/OTHS-Summer2011

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The Naked Truth About myths surrounding the steward of Lily Springs

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Peacock Springs Gets a new name

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CONTENTS SUMMER 2011 • VOL. 09 ISSUE 02

>> FEATURES 22

40

Caverns Underfoot

78

Peacock Springs Gets a New Name and Interpretive Trail

High Springs Offers Live Music, Food and More

BY DENISE TRUNK KRIGBAUM

BY VICTORIA LASAVATH

Old Farmer’s Almanac

86

Some Summer Advice

BY CAROLYN TILLO

70

BY CAROLYN TILLO

A River Worth Knowing A Tour of the Santa Fe River’s Past and a Look at its Future

Study for Life A Columbia County School Educates to Protect the Environment

BY AMANDA WILLIAMSON

12 | Summer 2011

Happy Birthday America Enjoy Affordable Small-Town Fourth of July Celebrations

BY MARY KYPREOS

44

Downtown Daze

96

Cooking with Kids Fun and Friendly Recipes

BY DIANE E. SHEPARD

122 Natural Wonders Unearthing the History and Beauty of Florida’s Springs

BY CAROLYN TILLO

ON THE COVER

PHOTO BY TJ MORRISSEY / LOTUS STUDIOS

Our summer cover story follows the Santa Fe River, offering information on the river’s past and the importance of protecting this beautiful waterway for future generations. Pictured is Lars Andersen, river guide, writer, and naturalist, paddling on the Santa Fe River.

>> LIVIN’ EASY

We’ve got some great

28

Summer Camps

By Mary Kypreos

Summertime, and the Livin’ is Easy

BY MARY KYPREOS

A

School’s out and the fun begins! But are the children getting antsy? Here you can find a sampling of some of the summer activities in our area to help keep the boredom at bay.

fter spring break hits, it is only a matter of weeks before a New Year’s celebratory mood descends, counting down to the ďŹ nal moment. Five weeks to go. Four. Only three more. Two. One week left... Summer vacation! Children hug each other as if they will not see the others again; teachers receive gifts and thank yous; smiles are plentiful; everyone bounds home with a year’s worth of books and papers, ready for the freedom from homework, learning, memorizing.

The excitement at the end of a school year is expectant and contagious, but like everything the difďŹ culty is in holding on to that ďŹ rst wonderful feeling, and keeping children from saying one of the most useless (and frustrating) phrases since “Are we there yet?â€? — “I’m bored!â€?

Do not let children lose sight of their excitement as summer drags this year. Instead, check out one (or many) of the overnight or day-only summer camps around the area — all of which scream fun, educational or affordable. Themes like “Camp Rock!�, “Project Reality�, “Invaders!�, “Harry Potter� and others will be sure to catch any child’s interest.

28 | Summer 2011

www.VisitOurTowns.com

Summer 2011 | 29

Shell Crafts Preserving Summer with Seashells ARTICLE AND PHOTOS

BY DIANE E. SHEPARD

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S

ummer is the perfect time for parents to take up a new hobby with their children.

Why not shell-collecting? Many happy memories can be recalled of strolling alongside mom and dad, with little brother in tow, eyes ďŹ xed downward ever-searching for the sea’s natural buried treasure: the perfect seashell. And leaving the beach — exhausted but happy — with sand in the toes, the taste of saltwater on the tongue, and a trusty bucket brimming over with shells. This is summer.

For fun (and education), pick up and peruse a copy of the classic “A Golden Guide: Seashells of the World.� Beautifully illustrated and chock-full of information, this small, handy book is easy to tote along on trips to the beach. Being able to identify the shells makes the discovery all the more special for kids (and adults too)!

But what to do with these shells once home? Here are some ideas.

By Diane E. Shepard

Made With Love Have you recently returned from the beach with a bucket of shells that your child could not do without? Learn some fun and creative ways to use seashells to create lasting keepsakes.

133

By Desiree Farnum

Please Note: Unless otherwise speciďŹ ed, a glue gun was used to afďŹ x shells to items. Children can do these crafts, but they will need adult assistance and supervision.

This is great way to keep one’s ďŹ ndings, and use them in a meaningful, useful, or playful way. It is also an enjoyable and tangible way to remember a fun family beach outing, or the perfect summer. Not to mention, they can make great gifts!

to the beach. Paint the top of the lid a solid color, if needed. Using a permanent marker, write a description on the lid of the speciďŹ c outing, for example: “Sarah’s 4th Birthday, Anastasia Island - June 7, 2010.â€? Just looking at the jar will conjure up memories of the fun day.

Shell-Framed Pictures Memory Shell Jar Creating Memory Shell Jar is a great way to remember a favorite trip to the beach with family or friends. Choose a pretty, clear jar or bottle. Make sure shells will ďŹ t into the top of the jar or bottle. Fill with favorite shells from a particular visit

In this project, shells become art. Mount some favorites, artfully chosen, on a piece of foam core covered with fabric. Choose a unique and interesting frame. On the back of the picture, include a “key� to identify the various shells, if desired. Display and enjoy

LEFT: Transform a plain mirror or serving tray into a dramatic natural work of art, with a carefully chosen selection of favorite shells artfully arranged.

ABOVE: First published in 1962, and revised in 1985, this handy, well-illustrated book makes identifying shells fun and easy.

62 | Summer 2011

www.VisitOurTowns.com

1$.(' ('

Summer 2011 | 63

7+( 0$1 7+( 0<7+ 7+( /(*(1' ARTICLE AND PHOTOS

BY DESIREE FARNUM

The Naked Truth Take a canoe trip down the Santa Fe River and stop off at Lily Springs and you are likely to encounter a local steward of the springs wearing little more than a pair of glasses and loincloth.

Crafting with Seashells

â&#x20AC;&#x153;,) <28 $5( +(5( 72 0$.( )81 2) 0( /$8*+ $7 0( 25 $5*8( :,7+ 0( 5(029( <285 &/27+(6 ),567 62 :( :,// %( 21 (48$/ 7(506 â&#x20AC;?

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he cool clear water ďŹ&#x201A;ows easily in one direction, with the exception of the mini whirlpools and bubbles that rise to ďŹ ght the pull of the current. The springs, all connected and accessible by kayak or canoe, create a peaceful waterway, and tourists come to High Springs from all over the state, the country and even beyond. But those who travel to take the detour off an s-curve of the Santa Fe River to Lily Springs come for more than a peaceful trip by paddle.

Turning into a little water alleyway off to the left of the Santa Fe River, the handmade signs become visible. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Man is the Most Dangerous Animal.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Naked Ed Ahead.â&#x20AC;?

132 | Summer 2011

Summer 2011 | 133

The articles printed in Our Town Magazineâ&#x201E;˘ 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. Š 2010 Tower Publications, Inc.

www.VisitOurTowns.com

Summer 2011 | 13

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>> FEATURES page

Published quarterly by Tower Publications, Inc.

122

www.towerpublications.com

PUBLISHER Charlie Delatorre charlie@towerpublications.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Albert Isaac editor@towerpublications.com fax: 1-800-967-7382 OFFICE MANAGER Bonita Delatorre bonita@towerpublications.com ART DIRECTOR Hank McAfee hank@towerpublications.com SENIOR DESIGNER Tom Reno tom@towerpublications.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF TAYLOR COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

One of the renovation projects for the area around Hampton Spring included rebuilding the bridge that crosses Spring Creek. The bridgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rustic design helps

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Desiree Farnum Mary Kypreos Victoria Lasavath Diane E. Shepard Carolyn Tillo Denise Trunk Krigbaum Amanda Williamson INTERN Desiree Farnum

it to blend in with its historic surroundings. Visitors can cross the bridge and explore a small system of walking trails, said Melody Cox, the director of the department of grants administration for Taylor County, Fla.

Amanda Skadhauge 352-416-0196 amanda@towerpublications.com

COLUMNISTS 36 60 80 102 120 142

ADVERTISING SALES Jenni Bennett 352-416-0210 jenni@towerpublications.com

Diane E. Shepard .................................................. MAMA MUSINGS Albert Isaac ................................................................ DIFFERENT NOTE Frank Maguire .......................................................... GUEST COLUMN Donna Bonnell ......................................................... EMBRACING LIFE Kendra Siler-Marsiglio ..................................... HEALTHY EDGE Crystal Henry ............................................................ NAKED SALSA

Pam Slaven 352-416-0213 pam@towerpublications.com Helen Stalnaker 352-416-0209 helen@towerpublications.com Larkin Kieffer 352-416-0212 larkin@towerpublications.com Annie Waite 352-416-0204 annie@towerpublications.com

INFORMATION 106 Going Out to Eat 108 Community Calendar 146 Worship Centers 14 | Summer 2011

150 Library Happenings 154 Advertiser Index

ADVERTISING OFFICE 4400 NW 36th Avenue Gainesville, FL 32606 352-372-5468 352-373-9178 fax

A E

loc Ro an

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Al ch

W of me Ce ing cu tio fro eig

You Have a Choice for your child’s education.

Alachua Learning Center Elementary and Middle School located just North of the town of Alachua on State Road 235, serves students from all parts of Alachua and neighboring counties.

Charter Schools are part of the Florida Alternative System of Public School Choice and charge no tuition.

While having the benefits of a “small-school” environment the Alachua Learning Center provides a challenging and fulfilling academic, cultural and physical educational program for students from kindergarten through eighth grade.

The Alachua Learning Center has consistently been rated an “A” school by the State of Florida.

Our varied physical education curriculum includes on-campus rock climbing and subscribes to the “President’s Fitness Program”.

The Alachua Learning Center offers inspiring classes on a variety of subjects: Science, Social Studies, Language Arts, Math, P.E. Sports, Rock Climbing, Drama, Music, Clay Sculpting, Computer Graphics, individual Student Book Publishing (writing, design, illustrating), Drawing, Painting, Crafts, Community Service Display Projects, and exciting Field Trips.

Alachua Learning Center 386-418-2080

Summer 2011 alachualearningcenter.com

www.VisitOurTowns.com

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MESSAGE >> FROM THE EDITOR

Now that summer is here many of us will want to escape the blistering heat by taking a plunge into one of the many springs in our area — or perhaps float lazily down the Santa Fe or Itchetucknee Rivers. And, as we have done for many years now, it is time to continue our long tradition of focusing on the rivers, springs, and the immense aquifer below our feet from which so many of these wondrous water bodies originate.

16 | Summer 2011

The springs are in peril and it is time we become more knowledgeable about the effect we all have on this fragile resource.

In this edition, writer Carolyn Tillo takes us on a canoe trip down the Santa Fe River, providing us with a bit of history as well as information on just some of the people who work diligently to protect it and our other invaluable rivers and springs.

She also shares with us what she has learned about the Florida Springs Institute, a new group

dedicated to protecting our most vital resource — our water.

Fort White Middle School students are learning firsthand about the importance of conservation, as the school has partnered with Ichetucknee Springs offering a program to teach the importance of the land, water and air.

Our Town intern Desiree Farnum also paid a visit to the Santa Fe River — to Lily Springs, more specifically. There she visited with the much-written-about, scantily clad, long-time caretaker of the spring: Naked Ed. Just less than an hour outside of High Springs near the small town of Luraville is an area with a series of springs and sinkholes recently named in honor of our very own Wes Skiles. A cave-diver’s haven, the trails looping through the woods at the Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park now boast interpretive signs with photos and information about the caverns beneath our feet. Denise Trunk Krigbaum tells us what she learned about the park and after reading all about it I decided to take a road trip with my youngest son to see for myself.

And lastly, if you can’t take the heat, get into the kitchen. That’s the advice offered by Diane Shepard who offers some fun children cooking activities and recipes when the dog days of summer set in.

We hope you enjoy your summer! s

SPECIAL NOTE >> FROM THE EDITOR

Summertime

Congratulations to Team Tower!

T

he staff of Tower Publications has recently returned from the combined conference of the Community Papers of Florida and the Association of Free Community Papers, held at St. Pete Beach.

In addition to offering some fun in the sun, these conferences provide a great opportunity for us to get away from the daily grind (although I did review proofs of the magazine from my hotel room). We had the opportunity to hear dynamic speakers, take educational courses, rub elbows with others in the industry and receive recognition for all of our hard work.

Congratulations are in order to our production team (the unsung heroes who design our magazines) for garnering ten awards, our sales reps (without whom I would not have a job) and our writers who came away with six awards of excellence — two of which are on the National level. Congratulations go out to Molly Larmie, Ellis Amburn, Donna Bonnell, Crystal Henry, Jason Hodges, and yours truly (can I congratulate myself? Seems odd). Job well done!

Thank you also to those readers who have taken the time to drop us a note telling us what you think about our publications. We strive to offer you the very best stories and photography that we can and as a result, the Our Town Family of Magazines has certainly come a long way since our humble beginning in the winter of 2003.

If you see a story you particularly like from one of our writers, please do not hesitate to send them (or me) an e-mail — we’d love to hear from you.

Thank you for reading. s

Summer 2011 | 17

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STAFF >> CONTRIBUTORS Amanda Williamson

Carolyn Tillo

is a student in UF’s College of Journalism and Communications. She has been writing for as long as she can remember. She enjoys spending time with her friends, family and animals.

wanted to go to law school until she realized she hated arguing. She plans to attend graduate school for public relations and pursue a career as a communications coordinator for a nonprofit or philanthropic organization.

awilliamson@ufl.edu

carolyntillo@gmail.com

Victoria Lasavath

Desiree Farnum

is a proud Florida Gator studying journalism at the University of Florida. In her free time she loves to read, write, re-write, cook, shop and spend time with her family and friends.

is an intern at Tower Publications, a senior in UF’s College of Journalism and a freelance writer. Born in Trinidad and raised in Queens, NY, she enjoys spontaneous road trips and visits from outof-town friends.

victorialasavath@yahoo.com

F F

desireefarnum@ufl.edu

Denise Trunk Krigbaum is a freelance writer, adjunct professor at UF, wife and a mom. She has lived in Gainesville for eons and has managed to turn over a few stones while here. She has found many hidden gems.

More remain to be discovered.

Diane Shepard is a writer and Mama to two young children. Her next work in progress is a memoir “Keeping Time with Turtles.” diane@towerpublications.com

dtrunk@ufl.edu

Mary Kypreos

Crystal Henry

is a freelance writer and editor who enjoys discovering tidbits of knowledge about Florida from those who know it best.

She is a proud Gator alumna and is currently working toward a Master’s in English language and literature.

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

kypreos.mary@gmail.com

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>> PEACOCK SPRINGS

Caverns Underfoot

Peacock Springs Gets a New Name and Interpretive Trail

BY DENISE TRUNK KRIGBAUM

W

hen he was not overseas shooting for National Geographic or another employer, Wes Skiles frequently dove the underwater cave systems of Peacock Springs State Park. Skiles’ company, Karst Environmental Services Inc., spent hours documenting the cave systems at Peacock Springs.

Skiles, a passionate advocate for Florida’s springs and aquifer, directed his energy to educating people about the beauty of the springs and of the environmental perils that threatened them.

With Wes Skiles’ untimely

passing July 21, 2010, Peacock Springs State Park has become a legacy to the man and his efforts in more ways than one. In Nov. 16, 2010, the Department of Environmental Protection renamed the park in his honor. In addition, a group of dive buddies, organized as the North Florida Springs Alliance, were able to complete Phase I of an educational trail in the park: a virtual cave dive for hikers.

People do not often think of what exists in the ground beneath their feet beyond assessing whether its surface is pavement or dirt. However, tourmaline waters

bubbling through rock to appear on the surface do provide another perspective on just what is down there.

Indeed, deep in the realm of specially trained and cave-certified scuba divers, pencil-thin passages, shoulder-width tunnels and caverns of the Floridan aquifer combine to create one of the nation’s largest underwater cave systems right below the Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park.

The park has two major springs, a spring run and six sinkholes, all in near pristine condition. A number of the springs contribute

PHOTO BY ALBERT ISAAC

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groundwater flow to the Suwannee River. Cave divers have explored and surveyed nearly 33,000 feet of underwater passages at Peacock Springs. Around the springs, four major plant communities are represented in the mature forest stands. The Peacock Springs cave system is one of the most extensively mapped cave systems in the continental United States, and the longest in Florida, according to the Florida Park Service. The cave diving section of the National Speleological Society has already mapped more than six miles of passages.

A new interpretive trail etches some of this winding route onto the park’s surface and exposes what lies beneath to visitors who come without masks, fins or a dive license. The 1.1-mile loop trail provides a virtual cave dive for hikers as it overlies tunnels within Peacock Springs. Along its route, interpretive signs tell the story of the karst landscape and hydrology that creates the area’s sinkholes, springs and windows. The kiosks feature photographs that present a peek into the caves in that precise spot just under a hiker’s feet.

The North Florida Springs Alliance, a Citizen Support Organization and non-profit group of divers and other friends of the park, was the project’s standardbearer for the five years it took to complete the trail.

The park service and the NFSA designed the trail to both educate people on the features of Florida’s aquifers as well as to provide people the experience of navigating the underground passageways, said NFSA director Kelly Jessop. The project required the expertise of experienced divers to map it.

“Our goal was to superimpose the trail directly over the cave system,” Jessop said. “We used technology to do GPS mapping and trace the route — we used an electromagnetic transmitter in the cave system that you can radio locate on the surface, along

PHOTOS BY ALBERT ISAAC

Cave diving couple, Jessica and Scott Hussey came up from Tampa to explore the underwater caves at the Wes Siles Peacock Springs State Park on Memorial Day.

with a Trimble GPS, which has no range of error. We had divers who carried the equipment into the cave systems. We took key references throughout the cave system to map it, then we superimposed the map over the park itself.”

Jessop said the trail deviates slightly in a spot or two to accommodate a few trees. Otherwise the interpretive trail very accurately follows the tunnels below. Each kiosk has a line arrow that takes viewers through the cave passages.

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Alliance members put in the man-hours and provided labor to build the trail. The group also funded the effort by their own contributions, fundraising and finding sponsors who were kind enough to lend support to the plan.

Both Liney and Jessop have heard feedback from state level administrators describing the trail as one of the best interpretive trails in the state.

Jessop, who has been a cave diver for 15 years, is justly proud.

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PHOTO BY JILL HEINERTH

“Cave divers are primary users,” Jessop said. “The whole trail was made and paid for by cave divers and caver industry.”

He estimates the price for the trail at $10,000.

The NFSA worked closely with the Department of Environmental Protection and Park Manager Craig Liney as they mapped the route, developed the signs and built the trail.

“I can’t say enough good things about the NFSA folks,” Liney said.

“They are people who are very passionate about Florida resources and they have done us a great service.”

Liney said an interpretive trail had long been a desired element included on the park’s management plan to raise awareness of the aquifer and the springs and how precious they are. He said it was the NFSA’s involvement that made the trail a reality.

“They raised funds, provided labor for building the trail, hired a designer to create signage and provided skilled labor to do the mapping,” Liney said.

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The signs’ content describes the karst features along the trail to inform people about Florida’s limestone bedrock and its Swiss cheese-like makeup, and how easily contaminants can trickle through it to reach the groundwater. From the

illustrate the signage. Skiles’ organization, Karst Environmental Services, provided a map used on one of the kiosks.

Both Liney and Jessop are eager to dig into Phase II and three of the project. They are currently working

“They are people who are very passionate about Florida resources and they have done us a great service.” trail, hikers can see karst features including sinkholes, springs, and depressions caused by the collapse of upper layers of material into underlying voids and caverns.

The trail includes an overlook into one of the sinkholes, Olsen Sink, which is a karst window, or a portal into the aquifer. Hikers can peer off the boardwalk into the underwater world.

Skiles’ colleague Jill Heinerth and other talented underwater photographers donated photos of the passages and caverns to

on the second stage, which is to lend yet another perspective on the surrounding world — this time featuring the world overhead. Signs displaying the flora and fauna on the trail will augment a hiker’s experience and present a fuller view of the environment, Liney said. Phase II should be completed by summer’s end, he added.

Phase III will be the addition of diver navigation arrows along the length of the trail to guide hikers in place of traditional trail blazes, Jessop said.

PHOTO BY ALBERT ISAAC

These stairs at the Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park are dedicated to Sheck Exley, a local math teacher and world-famous cave diver who died in a deep dive in Mexico in 1994.

The NFSA has worked hard to educate the community about the trail, Jessop said. The group has sent information to Boy Scout troops and schools, and has spread the word of the “excellent educational resource to teach kids about their natural systems and watershed.”

Shirley Kasser, a member of the NFSA board of directors for two years, is a cave diver who has spent a lot of time underground, including two or three weekends a month at Peacock despite the three-and-a-half-hour drive from her Lake Mary home.

“Peacock is one of the best springs used as a training cave,” she said. “There is a cave there for every level of diver. It is very rewarding to me to share knowledge of the way the area underground looks to non-divers,” Kasser said. “The trail is fun and eye-opening.” s Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park is located 16 miles southwest of Live Oak on State Road 51, two miles east of Luraville on Peacock Springs Road.

Another part of Wes Skiles’ legacy is his outstanding films: Polluting the Fountain of Youth in 1998, Protecting Florida Springs in 2001, The Springs Heartland in 2008, and The Water’s Journey Series.

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>> RECREATION

We’ve got some great

Summer Camps

BY MARY KYPREOS

A

fter spring break hits, it is only a matter of weeks before a New Year’s celebratory mood descends, counting down to the final moment. Five weeks to go. Four. Only three more. Two. One week left... Summer vacation! Children hug each other as if they will not see the others again; teachers receive gifts and thank yous; smiles are plentiful; everyone bounds home with a year’s worth of books and papers, ready for the freedom from homework, learning, memorizing.

The excitement at the end of a school year is expectant and contagious, but like everything the difficulty is in holding on to that first wonderful feeling, and keeping children from saying one of the most useless (and frustrating) phrases since “Are we there yet?” — “I’m bored!”

Do not let children lose sight of their excitement as summer drags this year. Instead, check out one (or many) of the overnight or day-only summer camps around the area — all of which scream fun, educational or affordable. Themes like “Camp Rock!”, “Project Reality”, “Invaders!”, “Harry Potter” and others will be sure to catch any child’s interest.

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Camp Kulaqua 386-454-1351 www.campkulaqua.com Themed “Project Reality” for 2011, Camp Kulaqua features a “program designed to help your child see the reality that God loves them, and to assist them in building a stronger relationship between God and your camper,” states the Camp Kulaqua brochure.

The Seventh-day Adventist Church organizes this overnight camp in weekly sessions from June 5 to 26 for three age groups: Cub Camp (Ages 7 to 9), Junior Camp (Ages 10 to 12) and Teen Camp (Ages 13 to 16). Campers experience a mixture of old and new world as daily activities include everything from archery to BMX, guitar to leather craft, self-defense to team sports, etc. Children looking to embrace their passions should check out Camp Kulaqua’s themed camps: Athletics Camp (Ages 13 to 16), Horsemanship Camp (Ages 10 to 16), Wheels Camp (Ages 13 to 16) and others. Located just 20 minutes outside of Gainesville, Camp Kulaqua lies on 600 acres of land — 500 acres of which abound

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with the natural beauty of Florida’s wilderness — the perfect setting to enjoy summer in Florida.

Tumblemania

O2B Kids

Children can literally jump, twist and flip for joy at Tumblemania’s day camp. Offered in three, 3-week sessions (from June 27 to 30, July 18 to 21, Aug. 8 to 11), campers can let loose with activities like tumbling, trampolines, double-mini, games, crafts, and even a little swimming.

Campers bring packed lunches, but receive their own camp T-shirt.

Hours are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

386-462-0092 www.o2bkids.com Operating all summer (weeklong from June 13 to August 19), O2B Kids features a different theme each week, offering a quirky spin on the traditional day camp. Look out for Wacky and Wild Week, Green Machine Week, Hollywood!

Week, Time Travelers Week, and others. Campers should be in the first through eighth grades, although O2B also offers a special, nap-free camp for children beginning kindergarten. Regular camp hours are from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with a special early drop-off at 7 a.m. Days include specialty classes in computers, dance, karate, theater, music, etc; specialty camps feature Ballet Boot Camp, Fusion Dance Camp, Cheer Camp, Gymnastics Camp.

Days also include field trips and even optional trips to Florida theme parks, a sure way to excite any child!

386-454-1779 www.tumblemania.com

Sun Country Sports Center 352-331-8773 www.suncountrysports.com This day-style summer camp offers the “opportunity for kids to learn, make new friends, and share new adventures,” according to the Sun Country Sports website.

FunFest Summer Camp features a number of flexible options for parents including a half-day option (morning or afternoon), hourly registration, transportation from the Sun Country Sports Center in Millhopper, an early-morning

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This 40,000-square-foot indoor and 4,500-squarefoot outdoor facility also has the capability to support specialty camps such as Rockwall Camp, Gymnastics Camp, Tramp and Tumble Camp, Swim Camp and Cheer Camp.

Camp Crystal Lake 352-475-1414 www.campcrystal.com

drop-off option, and snacks for the campers. From June 8 to Aug. 19, children ages 3 to 15 will be busy learning gymnastics, swimming, yoga, dance, rock climbing, karate, arts and crafts, fencing and more!

Started in 1948, this traditional overnight camp (built on 140 acres of land with three lakes) builds on the foundations of fun, family and fellowship. Each weekly session from June 19 to Aug. 12 features exciting themes such as Wild Wild West, Harry Potter, Futuristic, Pirate and others.

Campers choose five activities to master (from high ropes to water skiing to canoeing/kayaking to

magic and more), Monday through Friday, while any remaining time is spent free, resting or of course, swimming! An evening program also includes carnivals, talent shows, skits, dances and more.

Boys and Girls Club of Alachua County 352-373-6639 www.myboysandgirlsclub.com/ programs/summer This traditional day camp offers “something fun, educational and exciting to do during the school break at an affordable price,” states the website. Campers ages 6 to 12 experience time-honored activities in the arts, language, sports, tradition, food, clothing/fashion, heroes/ heroines and holidays, but through the perspective of their own culture and the cultures of others. Children ages 13 to 14 may join the Leaders in Training Program (space limited), while all 6 to 7 year olds participate in the Kidstop Program.

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Florida Museum of Natural History 352-846-2000 www.flmnh.ufl.edu/education/ summer_camps.htm The Florida Museum of Natural History’s unique mix of summer “classes provide hands-on, minds-on opportunities to learn through activities, crafts, literature, Museum resources and outdoor exploration,” states their website.

Designed for children in first grade to sixth grades, this morning and afternoon camp runs weeklong from June 13 to Aug. 12. Themes also influences activities chosen for each session, including Globetrotters-Asia, Something Furry, Invaders!, Marine Mammals, Fantastic Flight and more.

Girl’s Place 352-373-4475 www.girlsplace.net “The objective of the Girls Place

summer day camp is to involve girls in safe and fun summer activities,” states their website. Field trips and on-site activities are the name of the game at this local day camp.

Activities may include anything from swimming, movies, tours of local businesses, museums, parks, community service and other activities. A summer meal program is also available for breakfast and lunch, although brown-bagged lunches are also permitted. This camp welcomes campers in kindergarten through the 12th grade and runs from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily from June 8 to Aug. 19.

YMCA Summer Day Camp & Summer Swim 352-374-9622 www.ncfymca.org Summer Day Camp: Embracing the theme Camp Rock!, North Central Florida YMCA Summer Day Camp draws on the hit Disney film and picks a different musical genre

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for each week. Mornings (drop-off at 7 a.m.) are structured around specialty camps that include flag football, dance, painting, experiments and more. Afternoons (6 p.m. pickup) involve games, field trips and swimming. The action happens all summer long for children entering kindergarten through eighth grade, and breakfast and lunch are included in the price.

Summer Swim: Florida is the ideal place for water-happy children in the summer as lakes, springs, pools and beaches provide the perfect place to have fun and stay cool. However, swimming knowledge is always a must for children, and the YMCA offers a safe venue all summer long for children to learn to swim, become stronger swimmers or just make improvements.

Offering five, 2-week sessions beginning June 13 and ending Aug. 19, the YMCA hosts classes for every age (beginning at 6 months old) and level. s

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Pitch Pitc In to Put Alachua County on Top In our community, we do a lot of things really well. Our schools, hospitals and, of course, sports teams are among the best in the state. But in one critical area, we’ve come up short. Alachua County is ranked 21st in Florida when it comes to recycling. Strive to make Alachua County #1.

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COLUMN >> DIANE E. SHEPARD

Mama Musings “Around here, however, we don’t look backwards for very long. We keep moving forward, opening up new doors and doing new things, because we’re curious… and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.”

— WALT DISNEY

ommy, which path we gonna take?”

I don’t have a chance to answer.

“Let’s go, Second Path, Mommy!”

I smile and turn to the right, the esteemed “Second Path.” “’Dis way, Mommy!”

“Yes, ‘Dis way!” I say.

For my son, Nicholas, there are no roads. There are only paths. Paths to explore, navigate, and lay claim to.

“Let’s go find a lepped and je-waff! Dey in the forwest, Mommy!”

“Oh, they are, are they?” I say, laughing.

“Well, right now, we need to go to the grocery store,” I say, trying to match his enthusiasm.

“I doan wanna go to da store!” he says, grimacing.

Well, actually, I don’t either, but that’s another story...

In my son’s world there are no errands, only expeditions. No chores, only adventures. Each path yields its own treasures. There are only discoveries to be made.

At 3 and a half, he’s already a good pathfinder.

I guess I shouldn’t be surprised; he comes by it naturally, after all. Growing up, my dad, my brother, and I used to play a game we called “Pathfinder” in the woods near our house. We would search for just the right stick to serve as the perfect walking stick of the official “Pathfinder” for our excursion. Using it to lead the way, we wound our way around and through the paths we made in those woods. I remember my brother and I would always look forward with great anticipation to our turn to lead our grand expedition.

“M

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To be the “Pathfinder” was a great honor. Sometimes our walk was a bit like a treasure hunt because our little expedition party would find tiny trinkets and small toys, left behind by children long since grown and gone, or so we surmised. We would take time to stop and watch birds, caterpillars and lizards along the way. (Not unlike Nicholas stopping to pour over a fuzzy caterpillar inching along within the great split in the sidewalk.) Each time we explored these paths we would see something new, something we had never seen before. My Dad made a point not to rush us along the way. That was a gift.

Coming out the other side was always a sense of accomplishment.

“We made it through! We did it!” we’d yell with great enthusiasm.

It’s funny the things that come back to you when you have your own kids.

Nicholas has a great sense of direction, as well as great recall for the places we’ve been. A great internal compass — a real sense of where he’s going — literally.

We go somewhere one time, and he knows the way.

Last year, at 2 and a half, we had been out only once to my parent’s new home they were building, but on the way out there the second time, he proclaimed, “We going to ‘Ganddaddy’s!”

If we just drive by the road that leads to our haircutter’s shop, he announces, “I wanna lollipop!”

Remembering the stylist gives them lollipops after she cuts their hair.

We pass a gas station where we once stopped for a drink. But he remembers.

“I wanna coke!”

Memory like a steel trap.

As we approach a lake or a creek, or even a large puddle, he yells, “Water coming!”

My son remembers the points along the way and appreciates them all. He pays attention. There’s something to be said for that.

I realize now that Pathfinding with my dad and brother was never really about the destination. The best part really was the journey, always the journey; forging our path, being together, and taking the time to look at the things along the way. I realize now something that I had forgotten since I left those old paths (and childhood) behind: How to take the time to really see things. Being with my son, and seeing the world through his wonder-eyes, reminds me to keep my Pathfinder spirit alive.

I hesitate only for a minute, then I pass by the grocery store and keep driving. Not looking back.

“Which path to take, Mommy?!”

He can hardly contain his excitement.

“Let’s take this path!” I announce. “And see where it leads us!”

“We’re gonna find us a good walking stick, Nicholas, and YOU can be the Pathfinder!”

Leopards and giraffes, here we come! s

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— COMING THIS SUMMER TO A SMART PHONE NEAR YOU —

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T

his summer, SunState Federal Credit Union continues its trend of leading the cutting edge of customer service and convenience with the

launch of an all new suite of electronic services and account access products.

With March monthend statements, the credit union began the process

of converting to a new monthly statement format, both printed statements and eStatements. The new statement format combines all of a member’s SunState deposit and loan accounts, excluding VISA, into one combined statement for ease of tracking. The new eStatements will be archived within a member’s own secure eBanking site for two years. The new eStatement format also makes it easier than ever to look at actual copies of cleared checks.

With the changing times and technologies, banking on your computer at home is becoming a thing of the past. SunState’s new eBanking product takes the best of the credit union’s old Home$Banking and adds in some great new features. The new

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Simply stated, SunState will deposit, in bulk, a nickel for every signature transaction. Just think of it. Are you planning on buying a new song on iTunes for 99 cents? Get a nickel back! Your “must have” morning latte? How about lunch, gas for the car, a run to Publix, or your afternoon soda? All would earn you a nickel-back.Other banks play games with your money, by transferring

member benefit.

If you haven’t been by SunState’s new Archer Road branch, then you haven’t tried the new “smart” ATM. Over the course of the next several months, SunState plans to replace all of their ATMs with these new machines formerly available only in limited markets and offered by only a few of the largest financial institutions.

So, whether you want an especially robust mobile banking app, a highly versaYOUR PHONE, OUR APP tile pc-based eBanking — BANK ANYWHERE! option, or just SunState Federal Credit want simple easy-to-underUnion has really stepped stand consolidated eStateup in the area of online and ments, SunState Federal mobile banking, bringing Credit Union should now you solutions and options move to the top of your list at the cutting edge of when considering a new today’s technology. financial institution.

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Branch Locations

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Almanac Some Summer Advice

BY MARY KYPREOS

“T

he Old Farmer’s Almanac” is not only a book, but a book that by definition represents a record of past weather and astronomical events and predictions for the future.

Started in 1792, during George Washington’s first Presidential term, editor Robert B. Thomas created a lasting, successful tradition and what is now considered the “oldest continuously published periodical in North America,” according to the Almanac’s website.

“So what made “The Old Farmer’s Almanac” different from the others? Since his format wasn’t novel, we can only surmise that Thomas’s astronomical

40 | Summer 2011

and weather predictions were more accurate, the advice more useful, and the features more entertaining,” states the website.

It is time once again to crack open this historical and modern document for a peak into the upcoming months, for advice on how to plant and maintain a summer garden, and of course, to read entertaining tidbits.

CALENDAR June — “Advice When Most Needed is Least Heeded” As summer officially settles in with the Summer Solstice on the 21st, look out for the holidays and

memorial events that abound throughout June. Start the month off with a birthday celebration as “Sesame Street’s” grumpy, trashcan inhabiting Oscar the Grouch turns 42 this year. Hopefully he will not get any grumpier with age.

Hold a moment of silence on June 6 for those who perished in the largest amphibious invasion in world history: D-Day, 1944. Around 156,000 Allied troops landed on Normandy shores resulting in around 10,000 Allied casualties and 4,000 to 9,000 German casualties.

Mark June 12 as Pentecost and do not forget to rent Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho” in honor of its first release on the 16th in 1960.

July — “Take Time While Time is, For Time Will Away” Earth joins in America’s spirit of celebration when it reaches its farthest point away from the Sun on July 4th (hopefully it will help keep the weather fair and the barbecues extra tasty this year). Those astronomically inclined may also want to keep an eye trained on the “lower central part of Capricornus” toward the end of the month as the asteroid Vesta will pass unusually close to the Earth and be just visible to the naked eye.

Turn on the fans on July 3rd as Dog Days begin in the Northern Hemisphere. A strange name for a temperamental period, Dog Days marks the hottest days of summer and usually falls between July and September. No reminder needed, but nonetheless do not forget to buy fireworks, cool a few drinks, and light the grill on the Fourth of July to celebrate America’s Independence Day! June to July 1886 became a tumultuous time in Florida’s History as the third hurricane in a month hit the Sunshine State on July 19. Take this opportunity to check your hurricane supplies or stock up now.

August — “The Handsomest Flower is Not the Sweetest” If you missed the Vesta asteroid in July, there are a few more chances to see it in the first week of August.

Take advantage, as this is the brightest it will be for the next decade. Unfortunately, those looking forward to the Perseid meteor shower on Aug. 11 to 13 may be disappointed due to a nearly full moon that will likely cancel-out the shower’s visibility.

The first of August coincides with the first day of Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting.

Props (pun intended) to Orville Wright, one of the two brothers credited with building the first successful airplane, who was born on Aug. 19, 1871. Celebrate their invention and take a flight to visit family or to vacation in the Caribbean.

In this torrid political climate, it is always a good idea to do a little research about the controversial issues making their way through the spotlight. As the Social Security Act was signed into law on Aug. 14,

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Giving into the lure of fishing is best between the new and full moon. In the upcoming months, break out the poles and head to the water between July 1 to 15, July 30 to Aug. 13 and Aug. 28 to Sept. 12.

According to fishing legend, if you really want to catch fish, head out one hour before and after high and low tides; just after sunrise or sunset; when flies are hatching; or when the water is calm. Of course, just because fishing lore says it, does not mean that fish are nonexistent during vacation time.

GARDENING/FARMING It is never to late to start a garden, especially considering the length of Florida’s summers. Check “The Old Farmer’s Almanac” for information on the perfect beginner’s vegetable garden and for general reference.

The Almanac recommends planting beans, carrots, eggplant, melons, okra and tomatoes in warm weather.

But if your garden has already bloomed, the following plants can be re-sowed for more deliciousness: beans, cabbage, carrots, lettuce, radishes, spinach and more!

Head to the garden store for blooms to brighten any garden both with flowers and herbs, and the butterflies they attract. Planting herbs such as mint, oregano, sweet marjoram, parsley and dill will do the trick. Or grab daylily, honeysuckle, lavender, lilac or zinnia to attract beautiful butterflies.

If birds are more to your liking, Hummingbirds are attracted to the following flowers in the red and orange varieties: bee balm, butterfly bush, lily, petunia, scarlet sage, trumpet honeysuckle.

Whatever strikes your fancy, the “Old Farmer’s Almanac” provides something for everyone. For more information on the topics discussed above or to purchase a printed or electronic version of the “Old Farmer’s Almanac,” please visit almanac.com. s

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>> CONSERVATION

PHOTO BY TJ MORRISSEY for LOTUS STUDIOS

A River Worth Knowing A Tour of the Santa Fe River’s Past and a Look at its Future

BY CAROLYN TILLO

F

or thousands of years, the Santa Fe River has been a home to settlers, but today’s Florida residents are still discovering the beauty of this well-preserved waterway.

Located in North Florida, the river is dotted with homes but conspicuously lacks other signs of development that threaten the natural glory of Florida waterways.

In its quiet and unassuming way, the river turns the residents of its shores into advocates for its health, and it converts visitors to its banks into explorers eager to learn more about its history and the challenges it faces. Take the journey down the Santa Fe River

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and discover what you have been missing or rediscover the beauty of this river right in your own backyard.

Lars Andersen’s classroom flows through seven counties, tracing its way from the Santa Fe Swamp to the Suwannee River. In his teaching space, edible plants bloom and green-brown water flows, lined with an occasional trace of clear blue. His students range in age from schoolchildren to retirees. On May 14, they include a seventh generation Floridian, a future nurse and a retiree who reconnected with and married his high school sweetheart after about 60 years.

The students’ stories and their backgrounds may differ, but

Andersen’s classroom brings them all together. In this place, they pull toward common goals, skimming the surface of knowledge that, in Andersen, runs deep.

Andersen is no ordinary teacher, but he has learned from the rivers and springs, prairies and forests of Florida. These vital components of the Florida landscape have taught Andersen so much about Florida’s history and ecology that he feels inclined to share this knowledge.

On May 14, the Santa Fe River helped him to achieve this goal.

It became a classroom and an interactive teaching tool as the 10 members of Andersen’s tour group of the river learned about the water that flowed below their kayaks and canoes and the

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PHOTO BY TJ MORRISSEY FOR LOTUS STUDIOS

The Santa Fe River is home to 14 different species of turtles, Andersen said. Some turtles are more shy than others.

They jump into the water upon the approach of a canoe or kayak and then peek at it from below the surface.

wilderness on the river’s banks.

Andersen, who owns and operates Adventure Outpost in High Springs with his wife Patsy, offers guided tours of the Santa Fe River, as well as tours of other rivers and springs throughout Florida. Most of his life’s work has

46 | Summer 2011

been devoted to helping people get to know and love Florida’s natural landscape.

“It’s all kind of come from that same place — really wanting to forge that connection between people and the places they’re exploring,” Andersen said.

With the Santa Fe, there is a whole lot to know and a whole lot to love. To understand the current crises and challenges facing this river located right in the backyard of North Central Florida, it is important to get to know the river a little better.

Invasive plants

Hydrilla This former aquarium plant can grow about an inch a day. It forms thick mats of leaves that threaten the lives of native plants.

Hydrilla also slows water flow and can block irrigation and flood canals.

Source: UF/IFAS Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants, plants.ifas.ufl.edu/node/183

Suckermouth armored catfish These fish, who hail from as far away as South America and Costa Rica, burrow their nesting sites in river banks, contributing to bank erosion.

Source: Aquatic Nuisance Species Research Program, fl.biology.usgs.gov

www.VisitOurTowns.com

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Invasive plants

Hygrophila polysperma First brought to the U.S. as an aquarium plant, this East Indian native was found in Florida by 1965 and had spread to 18 Florida public water bodies by 1994. It favors flowing streams but can also be found in slowmoving waters and in lakes.

Hygrophila stems are square. The submersed stems grow to six feet long.

Its leaves are opposite on the stem. Leaves are 1 ½ inch long and ½ inch wide. East Indian hygrophila flowers are bluish-white to white, and have two lips. They grow from the axils where the leaves meet the stems.

Source: UF/IFAS Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants, plants.ifas.ufl.edu/node/191

48 | Summer 2011

History of the Santa Fe During his tour, Andersen described the rich history of the river, where Native Americans lived for 14,000 years. The Timucua Indians that inhabited the region were joined during the 1600s by the Spanish missionaries, who established Franciscan missions alongside their villages. Around 1704 and 1705, the English with Indian allies invaded and drove the Timucuas and the Spanish missionaries to the fort at St. Augustine, Andersen said. The Seminoles moved into the region around the Santa Fe River from the mid-1700s to the mid-1800s, and then the land was left to mostly white settlers.

Village sites, burial mounds and artifacts fill the river valley, according to a handout Andersen provided during the tour.

At the start of the tour group’s journey, Andersen described the V-shaped postholes under the water close to the U.S. Highway 27 bridge where Native Americans once placed their fish weir. The weir would have consisted of wooden sticks or logs placed upright onto the river bottom. The V-shape would have pointed downstream, allowing fish to swim into the net attached to the weir. “[The Native Americans] just knew the place, and they had such a connection to it, and we’ve just lost that,” Andersen said.

Yet, for some residents living along the Santa Fe River, their connection to it remains strong.

As the canoes and kayaks of the tour group drift beneath lowhanging tree branches and scrape past shallow patches of limestone deposits, a sign for Lily Spring appears on the left bank. The boats snake into the springs’ small inlet in single-file lines. As the water turns from the brown of the Santa Fe to the clear blue of the spring, they enter what feels like a sister to the Splash Mountain ride at Disney World. Signs decorate the

trees, warning not of rough waters but of the impending nakedness of Naked Ed, the caretaker of Lily Springs who can usually be found talking with visitors.

As his name implies, his life for the past 26 years has been clothing-optional. Ed willingly poses for photos with tourists and encourages them to swim in the spring and jump off his dock. He keeps a comment box for visitor feedback.

In addition to his role as a tourist attraction, Ed serves as a symbol of the lifestyle Native Americans valued and that many of today’s North Florida locals have forgotten. His simple dwelling and his even simpler wardrobe keep him tied to the land.

Knowing his story and the stories of the people, plants and animals that impact the river will make people more inclined to protect it, Andersen said.

Concerns Along the River Protection efforts are especially important given the threats the river faces from invasive species and pollutants.

Pete Butt has lived along the Santa Fe River for almost two decades. He owns and works as a project manager for Karst Environmental Services Inc., which works with public agencies and private clients to protect springs and springshed resources.

In recent years, he has noticed an increase of invasive plants, including hydrilla and hygrophila polysperma that threaten native plants and animals.

Butt also keeps an eye out for an exotic species of catfish, the suckermouth armored catfish, a new arrival to the river. Originally from South America, the fish threatens to tear up the river’s banks by burrowing holes for its eggs.

Other invasive species along the river include the water hyacinth, which Andersen pointed out during his tour.

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Invasive plants

Water hyacinth This floating plant reduces water flow and prevents underwater animals from obtaining the oxygen they need to survive. It also destroys native plants by blocking the sunlight from underwater vegetation.

This invasive nuisance often jams rivers and lakes with uncounted thousands of tons of floating plant matter. A healthy acre of water hyacinths can weigh up to 200 tons! In Florida, the water hyacinth in most places is under “maintenance control”: field crews constantly working to keep the plant numbers low, in exchange for the rivers and lakes remaining usable.

Source: UF/IFAS Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants, plants.ifas.ufl.edu/node/141

50 | Summer 2011

Bottled Water The springs that feed into the Santa Fe River also represent tempting sites for property owners interested in using the spring water for bottled water.

John Barley and Richard Corbin have owned 10 acres of land along the Santa Fe River, including Lily Springs, since 1998. In 2007, they submitted an application to the Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD) for a water use permit, which would have allowed them to take water from the springs and transport it to an off-site bottled water plant.

Barley, an attorney in Tallahassee, said he and Corbin wanted to invest in this opportunity in order to increase the value of their property, but they wanted to do it in a way that would not harm the environment or the ecology of the river system. They hired a hydrogeologist, a biologist and a lawyer that handles environmental cases.

“This is something we hoped we could get done for our children, as an investment for those who are coming behind us,” Barley said.

However, the permit application met with opposition from the SRWMD and from local citizens.

Barley said he and Corbin applied for the permit in 2007 and 2009, amending and withdrawing the application both times due to changes in the criteria required by the SRWMD for application approval.

They withdrew the first application, and last November they later withdrew the second application because the SRWMD estimated that withdrawing the water would have an adverse effect on nearby Hornsby Springs, Barley said.

In addition, the district did not approve of the business plan that the landowner had for taking the water and processing it.

Carlos Herd, the senior hydrogeologist for the SRWMD, said that after evaluating the potential impact of the proposed groundwater withdrawal on nearby springs

along the Santa Fe River, the district determined that the withdrawal had the potential to impact the water flow of local springs.

Barley and Corbin could still apply for another water use permit in the future, Herd said.

“But given the potential for resource impacts, it would be difficult to permit any large groundwater use along the Santa Fe River,” Herd said.

Barley said that he and Corbin have no present plans to reapply.

Merrillee Malwitz-Jipson is one of the citizens who opposed the permit that would have allowed Bailey and Corbin to collect water for bottling off-site. As the president of Our Santa Fe River, a citizen group that researches and shares information about water-bottling businesses along the Santa Fe River, she speaks with politicians and members of the SRWMD to persuade them to keep the springs free of bottled-water operations.

She lives in a house on the river, and her work does not just revolve around bottled water. She wants to create a culture of conservation among the adults and children in her area so that they understand more about the fertilizers, pesticides, and animal and human waste that bring harmful nitrates into the river.

Protection Efforts As Lars Andersen’s tour group moved down the river, nitrates are far from the minds of the kayakers and canoers. Hammered by heavy droplets of rain, they sought shelter under wooden docks and overhanging tree branches. Six of them headed to nearby springs recreation parks to take the bus home. When the rain cleared, Jim Call, the man who reunited with his high school sweetheart, was still around. He spotted a beer can floating in the river and circled it twice, like a shark eager to devour its prey, before picking it up and plopping it in his boat.

Unfortunately, this is only one of many pieces of trash that have been

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PHOTO BY ALBERT ISAAC

“Cleanup starts in your backyard; it starts in your kitchen sink.”

found floating in the Santa Fe River.

Fritzi Olson, the executive director of Current Problems, said the nonprofit sponsors regular cleanups to remove trash from the Santa Fe River and other North Central Florida waterways.

In fact, Current Problems began in 1993 when a group of friends got together to clean up the Santa Fe River.

52 | Summer 2011

Santa Fe River resident Butt said he participates in these cleanups, in which volunteers remove debris from the river and help get rid of the skeletons of old inner tubes and Styrofoam coolers.

Cleanups do not just take place outside, Butt said. They also involve preventing harmful chemicals and pesticides from entering the water in the first place.

“Your cleanup starts in your backyard,” Butt said. “It starts in your kitchen sink.”

Butt said people with septic tanks should be mindful of what they put down the drain because chemicals, varying from household cleaners to petroleum products, can limit the functioning of their septic tanks and make it more difficult for the tanks to drain waste. Harmful chemicals from the tanks can also seep into the environment. Prescription drugs flushed down the toilet can find their way into Florida’s waterways, too, Butt said.

In addition to being mindful of what he puts down the drain, Butt said he tries to conserve water by planting native Florida plants in his yard because they require less frequent irrigation. He also avoids cutting his lawn near the river so his yard waste does not enter the water and prevent sunlight from reaching the underwater vegetation.

Visitors to the river can prevent future contamination by picking up their vinyl water toys and trash before they leave, Butt said.

Malwitz-Jipson takes a different approach to protecting her river.

Through Our Santa Fe River, she sponsors educational workshops for students in which she teaches them about pollution, nitrates and water conservation.

As part of the Springs Tie-Dye Project, she works with students to create tie-dyed kitchen towels. The colorful towels remind the students and their families to conserve water as they go about their business in the kitchen.

Our Santa Fe River is also sponsoring its second-annual songwriting contest to allow locals to add to the collection of songs about the Santa Fe River. Submissions are due on Aug. 31 and the entries will be played in October at The Great Outdoors Restaurant.

Malwitz-Jipson, who moved to her home on the river from St. Petersburg eight years ago, said she appreciates the Santa Fe River because when she is near it,

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nature surrounds her, and concrete and other signs of development are not visible.

“It’s truly a river that deserves having a song written about it,” she said.

Living on the river has also caused a shift in her attitude toward conservation and waste prevention.

“I’m just much more conscious about walking lightly on the planet, being less of an impact on the planet,” she said.

The End, and the Beginning The visitors on Andersen’s tour have reached the final stretch of

their 9-mile journey. They pass Ginnie Springs, a hub of partiers, campers and tubers who often leave their trash behind, Andersen said.

As the remaining members of the tour group continued to paddle, Francis Woods, a retired consulting engineer, told stories of the dug-out canoes he used to journey through flooded jungles to explore wildlife and birds along the rivers and streams of Africa, Central and South America, and Papua New Guinea.

Woods is also content along the local waters of the Santa Fe River.

He enjoys watching an ecosystem at work, and the high humidity and tropical climate remind him of the

Amazon.

Other members of the group may not be so well-traveled, but throughout the journey they noticed the turtles that splash into the water as the boats approach and the vivid green plants that flow underneath them.

Whether they realize it or not, they become more familiar with the river during their journey. They may not be ready to shed their clothes and live with Naked Ed, but with each stroke of their paddles, they came closer to understanding and appreciating the simple beauty of a waterway that many Floridians have yet to discover. s

Local Canoeing and Kayaking Resources SANTA FE CANOE OUTPOST Enjoy day trips, overnight trips and full-moon trips of the Santa Fe River, or use their facility with picnic tables and a campfire pit for the next party. The canoe outpost also provides a venue for an evening party.

• Rates: $28 to $42 for double kayaks and canoes, $24 to $36 for single kayaks. Children under 12 are free.

• 2025 N.W. Santa Fe Blvd., High Springs • Contact: Jim Wood, owner, at 386-454-2050 • www.santaferiver.com ADVENTURE OUTPOST Adventure Outpost leads canoe and kayak trips on more than 40 waterways throughout North Florida, including the Santa Fe. Take a guided tour or rent equipment and take a journey of your own.

• Rates: Guided tours range from $35 to $50; Unguided trips range from $22 to $38.

• 18238 NW US Highway 441, High Springs • Contact: Lars or Patsy Andersen: 386-454-0611 or riverguide2000@yahoo.com • www.adventureoutpost.net CENTRAL FLORIDA NATURE ADVENTURES These mobile guides meet you at boat ramps along the Santa Fe River, the Suwannee River, Silver River, Wekiva River and Dora Canal, or they can join you for a tour through Cedar Key’s waterways. Bring a lunch and dress in layers, and make your reservation at least one week in advance. Tours vary from a winter manatee tour to the photographer’s tour, where guides direct you to local wildlife.

• Rates: Tours vary from $59 to $200.

• Based in Eustis, but guides will travel to you • Contact: Jenny Boyd at 352-589-7899 or e-mail at jenniferkayaks@yahoo.com • www.centralfloridakayaktours.com

54 | Summer 2011

WILD FLORIDA ADVENTURES Wild Adventures has tours from the Chassahowitzka River to the south all the way to Steinhatchee River to the north; the Ocklawaha River to the east, and Cedar Key to the west. They offer guided kayak tours in both fresh and salt-water environments, supplying all the equipment for those that need kayaks, etc. Owner Brack Barker also allows those with their own kayaks to come along for a nominal guide fee, which covers insurance and any public land permits. He has conducted tours on the Ichetucknee River this past winter/fall as well as manatee viewing tours in the winter in Citrus County.

• Rates: Fees vary depending on group or individual.

Regular price is $40-45, for day tours; $30-35 for sunset or moonlight tours. The guide fee for kayak owners is $20-$15.

If it is private, or one or two people: $100 for one, $50 each for three. Discounts for groups of five or more in the same party, up to 10 people.

• No retail store; centrally located in Williston • Contact: Brack Barker: 352-226-2251 or brack154@msn.com • www.wild-florida.com RAINBOW RIVER CANOE AND KAYAK Explore Rainbow River and the Withlacoochee River with canoe or kayak rentals. The company offers a shuttle service that takes you from the parking lot to the river so you can float back down to your car. The Rainbow River trip averages 2 to 3 hours, but it can last longer if you want to paddle to the headsprings. The Withlacoochee trip, a 9-mile journey, takes four to six hours on average.

• Rates: Rainbow River - $33 for a single; $44 for a double (canoe or tandem kayak); Withlacoochee River - $38 for a single; $49 for a double, 10 percent discount on rates if reservation is made 24 hours in advance.

• 12121 River View Dunnellon • Contact: Nathan Whitt at 352-459-7854 • www.rainbowrivercanoeandkayak.com

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COLUMN >> ALBERT ISAAC

Different Note So I decided to ride my bike into a sinkhole the other day. fter all, May was National Bike Month. What better time to throw caution to the wind and take a ride on the wild side?

This was a wide, sloping earthen wall with more than a few sudden drops and it looked like it would be a lot of fun to race down.

To reach said sinkhole, I proceeded down the very path that our youngest son had recently — as they say in forensic lingo — failed to negotiate. Failed to negotiate translates to crashing into a rock, in this case. (No worries; he’s fine).

I wasn’t too nervous. After all, I thought, I have experience. I won’t make the same mistake he made and get going too fast to control my descent. I would keep my eye on that rock. And even though I don’t ride as much as I should, you know what they say: “It’s like riding a bike; you never forget.”

Oh I remember, all right. I remember far too well how when I was a kid I could jump ramps and careen

A

down hills and pop wheelies and ride with no hands and crash and not get hurt (at least not fatally). But what I hadn’t reckoned on was the fact that while I remembered it mentally, the flesh sometimes forgets.

I began my descent, slowly, proceeding down the path, riding the brakes. I wasn’t going to make the same mistake my boy had made and lose control. But then I couldn’t remember which handbrake stopped the front wheel. Experience has proven time and time again that pulling the front handbrake while going down a steep hill is a recipe for disaster. I once watched my friend Sylvester ride along a steep concrete embankment. I rode it too. Not up or down mind you, but lengthwise, wheels gripping the concrete by their sidewalls.

But then, somehow Sylvester got turned straight downhill, both feet off the pedals, on tiptoes, desperately trying to stop, unable to hit his brake pedal.

He used the only brake he had — the front wheel handbrake. Oh what a sight, him going head over handlebars, cartwheeling down the slope onto the concrete below. I have to laugh even now while picturing it, but even as I watched his horrifically humorous plunge, at the time I couldn’t bring myself to laugh until I was sure he hadn’t killed himself. Then we both

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had a hearty laugh.

There was no one there to laugh at me when I approached the steepest part of my descent. I was feeling brave, having safely negotiated the rock. It was just me, trying to ride very slow, which of course is actually much harder than riding medium or even fast, for that matter. I hit the front brake, images of a catastrophic cartwheel spinning through my head. I danced with those brakes, trying to figure out which was which, hopping, lurching and doing things I can’t describe here because it was just weird and my legs got all bruised up. I knew going over those handlebars would be a bad thing, especially now that I’m ol-, I mean, now that I’m not 15 anymore. A crash could land me in traction.

It’s not like back in the days when I was made of rubber. Aside from bruises and road rash, bike wrecks never slowed me down too much.

One particular crash comes to mind. I was young.

Foolish. Foolhardy. To impress the little neighbor kids, I jumped a ramp on a borrowed bicycle, screaming “Flight of the Butterfly” (don’t know what that meant, I was young and foolish and foolhardy). But I wasn’t even able to finish the call before I belly flopped on the sidewalk, bouncing and skidding like a scrawny walrus on ice. My diaphragm took a whooping. I ran to the house. But I didn’t cry. Not because I was brave and manly but because I couldn’t. I couldn’t even breathe,

having knocked the wind right out of me.

So these are the thoughts that flew through my head as I wrestled the wayward bike, trying my hardest not to go over those handlebars. I skiddered (new word I just made up) close to a spindly tree and grabbed hold.

Falling from my trusty steed (I always wanted to write that) I stood and tried to calm my galloping heart.

Alas, it is another one of my wakeup calls — a reminder to do even more exercise, to ride that bike on the trails more regularly, and to get enough sleep.

Which is why I have to finish now. Sorry for this unrewarding ending but it’s really important that I get my rest if I’m going to accomplish all I have to accomplish in the coming decades. s

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Shell Crafts Preserving Summer with Seashells ARTICLE AND PHOTOS

BY DIANE E. SHEPARD

S

ummer is the perfect time for parents to take up a new hobby with their children.

Why not shell-collecting? Many happy memories can be recalled of strolling alongside mom and dad, with little brother in tow, eyes fixed downward ever-searching for the sea’s natural buried treasure: the perfect seashell. And leaving the beach — exhausted but happy — with sand in the toes, the taste of saltwater on the tongue, and a trusty bucket brimming over with shells. This is summer.

For fun (and education), pick up and peruse a copy of the classic “A Golden Guide: Seashells of the World.” Beautifully illustrated and chock-full of information, this small, handy book is easy to tote along on trips to the beach. Being able to identify the shells makes the discovery all the more special for kids (and adults too)!

But what to do with these shells once home? Here are some ideas.

Please Note: Unless otherwise specified, a glue gun was used to affix shells to items. Children can do these crafts, but they will need adult assistance and supervision.

Crafting with Seashells This is great way to keep one’s findings, and use them in a meaningful, useful, or playful way. It is also an enjoyable and tangible way to remember a fun family beach outing, or the perfect summer. Not to mention, they can make great gifts!

to the beach. Paint the top of the lid a solid color, if needed. Using a permanent marker, write a description on the lid of the specific outing, for example: “Sarah’s 4th Birthday, Anastasia Island - June 7, 2010.” Just looking at the jar will conjure up memories of the fun day.

Shell-Framed Pictures Memory Shell Jar Creating Memory Shell Jar is a great way to remember a favorite trip to the beach with family or friends. Choose a pretty, clear jar or bottle. Make sure shells will fit into the top of the jar or bottle. Fill with favorite shells from a particular visit

In this project, shells become art. Mount some favorites, artfully chosen, on a piece of foam core covered with fabric. Choose a unique and interesting frame. On the back of the picture, include a “key” to identify the various shells, if desired. Display and enjoy

LEFT: Transform a plain mirror or serving tray into a dramatic natural work of art, with a carefully chosen selection of favorite shells artfully arranged.

ABOVE: First published in 1962, and revised in 1985, this handy, well-illustrated book makes identifying shells fun and easy.

www.VisitOurTowns.com

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ABOVE: Easter eggs become shell art. Recycle those extra Easter eggs into something unique. Turn a plain wooden box into something special with tiny shells.

TOP RIGHT: For children, searching for shells is like searching for treasure, natural treasure, that is.

BOTTOM: Shown here, a bunny, a cat, a small bear, and a big turtle made from a striking Tiger Cowrie. Children will delight in making (and playing) with these shell critters. A magnet can be glued on, if desired.

all year round. Gaze on it in the middle of winter and instantly be transported back to summer.

Shell Critters Make a veritable zoo of animals with a handful of carefully selected shells, a glue gun, and “googly-eyes.”

Hints: Use a toothpick dipped in a dot of white glue to pick up each “googly-eye” and set in place on the shell. The “Indian Money Tusk Shell” make good antennae and tusks.

Shell Mirror/ Shell Picture Frames Artfully arrange and glue favorite shells to a framed mirror. Round, rectangular and oval mirrors with a thick frame will work best. Use a glue gun to adhere shells to frame. A picture frame can be done the same way.

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Shell Necklace

Shell Boxes

Choose interesting shells with natural holes already in them.

String them on hemp, fishing line, ribbon, or leather cord. Clasps are optional. Intersperse the shells with big wooden beads for a more casual look, or small, decorative, glass beads for a more refined look.

Arrange shells in desired pattern on chosen box, the more symmetrical the pattern, the more appealing. Small boxes will require tiny shells, the more uniform the better. Use a glue gun to attach the shells to the box.

Shell Eggs Shell Soap Dish Larger, flat or rounded shells, such as a clamshell, make a fun and unique dish, ideal for small decorative soaps. Embellish the shell with paint and/or small beads as desired. Use a glue gun to adhere accent beads to the shell. To create a pedestal soap dish, hot glue a small shell onto the bottom of the larger shell.

Use large plastic eggs. Glue the two halves of the eggs together. Use smaller shells for this project. Using a glue gun, affix shells to the eggs.

To make the egg stand alone, glue a small flat shell to the bottom.

Or, to create a quick and simple stand, take two plastic lids from a plastic gallon milk jug, and spray paint them the desired color. Let dry. Glue one upside down to the other. Instant egg stand.

ABOVE: Turn a plain candle into a one-of-akind way to light up a small space, with just a few shells artfully arranged. Mini turkey wing shells, cockle shells, scallops, and a broken lightning whelk were used to make this butterfly (or angel, depending on how one looks at it) on the candle.

LEFT: It’s kind of neat to be able to match the shell in one’s hand with the same shell in the book. “Mom, this is a moon snail!”

Shell and Driftwood Wind Chime Choose a small limb or piece of driftwood. Attach a wire to the center and hang it in a place where it can be easily reached and worked on. Choose shells that are not too heavy, as they will not move with the wind. The more visually appealing and interesting the shells, the better. Attach fishing line to the shells either by making a small hole in the shell, or by affixing the fishing line to the shell with hot glue. Use different lengths of fishing line so that the shells will hang in a pleasing manner. Attach the top of fishing line to the limb or driftwood in such a way that the shells barely touch each other and hang at several different levels. The idea with a wind chime is that the shells gently clink together to make

a pleasing sound. Perfect for the front or back porch.

Shell Game

clamshell halves that are as close to the same color and size as possible. Make sure there are enough shells to make two of each letter or number, as the goal is to collect pairs. Make sure each shell is clean, dry, and free of sand. Using a permanent marker, write one letter or number on the inside of each shell. Turn shells upside down, so the letter/number is not seen, mix them up, and arrange in rows.

Just like the classic Memory Game, ask the child to select one shell and turn it over. Select a second shell. This is one turn. The goal is to find a pair (in one turn). Whoever collects the most pairs, wins.

This is a new twist on the old “Shell Game” that can strengthen memory. Decide if this game is to help a child work on the alphabet or numbers. Collect and select

These projects will not only involve children in fun family activities, but will result in lasting memento of days gone by. s

Shell Candles, Hand Mirrors and Pins Using a hot glue gun, arrange and glue shells in desired pattern and attach to the candle. Beach glass can also be used. Jazz up a plain hand mirror with a few artfully arranged shells. To make a shell pin select a beautiful and visually interesting shell that is not be too big or heavy. Glue a safety pin to the back of the shell for an instant and unique pin.

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>> EDUCATION

Study for Life

A Columbia County School Educates to Protect the Environment

BY AMANDA WILLIAMSON

T

o many Floridians, Ichetucknee Springs is a haven away from city life. The springs provide a retreat into Florida’s natural environment, whether for a weekend camping trip or simply a day’s float down the river.

But to Fort White Middle School students, the state park is something entirely different than merely a recreational space. It is a classroom. Through the PARKnership program, Ichetucknee Springs has collaborated with Fort White to ensure that the students learn the importance of the land, water and air that everyone depends upon for life.

The Fort White PARKnership started as an idea in the mind of Principal Keith Hatcher. When Irene ‘Trini’ Johannesen, the science teacher at Fort White Middle School, interviewed for a teaching position in 2001, Hatcher felt that the springs should be part of the program.

Once hired, Johannesen started networking with various organizations, such as Florida’s Eden and Save our Suwannee. After Save our Suwannee saw what the school was trying to accomplish, Johannesen said the organization provided the initial funds to buy the first batch of equipment, such as the water testing kits. After that, Johannesen remembers Greg Ira, the director of environmental education, contacting

PHOTO BY AMANDA WILLIAMSON

Merrillee Malwitz-Jipson, president of Our Santa Fe River, dyes towels vibrant blues and rusty browns, which symbolize the varied colors in a spring ecosystem, at the Earth Day Extravaganza at Fort White Middle School. Annie Pais, of Florida’s Eden, said, “The Ichetucknee is and has always been a sacred river, a sacred place. Even scientists have studied its heartbeat and breath. It’s the perfect place to serve as a test.”

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PHOTO BY AMANDA WILLIAMSON

Valerie Thomas, coordinator of the Ft. White PARKnership program, stands in front of the gopher tortoise game.

The gopher tortoise is just one of many species living at the park. According to fl oridasprings.org, “Wildlife in the springs and river include the protected Ichetucknee siltsnail, crayfi sh, turtles, manatees, otters, and limpkin.”

the school about becoming a member of the LIFE (Learning in Florida’s Environment) Program. The LIFE program is the partnership between the Department of Environmental Protection’s Ichetucknee Springs State Park and the Columbia County School District.

“Learning in Florida’s Environment (LIFE) is an initiative to establish a series of field-based, environmental-science, education programs around the state,” states the Department of Environmental Protection website. “The goal of each LIFE Program site is increased student achievement and teacher professional development in science.”

The partnership between Ichetucknee and Fort White Middle School is one of 16 LIFE programs in the state of Florida.

Annie Pais, of Florida’s Eden, feels that if children are going to be advocates for their community, then education needs to happen where it is real, such as in the environments of Florida’s natural springs.

“Education must be relevant,” she said. “We must breakdown the boundaries between classrooms and community. We must view the entire community as a resource and partner. In doing this, the whole community benefits. Think of it like an ecosystem.”

Conveniently, the Ichetucknee State Park is only

72 | Summer 2011

about five miles from Fort White Middle School. But Johannesen feels that any school, even one without a nearby lake or spring, could participate in the activities suggested by LIFE. All the school would need is a reservoir of water.

The students of Fort White participate in various labs at the springs that correspond with what they are learning inside their classrooms. Instead of simply reading about water testing in science textbooks, the students are immersed in the natural environment of their outdoor classroom.

Valerie Thomas, coordinator of the PARKnership program at Fort White Middle School, feels it is important to get the students into the environments that they will one day protect.

“These are going to be our citizens,” she said. “If they’ve never been there, if they’ve never experienced it, how can they protect it?”

Sherry Green, Ichetucknee Springs State Park manager, said she hopes the children gain an appreciation for the springs and learn the best practices for preserving the integrity of the springs and river within the community.

Loye Barnard, of Save our Suwannee, was shocked and excited to find out students who were already

familiar with the river from the occasional tubing experience would get to see the river in another light.

They would learn what threatens it and how to help protect it. The environmental organization quickly saw a program that they could help.

“I doubt there is a student that has had these classes who does not know that Alligator Lake is the headwater of the Ichetucknee, and pollutants from Lake City wash into the lake and end up in our aquifer, their drinking water,” Barnard said.

As sixth graders at Fort White, the children take between eight to ten trips to the park. When they reach seventh grade, the number of trips shrinks to seven trips. Finally, as eighth graders, they will go on five trips to the state park.

As the number of trips shrinks, the labs the students participate in become more advanced, requiring less time at the springs. Green said the students participate in soil profiles, butterfly garden work, water quality monitoring, and gopher tortoise burrow surveys and orienteering.

“They get more in-depth because of the area of study,” Johannesen said about the labs. “The kids get more familiar with the issues related to the water, land and air.”

When they reach eighth grade, the labs at the Ichetucknee Springs State Park become a review of everything the students have learned over the years.

Johannesen admits that another reason there are so few trips given to the eighth graders is because those students must prepare for the eighth grade FCAT. All of the hands-on activities in which the children participate during sixth and seventh grade are in hopes that they will carry their knowledge on into the FCAT and into the future.

“If you see it, if you do it, you are more likely to remember,” Johannesen said. “I think this type of program gives students a sense of responsibility. Plus, the responsibility that they know everything they do in nature has an impact.”

Pais said the students have been involved in creating a virtual tour of the Ichetucknee River to upload onto a website created for teaching the community about the water. When it is completed, Pais said the Ichetucknee Springs State Park will be the first in Florida to have a virtual tour on its website.

But it does not stop there. All the projects the students complete will be archived. The Blue Path, part of Florida’s Eden, is in the process of working on a traveling exhibit.

All of the student’s work done in the Ichetucknee Classroom Model will be one of the exhibits.

On May 16 and 17, Fort White Middle School held its Earth Day Extravaganza. The sixth graders presented all of their projects and knowledge to the fifth graders at Fort White Elementary. It showed the fifth graders what they could expect when they graduated and moved on to middle school. But for those who would

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PHOTO BY AMANDA WILLIAMSON

Children deposit recyclables into the bin as a ‘ticket’ into the Earth Day Extravaganza. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, recycling helps sustain the environment for future generations and conserves natural resources such as timber, water and minerals. Annie Pais, of Florida’s Eden, said that if people do not stand up to protect the water, greed and ignorance will take away the future of the springs and the children’s future.

not be attending Fort White Middle School, it provided an introduction to the environment and how humans must be stewards of nature.

The Earth Day Extravaganza was composed of five stations, through which the five groups of elementary students would rotate. To enter the event, the children from Fort White Elementary School had to bring items to recycle. As they crossed over to the middle school lawn, the fifth graders had arms full of paper, plastic bottles and coke cans. Thomas led them to the giant

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recycle bin where they deposited their items. After that, the students were divided among the stations.

At station one, children tossed cans into a barrel labeled cans. Whoever got all of their cans out of their bag and into the recycle bin won a prize. At another station, the children created bracelets where the colors matched the different stages in the water cycle.

One color bead represented evaporation and another represented percolation.

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gopher tortoise board game. The gopher tortoise is a threatened keystone species, which means that approximately 250 other species depend upon the gopher tortoise for survival.

The board game had spaces labeled with such threats as bad weather or brush fire. But it also had a limiting factor space, where the child would draw from a collection of cards. Like chance in Monopoly, the card would give the future of the child in the board game.

Would he move back five or four spaces? A limiting factor in terms of a living organism is any factor that is reduced to the point where the species can no longer survive. Food, water, shelter and air are all factors that can limit a species from growing in population size.

At another available station, the classroom animals were on display. Various mice, a snake and a spider were waiting for the fifth graders to view. In the same station, the sixth graders would read from a book they wrote and illustrated about their day at the park, during which they performed a series of stations much like the ones set up at Earth Day. Two of the books were selected for publication. Fifty of each will be published, and some will be donated to the Fort White library.

This is the second year the sixth graders have had their books published. Money to publish the books came from the Learn and Serve federal loan. This past school year was the fifth year that Fort White Middle School had received the federal loan. Unfortunately, during

this year’s budget cuts, this loan was eliminated. If Johannesen wishes to publish her students’ books next year, she said she will have to find an alternative way to pay for them. The books are $5 a piece to publish.

Water conservation and quality is another topic the students cover at their outdoor classroom, Ichetucknee Springs. At the Earth Day Extravaganza, the students displayed their water conservation projects. Each student had to spend a week monitoring his or her family’s water consumption. After that, the students would have to implement conservation techniques and monitor how much water they saved. Johannesen gave the students a set of estimations for water usage, such as 10 gallons of water are used every minute the hose runs and 1.5 gallons per minute are used if the bathroom facet runs. One student went from 9,467 gallons a week to 4,123 gallons a week. But that number was not even the most shocking.

Merrillee Malwitz-Jipson, of Our Santa Fe River, was also at the Earth Day event. She had a station where she helped the children make tie-dye kitchen towels in the colors of the spring. The project was supposed to inspire conservation through knowledge about pollution. River was the label on a brown dye.

Aquamarine and springs were the labels on the bright blue dyes. A yellowish color was labeled nitrates.

“What happens if a spring is strong?” Malwitz-Jipson asked. “It’s going to keep the river water out on the

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edge.” She motioned behind her to a tie-dye towel where the center was various colors of blue, much like the movement of water as the sun shines through.

On the edges of the towel, brown splotches circled the crystal blue.

“We want them to take home the towels and use them in their kitchen and be reminded of the water,” Malwitz-Jipson said. The water that feeds them in their homes is the same water that flows through the Floridan aquifer system, she said.

Florida’s Eden hopes to use Fort White’s program as an educational model for schools across the state, and perhaps the country. It is known as the Ichetucknee Classroom Model.

“It has always been our intent at Florida’s Eden to replicate this model for national release,” Pais said. “We are researching the replication process and looking for appropriate grants and mentoring. It’s a process! We want to be sure we’re producing a gold standard model so it can take its rightful place on the national scene.”

According to the Florida’s Eden website, the organization works at the confluence of economic, environmental and educational reform. By starting at the youngest citizens, the word can spread. Johannesen said the children can take what they learn and tell their friends or their parents or whomever they wish to tell.

“And Fort White Middle School is ahead of many of us,” Barnard said. “No matter where their students go, they have already undertaken a sense of stewardship that they can apply anywhere.”

In preparation, Johannesen and several other teachers are spending the summer compiling all the information about the PARKnership into an informational packet. The information will include labs, teaching materials, lesson plans and various assignment ideas.

Pais said, “I envision the Ichetucknee and Fort White as an educational epicenter, where people come from everywhere to see a model that’s working to get it right!”

The future of water is in jeopardy. At the Earth Day Extravaganza, a teacher from Fort White Elementary asked Johannesen about implementing programs similar to the PARKnership, or having the middle school students visit more often to instruct the younger grades, in the elementary school. Education is one solution for the water’s murky future.

“If we don’t have respect for how we live on the earth, we will create so much havoc and damage to the earth, our only livable environment, that it will become unlivable,” Barnard said. “What Fort White has undertaken with the PARKnership should be supported and financed. This program has fine potential to become a model statewide — a new approach integrating student studies of science, humanities, history, English, art into issues relating to life right in their own surrounding neighborhood.” s

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>> COMMUNITY

Downtown Daze High Springs Offers Live Music, Food and More for Everyone

BY VICTORIA LASAVATH

A

trip to North Carolina inspired it all. On the trip, Sandra Webb saw an event with live music and vendors which brought the community together, and that convinced her to bring something similar to her own hometown. Webb is one of the founders of High Springs Downtown Daze.

Downtown Daze is an event intended for the whole family where guests can anticipate live local music, food, local business vendors, a flea market and a farmers market with the purpose of raising money for children, Webb said.

The event is held on the first Saturday each month in front of Leon and Joanne Barrows’ store, the Music Junction, at 40 NE Railroad Avenue along the railroad tracks.

The admission to the event is free.

The proceeds from the booth fees for vendors go toward children unable to get into music who would like to, whether it is instruments or lessons, said Joanne Barrows, co-owner of Music Junction and co-founder of Downtown Daze.

78 | Summer 2011

PHOTO BY ALBERT ISAAC

Mainstay, a band of 9th and 10th graders from Santa Fe High School, performs at the High Springs Downtown Daze.

The children that the event benefits are recommended by local band directors from High Springs Community School and Santa Fe High School, Joanne said. They recommend aspiring student musicians who may need the extra help.

“Downtown Daze is important because it helps the community by making something for them to do that won’t cost them a lot of money and to keep things going locally, especially with the current

economy,” Leon said. Leon is also one of the founders of Downtown Daze.

Since this event benefits children in the local area, it is important because it lets children know that there is someone that cares about them, Webb said.

For the future, they hope to see Downtown Daze grow with more people getting involved and eventually have it evolve into an event with a festival feeling, Joanne said. s

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GUEST COLUMN >> FRANK MAGUIRE

God and Lawn Care GOD:

Francis, you know all about gardens and nature. What in the world is going on down there on the planet? What happened to the dandelions, violets, milkweeds and stuff I started eons ago? I had a perfect no-maintenance garden plan. Those plants grow in any type of soil, withstand drought and multiply with abandon. The nectar from the long-lasting blossoms attracts butterflies, honeybees and flocks of songbirds. I expected to see a vast garden of colors by now. But, all I see are these green rectangles.

ST. FRANCIS:

It’s the tribes that settled there, Lord. The Suburbanites.

They started calling your flowers ‘weeds’ and went to great lengths to kill them and replace them with grass.

keep it green. They begin each spring by fertilizing grass and poisoning any other plant that crops up in the lawn.

GOD:

The spring rains and warm weather probably make grass grow really fast. That must make the Suburbanites happy.

ST. FRANCIS:

Apparently not, Lord. As soon as it grows a little, they cut it — sometimes twice a week.

GOD:

They cut it? Do they then bale it like hay?

GOD:

Grass? But, it’s so boring. It’s not colorful. It doesn’t attract butterflies, birds and bees; only grubs, Crane flies and sod worms. It’s sensitive to temperatures. Do these Suburbanites really want all that grass growing there?

ST. FRANCIS:

ST. FRANCIS:

GOD:

Apparently so, Lord. They go to great pains to grow it and

Not exactly, Lord. Most of them rake it up and put it in bags.

They bag it? Why? Is it a cash crop? Do they sell it?

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ST. FRANCIS:

No, Sir, just the opposite. They pay to throw it away.

GOD:

Now, let me get this straight. They fertilize grass so it will grow. And, when it does grow, they cut it off and pay to throw it away?

ST. FRANCIS: Yes, Sir.

GOD:

No!? What do they do to protect the shrub and tree roots in the winter to keep the soil moist and loose?

ST. FRANCIS:

After throwing away the leaves, they go out and buy something which they call mulch. They haul it home and spread it around in place of the leaves.

GOD:

And where do they get this mulch?

GOD:

These Suburbanites must be relieved in the summer when we cut back on the rain and turn up the heat. That surely slows the growth and saves them a lot of work.

ST. FRANCIS:

You aren’t going to believe this, Lord. When the grass stops growing so fast, they drag out hoses and pay more money to water it, so they can continue to mow it and pay to get rid of it.

GOD:

What nonsense. At least they kept some of the trees.

That was a sheer stroke of genius, if I do say so myself.

The trees grow leaves in the spring to provide beauty and shade in the summer. In the autumn, they fall to the ground and form a natural blanket to keep moisture in the soil and protect the trees and bushes. It’s a natural cycle of life.

ST. FRANCIS:

ST. FRANCIS:

They cut down trees and grind them up to make the mulch.

GOD:

Enough! I don’t want to think about this anymore. St. Catherine, you’re in charge of the arts. What movie have you scheduled for us tonight?

ST. CATHERINE:

“Dumb and Dumber,” Lord. It’s a story about...

GOD:

Never mind, I think I just heard the whole story from St. Francis. s Frank Maguire was born in Dorchester, MA, 1938, attended schools in Massachusetts, California, and Arizona, where he completed degrees in music and English writing/Journalism. He can be contacted at northwestconnection@live.com

You better sit down, Lord. The Suburbanites have drawn a new circle. As soon as the leaves fall, they rake them into great piles and pay to have them hauled away.

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>> INDEPENDENCE

Happy Birthday America Enjoy Affordable Small-Town Fourth of July Celebrations

BY CAROLYN TILLO

T

his Fourth of July, celebrate your connection to the communities of North Central Florida by joining in one of many local Independence Day events. At these small-town shindigs, you will find one thing that you never get at a theme park: free admission. You will also have the chance to give back to the communities that have given so much to you.

In Ocala, you can race in the Freedom Run to benefit the Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park. In Micanopy, you can participate in a LifeSouth blood drive. In Williston, your $2 parking donation benefits the Williston High School JROTC. Grab a group of family and friends and head to the nearest celebration. As you listen to live music and munch on that funnel cake that you have been waiting for since last year, take a moment to think about the men and women who have made this Independence Day possible. Remember the people who have fought and who continue to fight for our freedom, and give thanks.

86 | Summer 2011

ALACHUA The Largest Small Town Fireworks Display in America Where: Hal Brady Recreation Complex When: July 4 from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., Fireworks start at 9:30 p.m.

Admission is Free Visitors to this 12th annual Fourth of July Celebration in Alachua can expect an afternoon of fun and an evening of fireworks, said Adam Boukari, assistant to the city manager and chairperson of the celebration. The event features live entertainment by local musicians and bands, as well as a free childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s area with bounce houses, a rock climbing wall, a 30-foot waterslide, a splash park, a skate park and an obstacle course. Food vendors will provide a tempting assortment of carnival foods, including Italian sausages, funnel cakes and pizza.

Guests can also take a break from the heat and step into the gymnasium for bingo and more live music acts.

Boukari predicts the event will draw a crowd of about

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25,000 and said it represents a chance to celebrate those who are serving or have served in the armed services. He wants the event to appeal to people of all ages.

“We try to cater something for everybody that comes to our event,” Boukari said.

GAINESVILLE 33rd Annual Melon Run Where: Westside Park, 1001 NW 34th Street When: July 4 at 8 a.m.

(Free kids’ run — about 1 mile — at 9 a.m.)

Various Fees: Pre-registration: $25 with shirt ($20 for Florida Track Club members); $15 without shirt.

Day of race: $30 with shirt ($25 for Florida Track Club members); $20 without shirt.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF ALACHUA

As many as 25,000 visitors descend upon the City of Alachua to enjoy the festivities offered by the “The Largest Small Town Fireworks Display in America.”

10 & under who want to run the full three miles pay $5; Kids doing the 1/2-mile run at 9 a.m. participate for free.

Register online at active.com True to its name, this 3-mile race features free watermelon and refreshments. It usually draws between 350 and 400 runners, according to Florida Track Club board member Stephen Crawford. The Florida Track Club sponsors this event, along with other races, socials and training runs throughout the year.

Its members receive registration discounts. For more information, visit www.floridatrackclub.org/.

WILLISTON Williston’s Independence Day When: July 2 from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Where: Parade starts on Main Street; Celebration continues at Williston’s Horseman’s Park (803 SW 19th Ave.), where gates open at 6 p.m. and opening ceremony begins at 7 p.m.

Admission is free; $2 parking donation to benefit Williston High School JROTC Enjoy an evening complete with food, floats and fireworks at Williston’s Independence Day. The parade

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Summer 2011 | 89

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has a “Proud to be an American” theme and starts at 5 p.m. on Main Street. It usually includes a collection of more than 100 entries, including floats and fire trucks, according to Chris Sells, an accounting technician for the City of Williston and a member of the celebration’s committee. The gates of Williston Horseman’s Park open at 6 p.m., and children can enjoy free rides, including pony rides, said Mary Kline, the executive director at the Williston Area Chamber of Commerce.

Admission and rides are free, but $2 parking donations will benefit the Williston High School JROTC. At 7 p.m., the opening ceremony begins, featuring performances by the Shane Wooten Band and the winners of the Levy County Fair karaoke contest. As you savor the entertainment, you can also savor the food, including hot dogs, hamburgers, ice cream and curly fries. When the sun goes down, fireworks light up the sky and bring the celebration to a close. Bring coolers or blankets. No lawn chairs or pets allowed through the gates.

MICANOPY Micanopy July 4th Celebration When: Starts at 8:30 a.m. with a LifeSouth blood drive at the fire station Where: Blood drive at the fire station; Parade starts at the south end of town on the corner of Tuscawilla Road and Ocala Avenue; Fish fry at the Micanopy Historical Society Museum; Children’s activities at Micanopy Ballpark Admission is free Enjoy an all-day celebration of American independence during the Micanopy July 4th Celebration. Stop by the fire station and donate blood during the LifeSouth blood drive, held from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. At 11 a.m., line up for the parade that starts at the south end of town on the corner of Tuscawilla Road and Ocala Avenue. Bring folding chairs and drinks and watch floats sponsored by local businesses and sports teams. After the parade, stop by the Micanopy Historical Society Museum for a fish fry. Once your stomach has settled, take the children to the Micanopy Ballpark at 5 p.m. to enjoy food, fun and games, including a bounce house. Fireworks begin at dusk and bring the day to a close, according to Patty Polk, deputy town clerk.

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Red, White & Blues Festival Where: Ocala Downtown Square When: July 2 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Admission is free email: screel@ocalafl.org Before fireworks pop and fizz over Ocala, the sounds of electric blues will float through the crowd gathered around the Ocala Downtown Square as Keith Caton and the Accelerators perform during the Red, White &

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Blues Festival. This free event is a relaxing beginning to the Fourth of July celebrations, said Stan Creel, events coordinator for the City of Ocala. Sample hot dogs, hamburgers and free ice cream and watermelon, or enjoy dinner at a restaurant in downtown Ocala.

While at the festival, visitors can shop for crafts and jewelry, Creel said.

Freedom Run Where: Starts and ends at Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park When: July 4 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF OCALA

Music and dance, ice cream and watermelon can all be enjoyed at the Red, White & Blues Festival held in Downtown Ocala.

Veterans Memorial Park during the Freedom Run. The race is open to people of all ages and usually features between 250 and 350 runners, said Gregg Miller, the race director. The Ocala Runners’ Club produces the event and awards the overall male and female winners with American flags and flagpoles. The first, second and third place winners from each age group receive red, white and blue ribbons. Miller said runners enjoy coming out each year to experience the beautiful racecourse, which runs through the shaded neighborhoods of Ocala. Publix provides bagels, fruit and cookies for the runners.

Runners enjoy coming out each year to experience the beautiful racecourse, which runs through the shaded neighborhoods of Ocala.

Fees: $15 pre-registration fee, $20 on race day Download the entry form from the Ocala Runners’ Club website (ocalarunnersclub.com/events.php) or from active.com.

Start your Fourth of July celebrations by running four miles to raise money for the Ocala-Marion County

Before you head to your favorite parade, race, concert or festival, prepare for any kind of weather. Bring sunscreen and stow an umbrella in your car in case of those unpredictable Florida afternoon showers. Check with the city sponsoring the event to see if you can bring pets and folding chairs. And, most importantly, enjoy good food, good music and a good time! s

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Farm Equipment Parts • Complete Feed Store Farm Supplies • Lawn & Garden Supplies Variety of Plants • Pet Care Products Natural Garden Supplies • Bulk Seed • Tillage Parts Teejets Spray Parts • Baby Chicks • Hay Variety

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24910 W. Newberry Rd. • Newberry, FL 94 | Summer 2011

352-472-7100

425 S. Main St. • High Springs, FL 32643

386-454-3518

L ive where memories are made Finally, a place to call home where memories and laughter are affordable.

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Visit us online at www.SavannahStationFl.com or www.PrestwickPropertiesFl.com

www.VisitOurTowns.com

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>> FAMILY

Cooking with Kids Fun and Friendly Recipes

BY DIANE E. SHEPARD

Pear “Face” Salad

W

Use canned pears. Place 1/2 pear cut-side down on a leaf of lettuce (iceberg or romaine work well). The idea is to make a face on the pear. This is imagination at work.

Possibilities for a mouth include: A cashew or a circular mint. Eyes and nose can be dried cranberries, raisins, blueberries, sliced olives or small, round candies. Hair can be a few broccoli stalks or shredded cheese. Serve this funny face salad with a cup of ranch dressing.

hy cook with children? Because it is fun and (shhh, don’t tell them) educational!

Lessons in math and science abound in recipes. Children learn about different ways to use food, how to measure, and how cooking changes ingredients.

Because they helped cook or make it, they are more willing to eat it. They will also enjoy experimenting with different seasonings and different flavors. A few of these recipes even let them play with their food!

While these recipes are child-friendly, adult help and supervision are necessary.

Make mealtime fun time! Children will have as much fun making them as they will eating them.

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Pear Boat Use a canned pear for the boat. Stick a thin piece of celery in it for a mast. Cut a thin sliver of cheese in the shape of a triangle to use for a sail. Use a dab of cream cheese to attach the cheese-sail to the celery-mast.

Place a few raisins inside for people.

www.VisitOurTowns.com

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Walk-the-Planks Spread cream cheese or peanut butter across the top of celery sticks. Place a few raisins (the people) standing up in the cream cheese or peanut butter.

Grilled Cheese with a Twist Use their favorite cheese. Add pepperoni, pickles, and olives for added flavors and tastes. Use two pieces of substantial bread (not white bread).

Pick a large cookie cutter to cut the bread. Spray cookie cutter with a bit of cooking spray. Serve with sunflower seeds and peaches.

Mexican Dip This is an ideal party dish -- it is a party in a pan!

Children and adults will love this layered dip.

INGREDIENTS: 2 - 8 ounces packages of cream cheese 2 - 14 oz. cans of refried beans 2 - 4.5 oz. cans of chopped green chilis 22 - 24 ounces sour cream 1 Packet (1 ounce) of taco seasoning 4 ounces taco sauce (mild is best for kids) 8 ounces shredded Mexican cheese (four cheese blend of Monterey Jack, Cheddar, asadero and queso) A few finely chopped green onions, optional.

A 13 x 9 inch pan (metal or glass is fine). If transporting, a plastic, tight-fitting lid is necessary.

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Cream cheese is the base. Spread both packages of cream cheese on the bottom of the pan. Hands work best to really press it into the bottom of the pan, but a big wooden spoon will also work. Layer with refried beans, then the chopped green chilis. Spread as evenly as possible. In a separate bowl, mix sour cream, taco sauce, and taco seasoning. Stir until well blended. Pour mixture over the beans/green chilis/cream cheese mixture in pan. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese over the top. Top with finely chopped green onions, if desired. Green onions can be left off one side to make it more child-friendly. Bake at 350 degrees until cheese is melted and sides are bubbly (about 30-35 minutes). Serve hot with tortilla chips and/or flour tortillas. It is also great with fresh veggies like carrots, squash, and peppers.

Motley Quiche Janet Withers, a single mom of an eight-year-old boy, whom she describes as a “profoundly picky eater,” was experimenting with her own recipe for quiche. She was thrilled to discover that her “picky eater” loved this quiche recipe she came up with.

INGREDIENTS: Unbaked Pie Crust 2 dashes of salt and pepper 4 large eggs 2 ounces heavy whipping cream

2.5 cups of finely shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, Colby, Monterey Jack) Optional: Bite-size pieces of meat (bacon, sausage, ham or chicken).

Optional: Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, broccoli, asparagus. Variations: 1 small can of petite tomatoes, or Rotel (with mild or hot peppers), drained. For a spicy twist, add a bit of salsa, taco sauce, or hot sauce.

Pierce bottom of the crust with fork — so the dough will settle into the pan while baking. Bake at 400 degrees for about 15 minutes. Let the crust cool in the

www.VisitOurTowns.com

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Follow Us To The Bed ‘n Biscuit Inn

M I T C H P. F E A R I N G , M . D . , P. A .

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BOARDING FOR DOGS & CATS • GROOMING • DAY CARE

D.O.T. & Sports/School Physicals OFFICE LOCATED NEXT TO THE ALACHUA LIBRARY

Hours: Mon. - Th. 8-6 Fri. 8-1

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386-462-1327

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386-454-0676

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fridge for a few minutes. Whip eggs, cream, 2 cups of cheese, salt and pepper together to a frothy mix. Let chill for a few minutes.

Mix in tomatoes or veggies or meats together and add to chilled egg mixture. Pour into cooled crust. Top with one-half cup of finely shredded cheese (reserved from recipe). Bake at 350 degrees for about 35-40 minutes. When the top looks a little muffin-shaped, slip knife in the center. If firm, take out and let cool.

Lots of possibilities for little hands here to mix the eggs, pour the cream, add the cheese and veggies, and break the bacon into pieces.

This is a great breakfast, sure, but paired with a veggie-laden, green salad and a loaf of crusty bread, it also makes a great dinner. Or try it with sliced tomatoes or salsa. It is versatile, too; each time, try different ingredients. Also a great way to use leftovers.

F A M I L Y

O W N E D

&

O P E R A T E D

• Tree and Canopy Work • Backhoe, Skidsteer and Dirt Work • Concrete Prep/Pour/Finish • Landscaping/Property Maintenance • Irrigation/Lighting/Hardscapes • Fence Installation • Barn and Deck Construction • Outdoor Projects

Don’t Forget Dessert…

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • LICENSED • INSURED

Ice Cream Pops Use Neapolitan ice cream and layer it with nuts, candies or fruit in a paper cup. Stick a Popsicle stick into the center and freeze. Pop out of the cup to serve.

352-494-7838 CONVENIENT • AFFORDABLE • EXCEPTIONAL INSTRUCTION

Peanut Butter Balls Children can do the measuring, the mixing with their hands, rolling the peanut butter balls, and the dipping.

All instruments • Voice • Dance • Art • Theatre Summer Programs !

Now Available

INGREDIENTS: 1 cup peanut butter, crunchy or smooth 1 cup dry milk powder 1 cup powdered sugar 1 tsp. vanilla 1/2 stick butter, melted

r NEW Register fo ms Fall Progra

Combine peanut butter, milk powder and powdered sugar in a mixing bowl. Add vanilla to melted butter and add both to dry mixture. Mix together with hands until the mixture sticks together. Roll into small balls and place on waxed paper to dry.

Options: In the top of a double boiler, melt together 1/2 bar of paraffin wax and 1 large package of chocolate chips. Place 1 cup coconut in a small bowl. When chocolate is thin and smooth, pick up a peanut butter ball with a toothpick and dip it into the chocolate mixture. Then dip it into coconut to coat it. Place on waxed paper to cool. Skip the coconut if desired.

Makes about 36-40 pieces.

“Students have the opportunity to work with distinguished instructors. Alachua Fine Arts’ programs have greatly improved the level of music education in the area.”

— Nate Bisco, Director of Bands at Santa Fe High School

Alachua Fine Arts, llc.

14900 NW 140 TH STREET • ALACHUA

Children will love making these recipes and will say with pride, “I made this!” s

386-518-6688 (office) 386-518-6288 (fax)

www.VisitOurTowns.com

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COLUMN >> DONNA BONNELL

Embracing Life Slowpoke or Speed Demon

ummer is typically a time for vacations from work or school. The season allows us to take a deep breath, re-evaluate our purpose and review our achievements and failures. I began my summer with an unexpected lesson to embrace life a bit slower.

Life is a steady stream of seconds, days and years.

Time does not literally speed up or slow down, but how we individually spend those irreplaceable moments differs drastically. Are you a slowpoke or a speed demon in your life’s journey? Neither response is good or bad nor are honest answers ever simple. Even more difficult is making significant changes to our daily routines, if we choose to do so.

My definition of success is to make every day count. I am constantly striving to complete tasks and make a difference during my limited time on Earth. My goals may be admirable, but in my pursuit of prompt perfection, I tend to be a speed demon.

I admit the idiom, ‘haste makes waste’ sometimes reflects the results of my zealous intentions.

We receive subtle signs from our Creator, guiding us

S

to make better decisions. Many times in our frenzied existence we simply do not see them. Two unavoidable deafening messages arrived on the same day, forcing me to pay attention.

Early one morning I began my workday before dawn.

My computer and printer were working overtime to produce a pile of correspondence. Proudly, I pumped out every required report well before the deadline. In the midst of the mass production, I heard an unusual squeaking sound coming from one of the machines. After a quick glance, I dismissed it and decided to do a closer inspection that afternoon.

As I walked across the hall to deliver the paperwork, a thunderous crash echoed into the adjacent office. I thought someone had fallen down the stairs. Thankfully, the corridors were clear and I continued on my well-calculated mission.

Upon my return, I discovered my printer had fallen from the small rolling desk onto the floor. The warning noise I heard earlier was one of the wheels (which held

I was deep in my thoughts when suddenly a shrill siren announced the sheriff’s arrival.

My heart raced when I looked at the speedometer.

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102 | Summer 2011

CALL FOR TEE TIMES

352-332-2721

up the table) cracking. In my haste, I failed to recognize the problem. If I had stopped for a moment, I could have salvaged the situation. Instead, I solicited help and wasted the time of my co-workers.

Later that evening, my plans were to meet a longtime friend precisely at 6 p.m. for dinner. Like me, she carefully schedules her time; rarely are either of us late for anything. In my quest to get one more thing accomplished before leaving home, I left 12 minutes later than planned. It did not appear to be a problem; I would go a quicker route and make up the time.

Driving to the restaurant should have been delightful, the traffic flowed smoothly and it was a beautiful evening. Instead, I accelerated and pondered my possible tardiness. I was deep in my thoughts when suddenly a shrill siren announced the sheriff’s arrival.

My heart raced when I looked at the speedometer. Yes, I was exceeding the speed limit. Yes, I was guilty. Yes, I would accept my punishment.

With my blinker light on, ready to pull over, the squad car sped around me. The police officer was in pursuit of someone else. Thanking God, I stopped for a moment to grasp what had just happened. For the second time in less than 24 hours, I received a sign to slow down. This time, however, I listened. Next time, it might not be a warning and I could literally crash, just as my printer did earlier in the day.

Coincidentally, (perhaps) the disc jockey on the radio

announced the next song, “The 59th Street Bridge.” The tune’s lyrics, written by Simon and Garfunkel in 1969, assisted me in absorbing my latest lesson: “Slow down, you move too fast. You got to make the morning last. Just kicking down the cobblestones. Looking for fun and feelin’ groovy.”

While I cannot ever imagine becoming a slowpoke, I need to appreciate an occasional day as described in this stanza: “I’ve got no deeds to do, No promises to keep.

I’m dappled, drowsy and ready to sleep.

Let the morning time drop all its petals on me.”

The last two lines of Simon and Garfunkel’s song are relevant to both slowpokes and speed demons: “Life, I love you, All is groovy.”

Enjoy your summer! Take a few days to be a slowpoke. s Donna Bonnell is a freelance writer who moved to Newberry in 1983. She enjoys living and working in the town she now calls home. donna@towerpublications.com

Quality Flooring for Every Room!

• WOOD FLOORING • LAMINATE • CARPET • PORCELAIN TILE • CERAMIC TILE

• BLINDS & SHUTTERS • HANDCRAFTED CULTURED STONE

The Floor Store of Newberry …and so much more!

Visit us online 24 hours a day at www.NewberryFloorStore.com

Call today!

352-472-1331

840 NW SR 45, Newberry, FL 32669 One mile north of Newberry Road on HWY 27/41

www.VisitOurTowns.com

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July Dental Special

July Dental Special! Bring your horse into the clinic for their Dentals during the whole month of July and receive $35 off the total price!

We offer advanced dental care for your horse in our state of the art clinic. Using all power equipment we are able to do a thorough yet rapid equilibration and float to help your horse stay in top form!

Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic, P.A. 22837 NW 22nd Avenue Newberry, FL 32669 Phone: (352) 331-8434 Fax: (352) 332-6552 E-Mail: vets@springhillequine.com Website: SpringhillEquine.com Visit us on Facebook too!

104 | Summer 2011

NEED WE LOAN MONEY CASH?

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“Wishin’ you a pot o’ gold, and all the joy your heart can hold.”

715 NW Santa Fe Blvd • High Springs

High Springs

Highway 441 South of Winn-Dixie 386-454-5348

Donate Your Car and HELP children like these.

At the Outreach Center for Children... ...we are reaching out to you, the donor as a voice for underprivileged children. The Outreach Center supports many services that help these children to es develop into healthy adults. Some of these services include providing hot meal programs, funding educational scholarships, replenishing school bookk inventories, and sending kids to summer camp.

Call Toll Free Today.

1-800-597-9411 www.VisitOurTowns.com

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Visit thes e fantastic restauran ts!

R E S T A U R A N T

A D V E R T I S I N G

Going Out to Eat

CALL 352-372-5468 TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HIGHLIGHTING YOUR RESTAURANT IN OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

Dave’s New York Deli 14145 W Newberry Road, Jonesville FL 32669 Open Mon-Sat for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Closed Sundays

“Best Reuben, Best Pastrami, Best Philly, Best Salads!” That’s what customers are saying about Dave’s New York Deli. Located just 4.5 miles west of the Oaks Mall on Newberry Road in Jonesville, Dave’s NY Deli is quickly establishing itself as “The Real Deal” when it comes to NY deli food. Owner Dave Anders says he knew from the start that he wanted to serve only the best, so he has all of his pastrami, corned beef, and cheesecake shipped in from New York’s Carnegie Deli. Dave’s offers Nathan’s hotdogs, real NY kettle-boiled bagels, nova, knishes, cannolis, authentic Philly cheesesteaks, Cubans, subs, kids menu, and more.

352-333-0291 www.DavesNYDeli.com

Gator Q 222 NE First Avenue, High Springs, FL 32643 Monday — Saturday: 11:30am - 8:00pm

BARBECUE – Gator Q is a neighborhood BBQ joint using local black jack oak soaked in apple cider for smoking pork, turkey, St. Louis ribs, split chickens, and chicken wings, with the occasional beef brisket thrown in for good measure.

Brette and Bob ‘Yogi’ Liebler serve made from scratch collards with attitude, bold BBQ beans, gourmet Mac-n-cheese, and a dill and ranch potato salad that will get in your craw and leave you craving more. They’re open Monday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Check them out online at www.gatorq.com or follow them on Facebook. Ask your friends — the food really is that good!

386-454-9823 www.gatorq.com 106 | Summer 2011

Find out more on Facebook!

Pepperoni’s 19975 NW 244 Street, High Springs (Video City Plaza) Mon-Thurs: 11am-9pm • Fri & Sat: 11am-10pm • Sun: 12pm-9pm

Since its establishment in 2000, Pepperonis Pizzeria has been serving up some of the best pizzas, calzones, wings and salads in town using grande mozzarella and other top quality ingredients.

We have recently added new entrees, such as, lasagna, chicken parmesan and spaghetti and meatballs to our menu. We also have great lunch specials starting at just $5.99. Pepperoni’s is locally owned and operated and is proud to serve the High Springs Community and surrounding areas. We are located in the Video City Plaza off U.S. Highway 441. When you buy a specialty pizza at Pepperonis it’s always fresh and loaded with great toppings.

386-454-3858 Saboré 13005 SW 1st Road, Tioga, FL 32669 (Tioga Town Center) DINNER Sunday – Thursday: 5pm - 10pm, Friday & Saturday: 5pm - 11pm LUNCH - Monday – Friday: 11am - 3pm BRUNCH - Sat & Sun: 9am - 3pm

Saboré [sa-bohr-ay] is a world-fusion restaurant featuring a variety of European, South American, Mediterranean and Asian-inspired tastes. Saboré’s namesake is from the word “sabor,” meaning “flavor.”

Executive Chef and Co-Owner William “Willy” Hernandez’s menu features mouth-watering dishes that takes guests on a trip around the world, highlighting exotic flavors and ingredients from countries such as Argentina, Japan, Greece and Italy. Be sure to try their custom plates, desserts and signature cocktails you won’t find anywhere else in Gainesville. Chef Willy joins his Gainesville-based partners from Miami, where he was heralded for his innovative culinary skills at famed establishments such as Caramelo Restaurant, Giacosa, Casa Rolandi and Café Vialetto.

Find out more on Facebook and Twitter!

352-332-2727 www.saborerestaurant.com

Saga 14960 Main Street, Alachua, FL 32615 Open Mon-Fri for Lunch, Tues-Sat for Dinner and Fri-Sat ‘till midnight

FINE DINING – Buttery Sweet Bakery Café presents, Saga, a fine dining restaurant in a comfortable atmosphere with the same unique flavors and fresh taste still located in beautiful downtown Alachua.

We are now open for lunch and dinner serving contemporary, comfort food. Everything is made from scratch including deserts and breads.

Some entrée selections include: Gorgonzola Chicken, Dueling Filet Mignon, and Shrimp and Grits. We also offer fine wines and a fully stocked bar with Happy Hour Tuesday through Saturday from 5pm to 6pm. We are open Monday through Friday for lunch 11am-2:30pm, Tuesday through Saturday for dinner 5pm-10pm and open Friday and Saturday till midnight.

Find out more on Facebook!

386-518-6063 website coming soon!

www.VisitOurTowns.com

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CALENDAR If you would like to have an event considered for publication in this calendar, please submit information directly. post 4400 NW 36th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32606 | e-mail editor@towerpublications.com | fax 352-373-9178

BUTTERFLIES ARE FREE June 17 - July 10 SHOW TIMES VARY HIGH SPRINGS - High Springs Community Theater. “Butterflies Are Free” by Leonard Gershe. The dialogue sparkles with so many memorable lines that audiences can’t help but be enchanted. www.

highspringscommunitytheater.com

ROLLER DERBY BOUT: HOT WHEELS! Saturday, June 18 9:00pm SKATE STATION FUNWORKS - 1311 NW 76th Blvd. Women’s Flat Track Roller Derby!

Gainesville Roller Rebels vs. Panama City Roller Derby.

352-332-0555.

www.gainesvillerollerrebels.com

PERSONAL FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

GAINESVILLE KIDS TRIATHLON

Thursday, June 16 1:00pm - 5:00PM

GAINESVILLE - Citizens Field on the UF Campus. This event has a lot of great activities for kids of all ages and will include: optional water-slide start, food and ice cream, activities and games, music and dancing, raffles and prizes, all-day Pool Pass, HulaHoop Dance Contest with “DJ Shivella,” Chip-Timed Event with Accurate Course, amazing event shirts, finisher medals to ALL Participants, official event photographer. $35. 352-637-2475.

GAINESVILLE - 2800 NE 39th Ave. The objective of this program is to teach participants to manage their resources wisely, enabling them to build a financially secure future. For more information contact Dr. Brenda Williams, 352-955-2402

FAMILY DAY: PHOTOGRAPHY

BY JERRY UELSMANN Saturday, June 18 1:00pm - 4:00PM GAINESVILLE - Harn Museum of Art, Hull Rd. and SW 34th St. Take a family friendly tour of “The Mind’s Eye, 50 Years of Photography”

by Jerry Uelsmann and discover a world of imagination! Then visitors of all ages can explore their own imagination by creating dream worlds in collage. 352-392-9826

www.harn.ufl.edu

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Sunday, June 19 7:30am - 12:00PM

www.gainesvillekidstri.com

BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S & FOOD4KIDS SUMMER BASH Saturday, June 25 Noon - 4:00PM GAINESVILLE - 1999 NW 43rd St. This event benefits Food4Kids Backpack Program, North Florida. There will be live music, food catered by Beef’s, a backpack packing

contest, Magic Mike, $250 cash prize and carnival-style activity booths. $8 in advance/$10 at the door. Children 3 and under are FREE. 352-338-7771.

JEHOVAH’S WITNESS CONFERENCE Friday, July 1 8:00am - 5:00PM GAINESVILLE - O’Connell Center. Public welcome to attend. Outside food & drink will be allowed.

352-392-5500

MICANOPY 4TH OF JULY PARADE Saturday, July 2 10:00am MICANOPY - Fish fry, parade and fireworks in historic Micanopy.

Fish Fry starts at 10, parade starts at 10:30, fireworks at dusk. $10 for the fish fry -- parade and fireworks are free. www.

micanopychamber.com/events.html

WILLISTON’S INDEPENDENCE DAY Sunday, July 3 5:00pm - 10:00PM WILLISTON - Horseman’s Park: 803 SW 19th Ave. Parade, festival and a fireworks display to top off the evening. The parade usually includes over 100 different entries ranging from floats to fire trucks to politicians. After the parade downtown the crowd heads over to the Williston Horseman’s Park for the festivities put on

by the city and the Chamber of Commerce.

There are plenty of free activities for children as well as food and entertainment.

At nightfall the sky lights up with the much-anticipated fireworks extravaganza. $2 parking donation for cars. Admission and rides are free.

Additional information for parade: call Chris at 352-528-3060.

Horseman’s Park: call Mary at 352-528-5552.

www.willistonfl.com

ALACHUA’S FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION Monday, July 4 3:00pm - 10:00PM ALACHUA - Hal Brady Recreation Complex.

The City of Alachua has dubbed its celebration “The Largest Small Town Fireworks Display in America.” The annual event draws over 20,000 people to Alachua and has great economic impact on area businesses. There are dozens of activities for the kids, including a petting zoo, bounce houses and water slides. Fireworks begin at 9:30. www.cityofalachua.com

33RD ANNUAL MELON RUN Monday, July 4 8:00am GAINESVILLE - Westside Park, 1001 NW 34 St. True to its name, this 3-mile race features free watermelon and

refreshments, which usually draws between 350 and 400 runners.

Wine Tasting & Social

Pre-registration: $25,

Sunday, June 26th

with shirt. Day of race: $30, with shirt. Free

4pm to 7pm

kids’ run (about 1 mile)

EMBERS WOOD GRILL - Discover your new favorite wine, spend time with friends, and help support our public schools. Benefiting the Alachua County Public Schools Foundation, “A Thirst for Learning” will feature 30 different wines and appetizers from Embers Wood Grill. There will be a silent auction and a chance drawing for two tickets to the Blue Man Group and a one-night stay at the Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes, Orlando. 352-955-7003

at 9:00am.

www.floridatrackclub.org

ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT SUMMIT Friday, July 15 8:30am GAINESVILLE - Best Western Gateway Grand, 4200 NW 97th Blvd. Times are tough.

Are you prepared to survive and thrive

Florida Museum Discovery Room

in these challenging

EVERY SATURDAY

economic times? How can you possibly think

5/28 - 8/14

about success when

Times Vary

so many are struggling

GAINESVILLE - Visit the hands-on Discovery Room filled with activities and take part in stories, puppets, museum exploration with Dr. Discovery and more. Come in anytime or contact the museum for scheduled program times. 352-846-2000. www.flmnh.ufl.ed

just to get by? Shanon Nelson, the author of “Get Over Your B.S. — Change Your Belief System and Transform Your Life,” has assembled a powerful slate of speakers for the Economic Empowerment Summit.

352-331-3336

CARILLON RECITAL

FUN-N-GUN CAMP WITH SHANE MATTHEWS 2011

Sunday, July 17 3:00pm

Saturday, July 23 10:30am - 11:00AM

GAINESVILLE - Century Tower, UF Campus.

Amy Johansen, University Organist and Carillonist at the University of Sydney, presents a carillon recital. Programs will be available on the south side of the tower. Bring lawn chairs and/or blankets. 352-392-3463

CHECKIN. CAMP: 11:00AM 4:30am Gainesville - SW YMCA on Archer Road. Learn football skills from Gator greats, including Shane Matthews! Each camper receives a Funn-Gun t-shirt, a survival kit, NFL sweatbands and a Gatorade bottle.

Campers earn the chance to win rewards!

Ages: 1st - 9th graders.

Cost: $125. 352-7456136. www.funngun.com

SECOND DECREE REIKI CERTIFICATION Saturday, July 23 9:00am - 5:00PM GAINESVILLE - Center for Reiki Training, 315 NE 10 St. Reiki Master Shihan Terry Rogers will teach the Second Degree of Usui Shiki Ryoho Reiki to all who have been certified in the First degree. A vegetarian lunch will be served. This is a one-day workshop. A $25 registration fee is required at least one week in advance. Make checks out to Charles Rogers. 352-283-0538

www.VisitOurTowns.com

GREEN INDUSTRIES BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES Tuesday, July 26 8:30am - 4:00PM GAINESVILLE - 2800 NE 39th Ave. Workshop is designed to provide training in Best Management Practices for anyone working in the lawn, landscape, pest control, or municipal grounds areas. This is a required training class for all commercial and institutional

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fertilizer applicators in Alachua County Fertilizer Standards and Management Practices Code. 352-955-2402

BABE RUTH 12 & UNDER WORLD SERIES August 5 - 14 THROUGHOUT EACH DAY ALACHUA - Hal Brady Recreation Complex, 14300 NW 146th Terr.

386-462-1610

RECURRING EVENTS DOWNTOWN DAZE First Saturday Each month 9:00am - 5:00PM HIGH SPRINGS - 40 NE Railroad Ave. Food vendors, live music and a flea market. Music begins at 11:0am. Free.

HIGH SPRINGS FARMER’S MARKET Every Thursday 2:00pm - 6:00PM HIGH SPRINGS - Variety of vendors, fresh & organic produce, shrimp, flowers, fresh baked goods, candles, oils, crafts and more.

352-672-5308.www.

farmersmarket.highsprings.com

NEWBERRY FARMER’S MARKET Every Friday 12:00pm - 6:00PM NEWBERRY - Local farmer’s market in Downtown Newberry.

www.newberrymainstreet.org

ZUMBA CLASSES WITH CRISTIANE MACHADO Every Monday and Thursday 10:00am - 11:00AM

Donna’s Cleaning • Residential • Commercial • References Available

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GAINESVILLE - 6450 SW Archer Rd. The newest ‘craze’ in fitness, burn up to 1,000 calories as you have fun!

Move to hypnotic and tantalizing moves.

Price: $7; $35 for 5 classes; $60 for 10 classes. 352-281-6584

RAINBOW BINGO First Tuesday of each month 6:30PM GAINESVILLE - Pride Community Center, 3131 NW 13th St. Fun, Cash, Prizes! Doors open at 6pm. Early bird bingo at 6:30pm. Regular bingo at 7pm. $15 at the door includes all early bird & regular games. Food and beverages available for purchase.

7:00pm GAINESVILLE - Bear Archery, 4600 SW 41st Blvd. Monthly meetings, breakfasts, dinners, car trips and fun. More information available at www.flvetteset.freeyellow.com 352-373-6865

HOGTOWN HEELERS CLOGGING Every Tuesday 6:30pm - 9:00PM GAINESVILLE - Westside Park Recreation Center, 1001 NW 34th St. Clogging each Tuesday night for fun and exercise. All ages and skill levels welcome.

352-256-3742

FRUIT TREE & PLANT SALE

CORVETTE CLUB

Second Wednesday each Month 4:00pm - 7:00PM

First Tuesday of each month

GAINESVILLE - Bo Diddley Community Plaza. The

W WEISMANTEL AND FRIENDS A

Karate & Judo Self-Defense Classes

E Every Wednesday 6 6:30pm - 10:00PM GAINESVILLE - Emiliano’s G Cafe, 7 SE First Ave. C Karl Weismantel on K guitar and vocals g with Ricky Ravelo on w acoustic bass play a jazz, standards, pop ja and original tunes. a 352-375-7381 3

Every Monday and Wednesday 6:30pm GAINESVILLE - Thelma Boltin Community munity Center, 516 NE Second Ave. Class begins m-up. with a few stretches and light warm-up. mall Students are then separated into small learning groups. 352-334-2189

Edible Plant Project’s spring sale, at the Union Street Farmers Market. An eclectic selection of edible plants, fruit trees and seeds will be available.

This a great time to plant: warm season vegetables, greens, sugarcane.

SPEED-DATING Third Wednesday of each month 9:00pm GAINESVILLE - Applebees, 1005 NW 13th St. Tired of meeting the same people in the same places, spending lots of money dating? Well, try

U UNION STREET FARMERS’ F MARKET M E Every Wednesday 4 4:00pm - 7:00PM something new. Speeddating is a new way to meet more people and have more fun.

352-335-0150

WEDNESDAY NIGHT JAZZ WITH KARL

GAINESVILLE - Bo Diddley G Community Plaza, 111 C E. University Ave. Each week local farmers, bakers, artisans, musicians, and dancers join with our intensely loyal customers in a timeless celebration of this community’s seasonal bounty. www.

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WE DO IT ALL — OVER 50 YEARS OF COMBINED EXPERIENCE. www.VisitOurTowns.com

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QUILTERS OF ALACHUA COUNTY DAY GUILD

Haile Village Farmers’ Market

First Thursday of each month 9:30am - NOON GAINESVILLE Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1521 NW 34 St. The Quilters of Alachua County Day Guild is a non-profit, 501(c) (3) organization dedicated to preserve the heritage of quilting and related arts for individuals of North Central Florida through education, inspiration, and information. 352375-2427. www.qacdg.org

Every Saturday 8:30am - 12:00pm Haile - Plantation Hall, 5100 SW 91st Terr.

Great place to shop for locally grown fruits and vegetables, fresh seafood, delicious baked good, plants, and beautiful handcrafted wares. The market has become a Saturday morning gathering place for friends and families to enjoy while meeting the farmers, bakers, and crafts people that produce the wide variety of products available. www.hailefarmersmarket.com

YOGA FOR ALL

BEGINNERS MINDFULNESS MEDITATION

Every Thursday 4:00pm

Every Thursday 7:00pm

GAINESVILLE - Shands Cancer Hospital, 1515 SW Archer Rd., 1st Floor. Enjoy an hour of gentle stretching, accessible postures and breathing exercises designed to tone your body and lift your spirits. This class is suitable for patients, family, staff and members of the community. 352-7330880. www.shands.org

GAINESVILLE - Shands Cancer Hospital, 1515 SW Archer Rd., 1st Floor. Just sitting and relaxing in our beautiful meditation room can make a difference to your day. We offer gentle guidance suitable for everyone.

352-733-0880.

AMRIT YOGA WITH VEDA Every Thursday 5:30pm - 6:30PM GAINESVILLE - Downtown Library, 401 E. University Ave, 4th floor. Think you’re not flexible enough?

Learn that yoga is not just about postures.

Begin with a 15-minute relaxation and then move, with evenness of mind, into skillful action for your body.

Experience all the benefits of this guided practice. Appropriate for all levels. No registration needed.

vedalewis@aol.com

www.shands.org

JAZZ AT LEONARDO’S 706 Every Thursday 7:30pm - 10:PM GAINESVILLE - 706 W. University Ave. The Marty Liquori Jazztet with Marty on guitar, Vic Donnell on keyboards and Mr. P on drums hosts saxophonist Ben Champion, or Trumpet players Dave Edmund or Gary Langford or Vocalists and other musicians. 352-3782001 www.runjazz.com

GAINESVILLE - Civic Media Center, 433 S. Main St. Gainesville’s longestrunning open poetry reading. All styles of poetry, acoustic music, and a cappella singing, spoken word, performance art and more! Bring your friends for a night of artistic expression. 352373-0010

www.civicmediacenter.org

LET’S GO DOWNTOWN ‘FREE FRIDAYS’ PLAZA SERIES

Every Thursday 9:00pm

GAINESVILLE INTERNATIONAL FOLK DANCE

Every Friday, May September

Every Friday 8:00pm

8:00PM - 10:00pm Gainesville - Downtown Community Plaza, SE 1st St. and E. University Ave. The plaza comes alive every Friday night as local talent and other cultural events are showcased under the stars.

Hundreds come out to enjoy free live bands, theater groups, dance performances, Movies on the Plaza, and much more. 352-334-5064

GAINESVILLE - Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 4225 NW 34th St. Experienced and expanding International Folk dance group, suitable for all ages and abilities. No partners needed. Beginners welcome. 352-3592903 www.gifd.org

www.gvlculturalaffairs.org

WEEKLY POETRY JAM

4:00pm - 4:30PM GAINESVILLE - Shands Cancer Hospital, 1515 SW Archer Rd., 1st floor. Learn to control your singing voice and relieve stress at the same time! Breathing and tonal exercises will help participants comfortably sing their favorite songs. High Tea will follow vocal exercises. 352-7330880 www.shands.org

FINDING YOUR VOICE Every Friday

www.VisitOurTowns.com

SWING AND SWAY DANCE CLUB Second and fourth Friday of each month 8:00pm GAINESVILLE - Thelma Boltin Community Center, 516 NE Second

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Ave. Live music by Don Letbetter’s Blue Notes for ballroom dancing on a beautiful wood floor. 352-334-2189

COMEDY SHOWCASE Every Friday and Saturday 7:00pm GAINESVILLE - Clarion Inn and Conference Center, 7417 W. Newberry Road. A live stand-up comedy show featuring the best of local amateur and professional stand-up comedians.

352-332-2224

GAINESVILLE STREET RODS CAR SHOW Second Saturday of each month 6:00pm - 9:00PM GAINESVILLE - Spring Hill Shopping Center, 9200 NW 39th Ave.

Car Show/CruiseIn hosted by the Gainesville Street Rods. Cash drawings, prizes, music and fun every month! For more information call Tim at 352-658-1477.

PAINTED TABLE OUTDOOR MARKET Second Saturday of each month 10:00am - 4:00PM GAINESVILLE - The Painted Table, 2441 NW 43rd St. Outdoor market featuring “slow” food, antiques, jewelry and plants.

352-371-1555

FREE SAT OR ACT PRACTICE TEST Last Saturday of each month 8:30am - 12:30PM GAINESVILLE - Sylvan

Learning Center, 4961 NW Eighth Ave. As SAT and ACT scores continue to play an important role in an applicant’s ultimate college acceptance, students are still looking for a competitive edge by achieving the highest scores possible. Sylvan is offering this free improvement service to help students and families better prepare for the test day.

352-371-6891

OPEN MIC Every Saturday 7:00pm GAINESVILLE - Book Gallery West, 4121 NW 16th Blvd.

Family-friendly atmosphere. Great desserts and locally roasted Sweetwater coffee and espresso.

Non-alcoholic mixed drinks, smoothies, and more. 352-371-1234. www.

bookgallerywestgainesville.com

TANGO PRACTICA First Sunday of each month 2:00pm - 5:00PM GAINESVILLE - Tango Pavadita, 308-B W. University Ave. One hour of lessons and help for beginners.

Then another two hours open floor to practice. Two dance floors for use. (Perfect for your basic posture, embrace, Tango walk and various steps so you will be ready for the milonga) Price: $10, $5 for students.

For more information contact Steve Littler, 352-371-6944 or

tangopavadita@gmail.com

386-418-0006 www.sproutlearningresources.com 114 | Summer 2011

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Old-Fashioned Customer Service Really Keeps Your Motor Running Since 1983, Jack’s Small Engine Repair has been selling and servicing small engine equipment the “old fashioned” way – with customer service their number one focus. New owner’s Debbie Marshall and Mark Singleton are proud to continue Jack’s tradition and have recently completed their third year.

Specializing in lawn and garden equipment sales, service and repairs, Jack’s is the largest authorized HUSQVARNA dealer in the area.

One of the most trusted names in outdoor equipment, Jack’s delivers more than a great product line. Each item sold is assembled on site and comes with personal instructions.

Unlike the big box stores, Jack’s will take the time to show you how to best use and maintain your new equipment, advise you on the

equipment to buy and help in any way throughout the buying process.

Come by and talk with Sales and Parts Manager, Larry Jackson. With more than 40 years experience, Larry will take the time to make sure you’re buying the right machine for the job.

Known for their service and repair departments, Jack’s can help with almost any small-engine need.

Whether it’s blowers, edger’s, tillers, four wheelers, golf carts, generators, pressure washers, lawn mowers, chain saws, trimmers or most others, their authorized mechanics, Thomas, and Mark, will diagnose and repair most small-engine problems. For an additional charge, Jack’s can make arrangements to pick up your item, diagnose, repair and return your item with as little inconvenience to your schedule as possible.

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Open 6-days per week, including Saturdays until 1pm, Jack’s Small Engine Repair is there to help. Give them a call at 386-462-2882 and see why many trust Jack’s for all their lawn and garden needs. Shop local for the lowest price and great deals.

Check out Jack’s online at: www. jackssmallenginerepaironline.com - It features Husqvarna Products, Parts for most makes and models of Lawn/ Garden Equipment and also used equipment for sale. You can order in the comfort of your own home and have your parts delivered to your door.

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A DVE RTI S E M E N T

When “Speechless” is Something More “Without memory we vanish; we cease to exist; our past is wiped out – and yet we pay little attention to it, except when it fails us. We do precious little to exercise it, to nurture it, to build it, to protect it.” - MARK TWAIN

A

s with the rest of the body, the brain needs exercise to work to its full potential. But many choose to ignore inconvenient lapses of memory, instead referring to words on the “tip of my tongue,” withdrawing from social situations to hide it, or even getting frustrated and blaming others for it.

Mederi Caretenders of Gainesville approaches dementia and memory loss with an emphasis on the speech-cognition connection. “Part of working your communication skills is keeping your brain alive,” said speech-language pathologist Elisa Neale, MA, CCC, SLP. “Oftentimes with people with mild dementia, the first thing they have difficulty with is word finding. I set up a memory fitness program to slow the process of cognitive decline.”

According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), speechlanguage pathologists play a primary role in the diagnosis and treatment of cognitivecommunication disorders, including those associated with dementia. Caretenders is the only area home care agency with a full-time SLP on staff, providing a vital tool in the company’s mission of senior independence.

There are many things seniors can do 118 | Summer 2011

themselves to keep their minds limber, including the perennial favorite – crossword puzzles. “We store words in our brain by categories,” said Neale. “For example, first you think of ice cream, then you think of the flavor, and then that thought might bring you to how, where or when you like to eat ice cream.” The progression of thoughts involved in solving crossword puzzles makes the brain process more to find words. Sudoku, card games such as bridge and even watching “Wheel of Fortune” or “Jeopardy!” also engage the mind in cognitive exercise.

When in-home care is being utilized, SLPS play a key role. Neale encourages word-finding tasks by asking the client questions like, “Let’s think of things you ate yesterday,” followed by, “How would you make that food?” Through such tasks she simulates logical thought progression with the client to engage the brain.

Not every speechless moment is a sign of cognitive decline; in fact, conditions such as hearing loss and depression can mimic dementia. But when memory loss interferes with the tasks and enjoyment of everyday life, seeking help is the best way to preserve a full and independent life.

“I wondered if my family could manage all the care I needed after leaving the hospital.”

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COLUMN >> BY KENDRA SILER-MARSIGLIO

Healthy Edge I recently took my 3 1/2-year-old son to a kid’s Zumba class. bout 20 young kids were happily dancing with their moms or dads; no one was on the “sidelines.”

Because we dance at home daily, I thought my son would enjoy it. He shimmied once, and then, to my surprise, ran off the floor yelling, “I can’t handle it, Mama! I can’t handle it!”

Although he’s a toddler, the stress that my son felt is not so different from what many kids at all ages experience when they’re participating in sports or performance art. Performance-based activities, especially team sports, are indisputably a great way for kids to keep active, make friends, and learn important life lessons. Yet, for some kids, fear of uncertainty and the pressure to perform lead to nervousness, frustration and tears.

Fortunately, helping kids learn how to cope positively with negative emotions that can arise from group activities can benefit them a lifetime.

When helping a child deal with performance anxiety, you may want to consider exploring these three questions:

A

1. Why is your child doing a particular activity? Does your kid really like playing (insert activity here), or is he or she just doing it because he or she wants to gain your approval? Many kids think adults will disapprove of them if they don’t live up to what they believe their authority figures (parents, coaches, or teachers) want.

2. What lessons is your child learning from the activity? Winning and excellence are very important components of sports and performances; however, not to the exclusion of sportsmanship, honesty, compassion and improvement. As adults, our goal should be to help kids figure out how to build a mental edge while improving and competing in a healthy way.

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3. What tools are you giving your child to help him or her cope with negative emotions? What does your child do to relax before a performance or game? What does your child do to refocus himself or herself if he or she is losing or makes a mistake?

The KidsHealth initiative, developed by the Nemours Foundation, provides the following tips to help kids manage their stress under pressure: Muscle relaxation: Flex a group of muscles tightly.

Keep them tensed for about 5 seconds, then release.

Repeat the exercise five times, selecting different muscle groups. To flex your toes, press them into the floor.

Visualizing success: Lead your child in a visualization of him or her completing a pass, performing a recital, or repeatedly scoring a goal. Use as many senses as possible — even smell, taste and touch. Have your child describe the feelings he or she has during the visualized performance. Your goal is to help your child remove negative feelings associated with the performance.

On the day of the performance, recalling those stored images can help calm nerves and boost self-confidence.

Mindfulness: Focus on the present instead of worrying about what will happen if something goes wrong. On game day, your child should be in the mindset of performing, not in practice mode for a future event.

Remember that nobody’s perfect: Everyone bungles a pass or makes mistakes from time to time. If you teach your child to forgive himself or herself and move on, then he or she can spend more time correcting the mistake and learning resiliency.

My son and I had a talk about the Zumba class. He said that he just wanted to watch that time, and maybe one day he would do the class. I told him about times that I felt uncertain and anxious as a kid. Although we haven’t gone back to Zumba yet, I feel good about our burgeoning relationship. s For more information visit kidshealth.org/parent/. KidsHealth is the most-visited website for children’s health and development and also has articles just for kids.

Kendra Siler-Marsiglio, Ph.D. is the Director of the Rural Health Partnership at WellFlorida Council.

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>> APPRECIATION

Natural Wonders Unearthing the History and Beauty of Florida’s Springs

BY CAROLYN TILLO

B

efore tourists flocked to Florida to snap pictures with Mickey Mouse and tour Hogwarts with Harry Potter, they came for a different thrill.

They wanted the chance to soak in the relaxing and healing waters of Florida’s springs. Complete with their own bathhouses, pools and resorts, the clear depths of the springs promised more than man-made wonders.

Yet, over the years, many of these promises have dried up or started to fade away. Springs like White Springs, Worthington Spring, Kissengen Spring and Hampton Spring no longer flow or have seen severe flow reductions.

Falling water levels raise concerns about water use permits allotted to utility companies and about the water ordinary citizens use to irrigate their lawns and run their homes. In these times characterized by movements toward sustainable living, water conservation is a hot topic, and the Florida springs need to be talked about.

Their rich history, combined with the role they play in debates about water usage, make them as important to the citizens of today as they were to the tourists of a century ago.

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History While many of Florida’s springs are still flowing strong, springs — including White Springs, Kissengen Spring, Hampton Spring and Worthington Spring — have faced considerable hardships. These accounts are based on Bulletin 31 (1947), Bulletin 31 revised (1977) and Bulletin 66 (2004) from the Florida Geological Survey.

WHITE SPRINGS The first bathhouse was built at White Springs in Hamilton County in 1835, and the spring water was valued for its healing qualities. In 1947, White Springs flowed into a 50 x 90 foot swimming pool surrounded by a four-story bathhouse known as Spring House, with a hotel located north of the spring. Located in Hamilton County, this spring had an average flow of 36 million gallons per day, according to the 1947 report.

Spring House and the nearby hotel were demolished in 1973, and by the time of the Florida Geological Survey report of 1977, the spring was no longer in use.

The 1977 report describes low-water flows as far back as 1956.

Robert Knight, the director and founder of the

PHOTO COURTESY OF FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION’S GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

The four-story bathhouse at White Springs, known as Spring House, was demolished in 1973. A caption on this old image from the 1920s describes how water flowed at 32,400 gallons per minute during that time, according to a presentation by Dr. Knight.

Howard T. Odum Florida Springs Institute, described how the spring, located on the bank of the Suwannee River, continues to flow but only when flooding from the river allows the spring to recharge.

Megan Wetherington, a senior professional engineer for the Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD), said she last saw clear water flowing out of the spring in 2005.

described by Ferguson and others (1947), the spring was an active recreational facility. Three years later the spring was dry.”

“Today the spring basin is overgrown with dog fennel and other encroaching plants and its original dimensions are hard to discern,” states the Florida Geological Survey’s 2004 report.

HAMPTON SPRING KISSENGEN SPRING Located in Polk County, Kissengen Spring featured a pool 200 feet in diameter, and was a swimming area since at least 1917. The mean annual flow of this spring from 1932 to 1947 was 14 million gallons per day. In 1947, the spring had a bathhouse and refreshment stand.

Kissengen was the first major spring in Florida to stop flowing. The 1977 report by the Florida Geological Survey blames groundwater withdrawal from wells for the stoppage and describes how it stopped flowing in February 1950 after a 40-year flow record of 15 cubic feet per second or more. According to the 1977 report, “Although declining in average annual flow when

Hampton Spring is located in Taylor County near Perry. The spring once flowed into a hotel swimming pool. The hotel, built in 1910, was renovated in 1947 but was destroyed by fire in 1954.

In 1977, the area around Hampton Springs was swampy and filled with numerous sinkholes, according to the 1977 Florida Geological Survey report. The 2004 report describes how the county was renovating the property with the hope of reopening the spring to the public.

Today, thanks to grants from the Florida Department of Transportation and the Florida Department of State Bureau of Historic Preservation, the area around Hampton Spring has been renovated and developed

www.VisitOurTowns.com

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION’S GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

Shown here in a photo from the 1920s, Kissengen Spring was once a recreation area and a site for political rallies and gatherings. Today the spring basin is overgrown and its original dimensions are difficult to discern.

into a park site, said Melody Cox, the director of the department of grants administration for Taylor County.

The site includes paved trails, repairs to the old pool site, and markers showing where the old hotel had been located. A custom-made grate has been placed over the mouth of the spring to prevent people from vandalizing the spring and blocking its flow, Cox said.

“We really put a lot of thought into the history of the site and the integrity of the site itself,” Cox said.

While the pool site is unstable and remains drained, elderly people still go to the spring with gallon jugs to collect the water, convinced of its healing properties, Cox said.

As of May 20, 2011, the flow at Hampton Spring was 27 gallons per minute, Wetherington said.

WORTHINGTON SPRING Located in the town of Worthington in Union County, Worthington Spring featured a recreation hall and bathhouse. The water flowed from a small 6 x 6 foot pool to another swimming pool.

By the time of the 1977 report, the spring had a small flow and the hotel, bathhouse and recreation hall were gone. Only remnants of the swimming pool and spring enclosure remained. In February 1972, no flow was evident because water from the river backed up over the spring, acting as a dam and preventing spring water from flowing out. In April 1972, the river water

124 | Summer 2011

levels fell and water was able to flow from the springs at a rate of 386 gallons per minute.

The 2004 report described how the spring run averaged about 2 feet deep.

Wetherington said the spring has not been flowing for as long as she can remember.

“It was never a high-flowing spring, but it’s effectively gone,” Wetherington said.

Why we should care today Today, bathhouses and modest swimsuits may be things of the past, but the springs and the issues surrounding them are here to stay.

Florida’s springs pull their water from the Floridan aquifer system, which is made up of underground rock units capable of yielding fresh water. The thickness of fresh water within the Suwannee River Water Management District (which includes portions of Alachua County) can vary from about 250 to 1,500 feet, said Carlos Herd, the senior hydrogeologist for the SRWMD. Herd compares the aquifer to a giant bucket. Springs and rivers flow out from tiny spouts on the aquifer’s surface. When the level of the water on the top of the bucket begins to drop, the water levels of the springs drop with it. They need the water in the bucket, groundwater, to survive.

Carlos Herd, the senior hydrogeologist for the

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SRWMD, compares the aquifer to a giant bucket.

Springs and rivers flow out from tiny spouts on the aquifer’s surface. When the level of the water on the top of the bucket begins to drop, the water levels of the springs drop with it. The springs need the water in the bucket, groundwater, to survive.

Groundwater levels rise and fall with the rain, but excessive pumping of groundwater causes a downward

The average flow rate of Silver Springs from 2000 to 2009 was 32% less than the average flow rate measured from 1932 to 2009 trend in water levels that cannot be explained by rainfall, Megan Wetherington said.

Less groundwater means less water flowing through Florida’s springs. The average flow rate of Silver Springs from 2000 to 2009 was 32 percent less than the average flow rate measured from 1932 to 2009, Knight said.

The flow rate of Ichetucknee from 2000 to 2009 was 18 percent less and the flow rate of Rainbow Springs was 15 percent less.

Knight, who has worked and researched at Silver Springs for more than 30 years, said this percent decrease is in part caused by dry spells, but groundwater consumption is also to blame.

“People just don’t seem to realize that when they pull water out of the ground and they don’t put it back in the ground, they’re taking it away from springs,” Knight said.

The springs worked their way into a recent debate whose key players included Florida’s water management districts, the Jacksonville Electric Authority (JEA) and concerned citizens.

The governing board for the St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD) voted on May 10 to approve a 20-year permit that will allow JEA to increase the amount of water it uses from a maximum of 155 million gallons per day this year to about 163 million gallons per day in 2031, said Gerri Boyce, JEA spokesperson.

Although the current limit is 155 million gallons per day, JEA used an average of 112.8 million gallons per day from January through April, Boyce said. She said this rate is expected to grow as the temperature rises this summer.

This water comes from the Floridan aquifer, the same underground source that feeds the springs.

Hal Wilkening, the resource management department director at the SJRWMD, said the board approved

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the permit in part because of JEA’s promises to take an environmentally conscious approach to their water use and submit to an evaluation in 10 years, in which the district will verify that JEA continues to meet permit criteria.

JEA Spokesperson Gerri Boyce said the new permit is the result of years of work by the JEA, the second largest water utility in the state.

JEA is budgeting $288 million to comply with 42 conditions of the permit, including a promise to use more reclaimed water, or wastewater that has been treated and used for irrigation, Boyce said. JEA needs the 20 years designated by the permit to plan for how it will utilize alternative water sources.

“We’re taking an aggressive approach on reclaimed water and conservation,” Boyce said.

Despite these efforts, the new permit still has critics.

Herd, the senior hydrogeologist for the SRWMD, said the Upper Suwannee district is seeing a reduction in water flow that cannot be explained by the waterpumping data from the Suwannee District.

Herd estimates that water pumping from the SJRWMD, where JEA is located, may be contributing to the shrinking of the basin that provides water for the Suwannee River Water Management District.

The district has lost about 20 percent of its contributing groundwater base, Herd said.

In light of these declining groundwater resources, Herd said he wishes JEA had obtained a permit with a shorter term rather than a 20-year scope. He plans to continue monitoring the groundwater system to gain more scientific evidence of the declining groundwater levels. Low groundwater levels mean that springs have less water to pull from, Herd said.

Walter McKenzie, the vice mayor of White Springs, believes pumping along the east coast of Florida and in Southeast Georgia has impacted the water and flow levels of White Springs.

“There’s this terrible acceptance of things like this happening,” McKenzie said, “and the question I always ask is: How many springs will have to dry up before we, the people in the State of Florida, finally wake up and smell the coffee?”

McKenzie, who spoke against the water-use permit during the May 10 SJRWMD meeting, said he would work with opponents of the permit to act as a watchdog. He wants to ensure JEA complies with the water-conservation conditions of the permit, and he wants a third-party, such as the National Academy of Sciences, to determine whether the new permit will impact the state’s water supply.

“I just hope that everybody will continue to become more and more aware that we have a big problem, and I also hope that they become more and more aware that they can be part of the solution,” McKenzie said.

Wilkening said the SJRWMD examined the impact of water withdrawals not only on the St. Johns district but

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also in the areas of the upper Suwannee River and the upper Santa Fe River, located in the SRWMD. Wilkening does not believe the permit will adversely impact the SRWMD.

of the Springs Institute known as the Springs Watch Program, which allows them to adopt a spring and collect information about dissolved oxygen levels, water temperature, pH and water quality. They can also take photos of plants developing in the springs.

Protection efforts Regardless of where they stand on the issue of water-use permits, Florida citizens continue to show that their passion for the springs has not dried up.

Through the Springs Institute, Knight makes presentations about how people can protect and restore the springs.

He promotes recreational activities that aid in springs protection and generate economic development, such as cave diving, and he describes places like Silver Springs as natural amusement parks.

“When Disney World is no longer attracting people, Silver Springs, if it’s still flowing, will continue to attract people to Florida,” Knight said.

Knight also works to keep people informed about the springs by producing springs health report cards for Silver Springs, Rainbow Springs and Silver Glen Springs in Marion County. During trips to springs across the state, he meets with springs working groups and helps them develop restoration plans. In May, he met with groups including the Silver Springs Basin Working Group and the Santa Fe Springs Basin Working Group.

Citizen volunteers have sponsored a new initiative

What you can do to help Jim Stevenson, who worked as the chief naturalist for the Florida State Parks system for 20 years as well as the former chair of the Florida Springs Task Force and the former director of the Governor’s Springs Initiative, offers two simple tips for protecting the springs:

1. Use less water.

2. Take steps to reduce the nitrates released into groundwater.

Nitrates come from septic tanks, fertilizer and livestock waste, Stevenson said. Cutting back on lawn fertilization can help save groundwater as well.

“I’ve got a perfectly nice lawn that I’ve not fertilized in 17 years,” Stevenson said.

Stacie Greco, water conservation coordinator for the

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Alachua County Environmental Protection Department, offers her own tips for saving spring water.

More than 50 percent of residential water use occurs outdoors, Greco said. She encourages Florida residents to reduce the number of times they water their lawns each week. Greco suggests replacing landscapes that require frequent watering with landscape plants adapted to drier conditions.

Fixing leaks can also conserve water, Greco said.

Small leaks in faucets or toilets can add up to big wastes of water. A good way to see if you need to replace your toilet flapper valve is to put food coloring in the toilet tank, walk away without flushing the toilet and check back later. If the food coloring has traveled to your toilet bowl, you have a leak, Greco said.

Greco suggests turning off the faucet while scrubbing dishes and taking shorter showers.

To help these tips hit home, Greco said she tries to connect them to the environments her audience live in and appreciate.

“I try to tie their actions to something like an ecosystem that they care about, like the springs,” Greco said.

Whether or not they care about the springs now, more Florida residents may start to care as they see the springs slipping away. Their history and their natural beauty represent magic that cannot be found at a theme park. s

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NAKED 132 | Summer 2011

ED

THE MAN. THE MYTH. THE LEGEND. ARTICLE AND PHOTOS

BY DESIREE FARNUM

“IF IF YOU ARE HERE TO MAKE FUN OF ME, LAUGH AT ME, OR ARGUE WITH ME, REMOVE YOUR CLOTHES FIRST SO WE WILL BE ON EQUAL TERMS.”

T

he cool clear water flows easily in one direction, with the exception of the mini whirlpools and bubbles that rise to fight the pull of the current. The springs, all connected and accessible by kayak or canoe, create a peaceful waterway, and tourists come to High Springs from all over the state, the country and even beyond. But those who travel to take the detour off an s-curve of the Santa Fe River to Lily Springs come for more than a peaceful trip by paddle.

Turning into a little water alleyway off to the left of the Santa Fe River, the handmade signs become visible. “Man is the Most Dangerous Animal.” “Naked Ed Ahead.”

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1

1. Over the course of Ed’s stay at the springs, he has had a total of three huts. He originally stayed in tents, until it became difficult for him to get in and out, and he realized that a hut would be more durable and would last longer.

2. Ed sits atop his fenced-off chair as tourists visit Lily Springs. He has had many conversations with visitors from all over from his chair, and keeps an empty bottle of Naked Ed’s Pale Ale nearby on a shelf.

Neighbors say Ed has cleaned up the springs, and confronted people who carelessly dump garbage on the property. He has even managed to cut down on the moccasins that once infested the waters.

3. For one of his birthdays, Ed’s sister got him this cap. He hangs it in his hut, next to his wall of publications featuring him.

134 | Summer 2011

The river curves back like a snake, and visitors see the water’s end — or rather beginning — washing on the sand. The face they have been expecting greets them from over a fenced-off part of a dock.

Each year, hundreds of visitors paddle their canoes and kayaks to see this curious part of Lily Springs. Meet Naked Ed: the man, the myth, the legend.

THE MAN Ed Watts, a.k.a. Naked Ed, the High Springs local known for living life in the nude at Lily Springs, is familiar to tourists from Florida to Canada and has even appeared on a Swedish television show. At the Great Outdoors Restaurant there is a beer with his name and likeness. At his hut he has a photo album of around 100 women that come to pose with him — nude.

Ed is 61. The top of his head is bald but on the sides, like his bushy beard, his hair goes from black to gray. He is wearing nothing but his half-rimmed glasses and a beaded necklace as he walks nimbly barefoot around the land he knows so well. Long, old scars on hips and right arm, and fresh scratches and bruises around his elbows are the only markings on his otherwise sun-baked skin. His head bobs slightly as he speaks in a slow rusty voice telling long stories of past experiences.

John Edward Watts was born and raised in North Central Florida. His parents, William Timothy Watts Jr. and Lela Mae Watts, had a total of six children and lived outside of metropolitan areas.

“My dad always made sure we lived in the country,” Ed said.

2

NAKED ED AHEAD 3

By the time his mom was 27 she had all six of her children, and she raised them as Southern Baptists.

“Ed’s just a good ol’ boy from High Springs,” said local Tommy Collar. “That’s my best buddy.”

But Ed was different from other children growing up — he has osteogenisis imperfecta, otherwise known as “brittle bone disease.” He was born with a broken leg. The disease is a genetic disorder where the bones are fragile and break easily, sometimes for no known reason.

As a child, Ed spent a lot of time in “a crippled children’s hospital,” he said, with his legs tied to the wall, and nurses wiping up after him. There were people coming and going when he had no clothes on, but eventually he stopped feeling ashamed and got used to his situation.

“That’s why I’m comfortable

with my body,” he said.

In school, he was never paddled for misbehavior, Ed recalled. Later he found that it was the doctor’s orders for the teachers to never lay a hand on him. It was not until graduation that he learned this,

kids,” said Harvey Campbell, who met Ed at Columbia High School.

Ed later worked for Campbell in his convenience store and ice company.

Ed also helped out at his friend Collar’s bars.

“If there was a fight, Ed would

“GOD GOD MADE MY SWIMSUIT. IF YOU CHECK THE LABEL ON YOURS IT WAS PROBABLY MADE IN SOME OTHER COUNTRY AND SOLD TO YOU BY WAL-MART.” and he admitted that he would have taken advantage of the situation had he known.

Ed never let his physical ailments prevent him from making friends and keeping up those relationships through adulthood.

“I’ve known him since we were

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back me up,” Collar said.

The decision to go skinnydipping first occurred at the suggestion of people he met at a bar. Ed had been around skinny dippers before, but he had not taken the plunge himself until he was about 33 or 34. He would go

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PHOTO BY ALBERT ISAAC

A behind-the-scenes peak at Our Town intern Desiree Farnum as she interviews Naked Ed at Lily Springs.

to a few nude beaches but found them to be a bother because they were so far away. In 1985 he started skinny-dipping at Lily Springs.

“I would come here because I could skinny-dip here,” Ed said.

When his sister suggested he work for her at a Badcock furniture store that she owned, he started May 10, the day before his birthday.

But he knew that it was not the life for him, and he already missed his lifestyle back home. So he put in his notice at the start of the job.

“When we close Christmas Eve, I’m going back to my springs,” Ed said to his sister.

After he discovered that he qualified for disability checks — he was told he is 100 percent disabled and that it would be a risk for an employer to take him, even at an office job — he stopped working and became a self-appointed caretaker of the springs.

The owner of the springs gave Ed permission to stay on the property, so he set up there and has been

136 | Summer 2011

there since.

More health problems followed in years to come, including a stroke, hip replacements and lymph node cancer. But doctors called him “miracle man,” after he beat the odds.

Now he lives a simple, but certainly not average life, and is most comfortable remaining in the nude.

“I understand Average Joe’s not comfortable with my lifestyle,” Ed said, “but I’m not comfortable with Average Joe’s lifestyle.”

THE MYTH Ed, even when he started to live in the nude most of the time, was not always known as Naked Ed. The nickname came from a church group traveling down the river that knew about him. Some of the children would yell out hellos to “Naked Ed,” and the name stuck.

After he became known for his lifestyle at the springs, several myths, or common assumptions,

started to circulate. Here are a few of these myths.

M

Myth: He spends his days living in his hut, surviving against the elements.

Naked Truth: Although he is known for his wild lifestyle, Ed said he has always had another house. During the busy season, though, and all the tourists flock to the springs, he said he cannot leave. He spends the night to watch after campers and he provides firewood and a homemade bathroom. Even in the winter he will pose nude for photos with tourists, and then he will put on his clothes.

He said he can last up to five minutes in the nude when it is cold.

When there are no campers, Ed shares a house with his siblings.

“All of us own it equally,” he said.

Ed said staying at Lily Springs is equivalent to a full-time job, and he takes it seriously. He waits to greet the people that come down the river. He is the man of Lily Springs that they come to see and he does

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not want to disappoint anyone.

“This, being as I’m disabled, gives me something to do with my life.

It gives me a way to keep my mind occupied.” Ed said. “I think that’s when you really go down the hill, when you can’t occupy your mind.”

Myth: He is a wild man with dangerous tendencies.

Naked Truth: “Some people might be scared because he comes off as a native living in the backwoods,” said neighbor Karen Parrish, “but I would trust my kids there with him,” rather than letting them go down to the springs by themselves.

Russ Augspurg, who lives nearby, said that Ed is a good neighbor who “keeps an eye on things” and “watches out for the place.”

And Ed holds a protective view of women, especially around strange

from a leather store in Lake City, his current loin clothes are made with materials from Wal-Mart.

Myth: He is probably “in your face” with his nudity.

Naked Truth: Ed is not so comfortable that he would not cover up for those who might be offended.

“I have never seen him naked, which I am pleased with,” Parrish said. He was wearing a loincloth when they met. Whenever she goes down to the springs, she said she speaks loudly enough so that he hears her coming and can put something on.

“He’s respectful,” she said.

And when he goes to town, he wears clothes because he said he does not want to leave town “wearing nothing but handcuffs.”

“IT IT’SS NICE TO BE IMPORTANT, BUT IT’SS MORE IMPORTANT TO BE NICE.” IT men. He said he has told many girls who skinny dip to not swim alone, and if there are men trying to sneak pictures of the women swimming, he confronts them and makes them ask permission.

Myth: He eats what he catches and cooks over an open fire.

Naked Truth: His answer to what he eats was simple: “Whatever Winn Dixie sells.” He sometimes cooks at his house before coming out to the springs, or he will microwave the food in his hut.

Myth: One of Ed’s messages on a sign says: “God made my swimsuit.

If you check the label on yours it was probably made in some other country and sold to you by Wal-Mart.” He is probably against the store.

Naked Truth: While Ed’s original loincloth was made from leather

138 | Summer 2011

Myth: The baboon head that he had on his old hut was one he hunted himself.

Naked Truth: The story that Ed would tell children was that he caught the baboon in the woods near his hut, and he cut off the head and hung it up. After Parrish’s son had nightmares, she asked Ed to tell him the true story. The baboon head was a gift from a bar owner.

Myth: His friends and family must disapprove or are unaware of lifestyle.

Naked Truth: His friend from high school was not surprised when Ed shed his clothes and spent his days at the springs.

“He’s always cared about the area,” Ed’s friend, Harvey Campbell, said. “I think it was a natural transition.”

Campbell found amusement in

that after high school he became a tourism director and Ed became a tourist attraction.

Ed said his mom was proud of him. She was happy to see the publications that ran articles featuring her son.

Myth: Because he is comfortable with being naked in front of strangers, maybe he is brazen.

Naked Truth: “He’s real neighborly,” Augspurg said, “but he’s kinda shy.” He said Ed has been invited to get-togethers at the house, but he has not come over.

“We don’t go out socially,” Augspurg said.

At the Great Outdoors Restaurant, he can often be seen sitting by himself, though he is friendly and will talk to everyone. At the springs he will tell all his stories.

Myth: Naked Ed was once a professor.

Naked Truth: Ed has never attended college. He even said he has never used a computer. But if someone asks what he used to teach, he will play along and say “idiots.”

Myth: One of Ed’s previous hut burned down by accident.

Naked Truth: This one is more controversial and unresolved. Ed believes it was arson. He said the river was flooded at the time and the electricity was cut off, so there was no way it could have been an accident. But while he feels he knows who it is, he cannot prove it in court.

Ed has moved on now. “My attitude is I shouldn’t try to get revenge,” he said.

THE LEGEND Though Ed lives a very simple life, he is well known in High Springs and beyond. He even has a beer named in his honor at the Great Outdoors Restaurant.

Karen Bentz, who owns the restaurant with her husband, came

up with â&#x20AC;&#x153;Naked Edâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pale Ale.â&#x20AC;?

She and her husband bought the original â&#x20AC;&#x153;Great Outdoors Restaurant and renovated it â&#x20AC;&#x153;to be incredibly regional.â&#x20AC;? She said she tried to â&#x20AC;&#x153;pick out the unusual things of the town and spin it in a positive way,â&#x20AC;? and so of course Ed was to be part of this.

Before developing the idea to name a beer after him, Bentz canoed out to Lily Springs and spent hours with Ed to tell him her plans. She took a picture of him that day, hired a graphic artist and used it as a label.

It is not just the beer that he inspired at the restaurant, however.

He has a plate with a caricature of his likeness on it, a dish called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Naked Edâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Low Country Boil,â&#x20AC;?

T-shirts, coasters (which Ed autographs) and his face is even on the menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bathroom door.

Ed was very happy to be invited to the opening party for the restaurant, Bentz said. He shook hands with everyone and acted as a mini ambassador.

He was a â&#x20AC;&#x153;persona that everyone heard of but didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know personallyâ&#x20AC;? until the opening of the restaurant, she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Even though I call myself a crazy old man,â&#x20AC;? Ed said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;if I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have nothing to do in life, if I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t allow the people to get out and talk to me, et cetera, I probably wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be a crazy old man.â&#x20AC;?

One of Edâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many sayings is written across the top of his photo on the beer label: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nice to be important, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more important to be nice.â&#x20AC;?

At his high school reunion, Ed said there was a table set aside for him. Though he could not make it to the event, his friends told him that there was a table for him because he was the only one of them who became famous.

At the age of 61, not only has he become well known, but he has surpassed doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expectations. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Most people with this disease donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make it to 50,â&#x20AC;? Ed said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m one of the lucky ones.â&#x20AC;?

Women, more than men, come to skinny dip with Ed. He has filled an entire album of photos of visitors, clothed and unclothed, who pose with him. And while he does not want to have children, for fear of passing on the health problems that he has, he said he has had female companions.

But his primary interest is caring for the springs and the tourists that come to visit. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The springs is a lot better off with Ed there as a caretaker,â&#x20AC;?

Parrish said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good for the place.â&#x20AC;?

Living the simple life suits Ed best. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in such a damn hurry to get nowhere,â&#x20AC;? Ed said. And when it is suggested to him that he could spread his words of wisdom with others he declines notions of jobs that would allow him to do so. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I should have been a preacher or a politician, but Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m too honest,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to try. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m retired, damn it.â&#x20AC;? s

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COLUMN >> CRYSTAL HENRY

Naked Salsa So I did the unthinkable and I spent a week with my in-laws sans husband. ut before you gasp, seize and pass out please realize that they are not evil monstrous beings hell-bent on making my life miserable. On the contrary, they spoil me and my beloved daughter rotten, so it’s actually quite fun going and lounging by the pool, strolling through New Orleans munching on beignets and having three square meals set before me that I didn’t have to prepare.

Now I didn’t get off that easy in the in-laws department. My father-in-law’s first wife, my husband’s mother, is a genuine monster-in-law. Can’t wait for her to read this and find out that I called her that. Oh wait, she hides in her cave of misery plotting my demise all day, so we’re fine.

Yes, on the next time around my ol’ father-in-law got it right. He married a good Southern woman who is the polar opposite of me, and that’s probably why we get along swimmingly. Yes dear readers, if you happen to have read my previous columns (so pretty much just my editor because he has to, and my Nana because she’s retired), this is the same mother-in-law who is a completely neurotic neat freak. But even if she reads this she’ll thank me for the compliment.

Of course, as in every visit, my dear mother-in-law

B

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tries to whip her poor daughter-in-law (yours truly) into a proper Southern belle. Even though my own mama did put me through cotillion, and I attended a bona fide coming-out party, I just ain’t quite polished enough. So my dear sweet mother-in-law periodically gives me her essential Southern girl lecture, during which I am reminded of the Five Commandments of all good Southern women. Mankind needs ten, but good Southern ladies can do twice as good with half as many.

Number one: Thou shalt keep a spotless house, lest your neighbors gossip at your deserved expense. My mother-in-law holds this law above all others. Not only could you eat off of her floors, but also, should you choose to dine a la laminate, your gut would probably get a good scrubbing from the cleaning fairies that live in the pores of her woodwork.

Number two: Thou shalt never go to the grocery store without full make-up and hair done. Lord only knows who you’ll run into there, and we must always look our best.

Number three: Thou shalt not eat full-fat foods. A good Southern girl should really only taste and pick at the food she is preparing for her guests and/or rich handsome husband. If she does have a meal it should

consist of the fewest calories possible. Chubby was only cute back in the Middle Ages.

Number four: Thou shalt use the lessons learned in commandments one through three to attract a rich handsome husband. According to the written word, Southern gentlemen care about three things: a clean house, a good meal and a skinny beautiful wife to make it happen. My poor husband really got a raw deal on that one. As far as trophy wives go, I’d say I’m more of an honorable mention.

Number five: If ever a Southern girl forgets her commandments, it is the duty of her fellow belles to gossip...er, um...discuss what can be done to help the poor soul. However, if one must speak unkindly of another belle, she need only say, “Bless her heart.” As in “Margaret has become such a cow, bless her heart.”

It shows compassion for the poor soul who has fallen from Southern grace. Also accepted is, “I love her but,” as in “Now I love Catharine, but her house was a mess.”

Now bless my mother-in-law’s heart, I will never be a good Southern Belle. In my defense I was born and raised in Texas, and they do it a little different. Yes, they like the big hair and full makeup just like the rest of those Southern gals. I do sleep with one eye open while I’m visiting lest they bleach ambush my hair again.

But they also amended Southern commandment one to replace good housekeeping with a well-paid cleaning woman. Number two still stands with the full hair and

face at the grocery, but number three can kiss a pork butt. We love us some barbecue, and my husband fell in love with me when I kept up with him at all-youcan-eat wing night. Number four and five don’t even register in a Texas girl’s book because we’re raised with a little more grit and rattlesnake venom than the belles.

There’s no need to gossip behind another girl’s back because a Texas girl has no problem speaking her mind.

We brawl it out, brood over it a minute and move on to the next confrontation, which is usually our husbands or best friend.

And rather than trying to convince some guy that we’re worth their time and money, a Texas girl knows that the point of a husband is to have someone who tells you how gorgeous you are and nod and smile when spoken to. Now I guess since I don’t quite fit the trophy wife bit, I can’t very well expect my husband to let me completely rule the roost. I strayed away a bit and married a guy with a bullhead and a strong backbone. But he does have a way of making me feel like a beauty queen even when I’m 12 months pregnant and swollen like a pig with a bee sting.

So, I headed home from my visit to Southern Lady academy feeling refreshed and semi-polished. And I will admit that when I got home I did a load of dishes and tidied up the living room. But then I threw my hair in a ponytail and headed to the grocery, with only a little mascara, to get myself a big steak for the grill. s

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WORSHIP CENTERS If we have left out a church or have incomplete / incorrect information, please let us know! Send your corrections by faxing 352-373-9178 or emailing editor@towerpublications.com. We welcome your contributions and suggestions.

HIGH SPRINGS ALLEN CHAPEL A.M.E. CHURCH 386-454-3574 10 S.E. MLK Drive Rev. Ocelia Wallace, Pastor ANDERSON MEMORIAL CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST 386-454-3433 935 SE Lincoln Ave. BETHLEHEM UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 386-454-1996 County Road 778 Pastor Clarence Desue CHRIST ANGLICAN FELLOWSHIP 386-454-1845 323 SW CR 778 Pastor Michael LaCagnina CHRISTIAN FAMILY WORSHIP CENTER 386-454-2367 220 NE 1ST Ave. Dr. Lloyd S. Williams CHURCH OF CHRIST 386-454-2930 520 NE Santa Fe Blvd.

CHURCH OF GOD

BY FAITH 386-454-1015 US Hwy 27 THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER DAY SAINTS 386-454-4282 24455 NW 174th Ave. Pres. Keith Brown HIGH SPRINGS CHURCH OF GOD 386-454-1757 210 NW 182 Ave. Pastor Terry W. Hull

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FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 386-454-1700 16916 NW U.S. Hwy. 441 Pastor Jeff Powell FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 386-454-1505 20112 North US Hwy. 441 Pastor J. Eddie Grandy FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 386-454-1037 205 North Main Street Pastor Glen A. Busby FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH of HIGH SPRINGS 386-454-1255 17405 NW US Hwy 441 Pastor Benton Mangueira GRACE CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 210 Santa Fe Blvd.

Pastor Preston Ponce HOLY TEMPLE CHURCH WITH GOD 386-454-0313 615 SE ML King Drive IMPACT FAMILY CHURCH 386-454-1563 16710 NW US 441 Pastors Edwin & Angela Anderson JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES 386-454-3509 330 SE 7th Ave. MIRACLE TEMPLE CHURCH 386-454-4298 605 SE 1st Place THE MISSION CHURCH OF HIGH SPRINGS Meeting at the Seventh Day Adventist Building 230 NW 1st Ave. 352-870-0247 Pastor Keith Helsel

MT CARMEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 386-454-4568 1230 NW 1st Ave. Pastor Byran Williams

ST. BARTHOLOMEW’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 386-454-9812 1st Ave. (next to city hall) Rev. David Kidd

MT. PLEASANT BAPTIST CHURCH 14105 NW 298th Street 386-454-2161 Pastor Danny Crosby

SPRING HILL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Located at High Springs exit 79 off I-75 North of Gainesville (on Old Bellamy Rd.) Pastor James Richardson

MOUNT OLIVE BAPTIST CHURCH 386-454-3447 948 SE Railroad Ave. THE NORTH EAST CHURCH OF CHRIST 4330 NE County Road 340 nechurchofchrist.net SAINT MADELEINE CATHOLIC CHURCH 386-454-2358 17155 NW Highway 441 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 352-497-2221 230 NW 1st Ave. Pastor Anthony Crawford SHILOH BAPTIST CHURCH 386-454-4978 Shiloh Church Rd. Pastor Earl Tuten SHILOH MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH 386-454-3126 1505 NW Main St. SPRING RIDGE FIRST CHURCH OF GOD 386-454-3600 5529 NE 52nd Place Pastor Todd L Wymer SPRINGRIDGE FIRST CHURCH OF GOD 386-454-4400 420 Spring Ave.

ALACHUA ALACHUA CHURCH OF CHRIST 386-462-3326 14505 NW 145th Avenue Minister Doug Frazier ANTIOCH BAPTIST CHURCH 386-497-3121 Jordan Road (Ft. White) BAHA’I FAITH 352-870-3097 Turkey Creek CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH 13920 NW Hwy 4141 386-462-2966 Pastor Marty D. Basinger calvarybaptistgainesville.org CHRIST CENTRAL ALACHUA 386-418-8185 14906 Main St. www.ccalachua.com CHURCH OF GOD BY FAITH 386-462-2549 13220 NW 150th Ave. CRUSADERS FOR CHRIST, INC. 386-462-4811 NW 158th Ave.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF ALACHUA 386-462-1337 14005 NW 146th Avenue Pastor Doug Felton FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF ALACHUA 386-462-2443 14805 NW 140th St. Pastor Dr. Adam Zele FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF ALACHUA 386-462-1549 14623 NW 140th St. Rev. Virginia McDaniel FOREST GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH 386-462-3921 22575 NW 94 Avenue GREATER NEW HOPE MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH 386-462-4617 15205 NW 278th Ave. HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 386-462-2017 17306 NW 112th Blvd.

LEGACY BAPTIST CHURCH 352-462-2150 13719 NW 146th St. Pastor John Jernigan LIVING COVENANT CHURCH 386-462-7375 Pastor Brian J. Coleman NEW OAK GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH 386-462-3390 County Road 1491 Pastor Terry Elixson, Jr. NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH OF GOD AND CHRIST 386-462-4891 1310 NW 155 Place Pastor R. L. Cooper NORTH PLEASANT GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH 386-462-3317 25330 NW CR 239 Pastor Edwin A. Gardner NEW SAINT MARY

BAPTIST CHURCH 386-462-7129 13800 NW 158th Ave. PARADISE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF ALACHUA 386-462-0162 14889 MLK Blvd.

Pastor Rev. James D. Johnson, Sr. SANTA FE BAPTIST CHURCH 386-462-7541 7505 NW CR 236 Pastor Richard Cason, II MT NEBO UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 386-418-1038 9975 NW 143rd St. Pastor Ricardo George Jr. NEW SHILOH BAPTIST CHURCH 386-462-2095 18610 NW CR 237 NEW ST MARY BAPTIST CHURCH 386-462-7129 13800 NW 158th Ave. OLD SHILOH MISSIONARY BAPTIST 386-462-4894 16810 NW CR 239 RIVER OF LIFE ASSEMBLY OF GOD 352-870-7288 14200 NW 148th Place Pastor Greg Evans ST LUKE AME CHURCH 386-462-2732 US Highway 441 S. ST MATHEWS BAPTIST CHURCH 386-462-2205 15712 NW 140 Street Pastor Isaac Miles TEMPLE OF THE UNIVERSE 386-462-7279 15808 NW 90 Street www.tou.org WESTSIDE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST 386-418-0649 15535 NW 141st St.

NEWBERRY

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BETHEL AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH 352-474-6215 23530 NW 3rd Ave. Pastor Theodora Black

NEWBERRY

CHRISTIAN LIFE FELLOWSHIP 352-472-5433 Pastor Terry Fulton

BAPTIST CHURCH 215 NW 8TH Ave. Pastor Edward Welch

CHURCH OF CHRIST 352-472-4961 24045 W. Newberry Rd. Minister Batsell Spivy NEWBERRY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 352-472-4005 24845 W. Newberry Rd.

CHURCH OF GOD BY FAITH 352-472-2739 610 NW 2nd St. Pastor: Jesse Hampton

Rev. Robert B. Roseberry, Pastor DESTINY COMMUNITY CHURCH

THE CHURCH AT STEEPLECHASE 352-472-6232 Meeting at Sun Country Sports Center 333 SW 140th Terrace (Jonesville) Pastor Buddy Hurlston FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF NEWBERRY 352-472-2351 25520 W. Newberry Rd. Rev. Jack Andrews GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 352-472-9200 22405 W. Newberry Rd. Pastor Ty Keys JONESVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 352-472-3835 17722 SW 15th Ave. Pastor Corey Cheramie

352-472-3284 420 SW 250th Street Pastor Rocky McKinley OAK DALE BAPTIST CHURCH 352-472-2992 Highway 26 and 241 S. PLEASANT PLAIN UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 352-472-1863 1910 NW 166th St. Pastor Theo Jackson ST JOSEPH’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 352-472-2951 16921 W. Newberry Rd. Pastor John DiLeo

JOURNEY CHURCH 352-281-0701 22405 W. Newberry Rd. Milam Funeral Home Chapel Dr. Michael O’Carroll, Pastor

TURNING POINT OF

MT ZURA FULL GOSPEL BAPTIST CHURCH 352-472-4056 225 NW 2nd Ave. Pastor Natron Curtis

BAPTIST CHURCH

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NEWBERRY, INC 5577 NW 290 Street 352-472-7770 Pastor Henry M. Rodgers UNION 352-472-3845 6259 SE 75TH Ave Pastor Travis Moody

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LIBRARY SCHEDULE Alachua Branch Library .....................14913 NW 140th St. .............................. 386-462-2592 High Springs Branch Library ...........135 NW 1st Ave........................................ 386-454-2512 Newberry Branch Library .................110 South Seaboard Dr. ..........................352-472-1135 For further information on scheduled events visit www.acld.lib.fl.us All branches will be closed Independence Day (Monday, 7/4) and Labor Day (Monday, 9/5).

ALACHUA PROGRAMS FOR ALL AGES Magic & Mystery Thursday, 6/16 - 2 PM The House of the Flying Cards led by magician and illusionist Datta Knighten. Watch time stop as your kids laugh and have a great time as things disappear and reappear, change color, and be thoroughly amazed.

Brazilian Capoeira Thursday, 6/23 - 2 PM A fusion between martial arts and dance, created in Brazil by descendants of African slaves. Presented by the Brazilian Cultural Arts Exchange program.

9th Period Show Thursday, 6/30 - 2 PM Join the award-winning 9th Period Show packed with magic, comedy, and live animals - so you don’t want to miss the show that demonstrated how funny the impossible can be.

Moosic from around the world with Anna Moo Thursday, 7/14 - 2 PM Anna Moo, awardwinning songwriter, recording artist and entertainer for children and families will come to entertain with a wildly fun sing-along.

150 | Summer 2011

PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN Preschool Storytime Thursdays - 11 AM Come join us for stories, song and dance.

Book Club for 3rd through 5th Grade Wednesday, 6/15 - 2 PM Our Stories Through Art: Create a Self Portrait Thursday, 7/7 - 2 PM Come play with paper and paints to create individual art, which will be combined to create the many stories of all the children.

Candy Sushi: Make a candy sushi roll Thursday, 7/21 - 2 PM Bring your chopsticks and your sweet tooth, candy sushi roll-ups are today’s main event.

Will have vegan and non-vegan options so everyone is welcome.

Songs and Stories with Lee’s Kids Thursday, 7/28 - 2 PM A local children’s chorus will present a collection of songs and stories to inspire their audience.

River Through Color: a tie-dye event Thursday, 8/4 - 2 PM Tie-dye a towel while learning about the river and the story it tells through color.

Drumming: Giving voice to rhythm Thursday, 8/11 - 2 PM The Studio of Alachua will provide a percussion workshop giving voice to rhythm.

Celebration: Summer Reading Program Finale Thursday, 8/18 - 2 PM We will celebrate our accomplishments through the summer with prizes, food and festivity.

PROGRAMS FOR TEENS Gaming @ Your Library Wednesdays - 1 PM Spend the afternoon with friends gaming in the SPOT. Both board and video games will be available.

Battle of the Book Wednesdays: 6/15, 6/22, 7/13, 7/27, 8/3, 8/10 - 4 PM Teens discuss three books for the Library District’s Battle of the Book tournament.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Friday, 7/15 - 2 PM Watch “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part One” in preparation of the upcoming release of “Part 2” Exploration of Graphic Novels Wednesday, 6/15 - 4 PM Young adult librarian, John Jack, presents a brief history and review of some popular and obscure graphic novels.

Mini-Bridge Friday, 6/17 - 2 PM Granny K is offering classes in mini-bridge to middle-school aged and up, adults are also welcome.

PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS Zumba Classes Mondays - 6 PM Zumba mixes bodysculpting movement with dance steps mainly derived from Latin music.

Hatha Yoga Tuesdays - 5:30 PM Become aware of your body from the inside out! One hour of Hatha Yoga taught with an emphasis on mindfulness, individuality, and proper alignment all in a non-competitive atmosphere.

Computer Class Wednesdays - 11 AM Learn basic computer skills from using a mouse and keyboard to email and word processing. Classes are first come first served and seating is limited.

Pilates Classes Wednesdays - 6 PM Pilates focuses on building strength without bulk, improving flexibility and agility, and helping to prevent

injuries. It involves a series of controlled movements that engage both your body and mind.

HIGH SPRINGS PROGRAMS FOR ALL AGES Crafter’s Circle Wednesdays - 1 PM If you embroider, quilt, knit or enjoy doing any other “non-messy” craft, this is the group for you.

Share what you know, or learn from someone else. Enjoy chatting with other craft enthusiasts in the community.

The Rug Bunch 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month - 3 PM Crochet a rag rug with a group of fellow enthusiasts. Beginners welcome.

Science Mike Tuesday, 6/21 - 2:30 PM Seeing is believing in this magical science show that explores toys, puzzles, and optical illustions.

Jodini’s Wonderful World of Magic Tuesday, 6/28 - 2:30 PM Jodini enchants children with her puppets and magic in this interactive program.

B-Magic Tuesday, 7/19 - 2:30 PM Marvel at unbelievable tricks as B-Magic combines his masterful sleight-of-hand with words of wisdom for children.

High Springs Staff Presents Tuesday, 7/26 - 2:30 PM Enjoy a fun-filled, action packed afternoon featuring stories, songs and movement activities for children of all ages.

Rusty the Clown Tuesday, 8/9 - 2:30 PM Get ready for music, magic and more as Rusty the Clown takes his show on the road to entertain the kids — big and little alike.

Butterfly Bonanza Tuesday, 9/13 - 2:30 PM Learn about the beautiful world of butterflies from the folks of the Greathouse Butterfly Farm.

PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN Preschool Storytime Tuesdays - 11 AM Stories, songs, and activities for the preschool set.

Jongleur Jugglers Tuesday, 7/5 - 2:30 PM The comical Jongleur Jugglers will leave you breathless with their dazzling juggling feats and humorous antics.

MLK Daycare: Storytime Wednesdays - 10 AM Storytime for preschoolers at MLK Daycare.

High Springs Staff Presents: Kenya Tuesday, 7/12 - 2:30 PM A fun-filled afternoon exploring the fascinating culture of Kenya. Sing songs, play traditional games, enjoy crafts, wear Kenyan costumes, listen to folk tales and stories.

PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS Mystery Reading Group Third Thursday - 6:30 PM Join fellow readers for discussions of mystery novels. Bring any mysteries you’ve read this month to discuss.

Newcomers welcome.

NEWBERRY PROGRAMS FOR ALL AGES Jongleur Jugglers Tuesday, 6/15 - 2 PM The comical Jongleur Jugglers will leave you breathless with their dazzling juggling feats and humorous antics.

Northwood Studio’s Basic Drawing I: You Can Draw Anything!

Wednesday, 6/22 - 1 PM Learn to see and draw the three simple foundation shapes that form everything. Paper and pencils provided.

Around the World in 60 Minutes with the 9th Period Comedy & Magic Show Wednesday, 6/29 - 1 PM Join the award-winning 9th Period Show packed with magic, comedy, and live animals.

You don’t want to miss the show that demonstrated how funny the impossible can be.

Northwood Studio’s Basic Drawing II: You Can Draw Anything!

Wednesday, 7/6 - 1 PM Expand your drawing skills with this exciting introduction to the circle, dot, slash, and crosshatch fills to create form and texture.

Anna Moo Wednesday, 7/13 - 2 PM Award-winning songwriter, recording artist and entertainer for children & families.

Science Mike Wednesday, 7/27 - 2 PM Seeing is believing magical science show that explores toys, puzzles, and optical illusions.

www.VisitOurTowns.com

PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN Cool Monday Movies Mondays, 2 PM Watch a newly released children’s movie in cool comfort.

Pre-School Story Time Wednesdays - 11 AM Stories, songs and activities for the pre-school set.

Global Art: Crafts from around the world Thursdays - 2 PM Explore the world through fun and simple craft activities.

The Cat in the Hat Friday, 7/8 - 2 PM Visit with the Cat in the Hat and enjoy a special summer reading story time, “One WorldMany Stories,” with your favorite Dr. Seuss character.

PROGRAMS FOR TEENS Belly Dancing for Teens Monday, 6/20 - 5:30 PM Learn to Belly Dance in stages. Fast-paced for teens.

PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS Tempting Reads Book Club Every 4th Wednesday of each month - 6 PM Book club discussions (with refreshments) featuring popular and recently published books including books recommended by participants.

Belly Dancing for Adults Monday, 6/20 - 6:30 PM Learn to Belly Dance in Stages.

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Fule Injection Cleaning

95

59

$

Most Vehicles

Expires 09-15-11. Our Town Magazine

A/C System Inspection & Freon Recharge SPECIAL PRICE!!

19

$

95 + Tax & Freon

Expires 09-15-11. Not valid with other promotions or offers.

Redeem only at City Boys Tire & Brake. Our Town Magazine

10% Off All Tires In Stock!

Expires 09-15-11. Our Town Magazine

4-Tire Balance & Rotation

24

$

95 • Most Vehicles • Plus Env. Fees

Oil & Filter Change

14

$

95 • Most Vehicles • Plus Env. Fees

includes up to 5 quarts 10W30 Kendall semi-synthetic oil

Expires 09-15-11. Our Town Magazine

Expires 09-15-11. Our Town Magazine

City Boys

Coolant Drain & Fill

Tire & Brake • HIGH SPRINGS •

(386)-454-2193

29

$

95 • Most Vehicles • Plus Env. Fees

Dex Coolant Extra

www.cityboys.com

Expires 09-15-11. Our Town Magazine

Front-End Alignment

FREE Brake Inspection

95

39

$

• Most Vehicles • Plus Env. Fees

Expires 09-15-11. Our Town Magazine

with 20% Discount work done - All Vehicles *Most Cars, Disposal Extra Expires 09-15-11. Our Town Magazine

CITY BOYS APPRECIATES YOUR BUSINESS

152 | Summer 2011

Summer is Here Shorts, Tanks, Sandals, Bathing Suits & more!

Check out our large selection of wedding dresses!

Gently Used Name Brands Such As:

• Ann Taylor • American Eagle • Hollister

• Abercrombie & Fitch • Chico’s ...and many others!

Baby & Toddler - Boys & Girls Girls Size 8 to Women’s Size 5x Wedding Gowns from size 0-24 No Appointment Necessary for Clothing Dropoff Always Items On Sale (Beyond Our Usual Low Prices)

14822 Main Street, Alachua

386.462.2230 HOURS:

Mon. & Sat. 10am to 5pm • Tues. - Fri. 10am to 6pm

Consignment Boutique for babies, girls, juniors, ladies and women INCLUDING WEDDING GOWNS AND FORMAL FASHIONS

www.VisitOurTowns.com

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ADVERTISER INDEX 4400 NW 36th Avenue • Gainesville, FL 32606 352-372-5468 352-373-9178 fax REAL ESTATE Coldwell Banker MM Parrish ...............160 (HS) Forrester Realty ................................................80 Innovative Home Builders.............159, 160 (NB) Lamplighter...............................................................144 Prestige Home Center N. Ocala ..................116 PRO Realty ............................................. 94, (HS) Savannah Station .....................................................95 The Village ..................................................................... 3

AUTOMOTIVE Auto Swap Meet ...................................................... 42 Bush Auto Repair ......................................................41 Cash for Cars............................................................ 152 City Boy’s ...........................................................152 Jim Douglas Sales & Service ........................141 Newberry Auto Repair Inc ............................84 RPM Automotive ......................................................85 Sun City Auto ....................................................131

FINANCIAL / INSURANCE Campus USA Credit Union ............................ 19 State Farm, Tish Olesky ................................. 66 Sunshine State Insurance ............................... 81 SunState Federal Credit Union .............. 8, 38 Three Rivers Insurance ..................................127

Dr. Storoe, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery......7 Tioga Dental Associates ........................4 (NB) Dr. Vishnu Reddy........................................................ 6

FITNESS and BEAUTY All Creations Salon ................................................. 68 Charisma for Hair ......................................................18 Cuts & More .........................................................111 High Springs Hair Designs .................................149 Jodies Beauty & Barber Shop .......................... 68 Marshall & Co. Salon .............................................130 Mode Salon ................................................................... 2 Nails N Spa ......................................................... 74 Sarah Vierra Salon ........................................... 35 Underground Fitness Revolution .....................59

PETS and VETS A Paradise for Pets..................................................85 Bed ‘n Biscuit Inn ...........................................100 Flying Fish Pets and Aquatics .......................... 69 House Call Vet ...................................................60 Pampered Paws ....................................................... 69 Pamper Your Pet ..................................................... 42 Spring Hill Equine Vet Clinic ...................... 104 Susie’s Pet Sitting ............................................. 81 West End Animal Hospital .......................... 148

CHILD CARE / LEARNING MEDICAL / HEALTH Affordable Dentures .............................................. 121 Alachua Dental .................................................. 43 Alachua Family Medical Center ................100 Altschuler Periodontic .........................................139 Caretenders ........................................................118 Community Cancer Center ........................... 77 Douglas M Adel DDS......................................129 Home By Choice.......................................................77 North Florida Orthotics ........................................27 North Florida Women Care .................................51 Palms Medical Group ...........................................144 Samant Dental Group ............................................24

Alachua Learning Center ............................... 15 Alachua Fine Arts ...................................................101 American Academy .........................................60 Gainesville Country Day School ...................... 49 Sprout Learning Resources................................114

RETAIL / RECREATION Alachua Farm & Lumber .......................................81 Alachua Pawn & Jewelry ............................... 83 Badcock & More .......................................................58 Beacher’s Lodge.......................................................53 Bennett’s True Value ..................................61, 91

Blue Springs ......................................................127 Busy Bee Consignment ....................................... 42 Coin & Jewelry Gallery ..........................................73 Colleen’s Kloset........................................................ 34 Cootie Coo Creations ..................................... 74 Dirty Bar .......................................................................37 Gatorland Kubota ............................................ 82 General Ship It & More Store ....................... 69 Heel to Toe ................................................................. 94 High Springs Pawn & Jewelry ...................4 (HS) High Springs Farmer’s Market .......................... 68 Hippodrome .............................................................. 112 Hugs & Kisses Consignment...............................37 Jewelry Designs by Donna................................. 68 Klaus Fine Jewelry ............................................10 Lentz House of Time ....................................... 53 Lifestyle Cruise & Travel ..............................100 The Lighting Gallery........................................ 93 Liquor and Wine Shop, The..............159 (NB) New Smyrna Beach ................................................79 Old Irishman’s Pawn Shop .......................... 105 Oliver & Dahlman .................................................... 94 Pace Custom Jewelers & Time Works . 88, 90 Paddywhack....................................................... 53 Pawn Pro ....................................................................158 Radio Shack ......................................................126 Rum Island Retreat ........................................ 130 Silver Springs / Wild Waters ............................156 Skate Station Funworks..............................110, 142 Stitch In Time Embroidery ............................84 Tan USA ....................................................................... 42 TB Goods ........................................................... 58, 129 Tioga Town Center............................................. 11 Valerie’s Loft .....................................................153 West End Golf Course .................................. 102

SERVICE A Classic Moment Limousine ....................... 81 ACT Computer Solutions .............................. 68 Alachua Pest Services ........................................ 100 Alachua Printing ................................................ 61 AllState Mechanical, Inc................................. 85 Big Blue Recycling ........................................... 33 Blooming House Nursery ............................ 130 COX................................................................................... 9 Creekside Outdoor ................................ 101, 140 DirecTV .......................................................................145 Donna’s Cleaning ....................................................110 Gainesville Airport ....................................................81 Grower’s Fertilizer Corporation ..................121

Jack’s Small Engine Repair ................................ 115 Lotus Studios Photography ............................... 20 Outreach Center for Children ..........................105 Pro Lawn Grounds Maintenance ......................76 Quality Cleaners ............................................... 59 Ram Jack......................................................................57 Steeplechase Storage ............................................32 United Rent All ........................................................143 3-Way Electrical Service Inc. .......................84

HOME IMPROVEMENT Al Mincey Site Prep .........................................94 All Seasons Outdoor ............................................ 125 Clint S. Davis LLC ........................................... 148 Cook Portable Buildings ................................141 Econem ..........................................................................31 Floor Store ................................................103, 128 Gonzales Site Prep .......................................... 74 Griffis Lumber...........................................................110 Heckard’s Door Specialties .................................67 Innovative Home Builders .........................(NB) Kurt Johnsen Energy Systems ..........................53 Overhead Door Company ............................. 56 Red Barn Home Center .........................94, 145 Sherer Studio Glass & Stone ........................ 55 Whitfield Window and Door .......................137

RESTAURANT Dave’s NY Deli .........................................................106 Gator Q BBQ, Wings and Things ...........42, 106 Gator Domino’s ..............................................5, 17 El Toro Mexican Food & Salsa ..................... 59 Mad Hatter’s Café ............................................ 68 Northwest Grille ........................................................75 NY Pizza Plus ..................................................... 59 Pepperoni’s ...............................................................107 Saboré .........................................................................107 Saga ..............................................................................107 Villaggio’s Pizzeria ...........................................84

EMPLOYMENT Flex Frac Logistics...................................................76

MISCELLANEOUS Alachua County EPD .................................... 144

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JOHN MICHAEL MONTGOMERY JULY 4TH, 2011 WITH FIREWORKS

OFF $5 ANY H WIT KE O C CT! DU O PR

ALL-ACCESS SILVER PASS ONLY $45.99!

Enjoy Wild Waters All Summer and Silver Springs for a Full Year With The All-Access Pass!* BENEFITS INCLUDE:

FREE Admission to Wild Waters all season long!

FREE Admission to Silver Springs for a full year!

FREE Parking!

FREE Admission to ALL Silver Springs CONCERTS! FREE Admission to ALL Silver Springs SPECIAL EVENTS! FREE Admission to Festival of Lights at Silver Springs!

VIP EARLY ENTRY on Concert Days at Silver Springs!

VISIT OUR WEBSITES FOR UPCOMING PROMOTIONS: 7),$7!4%230!2+ #/- s 3),6%2302).'3 #/*ALL-ACCESS SILVER PASS DOES NOT INCLUDE ADMISSION TO FRIGHT NIGHTS, KIDFETTI OR PRIVATE EVENTS AND MAY EXCLUDE CERTAIN THIRD-PARTY EVENTS.

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44 >> MAKING A SPLASH!

Trevor Isaac enjoying the age-old art jumping from a rope swing into the Santa Fe River. For untold generations, children and adults alike have enjoyed the simple thrill of swinging from a rope and plunging into the cool and inviting waters of the local swimminâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; hole.

www.VisitOurTowns.com

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We Pay Top $$ for Broken & Used Jewelry Huge Firearm Selection Confidential Loan Service 352-327-9067 • 55 SW 250TH ST • NEWBERRY (next to Kangaroo) 158 | Summer 2011

Ashton Ridge S U B D I V I S I O N

CBC #1256897

Drive a little save a lot!

NEW HOMES STARTING AS LOW AS $116,900 — MODEL HOME PRICING — Madison ....................... $116,900 Moultrie......................... $118,852 Macon ............................... $121,775 Newnan .............................$124,113 Hampton ..................... $125,277 Albany ............................. $125,962

Albany Two............... $129,910 Henderson.................$130,106 Charleston ................ $135,534 Savannah ....................$138,670 Charlotte ....................... $141,510 Douglasville........... $152,488

www.ashtonridge.me For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call

352-359-1070

The Camerons… Make it happen!

5110 SW 91st Drive, Suite A • Gainesville, Florida 32608

Ralph Cameron.........................352-359-1060 MOBILE Bonnie Cameron..................... 352-359-1070 MOBILE www.VisitOurTowns.com

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