: ElderCare of Alachua County Radiant Credit Union is delighted to announce ElderCare of Alachua County as the winner of our June Charity of the Month contest. Their mission is to be an advocate for the elderly and provide services that will build capacity, maximize independence, and enrich the quality of life for the seniors in Alachua County and north central Florida.

This commendable organization is known for its dedicated service to the senior community, providing essential care and support to enhance their quality of life. As part of our ongoing commitment to support impactful local initiatives, Radiant has awarded a $1,000 donation to assist ElderCare in continuing their vital programs and services.

We encourage our community members to stay engaged and participate in the selection of future winners. Voting for the next Charity of the Month is now open, and every vote helps shine a light on deserving organizations that make a significant difference in our community.

Visit radiantcu.org/com to cast your vote and help decide which local charity will be next to receive our support. Let’s keep the momentum going and continue to uplift those who contribute so positively to our community. #WeShineBrighterTogether

To nominate a charity or to vote for your favorite nominee visit: 122 | OUR TOWN MAGAZINE 122

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RadiantCU.org/com

“We feel the best way to find and recognize local charities in our community is by asking you!”

About Radiant Credit Union’s Charity of the Month Program...

The program was started in 2013 as a way for our communities to recognize their favorite local charities.

Since that time Radiant has donated thousands of dollars to charities in our area.

Each month Radiant awards the winning charity $1,000. All 501(c)(3) charities headquartered in Radiant’s service area (Alachua, Bradford, Citrus, Clay, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Lake, Levy, Marion, Putnam, St. Johns, Suwannee or Union County in Florida) are eligible to enter the contest.

Entering your favorite charity is easy and you could win $100 if the charity you entered wins.

For complete rules and step-by-step instructions go to RadiantCU.org/com.

School of the Month May 2024 Recipient Oak View Middle School Oak View Middle School in Newberry, Florida, has been named the School of the Month for May. In support of education, we’ve donated $1,000 to the school. Special thanks to Branch Manager Kristin Bruckbauer for presenting the check.

Congratulations to Principal Kelly Armstrong and Oak View Middle School for their dedication to excellence in education. This partnership between Radiant Credit Union and Oak View Middle School demonstrates our commitment to a brighter future through education, ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed.

Our monthly School of the Month awards will resume with the fall semester.

Presented by Radiant Credit Union and Our Town Family of Magazines

SEPT/OCT 2024 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

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COLUMN

From Mother Hen FARM TALES

MY AMISH FRIEND When I think of the numerous cultures I’ve experienced traveling throughout my years there is one standout. A very special friendship my family made with a dear Amish lady I will call “Ida” to respect her desire for humbleness and anonymity. The Amish are known for their polite but firm refusal to be photographed. I don’t have a picture of her to share, but I hope this Farm Tale will paint a picture of what a lovely person she is.

It’s actually very rare for the Amish to form a genuine friendship with an “English” family, as they call us. Ours started slowly and has grown for over 30 years.

I’ve often mentioned that I grew up in the Midwest farm country but became a Florida transplant after marriage.

However, I still consider my roots to be in Illinois even after living in Florida for over 50 years.

Because of this, my husband and I would make annual pilgrimages back home to spend time with our parents, family and friends each year while our “chicks” were growing up.

Once, while driving up from Florida when our girls were young, my husband suggested we look for an Amish farmhouse with a sign out front advertising fresh eggs, cheese and baked goods. We took a detour off the interstate highway, and it wasn’t long before we happened upon the farm of Ida’s father. Over by the barn on the gravel driveway, was a small black buggy. This, we learned, was the family’s only mode of transportation for their rare trips to town for mail or a few supplies. Most of their food was grown in their garden, and their milk and cheese came from their own cows.

We were greeted politely but with reserve.

I later thought we must have seemed like aliens from another planet. We were driving

from Florida in our family’s conversion van, brightly painted in shades of burgundy and pink, stuffed with toys and even a television with VHS player to keep the girls occupied on the long drive. As I glanced back at the small black buggy, I couldn’t help but make the comparison.

Ida was dressed in the traditional hand-made blue cotton dress with straight pins instead of buttons. Buttons are considered “fancy,” so the Amish just use straight pins.

Her only adornment was a white cap covering her braids, which were tucked underneath, and a large white apron.

Her shoes were the plainest black, well-worn sneakers. On the other hand, I was dressed like a Florida girl in skimpy running shorts and a tank top with flip-flops.

Our girls tumbled out of our van, excited to see all the farm animals and meet such interesting people. My husband has a gift for conversing with all different types of people and finding common subjects to discuss. There’s never awkward silence when he’s around. Before we knew it, we were invited to step into their old barn to pet the cows and see the newborn kittens.

Promising to stop by on our way back to Florida, we left with freshly baked bread, angel food cake, cheese, and eggs. I don’t think the angel food cake made it all the way to our destination at my parents’ house, though. It was so good that we couldn’t help ourselves! When we opened the cheese, we couldn’t believe our tastebuds. That homemade cheese made fresh from the cream their dairy cows produced cannot be replicated. Believe me, I’ve tried.

With each year, our friendship grew.

Slowly, we learned a little more about the family.

Ida was a year older than me but never married. She was living in her parents’ home, and just across the driveway was her grandmother’s small cottage. I noticed that Ida had a severe limp but never asked about it. I wondered if perhaps that would have been why she never married.

Years later, she shared the sad story that she had contracted polio as a small child back in the 1950s. It happened before the polio vaccine was available, and there was nothing her family could do but pray she would recover. Fortunately, she did but was left with this limp.

MOTHER HEN IS PROUD TO BE A “BABY BOOMER” RAISED ON A FARM POPULATED BY DOGS, CATS, CHICKENS, DUCKS, GEESE, HORSES AND COWS. THE WISDOM SHE GAINED WHILE GROWING UP IN THE COUNTRY CAN’T BE FOUND IN BOOKS. YOU CAN CONTACT MOTHER HEN AT motherhenfarmtales@gmail.com.

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FARM TALES >> MY AMISH FRIEND

One year, when we stopped by on the way to our hometown, we were invited to the barn to see a surprise. It was a litter of kittens with one very special kitty that looked like it was Siamese. The kitten’s daddy must have been passing through because Ida said she never saw a tomcat like that around their farm. Ida was hoping we would adopt the kitten and take her with us. Since she saved it for us, of course we said yes!

When we stopped by on another year, Ida had a special them from our annual trips to Illinois. So, for a few years surprise to show us. One of her cows had a calf earlier that we didn’t see each other. spring. I was in heaven! Being a farm girl myself, I had a soft Finally, I wrote a letter to Ida and let her know I would spot in my heart for cows. She was the prettiest little calf be passing through her area. Amish homes do not have I ever saw. Brown and white with a small brown “flower” on her forehead, we immediately came up with the name telephones, so you have to write letters to make plans.

This time, I was invited into her home for a visit. It was Clover. like stepping into a storybook about a time long ago.

Ida said that was what she would call her, but sadly, she There was no electricity in the house at all, so kerosaid she would need to find a buyer for her. It wasn’t long until a deal was made that we would be Clover’s owners sene lamps were used in the evening. The heat in winter was provided by a wood-burning stove. The refrigerator and cover her expenses to live on Ida’s farm. Each year, for many years, we would stop at their farm not only to freezer was propane gas fueled somehow—I never really understood the concept. I was even treated to a buggy say hello to Ida but also to Clover as well. ride into town for a quick stop at their local grocery store.

I’ll never forget her horse’s clip-clopping hooves on the highway as she expertly held the reins and got us to town.

I could write so much more about my friend, Ida. Her talent as a seamstress, sewing quilts and pillowcases on her antique treadle Singer sewing machine is incredible.

She’s in her mid-70s now, and her bravery living on her own with very few comforts is impressive.

Her strong faith, kind heart and simple ways are so different from our world. But when I take the time to slow The years passed quickly, and changes came into both of our lives. Ida lost her grandmother and then her mother. down and experience her world, I feel we all could use an Her father moved from the farmhouse to another state, Amish friend like her. and Ida moved into her grandmother’s cottage. Our girls It’s good for the soul. grew older with college and work schedules that kept

“THE ONLY TEAM I TRUST FOR MY HOME!” Sean Kelley, ‘Voice of the Gators’

SEPT/OCT 2024 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

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SEPT/OCT 2024

BOOK REVIEW

TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER’S

Reading Corner “ THE HORSE: A GALLOPING HISTORY OF HUMANITY”

by Timothy C. Winegard

C.2024

DUTTON

$

35.00

519 PAGES

THE FRONT SEAT IS GOING TO NEED A LOT OF WORK. Yeah, it’s roomy but the seat belt is completely missing.

Still, four on the floor, zero-to-25 in three seconds, it runs on cheap fuel, she’s got a lot of kick, it’s workable. This is the ride you’ve wanted since you were 14 years old. As in the new book “The Horse” by Timothy C. Winegard, what’ll you do with that one horsepower?

Imagine the bravery of the very first person who jumped on the back of a horse.

That person may’ve been “some kid” on a dare, which makes sense. After all, when you’re standing near a thousand-pound animal with sharp hooves and a willingness to bite, it’d take youthful bravado to leap up and on – but someone did, roughly 5,500 years ago, somewhere near Russia.

Long before that, though, the animal that would evolve into the horse was tiny, a funny-looking creature with three toes. A few million years later, and it “would be easily recognized... as a miniature horse” – the fossils over which early American paleontologists had a literal Bone War, so fascinated were they.

Equally “captivated,” apparently, were people long before them who realized that horses were multi-use creatures in industry, field, farm, and trail. They ran on grass, which was freely found almost everywhere. Horse waste was voluminous, and could be used on crops or as fuel or “home insulation.” Horse milk is nourishing. And while it’s abhorrent to most modern North Americans, in a pinch, a horse was a meal on four feet.

Most of all, the ubiquitous use of the horse in ancient history changed nearly every aspect of human culture.

Very early “domestic horses hastened the ability to get the word out,” says Winegard. Later, they offered “lightning transmission of ideas, materials, innovation, trade goods, human migrations, and conquering armies.”

And yet, after thousands of years of labor and friendship, with the invention of a single mechanical device, “the demand for horses dried up.”

But obviously not completely: author Timothy C. Winegard says that the number of horses in the U.S. now, as compared to a century ago, has gone down by two-thirds.

Still, you likely don’t have to go far to find a horse these days, and “The Horse” is equally easy to get.

From Greece and Rome and early science to the modern attitudes, therapeutic uses, politics, and pleasure of equines in general, Winegard speaks directly to the heart of horse lovers, even when the discussion isn’t entirely pleasant.

Indeed, there are some hard truths about how humans treated horses over time, and they’re accompanied by photos so beware. Readers may also note an overabundance of ancient history, which is sometimes difficult to tackle.

Stick with it, though; think of it like a trail ride, heavy with brush. The fun part’s always just a hoof beat away.

Horse lovers should absolutely find this book, but historians and lovers of culture will like it, too. For sure, “The Horse” is perfect for someone with a need for steed.

TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER HAS BEEN READING SINCE SHE WAS 3 YEARS OLD AND SHE NEVER GOES ANYWHERE WITHOUT A BOOK. SHE LIVES WITH HER TWO DOGS AND 11,000 BOOKS. HER BOOK REVIEWS ARE PUBLISHED IN MORE THAN 200 NEWSPAPERS AND 50 MAGAZINES THROUGHOUT THE U.S. AND CANADA. bookwormsez@yahoo.com

SEPT/OCT 2024 OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

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SEPT/OCT 2024

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